When it comes to Harry Potter, it seems as though there is never enough. The first novels about the renowned child wizard were published in 1997, and the first of eight feature films about him was released in 2001. Knowing the enchantment that J.K. Rowling’s story has on its readers. Universal Studios decided to capitalize on the trend by constructing the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which allows guests to feel as if they’ve walked into the winding lanes of Diagon Alley. In this article, let’s discover where some of the most memorable scenes of the franchise were filmed, as well as a special bonus location… Whether you’re a Hogwarts alumnus or a Muggle, you will want to visit these places.

1. Elephant House

Elephant House might not have been in the film, but this is hallowed ground for Potterheads around the world. While the cafe claims to be the ‘birthplace of Harry Potter’, this Edinburgh cafe is one of many that JK Rowling spent time in, crafting her novels about the Boy Who Lived and his many magical adventures.

2. Platform 9 ¾

“Excuse me, sir, can you tell me

where I might find Platform 9 and 3 quarters?”

– Harry Potter

Students board the Hogwarts Express, the scarlet steam engine transporting students to and from Hogwarts, at Platform 9 and 3 quarters of the railway station. It may be reached by going right through the seemingly impenetrable barrier that separates platforms nine and 10.

Although you won’t locate the platform shown in the film — King’s Cross renumbered platforms 4 and 5 as 9 and 10 there is a 9 and 3 quarters sign with a baggage cart vanishing into the wall that has become a popular tourist attraction.

3. Reptile House (London England).

“You’re a Parselmouth. Why didn’t you tell us?”

-Ron Weasley

The London Zoo is an essential part of Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets, as this is where we first learn that Harry can communicate in Parseltongue. For those who do not know, a parselmouth is someone who can talk to snakes, which is extremely rare in the wizarding world. Any guesses for who another famous Parselmouth might be?

Plaques come into play once more: there’s one next to the snake enclosure in the scene, so you’ll know when you’re standing precisely where a baby-faced Daniel Radcliffe was while chatting with a Burmese Python.

4. Hogwarts Express: The Glenfinnan Viaduct & The Jacobite Steam Train

Fans of Harry Potter should have their wands ready for this one. The one-and-only Hogwarts Express may be found in the mysterious realm of Scotland, and you are welcome to board the renowned steam train!

Welcome aboard! The Hogwarts Express — in reality, the Jacobite Steam Train – passes across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to the wizarding school. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will give you chills if you’re a Harry Potter fan.

5. The Forbidden Forest

Do you remember the Forbidden Forest? The scene where Harry and Ron meet Hagrid’s spider friend Aragog was shot in Black Park, Iver. The 530-acre park is known for its dense forest canopy. Many more Hollywood films were also filmed in this location.

Most of the forest scenes for both parts of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows were shot at Surrey’s Swinley Forest.

Harry Potter remains a global phenomenon even to this day. Personally, this franchise played an important part in my childhood, and even as an adult, I happily sit down to marathon the movies in my PJs, buckets of popcorn in tow. If you also identify as a Potterhead, comment below which one of these destinations you want to visit.