In the footsteps of Harry Potter: places associated with the protagonist of J.K. Rowling's novels

In the footsteps of Harry Potter: places associated with the protagonist of J.K. Rowling's novels

June 11, 2025

Do you dream of at least momentarily moving to the world of magic and witchcraft that you have come to know thanks to J.K. Rowling's books? Now you have the chance! We invite you on an extraordinary journey in the footsteps of Harry Potter, during which you will visit the places that inspired the author or served as film sets for the screen adaptation of this cult series. From the mysterious backstreets of London to the magical film studios to the picturesque landscapes of Scotland, each of these places has a piece of the magic that millions of fans around the world have come to love. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will take you straight to Hogwarts!

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Magical London - in the footsteps of Harry Potter

Our journey begins in the heart of London, the city that played a key role in the story of The Boy Who Survived. The first stop is the famous Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, a place that every Harry Potter fan simply must visit. It was here, in Leavesden, that all the films in the series were made, and now you can see the original costumes, props and sets. Tour the Great Hall, walk the Diagon Alley and take a peek into Dumbledore's study. This is an extraordinary experience that will allow you to feel the magic of the film firsthand. The studio has received an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, a testament to its exceptional quality and popularity among visitors.

Another magical place is the 9 and 3/4 platform at King's Cross Station. It was from here that Harry and his friends set off on their journey to Hogwarts. Today you can have your photo taken with the cart 'driving' into the wall and visit The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾. Although the 3.8/5 rating may not be stunning, the place is still a must-see on any fan's map. It's worth remembering that long lines can form here during peak hours.

We can't forget about the impressive Harry Potter statue, which is located in Leicester Square. This bronze statue depicts the young wizard on a broomstick, playing quidditch. With a rating of 4.5/5, it is not only a treat for fans, but also an interesting landmark in central London. It's the perfect place for a souvenir photo!

For those who want to delve even deeper into the magical world, we recommend the Tour for Muggles. This walking tour of London, with an impressive 4.9/5 rating, is not only an opportunity to see the sites associated with the film, but also a way to learn about the city's fascinating history. The guides are true enthusiasts who share interesting facts and anecdotes, making the tour as educational as it is entertaining.

Each of these places offers unique experiences, but they all have one thing in common - the opportunity to immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter. Whether it's through the interactive exhibits at Warner Bros. Studio or by symbolically crossing the barrier between worlds at King's Cross Station, there is something for every fan. Keep in mind, however, that popular attractions can get crowded, especially during the tourist season, so it's a good idea to plan your visit in advance and consider buying tickets online.

Into the depths of the magical world -. From Diagon Alley to Hogwarts

Continuing our magical journey, we can't skip one of the most iconic places in the Harry Potter world - Diagon Alley. On the Warner Bros. Studio Tour you can walk through an authentic recreation of this wizarding street, where Harry first encountered the world of magic. With a rating of 4.8/5, Diagon Alley impresses with its attention to detail and authenticity. Every store, from Ollivander's to the Weasleys' joke store, has been recreated with extreme precision, allowing visitors to feel as if they are truly in the heart of magical London.

One of the most recognizable symbols of Hogwarts is undoubtedly the bridge over which the train to the school of magic passes. Hogwarts Bridge, available for touring as part of the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, is a place that every fan of the series is sure to recognize. With a rating of 4.6/5, the bridge not only provides a great backdrop for cinematography, but also allows you to understand how the filmmakers used various techniques to create the illusion of the school's vast grounds.

For those who dream of a real train ride to Hogwarts, an amazing experience will be a visit to the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland. This majestic railroad bridge, with a 4.7/5 rating, was immortalized in the Harry Potter films as part of the Hogwarts Express route. Located in the scenic Glen Finnan Valley, it offers breathtaking views and the chance to see a steam train pass by, reminiscent of the famous Hogwarts Express.

Not far from the viaduct is another magical place - Eilean na Moine. This small island in Loch Eilt Lake served as the location for scenes depicting the burial place of Albus Dumbledore. With a rating of 4.6/5, the place impresses with its austere beauty and atmosphere of mystery. It is the perfect place for those who want to feel the atmosphere of the Scottish Highlands and at the same time visit a place important to the plot.

When comparing these attractions, it is worth noting their diversity. While the Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers an all-encompassing experience with the opportunity to see original costumes and props, places like Glenfinnan Viaduct and Eilean on the Moine allow you to immerse yourself in the authentic landscapes that inspired the filmmakers. The studio provides a more controlled and educational environment, ideal for families with children, while the Scottish locations offer outdoor adventure and the opportunity to combine sightseeing with active recreation.

Ticket prices and availability may vary significantly. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour requires advance reservations and can be quite expensive, especially for larger groups. In contrast, admission to sites such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct is usually free, although getting there may require more planning and travel time. It's also worth bearing in mind seasonality - Scottish locations are most attractive in summer, when the weather is favorable for admiring the views, while the Studio Tour offers attractions year-round, regardless of weather conditions.

Practical tips for wizard-travelers

When planning your magical journey in the footsteps of Harry Potter, it's worth considering some practical tips to help you fully enjoy this extraordinary adventure.

First, if you plan to visit Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, be sure to book your tickets well in advance. This attraction is extremely popular and tickets often sell out weeks in advance. Ticket prices range from around £50 for children to £70 for adults (as of 2023), but it's worth checking current prices on the official website. Keep in mind that the tour can take up to a full day, so plan accordingly.

When visiting Platform 9 and 3/4 at King's Cross Station and The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾, be prepared for long lines, especially during the tourist season. It's best to come early in the morning or late in the evening when traffic is lighter. The store itself is rated 4.3/5 and offers a wide selection of official souvenirs, but prices are quite high.

For those who want to explore magical London in the company of a guide, Tour for Muggles is a great option. With a rating of 4.9/5, this walking tour takes about 2.5 hours and costs about £20 per person. Online booking is recommended, especially during holiday periods.

If you are planning a trip to Scotland to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Eilean on the Moine, be aware that the weather can be capricious. The best time to visit is in summer, from June to August, when the days are longer and there is a better chance of good weather. The Glenfinnan Viaduct is easily accessible by car or train from Fort William. There is a fee for parking, but admission to the site is free. To see a passing steam train, check the Jacobite Steam Train schedule in advance.

Eilean na Moine is more difficult to access and requires a short hike. The best way to get there is by car, parking along the A830 road. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be muddy.

Comparing these attractions, it is worth noting that sites in London, such as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour or Platform 9 and 3/4, offer a more organized and controlled experience, ideal for families with children. They are easily accessible by public transportation, but also more expensive. Scottish locations, on the other hand, such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct or Eilean on the Moine, offer a more authentic and natural experience, are less expensive (often free), but require more planning and your own transportation.

Whichever places you decide to visit, be sure to book tickets in advance, check opening hours and current prices. For outdoor attractions, always have an alternative plan in case of bad weather. And most importantly - allow yourself to be immersed in the magic of these places that will transport you straight into the world of Harry Potter!

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