Explore the Wizarding World: Iconic Harry Potter Filming Locations in Oxford
Step into the Wizarding World at these real-life locations from Harry Potter.
Many fans think of London when they think of Harry Potter. However, it’s Oxford, England that truly embodies the essence of Hogwarts. Located about 60 miles from London, Oxford showcases numerous Harry Potter filming locations across its historic colleges. As you stroll past medieval and Gothic architecture, it’s easy to imagine bumping into beloved characters like Hermione, Ron, or Harry himself. Here are some of the most iconic Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford for your next adventure.
Christ Church Staircase
This famous staircase was featured in various scenes from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Harry, Hermione, Ron, and others ascend the staircase to meet Professor McGonagall in the first film. Furthermore, in the sequel, after Harry and Ron miss the Hogwarts Express, they climb these stairs only to encounter the grumpy caretaker Argus Filch. The staircase also features in a flashback where Tom Riddle converses with Dumbledore. Note that a ticket is required for non-students visiting Christ Church.
Christ Church Cloisters
The cloisters at Christ Church date back to the monastery established in the eighth century. This impressive site features stunning Gothic architecture, resembling hallways at Hogwarts. In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry gazes at the trophy won by his father in Quidditch as Hermione explains the significance of being a seeker. You can visit the cloisters by obtaining a ticket to Christ Church.
Christ Church Dining Hall
While no filming occurred in the dining hall, this space inspired Hogwarts’ Great Hall. The hall’s high ceilings, long dining tables, and ornate windows echo the design depicted in the films. Visitors need a ticket to Christ Church to explore the dining hall.
New College Cloisters, Courtyard, and Tree
In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the cloisters and courtyard of New College appear as Harry navigates a crowd mocking him with “Potter Stinks” pins. Here, Harry also discusses the Triwizard Tournament’s first task—facing dragons—with Cedric Diggory. The courtyard features the tree where Malfoy ridicules Harry, ultimately leading to Professor Moody transforming him into a ferret.
Bodleian Library, Divinity School
The Divinity School features prominently in several scenes from the initial four Harry Potter films. It serves as Hogwarts’ infirmary in the first film, where Harry recovers post-confrontation with Voldemort. Additionally, it appears in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and Goblet of Fire for various significant scenes. Visitors can tour the Divinity School with a ticket.
Bodleian Library, Duke Humfrey’s Library
Duke Humfrey’s Library, with its extensive shelves of ancient texts, served as the perfect filming location for a scene in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Harry traverses the restricted section while using his invisibility cloak, creating a suspenseful atmosphere when caught by Hogwarts’ caretaker. A ticket is required for tours of the library.
