Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, is the most famous castle used as a primary filming location for Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films, standing in for the exterior shots, especially for the famous flying lessons and Quidditch scenes. Other locations like Durham Cathedral and Lacock Abbey also served as Hogwarts interiors, but Alnwick Castle is the iconic castle seen as Hogwarts itself.
Did you know that Alnwick Castle played a starring role as the magical Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in two Harry Potter films? That's right, you can visit the real-life Harry Potter castle location in Northumberland.
Home of the Percy Family for over 700 years, Alnwick Castle is considered one of the finest castles in England and proudly known as “The Windsor of the North”. Visitors can step into the unexpected in the spectacular Alnwick Garden, with its wonderful Grand Cascade and Poison Gardens.
While the castle is open for the public to visit, Percy family members do indeed still live there. Wondering who owns Alnwick Castle today? Ralph Percy, the 12th Duke of Northumberland, inherited the castle after the death of his elder brother.
Visiting all Harry Potter filming Locations In Real Life!
Is Alnwick Castle free?
The castle is free to visit as a Historic Houses member. Alnwick Castle is open daily from 28 March until 23 October. Combining magnificent medieval architecture with spectacular Italianate State Rooms, Alnwick Castle is one of the UK's most significant heritage destinations.
Chepstow Castle, perched dramatically above the River Wye in Wales, is the oldest surviving stone castle in Britain, with construction beginning in 1067 under William the Conqueror's ally, William fitzOsbern.
Where is Berwick-upon-Tweed? Berwick-upon-Tweed is a historic town in Northumberland, situated at the mouth of the River Tweed on the North East coast. It is the northernmost town in England, lying just 2.5 miles south of the Scottish border.
Can you walk around the outside of Alnwick Castle?
Alnwick Castle's Grounds are a blend of history, natural beauty, and peaceful spaces to explore. Stretching from the River Aln to the Castle's ancient walls, the Grounds provide a perfect setting for gentle walks, picnics, photography, or simply enjoying the scenery.
Freshwater West has become a mecca for Harry Potter fans, as the location of Shell Cottage in the Deathly Hallows movies – where Dobby the house elf died and was buried. You can visit his “grave” on the beach and leave your own tribute – a definite bucketlist activity for any potterheads who visit Bluestone.
CECIL COURT THE REAL DIAGON ALLEY. Cecil Court being "just off Charing Cross Road" and with its curious mix of bookshops and antique shops, is widely believed to be the real Diagon Alley, or at least the thoroughfare on which Diagon Alley was based.
Hagrid's Hut – film set location in Glencoe, Scotland. Glencoe, Scotland – the surrounding valley and filming area. Clachaig Gully – the specific spot/pathway where Hagrid's Hut was built. Clachaig Inn – the nearby inn, a short walk from the site.
Explore the Hogwarts interior by visiting Gloucester Cathedral & St Paul's Cathedral. Then take a walk in the Hogwarts Grounds in the Scottish Highlands to the viewing the stunning interior of Hogwarts at. A UK trip is a must!
Before we look at the stories and evolution of Alnwick Castle, it's helpful to know a little about the family who have owned and inhabited it for over 700 years. The castle's origins date back to the Norman period, and historians believe construction began in around 1096.
Loch Eilt is a location that was used throughout many of the films as background scenery and in the Prisoner of Azkaban when Hagrid is skimming stones; however, the most recognisable use to all 'Potterheads' will be the location of Dumbledore's burial site.
Castle Combe is often called the prettiest village in England and one of the most beautiful towns in the Cotswolds. Walking through this village truly feels like stepping back in time; no new houses have been built here for over 400 years, so it has kept its authentic, old-world charm.
In an original draft of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, the Granger family's home was near the coast near where the Potter family lived on an island. The film location is near the corner of Heathgate and Meadway in Hampstead Garden Suburb, northwest London.
Ever wondered about the different Downton Abbey locations used throughout the series? The cast and crew of Downton spent two busy weeks at Alnwick Castle in July and August 2014, filming extensively in the spectacular State Rooms, as well as in the grounds and at Hulne Priory within Hulne Park in Alnwick.
It is a Grade I listed building now the home of Ralph Percy, 12th Duke of Northumberland and his family. In 2016, the castle received over 600,000 visitors per year when combined with adjacent attraction the Alnwick Garden.
Windsor Castle, Berkshire, England. Originally built for William the Conqueror in 1066, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.
This is Molly's Lodge, a Grade II Listed castle that sits on a 0.61 acre plot of land near the village of Long Compton in Warwickshire. It was designed by British architect, Edward Blode, in 1830.
Saltford Manor House, Somerset: Widely regarded as the oldest continuously inhabited house in England, Saltford Manor dates back to around 1148. Its Norman stonework and medieval features have stood the test of time, providing a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship of the 12th century.
