Harry Potter Filming Locations
The University of Oxford is one of the most iconic real-world backdrops of the Harry Potter films, where its ancient colleges and libraries brought Hogwarts to life. Fans can visit several magical locations featured in the movies including the Bodleian Library which appeared as the Hogwarts Library and Infirmary New College where Draco Malfoy’s ferret scene was filmed and Christ Church College the inspiration for the Great Hall of Hogwarts and filming site for its famous Grand Staircase scenes. Oxford’s Divinity School part of the Bodleian is a stunning Gothic masterpiece seen throughout The Philosopher’s Stone and The Goblet of Fire. Most tours are affordable and easy to access—tickets range from £2.50 to £18 per location while guided Harry Potter walking tours cost £25–£90 depending on the type of experience. Visitors can explore at their own pace or join official guided tours that reveal behind-the-scenes secrets from the films. With its historic architecture enchanting atmosphere and close ties to cinematic magic Oxford University remains one of the most unforgettable destinations for Harry Potter fans offering a real-life journey through the world of Hogwarts.
get more info how to get in Oxford University
Bodleian Library – The Hogwarts Infirmary and Library
One of Oxford’s most famous landmarks the Bodleian Library served as both the Hogwarts Library and the Infirmary in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The Divinity School with its ornate Gothic ceiling doubled as the hospital wing where Harry recovered after battling Professor Quirrell. Meanwhile Duke Humfrey’s Library appeared in multiple films as the restricted section of the Hogwarts Library.
Entry Fees and Visiting Information
- Self-guided entry (Divinity School): £2.50 per person
- Guided tour (recommended): £9–£15 per person
- Private tours: from £20 per person (advance booking required)
- Opening hours: Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Catte Street, Oxford OX1 3BG
Insider tip: Book the 30-minute mini tour for the best value — it covers both Divinity School and Duke Humfrey’s Library.
New College – The Courtyard of Draco Malfoy’s Encounter
Next head to New College another must-see for any Potter fan. The cloisters and courtyard of New College were used in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire where Draco Malfoy taunted Harry before being turned into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody. The ancient tree in the middle of the courtyard remains one of the most photographed Harry Potter spots in Oxford. Read more about Oxford University Colleges.
Entry Fees and Visiting Information
- Adults: £8.00
- Students & Under 16s: £7.00
- Group tours: limited to 20 people
- Open daily: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal variations apply)
Location: New College Lane, Oxford OX1 3BN
Insider tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos under natural light.
Christ Church College – The Real Hogwarts Dining Hall
No Harry Potter tour of Oxford is complete without Christ Church College the inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall. While the actual hall wasn’t filmed here its design inspired the movie set built at Warner Bros. Studio. However the Grand Staircase and Cloisters were real filming locations featured in The Philosopher’s Stone and The Chamber of Secrets.
Entry Fees and Visiting Information
- General admission: £16 – £18 (includes access to the Great Hall and Cathedral)
- Online booking: Required in advance due to high demand
- Visiting hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:15 PM)
Location: St Aldate’s Street, Oxford OX1 1DP
Insider tip: Try booking the “Christ Church + Film Trail” combo ticket to explore other cinematic spots around the college.
Oxford’s Official Harry Potter Walking Tour
Join the Oxford Official Harry Potter Walking Tour for a fully immersive experience. Christ Church New College and the Bodleian Library among other places are on this guided tour while your learned guide brings to light all sorts of behind-the-scenes anecdotes and interesting facts about the movies.
THE TOUR: TOUR OPTIONS COSTS
- Standard group tour: £25 – £35 per adult, £20 per child.
- Private Tour: £60 – £90 per person (includes priority entrance and is flexible with the time slot).
Duration: 1.5 – 2.5 hours Insider Tip: The best way to ensure that you have a place is to book online in advance, particularly at weekends and during vacation periods.
Budget-Friendly Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour
If you prefer exploring at your own pace Oxford is one of the best cities for a self-guided Harry Potter tour. Most filming locations are within a 15-minute walk of each other allowing you to discover the magic without spending too much.
Recommended Self-Guided Route
- Start at Bodleian Library
- Walk to New College Courtyard
- End at Christ Church College
Estimated total cost: Around £25 (entry tickets + optional coffee stop)
Harry Potter Oxford Tour Prices Summary
| Location | Ticket Type | Price Range | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodleian Library | Self-guided / Guided | £2.50 – £15 | 30–60 mins |
| New College | General Entry | £7 – £8 | 30 mins |
| Christ Church | Full Access | £16 – £18 | 60 mins |
| Guided Tour | Group / Private | £25 – £90 | 1.5–2.5 hrs |
Final Thoughts
Oxford offers one of the most enchanting Harry Potter experiences outside of London. Whether you’re wandering through Christ Church’s Hogwarts staircase exploring the Bodleian Library’s magical halls or retracing Malfoy’s steps at New College every corner of Oxford feels like stepping straight into the Wizarding World. With affordable entry fees well-organized tours and breathtaking architecture it’s a must-visit destination for any true Potterhead.