Sit in Harry Potter's classroom at Durham Cathedral

Durham City, Durham

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry came to life via a number of locations across the UK, one of which was the awe-inspiring Durham Cathedral.

Durham Cathedral’s ancient cloisters doubled as a film location for Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone back in 2001. Against a snowy backdrop, the cloisters became the snow-covered quadrangle where Harry magically releases Hedwig the owl from his hands.

Harry and friends returned to Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site the following year for the Chamber of Secrets sequel, with the breath-taking building once again providing the setting for Harry, Ron and Hermione being taught how to turn animals into water goblets.

Relive the scenes with a visit to this majestic building in one of England's most cultural cities. And don’t miss the chance to spend part of your cultural holiday at the adjacent Durham Castle, constructed in 1072 on instruction by William the Conqueror.

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Durham Cathedral - the filming location for Harry PotterDurham Cathedral - the filming location for Harry Potter © Visit County Durham
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