Tour Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford

Attractions | City Break | Cosy | Events | Pub | Pub Accommodation | Posted 2024.04.24

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the key filming locations scattered throughout Oxford, offering a glimpse into the real-life magic behind the Harry Potter films. 

The Harry Potter series is one of the most beloved book and film series of all time, reaching audiences around the globe. A lot of the scenes were brought to life in and around Oxfordshire, with Oxford’s historic buildings and panoramic countryside providing an ideal backdrop. 

But the journey doesn’t end there – we’ll also share recommendations for nearby pubs with accommodation, as well as places to enjoy great food and drinks, ensuring your adventure is truly unforgettable. 

Harry Potter filming locations in Oxford 

Bodleian Library: Duke Humfrey’s Library 

Within the Bodleian Library stands Duke Humfrey’s Library, a historic marvel dating back to 1487. This room is filled from floor to ceiling with books and is adorned with ancient manuscripts and dark wooden beams.  

In the Harry Potter films, Duke Humfrey’s Library serves as the main Hogwarts Library. The library was featured in the iconic scene from The Philosopher’s Stone where Harry Potter explores the restricted section of the library under his Cloak of Invisibility. 

Information on visiting Bodleian Libray can be found on the library’s website here. 

Bodleian Library: The Divinity School 

Next to the Bodleian Library, find the Divinity School. This is instantly recognisable due to its detailed ceiling patterns and towering windows that fill the space with natural light. 

In the Harry Potter film series, the Divinity School was used as the Hogwarts Hospital Wing. Fans will recall it as the setting where Harry first wakes up at the end of The Philosopher’s Stone, after having faced a battle with Voldemort. 

Other memorable scenes filmed here include when Harry and Hermione use the time turner to save Sirius Black and Buckbeak. As well as when Professor McGonagall’s attempts to teach Ron to dance in preparation for the Yule Ball in The Goblet of Fire. 

Access to the Divinity School is available through either a ticket purchase or as part of a guided tour. More details can be found here. 

New College Cloisters 

New College in Oxford offers visitors the opportunity to explore two notable Harry Potter filming locations. The Cloisters, located outside the college’s historic teaching areas, portrayed the Hogwarts hallways and made multiple appearances in The Goblet of Fire. 

Fans will recall New College Cloisters as the setting where Harry Potter navigates through a crowd of his peers as they ridicule him with ‘Potter Stinks’ badges after he had been selected to take part in the Triwizard Tournament. 

New College: Courtyard 

New College Courtyard makes appearances in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, serving as an outdoor setting for key scenes. In one scene, this area is used when Harry informs Cedric about the dragons, they’ll face in the Triwizard Tournament.  

The courtyard features an ancient oak tree, nearly two centuries old, which plays a role in another memorable scene. Here, Malfoy antagonises Harry, only to be transformed into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody. 

To visit the New College find out more information here. 

Christ Church: Dining Hall 

The Christ Church Dining Hall is an iconic location in the Harry Potter series, closely resembling Hogwarts’ Great Hall. 

While no filming took place in the Christ Church Dining Hall, it served as a source of inspiration for the Hogwarts’ Great Hall. To bring the ambiance to life on screen, the Dining Hall was recreated in the Warner Bros. studio, with enhancements in size and depth. 

Christ Church: Bodley Tower Staircase 

The grand stone staircase inside Bodley Tower at Christ Church College is an iconic filming location in the Harry Potter franchise. These stairs were featured in the first two films. 

From Harry’s initial arrival at Hogwarts to the heartwarming reunion between Harry, Ron, and Hermione at the end of the first film, this staircase holds significant sentimental value for Potterhead’s everywhere. 

Christ Church: Cloisters 

The Christ Church Cloisters also appeared in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The cloisters served as another filming location for Hogwarts’ hallways.  

At this location, Harry is named the seeker for the Gryffindor quidditch team. Hermione then reveals to him a display case in the Cloisters containing a quidditch trophy with his father’s name, James Potter, inscribed on it. 

Pubs with accommodation in Oxfordshire near Harry Potter filming locations 

The Head of the River 

The Head of the River pub has a prime location overlooking the River Isis and Folly Bridge in Oxford’s city centre. Inside, you can discover inviting bedrooms and an excellent dining area, both indoors and outdoors. 

Find out more information and book The Head of the River 

Fleur De Lys  

Located in the charming village of Bampton, discover the Fleur De Lys, a quintessential pub. With its tasteful decor, comfortable bedrooms, and a menu featuring delicious food and drinks, it’s the ideal choice. 

Find out more information and book The Fleur De Lys 

The Bear & Ragged Staff 

Located just over three miles west of Oxford is The Bear & Ragged Staff Inn, a quintessential country pub. Inside, guests are greeted by cosy corners, golden cobblestone walls, and inviting open fireplaces, perfect for the colder months. Even in summer, the pub remains a favourite destination, offering the chance to enjoy a refreshing pint outdoors.  

Find out more information and book The Bear & Ragged Staff 

Rose Revived  

Nestled in the village of Newbridge, along the banks of the River Thames, find the Rose Revived. This ivy-covered stone inn dates back to the 16th century. The pub offers several cosy and inviting bedrooms, with some boasting picturesque riverside views. 

Find out more information and book Rose Revived 

The Falkland Arms  

For a countryside retreat further away from Oxford city, choose to stay at The Falkland Arms. This inn is as delightful on inside as it is outside, with its’ inviting bar area and beautiful bedrooms.  

Find out more information and book The Falkland Arms