If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series and are looking to check out some Wizarding World filming locations, be sure to include Scotland in your plans. In the books, Hogwarts itself is supposed to be in Scotland, and while the castle in the films happens to be in England, Scotland was chosen for plenty of other important scenes. Here are a few that are a must-visit for any self-proclaimed Potterhead.
The Hogwarts Express
In the books, Harry boards The Hogwarts Express at King’s Cross station in London, but in the movies, the same scenes were shot at Fort William station in Scotland. Today, aspiring witches and wizards can experience the magic for themselves with a ride on the Jacobite steam train. The Jacobite was used as the Hogwarts Express in the films and crosses over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, another spot shown along Harry’s journey to Hogwarts.
Hagrid’s Hut
Harry spends a great deal of time in the home of his half-giant friend Hagrid throughout the books and movies. In several of the series’ films, scenes of Hagrid’s hut were shot in Clachaig Gully in Glencoe, Scotland. While the set is now on display at the Harry Potter Studio in London, fans can still enjoy a stunning view of the lake and forest surrounding where Hagrid’s Hut once was.
Dumbledore’s Grave
Those wishing to pay their respects to the greatest headmaster in Hogwarts history can visit Dumbledore’s grave on Eilean na Moine, an island in Loch Eilt in the Scottish West Highlands. This is where the headmaster was laid to rest in the sixth film, and it’s a peaceful and tranquil spot that’s worth visiting for any Potter fan.