Hidden Harry Potter London Film Spots

If you’re a Harry Potter fan planning a trip to London, you’ve probably already got Platform 9¾ and Leadenhall Market on your list. But what about the hidden gems—the lesser-known filming locations that still hold magical movie moments? We’ve gathered 13 underrated Harry Potter spots across London (and just beyond!) that deserve a spot on your bucket list. Here’s your guide to London’s secret wizarding world:

1. Lambeth Bridge – The Knight Bus Route

In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the Knight Bus squeezes between two red double-deckers while crossing Lambeth Bridge. This blink-and-you-miss-it scene makes the spot a fun detour for die-hard fans.

2. Great Scotland Yard – Ministry of Magic Entrance

This street near Whitehall was used as the entrance to the Ministry of Magic in Order of the Phoenix. You won’t find a red telephone booth here anymore, but standing on this cobbled street still feels like stepping into the wizarding world.

3. Claremont Square (Islington) – 12 Grimmauld Place

Tucked away in a residential square in Islington, Claremont Square was used as the exterior of Sirius Black’s family home. It appeared in Order of the Phoenix and Deathly Hallows Part 1. Quiet and unassuming, it's perfect for a nostalgic photo stop.

4. Borough Market – The Leaky Cauldron (Take 2)

While Leadenhall Market appeared in Philosopher’s Stone, Prisoner of Azkaban filmed a new Leaky Cauldron entrance near Borough Market on Stoney Street. It’s the moment Harry arrives on the Knight Bus and enters the wizard pub through a blue door!

5. Stoney Street – Leaky Cauldron Entrance (Prisoner of Azkaban)

Right under the railway bridge on Stoney Street, you’ll find the specific spot used for the Leaky Cauldron exterior. That little blue door with arched windows is still there, blending into the foodie chaos of Borough Market.

6. Reptile House at London Zoo – Parseltongue Moment

Where it all began! In Philosopher’s Stone, young Harry discovers he can talk to snakes at the Reptile House in London Zoo. You can visit the actual enclosure where he frees the Burmese python and leaves Dudley shocked and wet.

7. Lambeth Walk Underpass – Secret Magical Alley

Used in quick shots during Order of the Phoenix, this grungy underpass near Waterloo has a shadowy, Knockturn Alley vibe. While not instantly recognizable, it’s a cool urban spot for themed photos.

8. New College Lane, Oxford – Bridge of Sighs

Just a short train ride from London, Oxford features in several Harry Potter scenes. New College Lane’s iconic bridge and surrounding streets were used for Hogwarts exterior shots, especially in Goblet of Fire.

9. Martins Heron Station – The Flying Car Pickup

This suburban station in Berkshire is where the Weasleys pick up Harry in their flying Ford Anglia in Chamber of Secrets. Not a glamorous spot, but fun for super fans retracing Harry’s escape from Privet Drive.

10. Australia House – Gringotts Bank (Interior)

Though not open to the public, the ornate interior of Australia House stood in for Gringotts Wizarding Bank. It was featured in Philosopher’s Stone—think goblins, gold, and grandeur.

11. Christ Church College, Oxford – Great Hall Inspiration

This stunning dining hall inspired the look of Hogwarts’ Great Hall. Though not filmed here directly, many Potter fans visit to soak in the Hogwarts vibes—and it’s 100% worth the trip.

12. London City Hall – Background of Magical Mayhem

Appearing in wide city shots during Deathly Hallows, London’s modern City Hall appears briefly when the trio is navigating Muggle London. A fun inclusion for anyone who wants to tick off every single frame location.

13. St Pancras Renaissance Hotel (Arch Exterior)

Right beside King’s Cross, this beautiful red-brick building served as the backdrop when Harry and Ron fly the Ford Anglia in Chamber of Secrets. It’s often mistaken for the station itself, but it’s actually this hotel that steals the scene.

Now that you’ve discovered the lesser-known Harry Potter filming spots around London, why not turn it into a self-guided tour? These places may not be as famous as Platform 9¾, but they offer a deeper dive into the wizarding world—and are way less crowded for magical photo ops!

Whether you’re hopping on a train to Oxford or snapping a pic at Claremont Square, every corner holds a bit of Potter history. Don’t forget to share your magical finds and tag fellow fans!

📍Need help planning your route? Or want to grab some themed travel gear? Check out our top picks.

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