BEYOND THE PAGE: DISCOVERING HARRY POTTER'S LONDON

ABSTRACT

London serves as a captivating backdrop for the Harry Potter series, with real-world locations inspiring J.K. Rowling and becoming iconic landmarks for fans. This article explores these magical places, bridging the gap between reality and the wizarding world. From King's Cross Station's Platform 9¾ and Leadenhall Market to  the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, each site tells a story of wonder and imagination, highlighting the city’s cultural heritage and the enduring appeal of the series.

Keywords: The Harry Potter series, filming locations, wizarding world, inspiration, architecture

London holds a special place in the hearts of Harry Potter fans worldwide as the backdrop for the enchanting world, which is intricately connected to the beloved series, crafted by J.K. Rowling. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these real-world locations not only served as inspirations for the writer but also became filming spots and landmarks that continue to enchant fans from all over the globe. In this article, we will delve into these magical places, exploring some of the most captivating locations that have inspired the series to see how they bridge the gap between our everyday world and the fantastical realm of wizards and witches.

Let us begin our magical tour with one of the most iconic places: King's Cross Station. This is the legendary departure point for young witches and wizards heading to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Hidden between Platforms 9 and 10 lies the elusive Platform 9¾, from which the Hogwarts Express departs. To make it appear in the Harry Potter films, platforms 4 and 5 were temporarily renumbered to create the illusion of Platform 9¾. This was necessary because the actual platforms 9 and 10 are adjacent, which wouldn't allow for the magical brick wall described in the books. Today, visitors can see a luggage trolley that appears to be vanishing through the wall — a perfect photo opportunity for fans. Next to it, the «Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾» offers a treasure trove of magical memorabilia - everything from wands and robes to house-themed souvenirs - making the magic feel incredibly real [4].

It must be noted that the exterior shots of King's Cross Station were actually filmed at St. Pancras International Station, which is renowned for its Victorian architecture and was chosen over King's Cross due to its more glamorous appearance. Its exteriors and famous clocktower are featured in the first two films when Harry Potter boards the Hogwarts Express for the first time in the Philosopher’s Stone, and when he and Ron  fly off in Arthur Weasley's car in pursuit of the train, in the Chamber of Secrets.

Its proximity to King's Cross Station there is the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel which holds a special place in the Harry Potter series as a filming location. Its iconic Grand Staircase was featured in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, where Harry and Ron fly past the hotel in the Weasleys' enchanted Ford Anglia on their way to Hogwarts. This stunning Neo-Gothic Victorian building, with its intricate architecture and fairy-tale charm, makes it a must-visit spot for fans seeking to immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere.For Harry Potter fans, staying at or visiting this hotel provides a unique blend of cinematic history and architectural grandeur, making it a magical addition to any London itinerary.

Next, we move to the enchanting Leadenhall Market, a beautifully preserved Victorian marketplace tucked away in the heart of the City of London. With its cobbled walkways, intricate wrought-iron arches, and brightly painted storefronts, Leadenhall exudes an old-world charm that feels almost otherworldly and helps transport visitors into a world of magic. This place is a genuine testament to London’s rich architectural and cultural history, a place where fiction and history intertwine, and where the line between the ordinary and the extraordinary seems to blur with every step.  There is no wonder that this remarkable Victorian setting, with its cobblestone paths and ornate architecture, served as one of the main inspirations for Diagon Alley, the bustling hub of commerce for witches and wizards in the Harry Potter universe [3].

Wandering beneath the glass-covered roof of Leadenhall Market, it’s easy to lose oneself in the atmosphere and imagine the world of magic unfolding around you. One might hear the distant hoot of an owl from Eyelop’s Owl Emporium, or catch a glimpse of a wizard disappearing into a hidden alleyway through a brick wall. The spirit of places like Ollivander’s, Flourish and Blotts, and Slug and Jigger’s Apothecary seems to linger in the air, ready to welcome a young witch or wizard in need of school supplies. Whether you're searching for that perfect photo opportunity or simply wishing to soak in the ambiance, Leadenhall invites all who enter to believe, if only for a moment, in the magic hidden just beneath the surface of the everyday.

Another notable site is the Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel, whose striking Gothic architecture instantly evokes memories of Hogwarts and the magical world created by J.K. Rowling. With its towering archways, richly decorated interiors, and an atmosphere that blends grandeur with mystery, the hotel feels like it was lifted straight from the pages of a fantasy novel. It’s no surprising that its enchanting aesthetic has been used as a backdrop in various film scenes, making it a place of pilgrimage for devoted fans. The lavish chandeliers, antique furnishings, and sweeping staircases contribute to the timeless and spellbinding atmosphere of the place, so a stay there provides an unforgettable experience [3].

Not far from these places lies a true treasure trove of knowledge — the British Library. While not featured in the films, it played a vital role in Rowling’s creative process. Home to ancient manuscripts and rare tomes, this library could easily be imagined as a place where Hermione Granger would immerse herself in magical research. Its hushed halls and scholarly aura inspire intellectual curiosity and a sense of wonder.

Moving into a more culinary realm, Borough Market offers a sensory experience reminiscent of the great feasts in the Hogwarts dining hall. From Butterbeer-inspired treats to chocolate frogs and all kinds of British delicacies, the market captures the joyful, communal spirit of the wizarding world. It's a place where fans can relive the warmth and fun shared between Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

One of the most cinematic locations is the Millennium Bridge. Featured in the dramatic opening of «Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince», the bridge’s destruction by Death Eaters left a lasting visual impression. In real life, however, the bridge stands strong — a symbol of resilience and connection between different worlds. Walking across it offers breathtaking views of the Thames and a feeling of being part of the magical action [2].

Our journey then brings us to Claremont Square, which served as the exterior for Grimmauld Place, the mysterious and hidden headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix. The quiet, Georgian-style buildings exude a sense of secrecy and history. Here, fans can imagine the life of Sirius Black and the safe haven this place provided for Harry during turbulent times [1].

Piccadilly Circus, though not a primary filming location, was featured in «Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1», when Harry, Ron, and Hermione flee after the wedding attack. Beyond its role in the films, it represents the vibrant energy of London — its bright lights, bustling crowds, and spontaneous performances create a sense of urban magic that mirrors the excitement of a Quidditch match [2].

Of course, no tour would be complete without visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. Located just outside London, this attraction offers fans an immersive experience into the wizarding world. From walking through the «Great Hall» and «Diagon Alley» to exploring the «Forbidden Forest» and «Hogwarts Express», visitors can see the actual sets, costumes, and props used in the films. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step behind the scenes and become part of the magic [1, 4].

In conclusion, London is more than just the setting for Harry Potter’s adventures — it is a character in its own right. Each location, whether it is a famous bridge, a bustling market or a quiet street, not only serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of the series but also highlights London's rich cultural and architectural heritage. They remind us that magic is never far away. It lives in the streets, the buildings, and the people who continue to dream — just as J.K. Rowling did when she first imagined a boy with a lightning bolt scar.

References:

1. Explore the Magic of London: 30+ Must-Visit Harry Potter Sites & Activitie / [Электронный ресурс] // Minne London? : [сайт]. — URL: https://minne.london/articles/explore-the-magic-of-london-30-must-visit-harry-potter-sites-activities
2. Pearce, S. 40+ Magical London Harry Potter Things to Do (2025)! / Pearce, S. [Электронный ресурс] // Third Eye Traveller : [сайт]. — URL: https://thirdeyetraveller.com/london-harry-potter-filming-locations/
3. По следам Гарри Поттера в Лондоне / [Электронный ресурс] // EFL -English For Life : [сайт]. — URL: https://m.efl-study.ru/blog/detail/po-sledam-garri-pottera/
4. Шепелев, Е. 10 реальных мест, где снимали фильмы о Гарри Поттере: замки, соборы и виадук / Шепелев, Е. [Электронный ресурс] // Т-Ж : [сайт]. — URL: https://t-j.ru/list/harry-potter-places/