← Harry Potter locations
Madam Hooch's flying lesson, first Quidditch match
Hogwarts Exterior
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, England
Alnwick is England's second-largest inhabited castle and stood in for Hogwarts exterior in the first two films. The outer bailey is where Harry first learned to fly. The castle runs broomstick training sessions for visitors in summer.
Plan your visit
What you need to know before you go
- Best time to visit
- April–October (castle opening season)
- How to get there
- Train to Alnmouth, then a 10-minute taxi or bus. Pair with the Alnwick Garden next door.
- Suggested stay
- Plan 1–2 days here, or build it into a wider regional trip.
- Good to know
- Bring layers, comfortable shoes, and a camera. See our country guide below for restaurants, cafés and more places nearby.
More from Harry Potter
Other real-world locations
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Hogwarts Express
Christ Church College, Oxford, England
Hogwarts Great Hall (inspiration)
Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire, England
Hogwarts Corridors & Classrooms
Goathland Station, North Yorkshire, England
Hogsmeade Station
Glencoe & Glen Etive, Scottish Highlands, Scotland