The Best Honeymoon Destinations for Harry Potter Lovers
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios
For a thrilling Harry Potter-themed honeymoon, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios is a must. Immerse yourself in meticulously recreated sets seen on screen. Stroll through Diagon Alley, explore Ollivanders, and choose your own wand as a magical memento.
The rides are of course a highlight, including the exhilarating Escape from Gringotts and The Hogwarts Express journey. End your day with a pint of Butterbeer—it’s a must. Add these experiences to your Honeyfund registry for guests to contribute to the costs of these adventures and souvenirs, making it a practical and fun way for them to be part of your magical honeymoon.
Alnwick Castle, England
Step into the real-life Hogwarts by visiting Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England. This historic castle played a key role in the first two Harry Potter films, and you’ll recognize many spots from those memorable scenes. Wander through the gardens near The Outer Bailey, where Harry and his friends had their first flying lessons. See The Lion Arch that served as a passage to Hogwarts, leading to Hagrid’s cabin and the Forbidden Forest. In the Inner Bailey courtyard, you can even stand where Harry and Ron crash-landed the Weasley family’s flying car.
Gloucester Cathedral, England
Located outside of London in the town of Cotswold, the 1300-year-old Gloucester Cathedral has etched its name in cinematic history as a key Harry Potter filming location. Step into the cathedral’s ornate corridors, once the iconic Hogwarts hallways, and discover the Infirmary Wing where magical healing took place. Don’t miss the eerie charm of Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom.
For a real-world experience, take a tour of this historic gem, exploring its intricate architecture. General visiting is by voluntary donation, with a suggested contribution of £5 per adult.
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland
If you haven’t heard of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, you’ll surely recognize it when you see it. Every Harry Potter fan is familiar with the iconic Hogwarts Express departing from Platform 9¾ at London’s Kings Cross station, setting off on a picturesque rail journey through the British countryside. Now, you have the opportunity to experience the train ride yourself for around $65 per person.
Aboard the Jacobite steam train, you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery. This 84-mile round trip takes you past several impressive places, including the famous viaduct. Much of the sweeping landscapes you witness during the journey were filmed in and around Glenfinnan. Nestled among some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery, it’s regarded as one of the most picturesque rail routes in Scotland.
Image courtesy of Strikefans
The Elephant House, Edinburgh, Scotland
Known as the birthplace of Harry Potter, The Elephant House in Edinburgh is a must-visit for fans. Grab a cup of coffee and soak in the atmosphere where J.K. Rowling wrote the early chapters of the wizarding saga. While you’re in Edinburgh, make sure not to miss The Potter Trail – a guided walking tour that takes you through the city’s streets, revealing the inspirations and locations that influenced the creation of Harry Potter. Don’t forget to swing by Greyfriars Kirkyard, where you can stroll around and discover the graves of real-life individuals who inspired J.K. Rowling’s characters, like Robert Potter, Elizabeth Moodie, and Margaret Louisa Scrymgeour Wedderburn.