{
  "id": 17753869,
  "title": "Harry Potter set-jetting by train: Five magical rail journeys in the UK",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/02/harry-potter-set-jetting-by-train-five-magical-rail-journeys-in-the-uk",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-02T06:00:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Euronews",
    "slug": "euronews",
    "url": "https://www.euronews.com/2026/11/02/harry-potter-set-jetting-by-train-five-magical-rail-journeys-in-the-uk"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In November 1999, the first Harry Potter film, \"Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone,\" was released, sparking a wave of magic and wonder. The Hogwarts Express, portrayed by the GWR 4900 Class No. 5972 Olton Hall steam locomotive, became an iconic symbol of the magical world. The journey of the Hogwarts students, from their arrival at King's Cross station in London to their arrival at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, was a result of a fictional train ride that captured the hearts of fans worldwide.\n\nHowever, the magic of the Hogwarts Express extends beyond the silver screen. Rail Europe has identified five locations across the UK where fans can relive the enchanting experience of the Harry Potter universe through backdrops and attractions.\n\n1. Platform 9¾ at London King's Cross station: No Harry Potter-inspired trip is complete without a visit to this legendary platform. Fans can pose alongside the famous luggage trolley disappearing into the wall. From this station, trains head north towards destinations like Durham and Yorkshire, which are also featured in this list.\n\n2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Hertfordshire: Just outside London, fans can immerse themselves in the world of Hogwarts by visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. The attraction features \"Hogwarts in the Snow,\" running from November 14, 2026, to January 17, 2027. To reach the studio, take a train from London Euston to Watford Junction, then hop on the Studio Tour shuttle. Note that entry to the attraction needs to be booked separately.\n\n3. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland: The iconic Hogwarts Express train scene, featuring a sweeping stone viaduct surrounded by Highland mountains, was filmed at the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland. The viaduct offers a stunning view and can be accessed by regular ScotRail trains between Fort William and Mallaig.\n\n4. Oxford, England: Oxford's picturesque lanes, ancient colleges, and grand halls served as the backdrop for many scenes in the Harry Potter films. Key filming locations include the Bodleian Library's Divinity School (hospital wing), Duke Humfrey's Library, and the staircase at Christ Church. With fast trains from London taking approximately 45 minutes, Oxford is an easy day trip for Harry Potter enthusiasts.\n\n5. Durham, England: Durham's striking cathedral, with its Norman architecture and stone cloisters, is one of the most recognizable real-life locations from the Harry Potter series. The cathedral's cloisters appeared in scenes such as when Harry released Hedwig, and the Chapter House was used as Professor McGonagall's classroom. Beyond the film connections, Durham offers dramatic hilltop settings, riverside walks, and narrow streets to explore. Direct trains from London King's Cross take around three hours to reach Durham.\n\n5. Goathland, North Yorkshire, England: Goathland station in North Yorkshire inspired the Hogsmeade station in the first Harry Potter film. The old-fashioned platforms are part of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a heritage line that winds through rolling moorland. Whitby and Grosmont serve as useful gateways for exploring the area, although the final leg to Goathland requires additional planning. Heritage trains run seasonally, so it's essential to check the timetable before embarking on this magical journey.",
  "summary": "From Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross station in London to the Scottish viaduct crossed by the Hogwarts Express, these real-life locations bring the wizarding world to life. With the first film marking its 25th anniversary this November, here’s where to go for a spellbinding UK getaway by train.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}