The Harry Potter Reunion Special has just been released. If you’re anything like us, then you’re wishing you could put ‘Hogwarts’ as one of your five choices in UCAS. However, don’t fret. While we can’t guarantee you a spot in Gryffindor House this year, we can guarantee that you’ll love these Hogwarts-Esque UK universities instead. So, it’s time to turn the TV off and be the star of your own movie. These are the best UK universities for Harry Potter fans.
Oxford University
First on our list is Oxford University. You can’t get much closer to Hogwarts than this uni- scenes from the film were shot in the university building itself. Filming locations include Christ Chuch College, the Bodleian Library and the New College. In fact, the Hogwarts Grand Hall was modelled on the Great Hall at Christ Chuch College. So, while you may not have a great feast like in the movie, we can promise that you’ll feel a little closer to Hogwarts.
The University of Edinburgh
Did you know that JK Rowling lives in Edinburgh? In fact, the city itself was where Rowling researched and wrote the Harry Potter books. Therefore, it will come as no surprise that the University of Edinburgh is next on our list. In the city, you’ll find that the city’s outstanding natural beauty, its gothic architecture and medieval buildings feel very much like Hogsmeade. That’s the village near Hogwarts. What’s more, you can actually take a ride on the Hogwarts Express while up in Scotland- well sort of. The Jacobite is a photogenic steam train and the actual train used in the movies. There’s even a Harry Potter compartment that comes with great views for fans. Check out Eight places all Harry Potter fans should visit in Edinburgh.
Durham University
Apart from being one of the oldest and most aesthetically beautiful universities in the UK, there’s another reason that Durham has made it on our list. Three words- Harry. Potter. Degree. That’s right, at Durham University you can Harry Potter and the Age of Illusion as part of a module within the School of Education. Surely studying for your degree doesn’t get much better than that?
University College Cork
It’s known as the ‘Hogwarts of Ireland’ and while the university has no direct relation to the movies, aesthetically it is very similar. The large university building has beautiful architecture and a vast campus. It’s the reason why international students from all over the world come to Cork. Best of all for Harry Potter fans is that they can join the UCC Harry Potter Society. The group runs loads of Harry Potter events including a Yule ball- we’ll try to find a date who will rival Viktor Krum.
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow is one of the oldest in the UK. Its gothic architecture, ornate decor, grand halls and spires mean that the interior resembles that of many scenes in Harry Potter. No filming for the movies was actually done on campus. However, visitors comment on its uncanny resemblance, time and time again.
Royal Holloway University of London
Next up is the Royal Holloway University. It has been repeatedly voted as one of the most beautiful universities in the UK and it’s easy to see why. Its historic university building is set in 135 acres of stunning parkland and is very Hogwarts like inside. What’s more, it’s only a short train ride away from London where there are loads of activities for Harry Potter fans. Take a trip to the theatre to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child or visit Platform 9 and 3/4 at Kings Cross station. Of course, you must spend a day at the nearby, Harry Potter World too.
Know any more UK universities that should make it to this list? Share your thoughts in the comments section. In the meantime, if you are wondering what UK university JK Rowling went to, as well as other celebrities then take a look at our list of university former students.
