20 June 2024 , 11:46
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Harry Potter enthusiasts can make their dreams a reality this summer by visiting some of the film series' most iconic locations. Many of these beloved spots are nestled within the prestigious walls of Oxford University.
Lily Smith, a travel expert from specialist accommodation finder UniversityRooms.com, shared that "Most muggles don't realise that many filming locations for Hogwarts are not just sets. Several Oxford University colleges have featured in the movies as the famous school of wizardry and witchcraft.
"The most famous of these is Christ Church College which was used as the filming location and inspiration for many Harry Potter films."
Fans of the films can explore the cloisters and quadrangles of Christ Church College, immersing themselves in the historic grounds, while envisioning themselves within the magical world of Harry Potter. The picturesque college with its timeless architecture, provides an ideal setting for fans to relive their favourite movie moments.
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People can book a college room at Christ Church and enjoy breakfast in The Great Hall. This magnificent dining hall was meticulously replicated in the film studios to create the grand Hogwarts Hall.
The Dining Hall at Christchurch was meticulously recreated for the film series (Visit Oxford)They can also capture the magic on the 16th-century staircase, a memorable location where Harry and the new first-years are greeted by Professor McGonagall in the film.
Lily Smith adds "During Easter (March/April) and summer (July, August, September), it's possible to stay as guests of the college. Of course, the buildings are of architectural and historical interest, reflecting the differing centuries since the college's foundation.
"Unless you've mastered your apparition skills, you may need to know there are no lifts in any accommodation staircases, with some bedrooms up several flights of stairs. Christ Church offers rooms for single or twin occupancy. Strictly speaking, all guests should be over 18, but babies and children can share a room with adults."
Bookings for the vacant university accommodation are quickly filling up for July and August, but there's still plenty of availability in September. Christ Church College also provides accommodation at St Aldgate and its Liddell Building where visitors can still access the main college buildings.
Christ Church isn't the only real-life Hogwarts in Oxford. She said: "The seemingly misnamed New College, which actually dates back to 1379, is also familiar to Potter fans. In particular, New College's cloisters will be well-known to anyone who hasn't suffered one of Professor Lockhart's memory charms.
The Draco Malfoy tree can be found at New College, Oxford (Visit Oxford)"In 'The Goblet of Fire' movie, Draco Malfoy taunts Harry while perched on a large tree in the cloisters of New College. Malfoy's antics meet their match when he is magically transformed into a ferret by Mad-Eye Moody."
While accommodation at New College isn’t currently available, you can check UniversityRooms.com for updates. Meanwhile, several other historic colleges nearby offer rooms, close to other iconic Potter filming locations. In 'The Philosopher’s Stone,' the Bodleian’s Duke Humfrey’s Library provides a stunning backdrop to Harry’s adventures under his invisibility cloak.
Oxford isn’t the sole destination for Harry Potter enthusiasts. Numerous London universities offer affordable rooms near landmarks like Leadenhall Market, featured in 'The Philosopher’s Stone.' Additionally, Durham Cathedral, featured as Hogwarts in two films, offers a magical experience.
UniversityRooms.com offers a variety of accommodation options, including singles and doubles with ensuite facilities, available on both B&B and self-catering bases. For more details on staying in Oxford, visit their website here.
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