Skip to main content

Magical Britain in the spotlight

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Wales

Man, woman and a child walking in the mountains

Britain brings that main character energy to your favourite fantasy worlds, from the pages of JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis’ bestsellers, to blockbuster film series like Harry Potter – and not forgetting small-screen stars such as House of the Dragon and The Witcher either 

You’re never far from a magical moment in our nations and regions. Follow Lancashire’s Tolkien Trail and immerse yourself in the landscapes that inspired the Lord of the Rings. Spot Malvern’s Victorian glass lamps and you might think you’re in Narnia, not Worcestershire.  

Go time-travelling in Scotland’s Cairngorms at the Highland Folk Museum, as seen in Outlander, and don’t miss the National Park’s Harry Potter filming locations while you’re there. Potterheads – there’s even more fun to be had with flying lessons at Alnwick Castle, a magical West End show and sets and props galore at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.  

Wales’ dramatic landscapes are straight out of a storybook. Experience the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) through the lens of Stardust, Willow and His Dark Materials, or soar like a dragon on a zipwire ride over Snowdonia (Eryri), a star of House of the Dragon.  

Where will you explore first? 

Day 1 – 2: Manchester, North-West England

Day 1 – 2: Manchester, North-West England 

City or United? Oasis or The Smiths? These aren’t the only tricky decisions you’ll need to make in Manchester. You’ll be spoiled for choice with things to do thanks to a top-notch culture, food and shopping scene, but our itinerary weaves a little magic into your visit.  

Wizards and muggles alike will be charmed by John Rylands Library, which could easily double as the Hogwarts Library. Pedal through Manchester’s most whimsical spots on a Blooms & Bicycles tour, and channel your inner Mystic Meg with a tarot reading at Afflecks. Plus, enjoy Asian-inspired grub at Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay and a spellbinding stay at the Stock Exchange Hotel. 

Photo by: VisitBritain/Zut Media

Location: Manchester, England

Two men chatting, seated inside a large library reading room.

Magical things to do in Manchester

Press Escape while tabbing through the list to skip to the next section

You’ll be stunned into silence in this atmospheric library, whose Historic Reading Room reminds you of a church with its vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows.

Discover the John Rylands Library (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Zut Media

Location: Manchester, England

Two men chatting, exploring a large library.
John Rylands Library

Looking for something unique? You’ve come to the right place. Afflecks is renowned for its quirky independent boutiques.

Find shopping heaven at Afflecks (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Zut Media

Location: Manchester, England

The exterior of Afflecks and The Manchester Shop with people walking past on the pavement in Manchester city centre.
Afflecks

You’ll be stunned into silence in this atmospheric library, whose Historic Reading Room reminds you of a church with its vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows.

Discover the John Rylands Library (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Zut Media

Location: Manchester, England

Two men chatting, exploring a large library.
John Rylands Library

Looking for something unique? You’ve come to the right place. Afflecks is renowned for its quirky independent boutiques.

Find shopping heaven at Afflecks (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Zut Media

Location: Manchester, England

The exterior of Afflecks and The Manchester Shop with people walking past on the pavement in Manchester city centre.
Afflecks
  • Tarot Readings at Crystal Henge

    Make like Practical Magic’s Owens sisters with a tarot-reading experience at Crystal Henge, nestled in the whimsical wonderland of Afflecks. What will your cards say? 

  • Blooms & Bicycles

    Petals meet pedals on these gorgeous cycle tours of Manchester on cute Dutch bikes. Don your flower garlands and discover the city on two wheels on the Manchester Floral Bike Tour – we reckon the Owens ladies would love this one. 

  • Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay

    Bring your appetite to Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay for Asian-inspired small plates and robata grilled dishes. From sashimi to bao, noodles and salads, you’re in for a treat. 

  • Stock Exchange Hotel

    Expect five-star luxury at Manchester’s one-time stock exchange, packed with heritage features. There are 40 rooms and suites to choose from at the Stock Exchange Hotel, plus fine dining at Tender by Niall Keating. 

More things to do in Manchester

Getting to Manchester

Manchester Airport is the largest airport outside of London, flying to around 190 destinations worldwide. If you’re arriving into London, it takes over two hours by train from London Euston railway station to Manchester with Avanti West Coast. Travelling from the airport to the city is easy by Metrolink (tram) or train, and getting around Manchester is made simple by the Bee Network public transport system.  

Day 2 – 3: North Wales

Day 2 – 3: North Wales

Here be dragons – quite literally. North Wales is where you’ll find the scene-stealing scenery in House of the Dragon, from the slate-studded valleys of Snowdonia (Eryri) to Anglesey’s seemingly endless beaches. These fantastical landscapes are made for exploring, whether that’s by foot, mountain bike or even the world’s fastest zipwire.  

Follow in the footsteps of House Targaryen to Ffynnon Llugwy lake, and be wowed by the views from the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Experience the life of a lord or lady at Bodysgallen Hall and sip on a dram (or two) of Welsh Whisky at Llandudno’s Penderyn Distillery. Plus, explore colourful Beaumaris in Anglesey, where Hollywood meets UNESCO-listed history. 

Photo by: Snowdon Mountain Railway/Camera Drone UK

Location: Snowdon Massif, Wales

Mountain landscape with a steep railway, a train ascending, rocky ridges, greenery, and clear blue sky. People walk beside the track.

Magical things to do in north Wales

Press Escape while tabbing through the list to skip to the next section

Retreat to this fabulous spa hotel, set on 200 acres of wild Welsh estate and gardens.

Spend the night at Bodysgallen Hall (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lac

Location: Llandudno, Wales

Bodysgallen Hall, Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Conwy
Bodysgallen Hall

Photo by: VisitBritain/Dave Newbould/Snowdon Mountain Railways

Location: Snowdon Massif, Wales

A scenic mountain railway, the final ridge with clouds in the background.
Snowdon Mountain Railway

Think local beers and dishes brimming with local produce at this cosy, 15th-century pub.

Dine at the George & Dragon, Beaumaris (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Robinsons Brewery

Location: Beaumaris, Wales

Cozy rustic room with wooden floors, exposed beams, brick fireplace, wooden tables and chairs, and decorative shelves.
George & Dragon Beaumaris

Spend the night at the Bull's Head Inn, an award-winning pub dating back to the 15th century.

Visit the Bull's Head Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Inn Collection Group

Location: Beaumaris, Wales

Cozy hotel room with a large bed, floral wallpaper, brick fireplace, open wardrobe, and bedside lamps creating a warm atmosphere.
Bull’s Head Inn, Beaumaris

Retreat to this fabulous spa hotel, set on 200 acres of wild Welsh estate and gardens.

Spend the night at Bodysgallen Hall (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: National Trust Images/Chris Lac

Location: Llandudno, Wales

Bodysgallen Hall, Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Conwy
Bodysgallen Hall

Photo by: VisitBritain/Dave Newbould/Snowdon Mountain Railways

Location: Snowdon Massif, Wales

A scenic mountain railway, the final ridge with clouds in the background.
Snowdon Mountain Railway

Think local beers and dishes brimming with local produce at this cosy, 15th-century pub.

Dine at the George & Dragon, Beaumaris (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Robinsons Brewery

Location: Beaumaris, Wales

Cozy rustic room with wooden floors, exposed beams, brick fireplace, wooden tables and chairs, and decorative shelves.
George & Dragon Beaumaris

Spend the night at the Bull's Head Inn, an award-winning pub dating back to the 15th century.

Visit the Bull's Head Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Inn Collection Group

Location: Beaumaris, Wales

Cozy hotel room with a large bed, floral wallpaper, brick fireplace, open wardrobe, and bedside lamps creating a warm atmosphere.
Bull’s Head Inn, Beaumaris
  • Penderyn Whisky, Llandudno

    Enjoy a dram (or two) at Llandudno’s very own distillery, Penderyn. Choose from tours and masterclasses with tastings of the golden nectar included. Cheers to that. 

  • Freedom Outdoors, Snowdonia (Eryri)

    Explore Snowdonia (Eryri) with guide Louise Tully from Freedom Outdoors. Conquer an epic climb, challenge yourself on a mountain bike trip or get out on the water – the choice is yours. 

More things to do in north Wales

Getting to north Wales

If you’re travelling from Manchester, north Wales is easy to reach by both public transport and car. There is a direct train service from Manchester Airport to Llandudno Junction along the north Wales coast, taking around two-and-a-half hours. From there you can take the train onwards to Bangor or the Isle of Anglesey. 

Travelling to north Wales from London? There is a direct train service from London Euston to Holyhead on the Isle of Anglesey that takes just under four hours.  

Day 4: Durham, North East England

Day 4: Durham, North East England

Don’t forget your broomstick – we’re firmly in Harry Potter territory in North East England. If you’ve ever wondered where the magic happens, it’s in Durham Cathedral, whose magnificent cloisters doubled for Hogwarts in The Philosopher’s Stone and The Chamber of Secrets. You can even step inside Professor McGonagall’s classroom at the cathedral’s Chapter House.  

Today you’ll fuel up on some North East England delicacies: think coffee and cake at cosy Flat White Kitchen, and Northumbrian fare just over the border at Ad Gefrin. Hungry for more magical adventures? Explore the nooks and crannies of Durham Castle, check out Kynren: The Storied Lands, or go time-travelling at Beamish Museum.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Durham, England

A family share a moment inside the cloisters of a cathedral

Magical things to do in Durham

Press Escape while tabbing through the list to skip to the next section

Discover over 1,000 years of history, travel up into the central tower or explore the grounds and spot Harry Potter filming locations.

Explore Durham Cathedral (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Peter Thomas Atkinson

Location: Durham, England

Two children dressed as Harry Potter characters at Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral
Durham

A place for roaming Romans, valiant Vikings and wise wizards, Durham is a city bursting with untold stories and magical moments.

Find out more

Photo by: Getty Images/E+/SolStock

Location: Durham, England

A male couple sitting in a rowboat, rowing together

Discover over 1,000 years of history, travel up into the central tower or explore the grounds and spot Harry Potter filming locations.

Explore Durham Cathedral (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Peter Thomas Atkinson

Location: Durham, England

Two children dressed as Harry Potter characters at Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral
Durham

A place for roaming Romans, valiant Vikings and wise wizards, Durham is a city bursting with untold stories and magical moments.

Find out more

Photo by: Getty Images/E+/SolStock

Location: Durham, England

A male couple sitting in a rowboat, rowing together
  • The Curious Mr Fox 

    Afternoon teas, cocktail brunches and hearty Sunday lunches – they’re all on the menu at The Curious Mr Fox. Plus, learn how to whip up your own drinks at their regular Cocktail Masterclasses.  

  • Flat White Kitchen 

    Hidden in this 17th-century townhouse you’ll find some of Durham’s tastiest coffee, brunch and sweet treats. Think caramelised banana pancakes, eggs benedict and fish finger sandwiches – yum.  

More things to do in County Durham

Getting to Durham

Durham is well connected to locations across Britain. If you’re travelling by public transport from north Wales, you’ll want to take the train to Manchester Piccadilly then take a connecting train directly to Durham.  

If you’re travelling to Durham from overseas, then Newcastle International Airport is the nearest airport. Coming from London? It’s a three-hour journey by train from London Kings Cross.  

Day 5: Northumberland, North East England

Day 5: Northumberland, North East England

Enchanting castles, epic beaches and a whole lot of Roman heritage: welcome to Northumberland. Harry Potter fans – you’ll find the real-life Hogwarts at Alnwick Castle, which starred in the first two films. And if you’re extending your stay, check out Bamburgh Castle too, which you might recognise from Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Transformers: The Last Knight and Outlander

Today is full of highs and lows, from sky-high dining at Alnwick’s Treehouse Restaurant to the spooky depths of Chillingham Castle’s dungeon. You’ll even visit a poison garden if you dare, filled with around 100 toxic, intoxicating and narcotic plants. But first, ready for broomstick training?  

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Alnwick, England

Two women leaving a garden

Magical things to do in Northumberland

Press Escape while tabbing through the list to skip to the next section

A really magical day – the setting of wizarding schools for Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle even offers magic performances and wand-making workshops.

Explore the magic of Alnwick Castle (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Alnwick, England

Woman on a broomstick outside a castle
Alnwick Castle

Set in a charming wood-built treehouse, this restaurant looks like it belongs in a fairytale.

Visit The Treehouse Restaurant (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Sean Elliot

Location: Alnwick, England

The Treehouse Restaurant
The Treehouse Restaurant

Explore this mix of modern and traditional landscapes in the heart of Northumberland.

Explore The Alnwick Garden (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Alnwick, England

Three women inside a plant tunnel in a garden
The Alnwick Garden

From the dungeon to the torture chamber and the castle’s resident ghosts, you’re guaranteed a terrifying day out.

Get spooky at Chillingham Castle (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Jane Coltman

Location: Chillingham, England

External view of Chillingham Castle
Chillingham Castle

Part whisky distillery, part heritage museum – Ad Gefrin offers a fascinating taste of Northumberland life.

Discover the spirit of Northumberland at Ad Gefrin (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Wooler, England

Three women having a tasting session at a whisky distillery
Ad Gefrin

This boutique hotel channels Alice in Wonderland vibes with its beautifully bold design.

Stay at The Tempus (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Shu Shi Lin

Location: Chathill, England

A vibrantly decorated bedroom in an upmarket hotel.
The Tempus

A really magical day – the setting of wizarding schools for Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle even offers magic performances and wand-making workshops.

Explore the magic of Alnwick Castle (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Alnwick, England

Woman on a broomstick outside a castle
Alnwick Castle

Set in a charming wood-built treehouse, this restaurant looks like it belongs in a fairytale.

Visit The Treehouse Restaurant (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Sean Elliot

Location: Alnwick, England

The Treehouse Restaurant
The Treehouse Restaurant

Explore this mix of modern and traditional landscapes in the heart of Northumberland.

Explore The Alnwick Garden (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Alnwick, England

Three women inside a plant tunnel in a garden
The Alnwick Garden

From the dungeon to the torture chamber and the castle’s resident ghosts, you’re guaranteed a terrifying day out.

Get spooky at Chillingham Castle (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Jane Coltman

Location: Chillingham, England

External view of Chillingham Castle
Chillingham Castle

Part whisky distillery, part heritage museum – Ad Gefrin offers a fascinating taste of Northumberland life.

Discover the spirit of Northumberland at Ad Gefrin (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Location: Wooler, England

Three women having a tasting session at a whisky distillery
Ad Gefrin

This boutique hotel channels Alice in Wonderland vibes with its beautifully bold design.

Stay at The Tempus (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Shu Shi Lin

Location: Chathill, England

A vibrantly decorated bedroom in an upmarket hotel.
The Tempus

More things to do in Northumberland

Getting to Northumberland

You can travel between Durham and Alnmouth in Northumberland (the nearest train station to Alnwick) by direct train in around 40 minutes. Coming from further afield? Newcastle provides excellent train links via the East Coast Main Line, with the fastest train from London taking around two hours 40 minutes, and Edinburgh 40 minutes. The closest international airport is in Newcastle

Once you’re there, it’s easy to get around Northumberland by bus.  

Explore more of these locations

Discover more of Britain's filming locations

  • Welcome to Westeros! Discover how Britain’s showstopping coast and countryside are bringing the drama to House of the Dragon.

    Photo by: 2026 Home Box Office, Inc. All rights reserved.

    Location: Wales

    A large dragon flies over a sandy beach with rocky outcrops and the sea in the background, under a clear sky.
  • Follow in the magical footsteps of Harry Potter and get behind the scenes of these great British filming locations.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

    Location: Durham, England

    Family walking through the cloisters of a cathedral
  • From time-travelling doctors to caped crusaders, get ready to geek out to your favourite sci-fi and fantasy films and TV shows.

    Photo by: Visit County Durham/Critical Tortoise/Andy Jones

    Location: Bowlees, England

    Two women and a dog walk a path beside a waterfall

FAQs

  • Chillingham Castle is located in Chillingham, a village in Northumberland approximately a 30-minute drive from Alnwick. You can even book a room and stay at the castle at certain times of year – if you dare! 

  • Afflecks, previously known as Afflecks Palace, is a multi-floor indoor market where you’ll find plenty of creative independents and small businesses. Described as an emporium of eclecticism, its vendors sell everything from clothing, jewellery and crystals to vinyl records. It’s located in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, an area known for arts and creativity. 

  • Behind huge black iron gates you’ll find Alnwick’s poison garden in Northumberland, England, next to Alnwick Castle. With over 100 plants in its collection, the garden was created as an educational tool to reflect the power of plants and the dark side of botany.  

  • Yes, the views of Snowdonia from Beaumaris over the Menai Strait are magical and is an aspect the location is often admired for. It’s a great way to get some distant photos before visiting the National Park itself.