Alnwick Castle – Broomstick Training Area: Harry Potter Filming Location
About This Harry Potter Filming Location
Hidden inside the south‑west tower of St Paul's Cathedral lies Sir Christopher Wren's Geometric (Dean's) Staircase. This self‑supporting spiral of 88 stone steps rises without a central column and forms a perfect helix of white Portland stone. Built in the early 1700s, it is considered one of Wren's finest engineering feats and was once used by cathedral officials to reach the triforium. The staircase is rarely open to casual visitors; it can be seen only on special guided tours, adding to its mystique. The Geometric Staircase doubles as the Divination tower stairwell in *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* and *Half‑Blood Prince*. In the third film Hermione storms up these steps after Professor Trelawney tells her she does not possess 'the Sight'; later, Professor Moody comforts Neville Longbottom on the same spiralling staircase. Its elegant curve and flood of natural light provided the perfect magical backdrop for Hogwarts' higher levels.
Fan Pilgrimage Tips
- • Best photo opportunities are typically in the early morning or late afternoon for ideal lighting
- • Bring props or costumes to recreate iconic scenes from Harry Potter
- • Check local weather conditions and dress appropriately for outdoor locations
- • Respect any filming restrictions and private property boundaries
- • Consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds and get better photos
Visiting Information & Practical Details
Photo Opportunities and Best Views
Photo Tip 1
If allowed on a tour, stand at the base of the staircase and shoot straight up to emphasise the spiralling form; use a wide‑angle lens and raise ISO for low light.
Photo Tip 2
Capture the interplay of light and shadow by photographing the steps through the porthole doorway from the triforium level.
Photo Tip 3
Outside the tower, photograph St Paul’s dome silhouetted against the sky to set the scene of this hidden cinematic staircase.
Harry Potter Scenes Filmed at Alnwick Castle – Broomstick Training Area
Filming at Broomstick Training Area
Alnwick Castle doubled as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey. The medieval castle features grand staterooms and sweeping views.
Tours & Experiences
Continue Your Journey
Finished exploring Alnwick Castle – Broomstick Training Area? The adventure doesn't have to end here. Discover more magical filming locations nearby and extend your Harry Potter pilgrimage.
Broomstick Training Area
Downton Abbey • Nearby
Alnwick Castle doubled as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey. The medieval castle features grand staterooms and sweeping views.
Alnwick Castle – Broomstick Training Area
Harry Potter • Nearby
Hidden inside the south‑west tower of St Paul's Cathedral lies Sir Christopher Wren's Geometric (Dean's) Staircase. This self‑supporting spiral of 88 stone steps rises without a central column and forms a perfect helix of white Portland stone. Built in the early 1700s, it is considered one of Wren's finest engineering feats and was once used by cathedral officials to reach the triforium. The staircase is rarely open to casual visitors; it can be seen only on special guided tours, adding to its mystique. The Geometric Staircase doubles as the Divination tower stairwell in *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* and *Half‑Blood Prince*. In the third film Hermione storms up these steps after Professor Trelawney tells her she does not possess 'the Sight'; later, Professor Moody comforts Neville Longbottom on the same spiralling staircase. Its elegant curve and flood of natural light provided the perfect magical backdrop for Hogwarts' higher levels.
Guest Hall
Downton Abbey • 0.0km away
Alnwick Castle doubled as Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey. The medieval castle features grand staterooms and sweeping views.