Whether or not you're a fan of the Harry Potter stories, you will love the beautiful, magical scenery of the UK
Are you a die-hard Harry Potter fan, ready to trace your favorite wizard’s steps outside of London? Or are you a travel companion of such a fan, yearning to leave behind the Warner Bros. Studio tours and see the scenic UK? No matter which group you identify with, these two activities are worth your time—and you’ll find that each is magical in multiple ways.
Ride the Jacobite Steam Train
The Jacobite Steam Train is known as one of the greatest railway trips in the world. An 84-mile round trip, the railway passes by some of the most scenic mountains and lakes of Britain, as well as the Glenfinnan viaduct, which Harry Potter fans will recognize immediately from Harry’s journey to Hogwarts. And if that isn’t magical enough, this train was also used as the Hogwarts Express. The train runs from early April until late October, so plan your trip accordingly!
Walk the Trails at Malham Cove
Once a majestic waterfall, Malham Cove is now a millennia-old limestone formation and a beautiful destination for visitors. Walking trails lead from Malham Village to the base of the former waterfall. Steeper trails lead to the top of the formation for those visitors adventurous enough to take them. Such visitors will be rewarded with amazing views, and Potter fans will recognize the site as one of Harry’s camping grounds from the seventh film. And if the scenery leaves you wanting more, the area includes several other walking trails you can travel at your leisure.
For those of you still waiting for your Hogwarts letters, and for those who never wanted one at all, these sites enable you to experience the magic of Britain in whichever way you choose.