The Wizardly wonderment of York
The rise in popularity of witchcraft and wizardry that has followed JK Rowling’s Harry Potter has prompted the birth of many businesses that bring this magic to life – and nowhere more than in York.
York was also the starting place for Susanna Clarke’s book, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, which saw the statues in York Minster brought to life. Filming for the BBC TV series of the same name also took place in York, as did Eternal Law, a fantasy series about angels sent to interact with humans in the guide of lawyers searching for justice.
So if you are planning a visit to York soon, take a look at some of these experiences below to ensure that you have a magical visit.
Though the idea for Diagon Alley was created entirely in JK Rowling’s head, apparently set designers from Warner Bros were enchanted by Shambles, a historic thoroughfare in York regularly voted Britain’s most picturesque street. Originally built with a very narrow design so that the windowsills would stay in shadow all day for their tenants – York’s butchers – this remarkable street is so different from any other in the UK that it is a first stop for anyone making a magical-themed visit to the city. In fact, it now hosts a number of businesses (also in this list) that add to its wizarding credentials.
Nestled on Shambles at number 9 3/4, The Potions Cauldron beckons visitors to experience a truly extraordinary adventure. Delight in the mystique of brewing your own potions, guided by skilled alchemists who unveil the secrets of the arcane arts. From shimmering elixirs to aromatic concoctions, the vast array of ingredients guarantees an enchanting potion crafted just for you. Whether you’re a curious wizard or a passionate sorceress, The Potions Cauldron offers an unforgettable experience for all ages. Plus family friendly experiences in York’s smallest visitor attraction, The Secret Potion Room.
Swap your broomstick for a putter and enter the extraordinary world of The Hole in Wand, York’s wizard golf experience where wonders abound and the extraordinary awaits. Located directly opposite another of York’s must-see attractions, JORVIK Viking Centre, in the Coppergate Centre, park your broom at the door as you go in search of the missing gargoyle Grobblenook. Complete a series of crazy challenges with a ball and a putter as your only tools, and be rewarded with a magical potion when you complete the trail! Set over two floors with crazy challenges that would make Nick Faldo sweat, this is a family favourite in the heart of the city.
The Wizard Walk of York
Fancy a guided tour of York with a truly magical guide? It is little wonder that The Wizard Walk of York won first prize at the Little Vikings Awards 2023, when it offers such an amazing experience to visitors entranced by the magic of York! Ideal for children aged 5-10 in particular, or bigger kids with a silly sense of humour!
Goathland Station, North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Okay, so it isn’t quite in York Centre, but this is worth a trip out of the city for any Harry Potter fan! Goathland Station featured in The Philosopher’s Stone as Hogsmead Station, so take a trip on a real steam train to the magical location from the movies!
Magical places to stay….
101 House At the End
A house of magic and imagination for young and old. Book yourself into this unique house of witchcraft and wizardry to experience a spellbinding breakaway in the historical city of York. This unique, one-of-a-kind house is right next to York Racecourse, a stone’s throw from the city centre. Spend a night in the iconic Emerald bedchamber, snuggle up on the sofa in the Victorian Reading Room and indulge in a bubble bath in the stunning bathroom.
The design of the house has been returned to its former glory, highlighting original features from the cast iron fireplace, the wooden floors and quarry tiles, and even exposing the property’s original wallpaper dating back to Victorian and Edwardian times.
If you thought all hotels featured carbon copy rooms where guests remain anonymous, you have probably not visited York’s tiniest (and probably most unusual) city-centre hotel, Hocus Pocus. Located in Patrick Pool, close to York’s market and next to the Valhalla bar, this hotel is a portal to ancient magic, witchcraft and mythical stories! Just five rooms – all in exceptionally high demand – each individually designed for an unforgettable stay.
