Credit: UniversalA brand-new Harry Potter attraction is on the way, potentially softening the blow of losing the prospect of visiting the Wizarding World itself.
Over the years, Universal has opened several Harry Potter lands around the world, each one drawing massive crowds. It all started with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure in 2010, followed by Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida in 2014, with both lands linked by the Hogwarts Express (because of course).
Then came international expansions. Universal Studios Japan opened its own Hogsmeade in 2014, complete with a snow-covered Hogwarts Castle. Universal Studios Hollywood followed suit in 2016 while Universal Studios Beijing opened with the land in 2021.
Each land features wand experiences, Butterbeer, and rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff, with Florida continuing to set itself apart with the top-tier coaster that is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
Most recently, a new Ministry of Magic-themed land opened at Epic Universe in Florida next year, blending British and French wizarding worlds.
With multiple Harry Potter lands across the globe, you’d be forgiven for assuming a UK park would follow suit. That’s why fans were shocked to discover otherwise.
The upcoming Universal theme park planned for the UK will reportedly feature areas inspired by the likes of the James Bond, Paddington, and Lord of the Rings franchises, but will not feature a Harry Potter land. The decision came as a surprise to diehard Potterheads, especially given the series’ deep ties to British culture, settings, and iconography.
Many also saw the park as a golden opportunity to promote the Harry Potter reboot, which is already filming its first season for HBO. Having a dedicated land in the UK would’ve aligned perfectly with the renewed push to reintroduce the franchise to a new generation.
However, some have theorized that the park’s proximity to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a key factor.
Universal Studios Great Britain may have opted to steer clear of direct competition given the Studio Tour’s continued popularity among both domestic and international visitors, even since a replica of the tour opened in Tokyo (with another apparently on the way in Shanghai).
But it’s not all bad news for Harry Potter fans craving something new on Harry’s side of the pond.
New ‘Harry Potter’ Attraction Confirmed For the UK
Reports have emerged that a former bookshop in Oxford will be transformed into a new attraction celebrating the franchise. The Grade II-listed William Baker House on the corner of Broad Street and Cornmarket was apparently handpicked by Warner Bros.
Warner Bros. has yet to comment, but contractors working inside William Baker House revealed that the studio’s structural engineers have been on site. They suggested that a Harry Potter attraction is slated to open next year.
While specific details about the attraction remain under wraps, it is expected to include merchandise sales.
Notably, several locations in Oxford were actually used to film scenes for the likes of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002) and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005). The Bodleian Library’s Divinity School served as the Hogwarts Hospital Wing in the first four films.
The Latest in a String of ‘Harry Potter’ Stores
This is just the latest in a wave of Harry Potter stores.
Earlier this year, a brand-new official store inspired by the franchise debuted in Chicago, joining another flagship location already in operation in New York.
Meanwhile, the UK is home to a licensed Harry Potter store at King’s Cross, where Potterheads can also make a running attempt at entering Platform 9 3/4 (if they’re feeling extra bold). London also boasts a string of non-licensed Harry Potter stores, which have proven unpopular with local residents.