Fantastic Beasts Filming Locations

In 2016 the world was introduced to the Wizarding World before Harry Potter. And the world was amazed! Very much indeed because now we are looking forward to the third sequel of this fantastic prequel film series. But for now, let us introduce you to Fantastic Beasts filming locations. 

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore is the third instalment of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. All three movies were directed by David Yates and written by J. K. Rowling. 

The cast includes some already well-known names in the Wizarding World such as Eddie Redmayne (Newt Scamander), Jude Law (young Albus Dumbledore) and Ezra Miller (Credence). 

Whether you are a part of the Wizarding World fandom or just looking for some magical travel destinations, we highly recommend visiting Fantastic Beasts Filming Locations as they are so much more than that. 

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)

Liverpool, England, UK

Liverpool is well-known among football fans because of its Premier League football team Liverpool FC. However, it is very popular among movie fans of all kinds because numerous movies and TV shows were shot here. Due to its unique locations and some of the UK’s finest architecture scattered throughout the city, it became one of the most popular filming locations. If visiting this city, make sure not to miss these amazing locations that definitely deserved their place on the big screen.

St George’s Hall

This impressive neoclassical building located in the very center of Liverpool houses law courts and concert halls. However, it is a favourite filming location as well. Its interior was used to film the political rally scene in the movie Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Besides that, this amazing location, regarded as one of the most beautiful neo-Grecian structures in the world, also served for The Batman (2022) Filming Locations.

Cunard Building

The Cunard Building is a Grade II listed building located on George’s Pier Head at Water Street. It was built in 1917 and along with the Royal Liver Building and Port of Liverpool Building, it forms Liverpool’s Three Graces, which border the city’s waterfront. Furthermore, its exterior style is a mix of the Italian Renaissance and Greek Revival. Due to its imposing aesthetics, it is no surprise it was used in the movie Fantastic Beasts as a facade of the magnificent headquarters of MACUSA, the Magical Congress of the United States of America.

Martins Bank

Martins bank is a former private bank, listed as a Grade II building, located in Liverpool. It is ranked as one of the country’s finest examples of an interwar classical building. Unfortunately, it has been closed for a while. What’s more, in 2016 they revealed the plan to turn the building into a hotel but the work never started. However, it was used for an opening scene in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Based on what was shown to us in the movie, we sure do hope they reopen it soon. 

Studios in England, UK

Cardington Airfield Hangars, Bedfordshire

Only a few miles from Bedford, there are two huge sheds that are hard to miss. They dominate the landscape around the little village of Cardington. The location is a former Royal Air Force station with a long history, mainly related to airships and balloons. However, in 1993, the site received planning permission for the construction of theatrical stagings and was used by numerous musicians for rehearsals. In addition, numerous movies were filmed here including Star Wars, Justice League and The Batman (2022). Furthermore, in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, this site served for creating the ‘New York docks’ scenes.

Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, Hertfordshire

This is one of the most popular filming locations in England. In fact, it is among the Top 50 Filming Locations in the UK. What’s more, it served for shooting scenes from numerous movies (and by this, we mean more like there’s a never-ending list). It is home to movies such as Harry Potter, Batman, Sherlock Holmes, Justice League, Bohemian Rhapsody, Ready Player One, and now, of course, Fantastic Beasts.

Moreover, the studio offers several Harry Potter tours with a price range from 107€ to 405 € and can be booked online.

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (2018)

Lacock, England, UK

Lacock is a charming village located in the county of Wiltshire, England. Its most famous attraction is the Lacock Abbey, a former nunnery. Furthermore, in order to preserve its heritage, almost the entire village is owned by the National Trust. Due to its unspoilt appearance, this historical village attracts many visitors as well as many moviemakers. 

Lacock Abbey

Lacock Abbey, originally a nunnery, was founded in the early 13th century by Ela of Salisbury. The building’s architecture is a mix of different styles. Some parts look more medieval than others, but it is mainly described as a Gothic Revival style building. Furthermore, due to its interesting exterior as well as interior, it was used as a filming location for several movies. In the sequel of Fantastic Beasts, it was used for shooting some scenes of Hogwarts. What’s more, Lacock Abbey was used for three Harry Potter films, and also as a location for Hogwarts. 

London, England, UK

London is without a doubt the best-known city in England. It is famous for many reasons, from numerous historical buildings to amazing museums, squares and gardens. Furthermore, it served as a filming location for numerous movies. Possibly one of the most famous filming locations in London is King’s Cross station. In the wizarding world, it is also known as the place where the Hogwarts Express begins its journey to Hogwarts. Besides the famous Platform 9¾, it served as a filming location for Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation and Batman Begins. What’s more, it is one of the Top 50 Filming Locations in the UK.

Highgate Cemetery

Highgate Cemetery is a famous place of burial in north London. In addition, it is listed as a Grade I on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. What’s more, it is also a nature reserve and a part of the Magnificent Seven cemeteries in London. Furthermore, it includes a labyrinth of Egyptian sepulchres as well as an abundance of Gothic tombs and buildings. This unique cemetery was mentioned in numerous novels and it served as a filming location for several movies and TV series. Besides the sequel of the Fantastic Beasts, it served as a set for movies such as Taste the Blood of Dracula, From Beyond the Grave and Hampstead.

St Mary’s Gardens

In The Crimes of Grindelwald, Newt Scamander’s house is set in the beautiful St Mary’s Gardens, situated in Lambeth, London. Furthermore, the gardens are located close to the Lambeth Palace and the Gardens Museum. Besides beautiful views, the gardens are a popular place for relaxation and meeting friends. What’s more, this charming little piece of paradise on Earth is open to the public 24 hours a day.

Leadenhall Market

Leadenhall Market is one of the oldest market halls in London, dating back to the 14th century. Furthermore, it is located in the historic centre of London’s financial district. Normally it is open on weekdays from 10 am until 6 pm and it is always brimming with people. Due to its breathtaking interior as well as great historical value, in 1972 it was listed as a Grade II building. Whether you are looking for some fresh groceries or exploring the city of London, do not miss out on the opportunity to visit the Leadenhall Market. 

Sussex, England, UK

Sussex, a former Anglo-Saxon kingdom, is a historic county located in southeastern England. It is situated in the coastal area along the English Channel. Furthermore, the county has always had a reputation as being culturally distinct from the rest of England. Its people are known for independent thinking. What’s more, they have an aversion to being pushed around, which is stated very clearly in the Sussex motto: “We will not be driven”. In addition, the county is known for its musical heritage and a strong tradition of bonfire celebrations.

Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters cliffs are another popular filming location in the UK. However, their popularity is owed to another famous location. Namely, due to their resemblance with the more famous White Cliffs of Dover, they are often used as their stand-in. The White Cliffs of Dover are protected and, therefore, coated in vegetation whereas The Seven Sisters remain a bright white colour. Nevertheless, their beauty is undeniable. What’s more, the Seven Sisters can be spotted in the background of the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire Quidditch World Cup scene.

Studios in England, UK

Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, Hertfordshire

*This filming location was also used in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016).

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022)

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is the most populated city in the European Union. And why is that so? Because it is absolutely amazing, of course. The “City of Design”, as it is named by UNESCO, sure has a lot to offer so it is no surprise it was chosen as a filming location for the latest Fantastic Beasts movie. From breathtaking views and gorgeous architecture to numerous events and festivals, Berlin is a city where you will never be bored. It would be impossible to list all of Berlin’s attractions, as there are so many. However, if you don’t have too much time at your disposal, here is a short guide on how to make the most of 24 hours in Berlin. 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is the second-most populated city in Brazil and one of the most visited cities in South America. It is best known for its statue of Christ the Redeemer, the symbol of Christianity and the city’s cultural icon. In addition, this impressive statue was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Moreover, the city is brimming with 16th to 19th centuries churches and buildings. Other important cultural attractions include the Biblioteca Nacional, the Theatro Municipal and the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden. Besides being a cultural hub of Brazil, the city is famous for its rich and diverse nightlife as well as world-class hotels. 

There have been some rumours that Fantastic Beasts filmmakers were reconsidering Rio de Janeiro as a filming location. However, we believe that this magnificent city can only contribute to the overall magical movie experience.

Bhutan

Bhutan is a landlocked country situated in Eastern Himalayas, between China and India. Unfortunately, the exact filming locations haven’t been revealed. Nonetheless, Bhutan is known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” and a country with such a name must have corresponding landscapes as well. Furthermore, this unique country has been isolated from the rest of the world until the mid-20th century. Thanks to that, it has an incredibly rich cultural heritage and is brimming with unspoilt nature. What’s more, their traditions are profoundly steeped in Buddhist heritage. Even nowadays they are still so deeply ingrained in their culture, and it is what most tourists are attracted to. 

China

China is the world’s most populous country and one of the most visited countries in the world. In addition, it also comprises the second-largest number of World Heritage Sites. Throughout the past, China was also known as a country of great inventions. The most famous ones are the Four Great Inventions – papermaking, printing, compass, and gunpowder.

Besides being smart, they are also very good at building stuff. And we’re talking about some really impressive stuff here, such as the Great Wall of China. Did you know that it can be seen from space? Not from the Moon tho, that one is a lie. However, it is probably the most famous attraction in China dating back to 220 BC. Since 1987, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides this architectural masterpiece, Chinese architecture is well-known due to its uniqueness which includes feng shui and symbolic elements. We are looking forward to seeing some of it on the big screen!

Studios in England, UK

Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, Hertfordshire

*This filming location was also used in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016).

Map of Fantastic Beasts Filming Locations