Oxford, England
Hogwarts Staircase
Christ Church’s Staircase was the location for the famous scene in the Philosophers Stone, where Harry and the other first years are introduced to Hogwarts by Professor McGonagall, ahead of the sorting ceremony. The Tudor dining hall inspired the Hogwarts Great Hall, but the scenes were filmed on a studio set.
Photo: Jonas Magnus Lystad · CC0 1.0
Christ Church is on St Aldate’s, a few minutes’ walk south of Oxford city centre and around 15–20 minutes from Oxford railway station.
Tourist entry is through the Visitor Centre and War Memorial Garden entrance on St Aldate’s, continuing through Meadow Gate. Do not use Tom Gate unless staff direct you there for an accessible route.
The Hall Staircase forms part of the standard visitor route, but the staircase and Great Hall can sometimes close for college use. Check the known-closures page and book online before travelling.
Christ Church is a paid attraction with self-guided visits and a limited programme of guided tours. Tickets and visiting areas change around meals, services and private events, so book online and check the current closures before visiting.
There is no general visitor car park at Christ Church. Use Oxford Park & Ride or public transport. A small number of Blue Badge spaces are available on St Aldate’s, Pembroke Square and Oriel Square.
Upper level access is available through Tom Gate, and a lift provides an alternative route to the Great Hall for wheelchair users. Contact Christ Church in advance for individual advice.
The Visitor Centre has a shop and toilets, including an accessible toilet. Seating is available in several areas, but there is no left-luggage facility and large bags are not permitted.
Check the details
Conditions, access and opening information can change. Check official information before making a journey.
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