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Lacock is one of the most beautifully preserved villages in England and a true hidden gem in Wiltshire. From medieval streets and historic abbey ruins to famous film locations and cozy tearooms, Lacock feels like stepping into another century. It is no surprise that this village has been used as a filming location for Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice, and many more productions.
Whether you are planning a day trip from Bath, Bristol, or London, or staying overnight in the Cotswolds area, Lacock is a wonderful place to slow down and explore!
The cottages of Lacock Village
1. Visit Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum
One of the most important places to visit in Lacock is Lacock Abbey. Founded in 1232 by Ela, Countess of Salisbury, the abbey began as a nunnery and was later transformed into a country house. Today, it is managed by the National Trust and is open to visitors.
Lacock Abbey is also famous as the former home of William Henry Fox Talbot, the inventor of the photographic negative. The Fox Talbot Museum, located on site, tells the story of early photography and displays some of the oldest surviving photographs in the world.
Inside the abbey, you can explore medieval cloisters, Gothic and Tudor rooms, grand Victorian interiors, and the very space where the first photographic negative was created.
The dining room at Lacock Abbey
There is no need to book tickets in advance, tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit from visitor reception. You can find more information on the Abbey’s opening days and times here
Discover the Harry Potter Filming Locations at Lacock Abbey
Lacock Abbey is one of the most recognizable Harry Potter filming locations in England. Several rooms and passageways were used to represent Hogwarts interiors. You can explore the abbey on your own, or find Harry Potter themed tours via GetYourGuide, Viator, or Tripadvisor.
The Cloisters
Used as Hogwarts corridors in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Scenes include Harry walking with his invisibility cloak, students moving between classes, and Professor McGonagall recruiting Harry for the Quidditch team.
The cloisters at Lacock Abbey, also known as Hogwarts corridors
The Chapter House
Used as the room of the Mirror of Erised and later as a classroom where students discuss the Heir of Slytherin.
The Chapter house room
The Warming Room
Featured as Professor Quirrell’s Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, complete with its historic cauldron.
The Warming Room—or, should I say, Professor Quirrel’s classroom
The Sacristy
Transformed into Professor Snape’s Potions classroom.
Explore the Abbey Gardens and Greenhouse
After touring the abbey, take time to wander through its beautiful grounds. The gardens have existed for centuries and blend woodland paths, open parkland, and formal historic spaces.
One of the highlights is the Botanic Garden and greenhouse, created by Henry Fox Talbot in the nineteenth century. The greenhouse is filled with colorful plants and offers a quiet place to pause and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
The grounds also feature an orchard, rose garden, and riverside walks that are especially beautiful in spring and summer.
Partial view of the greenhouse
Wild garlic growing on Lacock Abbey grounds
2. Wander the Streets of Lacock Village
Lacock village itself is just as special as the abbey. The village layout has remained largely unchanged for centuries, with timber framed cottages, stone houses, and historic inns lining four main streets.
As you wander, you will find independent shops, small museums, cozy tearooms, and traditional pubs. Lacock feels wonderfully untouched by modern development, which is why it is so often chosen for period dramas.
One of the lovely cottages in Lacock Village
Stop for a freshly baked treat at Lacock Bakery or enjoy a coffee and homemade cake at The Stables Cafe. For a sit-down meal, the historic Sign of the Angel and The George Inn are perfect choices for classic English fare, while The Bell Inn offers more refined dining just outside the main thoroughfare. The village also has delightful places to browse local crafts and gifts, including the National Trust Gift Shop, Barty’s of Lacock, Quintessentially English, and Lacock Shop & Deli, making a slow stroll through Lacock feel like a step back in time with plenty of inviting stops along the way.
3. Harry Potter filming locations in the village
The Cottage with the Blue Door
The blue door cottage on Church Street appears briefly in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.
The day I visited, some Harry Potter themed jewelry and keychains were for sale right outside the cottage
Sign of the Angel Pub
The Sign of the Angel pub was used as the Babberton Arms. You can even book a stay here!
The Sign of the Angel pub, also known as Barberton Arms in the sixth Harry Potter movie
Harry Potter Parent’s House
A house at the end of Church Street was used as James and Lily Potter’s home.
James and Lily Potter’s house in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
Horace Sluggorn’s Hideaway
A large house on Church Hill appears as Horace Slughorn’s hideaway.
Horace Sluggorn’s Hideaway
4. Visit St Cyriac’s Church and Churchyard
St Cyriac’s Church dates back to the fourteenth century and stands at the heart of Lacock. The church features beautiful stonework, medieval details, and impressive stained glass. Settlement in Lacock originally developed around the church, which is still reflected in the shape of Church Street today.
The peaceful churchyard is a lovely place for a quiet stroll and offers beautiful views of the surrounding village.
St Cyriac’s Church, a 14th Century medieval church
Where to Stay in Lacock
If you want to extend your visit, Lacock is a wonderful place to spend the night. One of the most popular options is the Sign of the Angel, a historic inn located right in the village.
You can also find charming cottages, boutique hotels, and countryside stays nearby through Booking.com and Expedia.
Getting to Lacock
Lacock is located in Wiltshire, about thirty minutes from Bath and under two hours from London.
By car: easy access from Bath, Bristol, and the Cotswolds. Click here for car rental options.
By train: Chippenham station is the closest, followed by a short taxi ride. You can check private transfers through Welcome Pickups and Kiwitaxi.
By tour: many small group tours include Lacock with Bath and the southern Cotswold
Final Thoughts
Lacock is one of those rare places that truly feels frozen in time. Whether you are visiting for its history, gardens, photography heritage, or famous filming locations, the village offers a peaceful and unforgettable experience. It is the perfect destination for a slow day of wandering, exploring, and soaking in English village life.
If you are planning a trip to Wiltshire or the Cotswolds, Lacock absolutely deserves a place on your itinerary!
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