Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone – Dursley House, 4 Privet Drive

In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001), the story begins at the unremarkable suburban home of Harry’s aunt and uncle—4 Privet Drive. This is where Harry lives unhappily under the stairs with the Dursley family. The real filming location for the exterior of this house is a private residence at 12 Picket Post Close in Winkfield Row, Bracknell, Berkshire, not the fictional Surrey address.

Scenes filmed here include Harry’s arrival as a baby on the doorstep, Dudley’s birthday chaos, the relentless Hogwarts letters, and the dramatic flying car rescue.

Behind the Scenes – Filming Curiosities

• Warner Bros used the real Bracknell house for exterior shots only in the first film; subsequent movies shifted to a studio-built replica at Leavesden for easier filming and privacy.
• The production paid significant fees to the local residents for the disruption caused during filming.
• After the film’s release, the house briefly became famous and was featured in a property listing, dramatically increasing public interest.

About the Location – Architecture & Local Highlights

• 12 Picket Post Close is a typical British suburban terraced house in a quiet residential area about 40 miles west of central London.
• Its unassuming façade, with simple brickwork and tidy garden, was ideal for conveying the mundane life of the Dursleys—and juxtaposing it with the magic Harry would soon discover.
• In real life, the property has been renovated and modernized, even listed for sale for around £475,000, drawing fans and press attention alike.

How to Visit

• Address: 12 Picket Post Close, Winkfield Row, Bracknell RG12 9FG, UK.
• Located in a peaceful suburban neighbourhood, it’s typically accessible by car. However, this is a private residence, so public access is limited—please be respectful of the homeowners’ privacy.
• Fans often view the house from the street and imagine their favorite movie moments unfolding there—but note there’s no visitor center or signage at the site.
• A more immersive experience can be found at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour near London, where a faithful replica of 4 Privet Drive is part of the set tour.