From Sydney's sandstone cathedrals to cosy, hidden bookstores, there's Harry Potter inspiration everywhere if you look hard enough. In December, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra is performing the entire first film's majestic soundtrack live for Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone™ In Concert. To get you even more excited for all things wizardry, we've created the ultimate Harry Potter-inspired day out in Sydney that feels straight out of Hogwarts. Brunch at The Grounds Coffee Factory, South Eveleigh Begin your quest at The Grounds Coffee Factory in South Eveleigh, where whimsical styling and a hearty meal will set the tone for your day. Located in a historic Locomotive Workshop, the Coffee Factory offers industrial charm that could be the breakfast spot by Platform 9 ¾. Slide into one of the train-inspired booths and enjoy their delicious diner-style menu. Head to the Great Hall, AKA, St Mary's Cathedral Next, jump on a train to Hyde Park and head to St Mary's Cathedral. It's the site of the first Catholic chapel in Australia, opening in 1838. The grand building is inspired by 13th century Gothic architecture, making it a perfect replica of the Great Hall in Hogwarts. Take your time wandering the chapel and admiring the stained glass windows. You can almost hear the Sorting Hat ceremony taking place under the high ceilings. Sydney University Still keen on some Harry Potter-inspired architecture? Head to the University of Sydney's Quadrangle. Despite being the grounds of a university, the quadrangle is so famous it literally has its own Wikipedia page and its main building and interior was listed on the City of Sydney's local government heritage list. The neo-gothic architecture is awe-inspiring and you can even join guided tours, including the University's heritage group tour. Simply wear a Griffyndor scarf, enjoy some dark academia, and you're basically in Hogwarts. Berkelouw Bookstore Every wizard needs a good spellbook and at Berelouw Books in Paddington there are three (yes, three) storeys of new, rare and secondhand titles that'll help you feel like you're walking along Diagon Alley. The heritage terrace adds to the charm and there's something magical about climbing a staircase to a library full of books. Grab a copy of Harry Potter and enjoy a break at their cafe, Cafe 1812. Cosy. Wizard Chamber Escape Room Ready to put your magical skills to the test? Wizard Chamber Escape Room lets you and your friends face off against dark sorcerers and solve magical puzzles. With immersive set design and high-stakes challenges, it's the closest you'll get to battling the Dark Arts (without enrolling in Hogwarts). Simply ensure your witch or wizard friends are 9 years or older, and you can embark on your mission to save the world of magic. Old Mates Sydney After all that dark arts fighting, you'll be ready for a drink. If not with children, head to Old Mates Sydney for an underground whisky pre-show. With leather booths, old books, and moody lighting, you can pretend you're in the Leaky Cauldron sipping on Butterbeer with Ron and Hermione. Finish With the Sydney Symphony Orchestra For the grand finale, make your way to the Sydney Opera House and experience the magic of the first film live with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra's Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone™ In Concert. Running across five performances from Wednesday, December 2 to Saturday, December 5, the film that began the series will be screened in high definition, while the in-person orchestra brings John Williams' epic score to life. Whether you're a lifelong Potterhead or want to introduce the magic of the series to a new generation, hearing the spellbinding score live and in person is sure to be a memorable end to a magical day. Book your tickets now.
