Top 7 Prestigious British Schools with a Hogwarts Atmosphere

Imagine: a Victorian-style building surrounded by a perfectly manicured lawn. In the courtyard, students stroll in formal uniforms — black tailcoats and white ties. Not far away, on a hill by the River Thames, rises a Gothic royal castle...

No, this isn’t a movie set for a wizarding film — this is a real school in modern-day Britain. And it’s far from the only one.

Today, we’ll tell you about seven British schools where students receive not only a prestigious education, but also the opportunity to experience a touch of the Harry Potter world.

1. Eton College

Founded: 1440

Type: Private boarding school for boys

Ages: 13 to 18

Location: Eton, Berkshire, near Windsor

Number of students: 1,300

History and reputation:

Eton College is one of the most prestigious and internationally renowned private schools in the world. Founded by King Henry VI over 580 years ago, it was originally intended for 70 gifted boys from underprivileged backgrounds. Over time, Eton has become a breeding ground for Britain’s elite. Among its distinguished alumni are 20 British Prime Ministers — including Boris Johnson and David Cameron — as well as Princes William and Harry, George Orwell, and many other notable figures.

Academic programme:

Eton’s curriculum follows the classical British model. The school offers over 25 subjects, including Latin and Ancient Greek. Academic standards are exceptionally high — the vast majority of students achieve top grades in GCSEs and A-Levels and go on to attend Oxford, Cambridge, and other leading universities worldwide.

At the same time, Eton is committed to educational innovation. The school operates its own Centre for Innovation and Research in Learning (CIRL), and its online platform, EtonX, extends Eton’s educational resources to students across the globe.

Accommodation:

All 1,300 boys live on campus in 25 boarding houses, each overseen by housemasters and staff. Every house functions as a small community with its own unique traditions and atmosphere. Each student has his own private room. While discipline is strictly maintained, the school also encourages independence, initiative, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Uniform and traditions:

Eton is known for its distinctive uniform: black tailcoat, grey pinstripe trousers, waistcoat, and white tie. This is not simply a matter of tradition — the uniform is central to the school’s identity. On special occasions, students may wear top hats, while senior boys are allowed to wear white bow ties.

2. Harrow School

Founded: 1572

Type: Boarding school for boys

Ages: 13 to 18

Location: Harrow, London (20 minutes by tube from Baker Street)

Number of students: approximately 800

History and reputation:

Founded in 1572 by royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I, Harrow School has a rich historical legacy. Over the centuries, it has educated many notable figures, including politicians, scientists, and writers. Among its alumni are seven British Prime Ministers — such as Winston Churchill, Henry Palmerston, and Stanley Baldwin — as well as the celebrated poet Lord Byron.

More recently, the actor Benedict Cumberbatch, best known for his role in the TV series Sherlock, also attended Harrow.

Academic programme:

Harrow offers a broad curriculum that blends classical subjects with modern disciplines. Small class sizes ensure individualized attention and a highly personalized approach to each student. Harrow students consistently achieve excellent GCSE and A-Level results, earning places at the UK’s leading universities.

Blending tradition with innovation:

Harrow is renowned for its unique traditions, such as "Speech Day" — an annual awards ceremony held since the early 18th century. At the same time, the school embraces modern educational developments, offering courses in robotics, programming, and media studies.

Accommodation:

Students live in boarding houses, each functioning as a close-knit community overseen by housemasters. This structure fosters strong bonds of friendship, mentorship, and support among students of all ages.

Fun fact:

One of the school’s historic rooms — the Fourth Form Room, dating back to 1615 — was used to film the scene where Hermione levitates a feather with her magic wand.

3. Winchester College

Founded: 1382

Type: Boarding school for boys

Ages: 13 to 18

Location: Winchester, Hampshire

Number of students: over 700

History and reputation:

Winchester College is one of the oldest independent schools in England. Founded in the 14th century by Bishop William of Wykeham, the college has a rich history and is renowned for its distinguished alumni, including many scientists, politicians, and artists. For centuries, it has educated members of the British aristocracy and global elite. Interestingly, Eton College and King's College were modeled after Winchester College.

Academic excellence:

The college provides students with ample opportunities for all-round development, from the humanities and arts to sports and music. There is a strong emphasis on preparing students for GCSE and A-Level exams — key milestones for admission to top universities worldwide. Statistics show that nearly one-third of Winchester graduates are accepted into Oxbridge each year.

Traditions and culture:

One of the college's key traditions is "Division" — a daily morning service attended by both students and teachers. This practice dates back to medieval times and underscores the importance of community and spiritual life.

4. Westminster School

Founded: 1540

Type: Independent school, partly boarding

Ages: 13 to 18 (girls are admitted from 16)

Location: Westminster, London

Number of students: approximately 750

History and reputation:

Westminster School is located in the heart of London, near Parliament and Buckingham Palace. Its origins trace back to the 14th century, making it one of the oldest educational institutions in the UK. Originally established as a charitable school affiliated with Westminster Abbey, it was preserved in 1540 when King Henry VIII personally intervened following the dissolution of the monasteries — a date that marks its official founding.

The school is also known for its outstanding alumni, including philosopher John Locke, author A.A. Milne (Winnie-the-Pooh), actress Helena Bonham Carter, and numerous high-ranking political figures.

Academic programme:

Westminster School is renowned for its academic rigor, extensive course offerings, and demanding curriculum. Its students consistently achieve excellent results in GCSE and A-Level exams, with many gaining admission to prestigious universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.

Accommodation:

Most students attend as day pupils, but some choose to board. Each boarding house offers dedicated study and recreational spaces. Additionally, students can participate in 25 different sports, including rowing, fencing, football, climbing, and more.

5. Rugby School

Founded: 1567

Type: Private boarding school for boys and girls

Ages: 13 to 18

Location: Rugby, Warwickshire

Number of students: 700+

History and prestige:

Founded in 1567 as a small free school for boys learning basic literacy, Rugby School has grown into one of the oldest and most distinguished independent schools in the UK. The school is famous not only for giving its name to the sport of rugby, but also for its profound influence on British education. During his tenure as headmaster (1828–1842), Thomas Arnold introduced the core values of respect, integrity, and fairness — ideals that went on to shape the entire British public school system.

Academic and extracurricular excellence:

Rugby offers a rich and balanced curriculum that combines strong academics with extensive opportunities in the arts, music, and sports. Students regularly achieve excellent GCSE and A-Level results, earning admission to top universities both in the UK and internationally.

6. St Paul’s School

Founded: 1509

Type: Independent boys’ school, partly boarding

Ages: 13 to 18

Location: Barnes, southwest London

Number of students: approximately 1,000

History and reputation:

St Paul’s School has been a cornerstone of London’s academic life for over five centuries. Founded by the priest John Colet, it quickly gained a reputation as one of the UK’s top schools and remains part of the country’s elite group of leading independent schools today. Over the centuries, it has educated many of the British Empire’s most influential figures.

Academic excellence:

Today, St Paul’s remains at the forefront of British education, placing a strong emphasis on intellectual development. Its students consistently excel in GCSE and A-Level exams, securing places at the most prestigious universities in the UK and beyond.

Interesting fact:

The school’s early textbooks were written by Erasmus of Rotterdam, who is said to have been a close friend of John Colet.

7. Cheltenham Ladies’ College

Founded: 1853

Type: Private girls’ boarding school

Ages: 11 to 18

Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

Number of students: 600+

History and reputation:

Founded in the 19th century to provide quality education for girls, Cheltenham Ladies’ College became one of the first schools in England to offer girls a full secondary education. Over the years, it has produced thousands of accomplished women who have excelled in politics, science, the arts, and business.

Distinctive features:

The school offers a well-balanced blend of classical and modern education, with a curriculum that includes music, arts, sports, and sciences. Students are also encouraged to explore their talents through a wide range of clubs, societies, research opportunities, and creative projects.

Need detailed guidance?

Experts at ED-EX.com will assist you at every stage of the application process — from choosing a country to preparing documents.

You can submit a request in any convenient way:

— directly in your personal account

— on the page of your chosen educational institution

— or by emailing us at support@ed-ex.com