From Hogwarts to Home: A Muggle's Guide to Streaming Harry Potter Movies

Discover the secrets to streaming Harry Potter and the Fantastic Beasts movies from anywhere in the world, overcoming geo-blocks with a sprinkle of digital magic.
We may receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

Accio Harry Potter movies! If only it were as simple to summon the much-adored boy wizard and his enchanting adventures from J.K. Rowling's magical universe whenever and wherever we desired. Sadly, the rights to stream “Harry Potter” are more elusive than a golden snitch, darting around and frequently switching between various streaming platforms. It's enough to make you feel like you're trying to unravel a riddle posed by the Sphinx herself.

But fear not, intrepid would-be wizards and witches! We'll show you where to stream Harry Potter, plus how to use the best virtual private network (VPN) to watch it anywhere in the world. This comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate these digital labyrinths and have you streaming faster than you can say "Expelliarmus!" Let's hop onto our Firebolts and dive right into the world of Hogwarts, Dementors, and, of course, Quidditch.

In this article
Where to watch Harry Potter online
How to watch Harry Potter with a VPN
Where to buy Harry Potter online
How to watch Harry Potter for free
Where to watch the Harry Potter TV series
Harry Potter FAQ
Bottom line

Where to watch Harry Potter online

The platforms that carry the Harry Potter series and its magical prequel, “Fantastic Beasts,” frequently change based on licensing agreements, and, more often than not, these vary from region to region. It can all be a bit confusing to find the right service, just like the shifting staircases in Hogwarts Castle.

If you’re in the United States, you might find the entire series readily available on popular platforms like Peacock or HBO Max. At the time of this writing (June 2023), they are available on HBO Max, but they are repeatedly removed and reinstated on various platforms. If you find that they are no longer available, you can always use a VPN to access the movies through another country and streaming site.

If you’re in another region, Netflix might be your go-to platform for a Potter marathon. Netflix U.K. recently announced it has added all eight movies to its streaming service once again.

Where to watch the Harry Potter Films

Follow along as Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint learn new spells and study for their O.W.L.s by watching the film series on the following streaming platforms:

  • “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (2001): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)
  • “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” (2002): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)
  • “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” (2004): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)
  • “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” (2005): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)
  • “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” (2007): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)
  • “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” (2009): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)
  • “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1” (2010): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)
  • “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2” (2011): HBO Max (USA), Netflix (UK)

Where to watch the Fantastic Beasts Films

Go back to the beginning with the Fantastic Beasts spin-off series distributed by Warner Bros.:

  • “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” (2016): HBO Max (USA, Netflix (UK)
  • “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” (2018): HBO Max (USA, Netflix (UK)
  • “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” (2022): HBO Max (USA, Netflix (UK)

So, our journey to locate the Harry Potter series online is a bit more complicated than a game of Wizard's Chess, but fear not! With the right strategy, you can unlock these magical tales from anywhere in the world.

How to watch Harry Potter with a VPN

A VPN can swoop in to save the day here, making you feel like you’re walking through Platform 9 ¾ and bypassing those geo blocks to watch the elusive Harry Potter films.

VPNs allow you to connect to a server in a different location, making it appear as though you're browsing from that region. This digital illusion effectively confounds any geographical restrictions imposed by streaming platforms, much like Dumbledore's bewitched galleons that bamboozled the Ministry of Magic.

Now, before you embark across the ether, there are a few crucial points to consider. First, you’ll need an active subscription to the streaming platform hosting the Harry Potter films in your desired location. Remember, even with a fast VPN, the Room of Requirement won't appear if you don't know what you need!

Second, while using a VPN to bypass geographical restrictions is typically not illegal, it might violate the terms of service of some streaming platforms (like bending the rules, à la Fred and George Weasley). So remember to check regulations before you set off on your digital broomstick.

How to use a VPN with Harry Potter

Using a VPN with Harry Potter is a great way to unblock content, hide your IP address, and protect your online privacy. Here are the steps to get you started:

  1. Connect to a VPN server of your choice — we recommend ExpressVPN. Make sure the server is located in a country where Harry Potter streaming is available, either in the U.S. or the U.K. depending on the latest availability of the movies.
  2. Open the streaming platform and log into your account or create a new one if needed.
  3. Search for the movie or show you want to watch and select it.
  4. Click the “Play” button to begin watching with your VPN-enabled connection.
  5. To change servers, disconnect from the current one and select a different country before repeating steps 1-4 above as needed until you find an unblocked version of Harry Potter on the streaming platform you are using.

Recommended VPNs for streaming

  • ExpressVPN: The best VPN for streaming, ExpressVPN reliably unblocks Netflix and other streaming services. It's also dedicated to your privacy and includes digital security features to keep you safe.

    Get ExpressVPN | Read Our ExpressVPN Review
  • Proton VPN: Proton VPN offers some of the speediest VPN servers with its Premium plan, as well as P2P-supported servers. And if your budget is too tight to pay for a VPN right now, Proton has a free VPN plan with unlimited bandwidth.

    Get Proton VPN | Read Our Proton VPN Review
  • Surfshark: Another great VPN option is Surfshark thanks to its affordable pricing and numerous features. We had lots of success unblocking streaming services while testing Surfshark, and its speeds were nothing to scoff at.

    Get Surfshark | Read Our Surfshark Review

Where to buy Harry Potter online

Sometimes, the best course of action is the direct one, much like Harry's approach to many sticky situations. You might prefer to purchase the Harry Potter series outright, granting you unrestricted access akin to owning your own Marauder's Map to the wizarding world.

Amazon Prime offers all the Harry Potter movies for purchase or rent. Moreover, other digital storefronts like iTunes and Google Play also list the series for sale, much like the various shops that line the bustling streets of Diagon Alley.

Once you've made your purchase, you can watch Harry Potter anytime, anywhere, with no incantations or enchantments required.

How to watch Harry Potter for free

The prospect of watching the much-loved Harry Potter series for free might sound as elusive as capturing a unicorn, but there are some clever tricks up our sleeves. While we can’t get Harry Potter for free forever, several streaming services present a glimmer of hope in the form of free trials.

Services such as Peacock and Amazon Prime Video typically offer a week-long free trial. HBO Max doesn’t generally offer free trials, but you may be able to snag one in a promotion. This magical window is just long enough for a well-timed binge-watch, enabling you to journey through the thrilling corridors of Hogwarts, experience the Triwizard Tournament, and face off against the Dark Forces, all without spending a single Knut, Sickle, or Galleon.

Remember though, like any spell, timing is everything. The streaming platforms must offer Harry Potter, and currently, most of them don't.

Beware of any so-called free streaming services, as these often are a scam or worse, a ploy by hackers to gather your sensitive info or install malware on your device if you download a service. Just like Lord Voldemort hiding horcruxes, cybercriminals can be extra devious.

Where to watch the Harry Potter TV series

The much-anticipated Harry Potter TV series is finally coming! The show, which will be available on HBO Max, is expected to arrive in 2025 or 2026, although an exact date has yet to be confirmed. The series will be as true to the books as possible, letting a new generation of fans — and OG fans — explore the Harry Potter books in a new way.

The cast of this highly anticipated show has not been revealed, and the producers are still in the process of casting actors for various parts. However, we do know that J.K. Rowling is heavily involved in the writing and production process.

Harry Potter FAQ


+

Is it legal to use a VPN to watch Harry Potter?

While using a VPN is not typically illegal, it can violate the terms of service of some streaming platforms. Check the platform's policy before using a VPN to access geo-blocked content.


+

Was Harry Potter removed from Peacock?

Yes, as of May 2023, Harry Potter has been removed from Peacock. The streaming rights have been continually shuffled among various platforms.


+

Is Harry Potter on Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime?

The availability of Harry Potter on these platforms varies depending on your region. As of now, Netflix carries the series in select regions, while Amazon Prime offers it for purchase or rent.

Bottom line

With a flick of a wand, a little digital wizardry, and a touch of the same determination that drove Harry, Hermione, and Ron through their many thrilling escapades, you can join them on their magical adventures from the comfort of your own home. Harry Potter is currently only streaming on HBO Max in the U.S., and Netflix in the U.K. If you're outside those regions, you'll need to buy or rent the entire series on Amazon Prime (much like stocking up on Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans) or use a VPN to access them through another country.

Your homework for today's Defense Against the Dark Arts class is to learn more about good streaming VPNs and/or familiarizing yourself with the terms of service of your preferred streaming platform. VPNs are essential for streaming securely. A good VPN will also provide you with reliable speeds so you can stream without buffering or lagging. Additionally, look for a service that offers a wide range of servers around the world to make sure you get access to geo-restricted content and secure connections. With the right VPN in place, you can keep yourself safe while streaming online.

Our journey together has brought us through various ways to access the spellbinding universe of Harry Potter, from cunning workarounds to outright purchase options. We've demystified the world of VPNs and explored the often complex landscape of streaming platforms. As you set out on your magical viewing adventure, remember the lessons learned here today — and don't forget, the Wizarding World awaits!

4.6
Save 49% on 12 months + 3 months free
Learn More
On ExpressVPN's website

ExpressVPN
  • Premium VPN offering strong security and ultra-fast speeds
  • Strict no-logs policy with independent audit
  • In-house Lightway protocol for more speed and security
  • More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost
Author Details
Ryan Clancy is a freelance writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing engineering (especially mechanical) down to a level that everyone can understand.