What is the name of the fictional village where J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter story begins?

The Harry Potter story begins in Little Whinging, the fictional Surrey town where Harry lives with the Dursley family. The address is 4 Privet Drive, and the opening of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone presents this ordinary suburban setting before Harry learns about magic.

Little Whinging contrasts with the wizarding locations that Harry later visits. It is not Hogwarts, the school he attends, and it is not Hogsmeade, the wizarding village near the school. The contrast helps establish Harry’s isolated life with the Dursleys before the wider magical world is revealed.

Godric’s Hollow is another important location connected with Harry’s family history, while Ottery St Catchpole is associated with the Weasley family. These places are therefore plausible alternatives, but they do not describe Harry’s initial home. Little Whinging is a fictional place rather than a real Surrey town.