If you get off at Düsseldorf central station and, instead of going down the stairs towards the main entrance, take the steps at the other end of the platform towards the smaller exit, you will walk by platform 9 3/4.

It’s true. I’ve taken a picture of it, as proof.

I was reminded of the platform today as I was reading out Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban to my daughter. We’re in the part where Harry and Ron can’t get past the brick wall to catch the train to Hogwarts and end up flying Ron’s father’s car to their school.

Every time I cross the brick wall at Düsseldorf, I have a strong urge to run into it. I haven’t, at least until now.