What's Are The Dimensions Of An Artificial Turf Quidditch Pitch?

By Paige Cerulli Created: September, 2022 - Modified: January, 2024

Across the country, dozens of high school and college teams are bringing the beloved game of Quidditch to life, straight from the pages of Harry Potter. Yes, you can play real-life Quidditch, though you will need a field and some equipment to do it. By designing a Quidditch pitch, you can experience this fast-paced game for yourself.

What You Need to Know About Quidditch

Quidditch is the game that Harry Potter and his friends play in Hogwarts. This magical game is traditionally played on flying brooms, but real-life Quidditch has been modified so that players are on foot.

The match incorporates five balls, including a Quaffle (volleyball), three Bludgers (dodgeballs), and a Snitch (tennis ball). While brooms aren’t flying through the air, players must have a broom between their legs as they play.

Players each have their own special roles. The Keepers guard the three hoops on the field, while the Chasers use the Quaffle to try to score points by throwing it through the hoops.

The Beaters catch and throw Bludgers in an attempt to knock out the opposing players, while Seekers try to catch the Golden Snitch, which ends the game.

What Are the Dimensions of an Artificial Turf Quidditch Pitch?

To successfully play Quidditch, you need a grass field that’s appropriately sized. The field should measure a total of 84 yards long by 48 yards wide.

The actual playing area, or pitch, is smaller, and should be 60 yards long by 36 yards wide.You will also need to install three hoops of different sizes on each end of the field.

The field’s corners should be curved, and you will also need to create keeper zones and penalty boxes outside of the main playing area.

Why Choose Artificial Turf for Your Quidditch Pitch

If you’re creating a Quidditch pitch, using artificial turf can pay off in multiple ways. Artificial turf is a much more durable choice than traditional grass, meaning your field will be better able to withstand the foot traffic and overall use that it will see, especially when you’re hosting multiple games at a time.

artificial turf for quidditch

Artificial turf also stays usable even in and after inclement weather. While real grass will quickly turn to mud, artificial turf is designed to drain water away, so mud and a soft, soggy surface never become an issue.

There’s also much less maintenance involved in caring for an artificial turf field. With real grass, you need to worry about mowing, watering, and fertilizing it.

That type of maintenance becomes time-consuming and expensive, but you can avoid it simply by using artificial turf. Artificial turf also doesn’t get chewed up and develop divots like real turf does, so it’s easy to keep your field attractive and ready for play.

Strategies for Successfully Creating a Quidditch Pitch

These tips can help to ensure that you design a quality Quidditch field that you can enjoy for years to come.

Consider the Terrain


The location of your pitch will contribute to its success. A large, flat, open area is best, though you can also create pitches indoors.

If you’re installing the pitch outdoors, pay attention to your surroundings. It’s best to avoid installing the pitch in a low-lying area where runoff water could cause flooding.

If you install the pitch in an area that is lined by trees, think about how the varying shade might affect game play. You will also need to plan for leaf removal, particularly in the fall.

Carefully Choose Your Artificial Turf


It’s also important to choose an artificial turf product that is right for your installation. Look for a turf designed to withstand high amounts of foot traffic, like an artificial sports turf.

If you’re installing the product outside, then make sure that the turf is waterproof and designed to quickly drain water away. You might want to choose a product with built-in cushion, so you don’t have to also purchase and install an infill.

When it comes to the turf’s pile height, a medium or taller pile height is probably ideal for Quidditch. The longer yarns will add cushion, which can help to keep athletes comfortable and even minimize the impact of a fall.

Plan for Spectators


Quidditch is a fun, fast-paced sport to watch, so be sure to plan for spectators, too. Locate the pitch in an area that allows plenty of room for spectators to bring chairs.

Consider that your Quidditch games may become highly popular, and that you may want to install permanent seating eventually. Choose a location that has space for bleachers, just in case you want to add them later on.

Consider Lighting


While you can use an outdoor pitch during the day, adding lighting will extend its usefulness. Installing stadium lighting, while expensive, will mean you can play games at night, maximizing the return on investment that you see from the pitch.