edinburgh harry potter walking tour map

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Free Harry Potter Walking Tour Edinburgh

This post is a free, 13-stop, self-guided tour of Harry Potter book and movie sights in Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, along with a map and route.

Edinburgh Harry Potter Tours are popular, but with our version, you can stick to your own itinerary as you wander the streets.

This was put together by Free Tours by Foot's resident Muggle, Margaret, who you can watch virtually right now.  

You can expect to walk nearly 2.2 miles or just over 3.6 kilometres while following the Harry Potter trail around Edinburgh.

You could also elect to take this as a GPS-led audio tour (see below).

Click the map to enlarge or download

The tour will last, on average, just under 90 minutes.

Although this may change depending on your walking pace or the stops you wish to make along the way.

You can use the map or this (PDF) to get the written directions. 

Note that for people wishing to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct (which the Hogwarts Express travels over), it's on the other side of Scotland, through the highlands.

It's nearly a 4-hour drive or a 5-hour train journey from Edinburgh.

GPS-Enabled Audio Tour

We also offer an audio tour of Harry Potter sights in Edinburgh, researched, written, and recorded by one of our own tour guides.

Here’s a sample.

• Purchase an audio tour.
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf, and embeddable Google Map
• Enjoy the tour(s).

You will also find an audio tour that covers the history of Edinburgh.

Be sure to check out our other self-guided tours and free guided tours of Edinburgh .

We also offer Harry Potter tours, both guided and self-guided in London and Porto .

1. The Dog House

The Dog House is one of the few places on Earth where you can drink Butterbeer.

In the Harry Potter series, Butterbeer is sold at a multitude of pubs, but primarily in The Three Broomsticks and The Hog’s Head.

Although Butterbeer is consumed by adults and kids alike in the books, the one served at The Dog House is definitely for adults only, one of the ingredients being - you guessed it - beer.

Although the Elephant Cafe usually claims the title of the “birthplace of Harry Potter” we know that Spoon played just as large a role in the creation of the legendary series.

(And as an aside, it tends to be less busy than Elephant Cafe’ so this may be a good way for you to avoid the crowds!)

In 1997 Spoon was known as Nicolson’s Cafe and it was owned by JK Rowling’s brother-in-law, Roger Moore.

At the time, Rowling didn’t have much money so she would hide out in cafes, ordering a coffee now and again as she worked on the groundbreaking first book of her Potter series, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone . 

Walk and Listen - POTTERROW

We couldn’t let you walk next to Potter Row and not mention it!

This street bears the name of the world’s favourite Wizard, and it would make sense to think that the name perhaps inspired JK Rowling when she was naming her main character.

However, she says it’s just a coincidence. When giving her first-ever interview in America in 1999, JK was asked about the name of her hero and how she chose it.

Her reply was, “ ...he had several different surnames before I chose Potter. Potter was the name of a brother and sister who I played with when I was very young.”  

3. George Heriot School

Originally built in 1628, George Heriot’s school was opened as an orphanage and hospital for boys and today is a co-ed primary and secondary school.

You’ll notice the four grand towers that top the building, which many said were the inspiration for the towers atop Hogwarts Castle.

The school also has four houses that students are divided into and they all do, in fact, compete for a house cup!

The school is easily visible from the locations Rowling used to write in and walk along so it’s very easy to see why, for so many years, Potter buffs believed this building to be the inspiration for her wizarding school.

4. National Museum of Scotland

Ron Weasley taught Harry to play Wizard’s Chess.

This is just like regular chess except the pieces are enchanted and can be directed like troops - they also literally knock each other down when taking a square! 

It would seem that when Rowling was creating Wizard Chess, she was also thinking of the Lewis Chessmen.

This is a group of distinctive 12th-century chess pieces that were discovered in a hoard on Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland in 1831.

Eleven of the over ninety chess pieces are held at the National Museum of Scotland and are viewable to the public.

Author's Note: This museum is incredible in its' own right with unique exhibits like Dolly the Sheep and the flags flown at the Battle of Culloden. Consider making the time to visit it either during your walk or at another time!

5. Elephant House

This unassuming cafe is a destination for thousands of Harry Potter fans every year - as well as fans of Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall-Smith who were well-known patrons.

You’ll notice a sign on the Cafe which erroneously claims that this is the “birthplace” of Harry Potter.

Rowling herself addressed this sign and is quoted as saying:

“ I’d been writing Potter for several years before I ever set foot in this café, so it’s not the birthplace, but I *did* write in there so we’ll let them off! ”

Also, make sure to take a trip to the loo!

The walls are covered in Harry Potter graffiti with messages and drawings left by fans who have traveled from all over the world to come here.

6. Greyfriars Kirkyard

You are now standing outside the iconic - and haunted - Greyfriars Kirk - kirk being a Scottish word for church.

The name Greyfriars is in reference to the Franciscan friary which previously stood here, whose friars wore grey habits. 

As the kirkyard is not far from the cafes JK Rowling used to frequent, she would occasionally walk through the rows for inspiration.

Here you will find the tombs of Thomas Riddell (NOTE SPELLING) , who lent his name to that of the Dark Lord Himself.

You will also find William McGonagall a poet who shares a surname with the head of Gryffindor House and a Mrs. Elizabeth Moodie who perhaps gave her name to a certain Mad-Eyed Professor.

The kirkyard is almost always open to the public, as is the church from April to October for tourism and year-round services.

To get to the graves we mentioned above, simply walk straight past the church, along the left of the building.

You will find them in the back towards the right, behind the remains of the old Flodden Wall, the remains of a 16th-century wall that surrounded the city.

Author's Note: This is another must-visit while you are in Edinburgh so take the time to explore the graveyard or consider signing up to one of the tours that takes you through after the sun has set!

7. Museum Context

Known by some locals as ‘Diagon House,’ Museum Context is a (VICTORIA ST) fascinating shop, spread over two stone vaults and looks exactly like the Diagon Alley shops as depicted in the Harry Potter films.

Absolutely every inch of the place is covered in interesting and quirky treasures to take home.

Given that Victoria Street is heavily associated with Diagon Alley, it makes sense to find such a treasure trove of Potter memorabilia in this location.

Make sure to hit the top floor where you’ll find a wizarding desk with a hat that you can wear to snap a selfie while you’re visiting!

8. Victoria Street

So as far as we are concerned, this is Diagon Alley - or Victoria Street as the case may be!

This gorgeous, curving road looks just like the twisting and topsy-turvey thoroughfare in the Harry Potter films.

All these ramshackle, colourful buildings are tucked close together, with oddly shaped windows and roofs adorning each one.

Just around the corner is Candlemaker Row, lined with cobblestones and filled with whimsical structures holding just a hint of magic. 

It’s also worth pointing out the AHA HA HA along the curve of the street at No. 99 West Bow - perhaps a precursor to Fred and George’s joke shop, Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes?

Author's Note: This is a great place to spend some time browsing the shops and there are excellent options for lunch and dinner nearby on Grassmarket.

9. The Witches Well

The Witches Well is a small cast-iron fountain - which no longer flows - and a plaque, honouring all the Scottish people who were burned at the stake for witchcraft between the 15th and 18th centuries.

Throughout the centuries, more than 4,000 alleged witches were put to death in Scotland - and a great deal of them right here.

Now get back onto Castlehill and face the Castle itself.

10. Edinburgh Castle

An imposing, sprawling structure of strength and mystic design at the end of the Royal Mile that surges out of a great rock into the sky, it’s easy to imagine this building filled with hundreds of witches and wizards studying, playing, and living inside.

In fact, Rowling commented that now,”... I’ve come to live in the shadow of what could be a lot like Hogwarts, except Hogwarts has a lake. ”

So aside from the missing lake, this castle essentially showcases most of the features and details of Hogwarts that Rowling describes in her books!

As a side note, there is a canon that fires at 13:00 every day (except for Sundays) which means the Castle is very busy.

So we’d recommend coming either when the castle first opens, or in the late afternoon! For those wanting to visit virtually, check out Margaret's video below.

11. The Writers’ Museum

This fabulous building is called Lady Stair’s House; a faux-medieval structure designed by architect Stewart Henbest Capper in the 1890s which now houses a museum.

Edinburgh became the first UNESCO City of Literature in 2004 and this Museum shows why.

Primarily focused on Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Burns, there are also occasional temporary exhibitions.

One of which was dedicated to JK Rowling and included a first edition copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone with annotations and drawings by the author herself! 

12. Edinburgh City Chambers

The beautiful building standing before you now holds the Edinburgh City Chambers.

For the purpose of our tour, you will want to head to the quadrangle in front of the building.

Here, under your feet, you will find flagstones displaying golden handprints.

These handprints are those of people who have won the Edinburgh Award - given to those who have made, “outstanding achievements and contributions to the city.”

Set up in 2007, the first winner was Ian Rankin, and the second, in 2008 was JK Rowling, whose own handprints are immortalised here.

13. Balmoral Hotel

JK Rowling began writing her iconic book series in a number of cafes, but she would write the final words of the series in one of the finest hotels in the city, Room 552 of The Balmoral Hotel - marking the end of a true rags to riches story.

Today, the room has been re-named the JK Rowling Suite, and the room contains a marble bust of Hermes (now contained in a glass display case), scribbled with the following, written in JK’s own hand:

“JK Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in this room on 11th Jan 2007.”

Author's Note: The Balmoral is super posh and very expensive but consider a visit to the bar for a drink as a way to get the luxury experience without having to break the bank!

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Stephen Pickhardt

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Self Guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh (With Maps)

Introducing; a self guided harry potter tour of edinburgh..

• Duration: 2 Hours
• Difficulty: Moderate (some stairs, but all paved walkways)
• Cost: Free!

I’ve lived in Edinburgh my whole life and I’ve been a Harry Potter fan for just about as long. So it’s surprising that its taken me this long to write a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh.

As I walked around the city recently, I realised that Potter-mania isn’t slowing down any time soon. There are more shops, cafe’s and Harry Potter inspired Edinburgh “landmarks” now than there was when the books or films were released.

Part of me cringes at how many people have cashed-in on the fact the Harry Potter books were written by a local and inspired by Edinburgh. And part of me kind of loves that something so globally loved comes from my hometown.

So, if you’re headed to Edinburgh any time soon, now you can get a piece of Potter Mania too!

I’ve put together a free Harry Potter trail through Edinburgh . Now you can walk it yourself without being restricted to a tour group’s walking pace, or the tourist-prices that come along with it.

Now lace up your boots, or hop on your brooms and check out this Self Guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh.

• Starting Point: The Balmoral 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

The Balmoral

1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

The Balmoral is a great place to start this self-guided Harry Potter walking tour. It’s right in the city centre, beside the main train station (Waverley) and on the main shopping strip (Princes Street).

The Balmoral is where J K Rowling finished her final books. She booked out a suite in 2007 to complete the series. Since then, her room has been transformed into the “ J K Rowling suite “. And for a small £1600 per night, you can stay there too! However, if this falls a little outside your budget, snap some pics of the gorgeous building from the outside, then head on your way…

Cockburn St

Self guided harry potter walking tour directions.

• Walk west on Princes St towards W Register St 0.1 mi
• Turn left onto Waverley Bridge 0.1 mi
• At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Cockburn St 404 ft

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ✨ Museum Context UK ⚡️ (@museumcontextuk)

Cockburn street looks like it fell straight from the pages of the Wizarding World. Twisty streets, tall buildings, curious store fronts. The number one spot on this street to check out on your Edinburgh walking tour is Museum Context .

Selling both Officially Licensed Harry Potter products and a wide array of other curious gadgets and nik-naks. This is certainly one way to recreate the Diagonal Alley shopping experience.

Museum Context has a second store which you’ll pass later in the tour. So you may wish to browse now and buy later to avoid carrying too many bags around with you.

City Chambers

253 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ

• Walk east on Cockburn St towards Anchor Cl
• Turn right onto Anchor Cl
• Take the stairs
• Turn right onto High St
• Destination will be on the right

The City Chambers in Edinburgh is a working building for Edinburgh Council. It is also home to the Golden Hands of JK Rowling in its front courtyard.

The Golden Hands walkway is an ode to the Hollywood Walk of Fame stars. But instead, this one honours famous and successful Scots by memorialising their hand prints in gold in the slabs.

Diagon Alley (Victoria St)

• Walk west on High St towards Writers’ Ct
• Continue onto Lawnmarket
• Turn left onto George IV Bridge
• Turn right onto Victoria St

As close to Diagon Alley as you’ll ever be (unless you’re actually a wizard that is). Victoria Street in Edinburgh is arguably one of the most picturesque places in Edinburgh too. This winding, cobbled street with its colourful store fronts is a must see. Take a stroll down Victoria Street, snapping some pictures and browising the curoous artifacts for sale in many stores.

Check out the second branch of Museum Context . Or pick yourself up some magic tricks at the Ah Ha Joke shop , claimed to be inspiration for JK Rowling’s Zonko’s joke shop.

Greyfriar’s Kirk

• Walk north-west on Candlemaker Row
• Enter Greyfriar’s Kirk just past the Roundabout (on the right)

What self-guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to the famous graveyard?

The Greyfriar’s graveyard is home to a number of tomb stones made famous by JK Rowling. It fascinates me to think about who these people were in real life, and to imagine your name becoming famous centuries after you’ve died.

Among the most “famous” names in the graveyard are Tom Riddle and McGonagle.

Directions To Tom Riddle’s Tomb

• Follow path up through graveyard and pass through Flodden Wall’s archway on your right.
• Walk back down the hill once on the other side of the wall
• Riddle’s grave is at the bottom corner.

Directions To Mcgonagle’s Grave

• From Riddle’s tomb, follow the wall back up the hill.
• At the top of the hill, take a right.
• Walk along the top path, until you reach a gate.

Hogwarts (George Heriot’s)

While at McGonagle’s grave, take a peep through the gates for the best view of the school that inspired Hogwarts. George Heriots School is a working private co-ed school in Edinburgh. Like Hogwarts, they have 4 houses (although not Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Slytherin and Hufflepuff!)

You can peep a view of the front of the school by walking around to Lauriston Place.

The Elephant House Cafe

21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN

• Exit the graveyard by walking past the Kirk (church)
• Turn left onto Greyfriars

After all this walking, it’s about time you treat yourself to a rest, some food and (unless you visited on the one sunny day of the year) so warmth! What better place to refuel of your Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh than the place where it all began?

There are a number of cafe’s in Edinburgh that claim to be spots where JK Rowling penned her early books. It makes, since most of us visit more than one cafe in the city. However, it’s fairly undisputed that Joanne spent a decent amount of her early writing career in this cosy cafe . If you’re lucky enough to get a table through the back, the views of Edinburgh castle and rooftops are enough to inspire you to pick up a pen immediately.

I love the Elephant House Cafe for not completely losing it’s original style, despite the mass popularity it has received. There is a spot at the front where you can pick up some potter memorabilia. However, the majority of the decor is still unchanged and Elephant-inspired.

National Museum of Scotland

Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF

• Walk south on George IV Bridge towards Chambers St
• Turn left onto Chambers St

The National Museum of Scotland is an excellent (FREE!) place to spend hours on any trip to Edinburgh. However, for the purposes of the Self Guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh, you should pop in to see one particular cabinet.

The medieval chess pieces from the Scottish island of Lewis. The chess pieces date back to Late 12th – early 13th century and look like they’re straight out of the Chamber of Secrets. Claimed to be inspiration for Wizarding chess, and you can see why, these artefacts are a fun look back in time to ancient Scottish History.

According to the museum website they are currently on display in the Kingdom of the Scots , Level 1.

The Department Of Magic

9 Blair St, Edinburgh EH1 1QR

• Walk east on Chambers St towards W College St
• Turn left onto Guthrie St
• Turn right onto Hastie’s Cl
• Turn right onto Cowgate
• Turn left onto Blair St
• Destination will be on the left

The final stop on your Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh is a full activity in itself. The Department Of Magic is a bar and escape room experience.

If you have time during your trip to Edinburgh, make a reservation for an escape room challenge to conclude your walking tour. The Department Of Magic have 2 (unofficially) Harry Potter themed Escape Rooms; Prophecies Quest and Dark Lord Resurrection. Both take around an hour and involve solving a number of clues and puzzles to find prophecies or battle the Dark Lord.

If you’re a little more pushed for time, check out their Potion Making bar. The cocktail menu is one of a kind! Each drink comes with a parchment “recipe” and requires you to brew the potion before you sit back, relax and enjoy your well earned drink.

Check out the Department of Magic website to book spaces for the Escape Rooms or a table for Potions Making.

And this it! You’ve made it to the end of your Self Guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh! I hope you loved it. Please drop me a message if you completed it or have ideas of how to make it even better!

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Free Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour Edinburgh + Route Map!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer here .

Edinburgh is my favourite city. No ‘might be’ no ‘I think.’ I know this for sure. Not only is Edinburgh gorgeous, but it’s in Scotland which means it has a lot more going for it than most other cities. You can also do a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh too, so how can I move there ASAP?

Author of the Harry Potter book series, J.K. Rowling, moved to Edinburgh from Porto in Portugal to live with her sister after the breakdown of her first marriage. Long story short, she started writing about the famous boy wizard in Scotland’s capital city and Rowling loved Edinburgh so much she still lives there now.

That doesn’t surprise me. I think I’d judge anyone who lived in Edinburgh and then  chose  to move away.

So there are lots of places and hideaways in Edinburgh that we either  know for sure   or can  assume  inspired characters and locations in the greatest books ever written.

Follow my map (everything is listed in the order I suggest you visit the locations) to experience your own Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh…

A Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour Edinburgh

1. Spoon Cafe Bistro, 6A Nicolson St, EH8 9DH

Let’s start where it all began! The internet tells me that J.K. Rowling’s brother-in-law used to own Spoon back in the 90s when it was called Nicolson’s Cafe  (on the second floor). He let the broke, single mum drink coffee in his cafe for free by the big window while she wrote some chapters for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. 

2. Potterrow, EH8 9BT

Heading down and west, you’ll walk along a street named Potterrow  or  Potterrow Port . This has not been confirmed, but it’s quite a central street in Edinburgh so it’s likely J.K. Rowling knew it existed. Whether it was the direct inspiration behind the name Harry Potter, we may never know.

3. George Heriot’s School, Lauriston Place, EH3 9EQ

This independent school was built in the late 17th century. It’s one of the most fairytale-esque buildings in Edinburgh with the turrets and the glass roof. Unfortunately, it’s a bit of a faff to reach so I recommend using  Google Maps .

It’s said to have not only provided inspiration for the design of Hogwarts, but also the house system .

And don’t worry if you’re in Edinburgh during the school year (I visited during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival , in August) and you cannot get to the George Heriot’s school grounds, you can see a lot of the building from Greyfriar’s Kirkyard . Speaking of which…

4. Grave of Tom Riddell, Gravel Pit, Greyfriars Kirkyard, EH1 2QA

Just off Candlemaker Row is the Greyfriars Kirkyard. When I went looking for the grave of Tim Riddell, the inspiration behind Voldemort’s real identity of Tom Marvolo Riddle , I was stumped. I examined almost every grave for AGES before eventually using my sleuth skills to determine where the grave was situated (some other tourists told me…). That was three years ago. Now, the grave is marked on Google Maps!

Directions: When you enter Greyfriars Kirkyard from Candlemaker Row , head left of the church and straight to the back of the graveyard. You will find a walled-off section (called the Gravel Pit ) with more graves. This section will be near the gates leading to  George Heriot’s School . Stick to the wall that separates the main graveyard with the Gravel Pit and head right down to the other end. As you can see from the photos below, the headstone is on a wall as opposed to a standing grave.

And the infamously awful poet William McGonagall (whose name inspired Professor McGonagall) is… somewhere. I have no idea where. I just took a photo of the list of notable people at the entrance of the graveyard. Life’s too short.

5. Missing Plaque, side of Lackdhu Shop,  Candlemaker Row, EH1 2QE

This one has a really uninteresting story behind it, but let me tell it anyway. A lot of people believe that Candlemaker Row , following onto Victoria Street may have inspired Diagon Alley . There’s even a joke shop on Victoria Street called Aha Ha Ha Jokes , for crying out loud.

To mark this alleged inspiration, the sidewall of framing shop Lackdhu   displayed two plaques : the first simply said ‘Diagon Alley’ and the second went into more detail about the street’s supposed significance. There was also a pretty mural on this wall of a girl picking flowers. I think it was a popular spot for street arts to redesign every so often.

Unfortunately, the mural and the plaques are gone and I can’t find out why. They disappeared sometime after December 2016 and before I visited Edinburgh in August 2017.

  Diagon Alley 💫 #diagonalley #edinburgh #candlemakerrow #harrypotter A post shared by S A M E E R (@thesameer_) on Dec 10, 2016 at 3:43am PST

6. Diagon House (museum context), Victoria St, EH1 2JW

Head down  Candlemaker Row  and you’ll get to the bottom of  Victoria Street , possibly my favourite street in Edinburgh.

Museum Context is an officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise stockist in Edinburgh . Their location on the beautifully colourful Victoria Street (one of the alleged inspirations for Diagon Alley) is often so busy, they need to have a line outside (see picture below). They also have a sister shop called ‘The Boy Wizard’ which has two locations. One also on Victoria Street and another at 109 The Royal Mile, EH1 1SG.

However, there’s another Diagon House shop at 42-44 Cockburn St, EH1 1PB which isn’t too far to walk (just off the Royal Mile ) and didn’t have a queue outside when we visited. And I visited during the Fringe Festival in August when Edinburgh was busy everywhere!

Even if you’re not planning on buying anything (cause everything is usually on the internet for cheaper lol) it’s still worth a look inside any of the four shops for all the Harry Potter feels.

7. The Elephant House, 21 George IV Bridge, EH1 1EN

Walk up Victoria Street and double back on yourself across the George IV Bridge and you’ve found the most sought after location on any Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh.

The Elephant House has built a fantastic business off being the so-called ‘Birthplace of Harry Potter’ as the sign in the window says.

Realistically,  Nicolson Cafe  probably gets that title but she apparently did write many chapters of her first three books in The Elephant House. Expect quite a queue if you want to eat here, but I really liked the food and it’s not overpriced so I would recommend it.

You can actually see Edinburgh Castle and George Heriot’s School from The Elephant House windows, which just cements itself in Harry Potter folklore even further.

Don’t forget to check out the bathroom!! Fans from all over the world kept leaving graffiti in the bathroom with Harry Potter quotes and messages . After continually repainting over the vandalism, The Elephant House eventually gave in and let the bathrooms be completely covered in messages. Bring a marker pen and add your own!

8. The Writers’ Museum, Lawnmarket, Lady Stair’s Close, EH1 2PA

Head towards the Royal Mile  and The Writers’ Museum is in a courtyard just off to the left.

I’ll admit, this museum has a tenuous link to J.K. Rowling and the Harry Potter book series. Normally, the museum features exhibits about Scotland’s three most famous writers: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson. But within the main reception room, there is always a short term exhibit by the gift shop which features a different special or rare book every few months.

In December 2016, a first edition hardback of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone  with annotations and sketches by J.K. Rowling was displayed in this glass case. So please note the book isn’t there anymore! But I thought it was worth mentioning because, hey, you never know if another Harry Potter book will be there during your visit!

Plus, if you love literature, The Writers’ Museum is very compact and free to visit so why not spend 45 minutes there learning about the other Scots writers?

9. City Chambers, 253 High St, EH1 1YJ

Further down the Royal Mile  from The Writers’ Museum is the Edinburgh City Chambers . Every year, the city of Edinburgh gives out the ‘Edinburgh Award’, which is presented to one incredible Edinburgh resident every year.

J.K. Rowling won the award in 2008, so her handprints are forever embedded in the courtyard of the Edinburgh City Chambers with the rest of the winners for eternity!

10. Balmoral Hotel, 1 Princes St, EH2 2EQ

Finally, cross a bridge onto Princes Street near Edinburgh Waverly Station . Unfortunately, you can only really complete the Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh if you have a spare £1,000 lying around . Yeah, me neither. One day, eh?

J.K. Rowling checked into Room 552  of the Balmoral Hotel to finish  Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.  Essentially, if the Elephant House is ‘The Birthplace of Harry Potter’ then the Balmoral Hotel is the resting place.

The room is called The Rowling Suite and she even scribbled behind one of the busts in the room. It says, “J.K. Rowling finished writing  Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows  in this room (552) on 11th Jan 2007.”

Definite nerd-goals to stay in that room.

11. Cramond & Barnton Suburbs, Edinburgh

And finally, we reach the end of the Harry Potter Tour Edinburgh. Just outside of Edinburgh are the suburbs of Cramond and Barnton . J.K. Rowling moved to a Barton in 2015. More specifically, she moved into a gorgeous turreted mansion from another Edinburgh neighbourhood, Merchiston.

If you’re lucky, you might bump into her strolling along Cramond harbour or grocery shopping in town. Who knows!

Or book your place on a Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh!

If you only have 90 minutes to spare and want to follow a Harry Potter tour with a knowledgeable and fun guide, perhaps donning a robe and waving a wand, then The Potter Trail is award-winning and comes highly recommended.

It’s also a free tour with the opportunity to tip at the end. I always think these are the best tours because you can guarantee the guide will work super hard for your tips. And if they do work super hard, then you should tip generously!

Check out The Potter Trail for more details.

More Harry Potter-themed activities in Edinburgh!

Boy, everyone in Edinburgh really has gone Harry Potter mad, haven’t they? I don’t blame them, the ‘Birthplace of Harry Potter’ is a pretty big accolade. So aside from these 11 locations, there are  even  more  Harry Potter themed activities in Edinburgh. For a truly magical city break in Edinburgh, check out these other things to do…

• The Cauldron   – A magical, themed cocktail bar offering cocktail-making classes
• Harry Potter Afternoon Tea Bus Tour – Red Bus Bistro’s Afternoon tea complete with Butterbeer and chocolate frogs!

And that’s my ultimate self-guided Harry Potter Tour Edinburgh! Have you visited Edinburgh? Did you check out any of these Harry Potter inspired locations? Let me know in the comments below!

Harry Potter Filming Locations in Yorkshire & North East England (ALL 5!)

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Hey! I wrote this. And I'm the human (and hair) behind Almost Ginger. I live for visiting filming locations, attending top film festivals and binge-watching travel inspiring films. I'm here to inspire you to do the same! Get in touch by leaving a comment or contacting me directly: [email protected] .

12 thoughts on “ Free Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour Edinburgh + Route Map! ”

Hi Rebecca, It is amazing post. But how many days should I plan for Edinburgh? Like the city itself and all the Harry Potter parts es well? I was thinking of going first to Edinburgh and after that to London. Thank you.

Hi Vera! If you can have 3 days in Edinburgh, that would be great and you will be able to see the Harry Potter locations as well as the main sites. There are TONS of great things to do there so you could easily plan more days, but three is the minimum. But one day in Edinburgh is better than no days in Edinburgh 🙂

Very good post! Edinburgh is amazing when it comes to Harry Potter. Most people go to London generally but Edinburgh is where everything started!

Didn’t know about the writer’s museum, will definitely check it out next time!

Hi Pauline, thanks for your lovely comment!

Edinburgh is such a wonderful city, I love visiting it again and again! The Writer’s museum is awesome, nothing Harry Potter-related is in there at the moment but I figured that if people love reading the Potter books they’d like visiting this cute (and free!) museum too!

Thank you so much!!! I had missed all the proper timed walking tours due to a foot injury on a stair. After a quick visit to the pharmacy to fix my wound. I remembered your tour. I was able to see some of the noteable sites before I missed my train. The Greyfrier Kirk now offers a map of the graves in Aug 2019 it was 50 pence. Well worth it, not only for me – but it goes to help up keep the kirk/graveyard. Found them all except Potter, but there was a knocked over one – so perhaps it was that one. So thank you! I thought I would miss my opportunity to see Edinburgh Potter, but you saved the day!! If you ever visit during Fringe, there were a few Potter themed shows. Wish I had had more time to see those. Also, after getting lost just off of “Diagon Alley” the night before, I definitely feel that lower Canongate just off of Victoria felt like Knockturn alley, especially at night.

Thank you so much for your lovely comment Marie! I’m glad you were able to see some of the Harry Potter locations despite your injury. That’s good to know about the graveyard map! I have visited during the Fringe, in fact, these photos were all taken during the Fringe! It’s great isn’t it 🙂 Haha I bet you’re right, some of those old back streets definitely have a Knockturn Alley vibe about them for sure.

Thank you so much for posting this!! Planning my trip here next month and I will definitely be using this as a guide! Also, any vegetarian recommendations?

Thank you so much Victoria, that’s awesome to hear! 😊 Yes I absolutely do, Hula is a fantastic cafe just off Grass market with lots and lots of veggie/vegan options, they cater to lots of dietary requirements and you can take out if you’d rather sit in a bench outside if its sunny. And Paradise Palms is supposed to be great, I haven’t been yet but I’m planning to at the end of June when I next go to Edinburgh!

Thank you so much for pubished this!! 🙂 it was really useful

I’m so pleased you like it and got the information you needed!! 😊

Yesss I love this!! Bookmarking it for my trip there! 😀

Yay! Are you going soon? It’s super fun going round all the Harry Potter places in Edinburgh, especially the grave which sounds weird haha 😆

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FREE Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh (Including Map!)

Visiting Edinburgh and a fan of Harry Potter? If you answered yes, you will want to do a Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh. A Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh can even be self-guided or as part of a group – this post shares details on both as well as other Harry Potter activities in the city and beyond. 

I never seem to meet anyone who simply just ‘likes’ Harry Potter. They either fall into two camps – completely and utterly obsessed or do not understand the hype. I fall into the first category and am a true believer that Hogwarts will always be there to welcome me home.

This also means I like to visit locations linked to the Harry Potter books and films. For me, it helps to bring the magic alive. Which is why when I visited Scotland I insisted on dragging my friend on a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh .

Why is there a link between Harry Potter and Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has a deep connection with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, in fact, some consider it the birthplace of the franchise as it was where J.K Rowling wrote many of the books.

“Edinburgh is very much home for me and is the place where Harry evolved over seven books and many, many hours of writing in its cafés.”  – J.K Rowling

There are several Harry Potter filming locations in Edinburgh which fans can visit, some of which have an obvious connection, some which are more discreet and some which are pure speculation and have yet to be confirmed by the lady herself.

Whichever way these locations have come about, the Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh has become very popular over the last decade. 

The Best Guided Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh

There are many Harry Potter walking tours in Edinburgh which take place daily, many of which get booked up far in advance, especially during the busier months of summer. These tours are often run by fellow Harry Potter enthusiasts so will offer additional titbits of information relating to the books and films.

One particular Harry Potter location tour in Edinburgh involves a series of quizzes and games, encouraging you to outwit your guide with your spell knowledge. A guided tour is a good idea if you potentially find it difficult to navigate yourself around a new city or you are short on time. They are also a good way to meet fellow enthusiasts and really immerse yourself in the destination.

I always book my tours through Get Your Guide and in advance, by booking in advance I ensure I do miss out on tours being full and always receive the best price.  Click here to check prices and book your place on a Harry Potter Edinburgh Location Tour

However, when I visited I decided on a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh. This was because it was my first time in Edinburgh and I only had one day, not being restricted to a tour meant, if I wanted I could stop off at other non-Harry Potter related tourist attractions along the way.

A self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh

This Harry Potter walking tour will take around all the major Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh as well as the less obvious ones. All the locations are within reasonable proximity to each other however, it is important to point out that Edinburgh is incredibly hilly – take comfortable walking shoes.

The Elephant House

(21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN)

Said to be one of the birthplaces of the Harry Potter stories, The Elephant House is one of the most important Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh, if not most. J.K Rowling was a struggling single parent when she wrote parts of the Philosopher’s Stone in this cafe.

Today the cafe is never empty, Harry Potter fans flock to The Elephant House on George Street to feel the magic of this location. If you are visiting to simply take photos and not purchase any food or drink, visitors are encouraged to make a donation to charity while there.

If you do go inside, be sure to head to the toilets, where the walls are covered in messages from the thousands of visiting fans over the years.

Ian Rankin, author of the bestselling Rebus novels, and Alexander McCall-Smith, author of The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency and other series of novels, have also frequented The Elephant House over the years.

Greyfriars Kirkyard (cemetery)

(26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QE)

In close proximity to the Elephant House is a Churchyard with a cemetery, which is the next stop on your Edinburgh Harry Potter tour.

It is often speculated whether J.K Rowling spent time here or walked through here frequently as there are a few names which are similar to the characters we have grown fond of.

In Greyfriars Kirkyard you will find the gravestones of Robert Potter, Tom Riddell and William McGonagall. Other gravestones with potential links include Elizabeth Moodie (Mad-Eye Moody?) and Margaret Louisa Scrymgeour Wedderburn (Rufus Scrimgeour, the Minister of Magic in the final Harry Potter book?)

From August 2019, a map is available to purchase in the cemetery for 50p.  This map locates all of the Harry Potter themed gravestones in Greyfriars Kirkyard with proceeds going to the upkeep of the grounds. 

Victoria Street

While it has never been confirmed by J.K Rowling, Victoria Street is suspected to be part of the inspiration behind Diagon Alley. The colourful, cobbled and winding street is not far from the Elephant House and runs adjacent to Candlemaker Row , a further road which will leave you feeling like you just walked through Diagon Alley.

Along Victoria street, you will find various boutique stores and unsurprisingly a number of stores which sell Harry Potter themed memorabilia. You will even find a joke shop on Victoria Street, however, sadly, it is not run by the Weasleys.

The Victoria Street part of Edinburgh’s Harry Potter tour is close to the Grassmarket area. Every Saturday between 10 am – 2 pm a Farmer’s Market takes place where you can purchase area-sourced produce, meats & cheeses, plus baked goods and beer.

It is not in anyway wizard themed but it is a nice addition to visit if following the self-guided Harry Potter tour on a Saturday.

Nicolson’s Cafe (now known as Spoon)

(25 Nicolson Square, Edinburgh EH8 9BX)

Another cafe where J.K Rowling spent time writing the Harry Potter books. Now known as Spoon, in 1997 it was called Nicholson’s Café, and it was owned by Rowling’s brother-in-law.

The cafe has large windows which overlook the University of Edinburgh and still to this day has a plaque to commemorate where part of one of the world most famous book series was written.

The Balmoral Hotel

(1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ)

The Balmoral Hotel was the place that ended it all. Room 552 at the Balmoral Hotel , J.K. Rowling checked into this luxurious suite overlooking the city so that she could concentrate while finishing The Deathly Hallows.

It has now be renamed the Rowling Suite in her honour and so Harry Potter enthusiasts can book to stay. It contains a marble bust of Hermes, the Greek god of travel, signed by J.K.Rowling herself.

Diagon House / Museum Context

(40 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2JW)

Museum Context (Or Diagon House as it is also known) is an immersive shopping experience in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and the flagship store at 40 Victoria Street is a unique celebration of the fact that Edinburgh is the birthplace of Harry Potter.

The shop contains a world-class selection of officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise, in turn making it a magnet for Harry Potter fans worldwide who queue from morning until night to explore the store.

City Chambers – J.K Rowling’s handprints

(253 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ)

The City Chambers is a huge council building on the Royal Mile, which features a fantastic Hollywood-style plaque that pays tribute to winners of the prestigious Edinburgh Award, presented to outstanding Edinburgh residents.

J.K. Rowling won in 2008, which means that the hands that wrote the Harry Potter books are immortalised in bronze in the chambers’ courtyard.

George Heriot School

(Lauriston Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9EQ)

Like Greyfrier’s Kirkyard, the George Heriot School can be seen from the windows of the Elephant House Café, leading to speculation it was the inspiration behind Hogwarts.

Built-in 1628, this prestigious, castle-like school is said to be the inspiration for Hogwarts as well as the Hogwarts house system. It is not usually open to the public, but it does sometimes host events during the Edinburgh Festival in August.

While some believe J.K Rowling got her inspiration for the lead Character’s surname inside Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, others believe it Harry Potter was named after a street in Edinburgh – Potterrow Street.

Along Potterrow street you will find buildings associated with Edinburgh University and aside from the now name famous street sign, there is not much else related to the book series here.

An Edinburgh Harry Potter walking tour map to use on your visit:

The below map shares all of the Harry Potter locations mentioned above in and can be easily downloaded on to your phone for ease during your visit. 

Other Harry Potter locations near Edinburgh

Many people seem to be under the impression other book and film locations are located in Edinburgh, however, unfortunately, they are not. Therefore if you are planning on seeing more Harry Potter locations in Scotland then it is important to plan in advance.

Ride the Hogwarts Express in Scotland – Book an excursion from Edinburgh

It is the dream of so many people to ride the Hogwarts Express but if you want to this you need to head to the highlands. The Jacobite Steam Train, aka the Hogwarts Express, is located in Fort William. It is a world-famous steam train which passes Ben Nevis and Loch Ness. It also crosses the infamous viaduct featured in every Harry Potter movie.

There is currently a 2 day tour which you can book on to experience and ride the Hogwarts express. The tour includes transportation to and from Edinburgh, guide, accommodation as well as your ticket on to the train.

Visit the filming location of Hogwarts

Combine movie magic and historic wonder on a trip to the Scottish Borders. Alnwick Castle is the true star of this show, not only was it a key location for Harry Potter films, it’s a historic location of epic conquests and royal splendour. There is even an opportunity to test your broom skills.

You can book onto a day tour from Edinburgh with includes a tour of Alnwick Castle (the Harry Potter Castle) as well as various other points (non Harry Potter related) along the Scottish border.

Here are some more Edinburgh Harry Pottertours from Get Your Guide which all have great reviews and prices.  Generally, I book all my tours in advance when I have limited time in a city this helps to ensure I get a place on the tour I want as well as paying the best price: 

Edinburgh Hotels for Harry Potter Fans

Canongate luxury homestay .

Located 650 yards from Edinburgh Festival Theatre, Canongate Luxury Homestay offers accommodation in Edinburgh. Canongate Luxury Homestay boasts views of the mountain and is 650 yards from Omni Centre.

The beautiful private apartment overlooks the Royal Mile and best of all? It is Harry Potter themed. The apartment has been kitted out by a Harry Potter superfan with a Gryffindor dormitory theme for the master bedroom and a second bedroom themed around the Hogwarts Express.

There is even a desk in the apartment which even once belonged to J.K Rowling. If you are looking for a true Harry Potter experience in Edinburgh, this is definitely where you need to stay.

The Balmoral 

Located on Princes Street, The Balmoral has a Michelin-starred restaurant, a  pool  and a gym.  Waverley Station  and  Edinburgh ‘s main shopping area are within 5 minutes’ walk.

The Balmoral is part of the Harry Potter trail in Edinburgh as it is where J.K Rowling stayed while writing The Deathly Hallows. Superfans can even stay in the J.K Rowling suite, this is the suite where the J.K.Rowling finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It contains a marble bust of Hermes, the Greek god of travel, signed by J.K.Rowling herself.

Looking for Harry Potter experiences in other parts of the world? 

Harry Potter Filming Locations in Oxford 

Everything you need to know before visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Orlando

Why you need to visit the Harry Potter studio tour more than once

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Saturday 25th of April 2020

Grate article. Hope to visit these places my next trip in Scotland . Thanks for sharing.

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Harry Potter in Edinburgh: The Top Locations + Self-Guided Tour Map

It’s been 27 years since the first Harry Potter book was published.

I’ll just let that sink in for a minute…

Living in Edinburgh and travelling around Scotland has given me the opportunity to see things that seem straight out of Harry Potter almost everywhere I look.

And it’s no surprise, given that J K Rowling calls Edinburgh home and wrote many of the Harry Potter books here.

There are many Harry Potter sites in Scotland, but if you’re visiting the capital, then your time there wouldn’t be complete without taking a tour of the Edinburgh Harry Potter locations.

The sites that inspired Harry Potter in Edinburgh are found all over the city centre, but mostly within walking distance.

If you’re a fan, then this list of top Harry Potter sites will have you out on the streets feeling like you’re tracing the footsteps of J K Rowling as she wrote the series in Edinburgh or stepping into the books themselves.

Read More: 9 Lesser Known Hidden Gems in Edinburgh

A Guide to the Top Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh

The elephant house.

21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN 

Note: Unfortunately, the Elephant House was damaged by fire and is currently undergoing refurbishment.

This is likely the most popular Harry Potter location in Edinburgh. Consequently, it’s also the busiest!

The Elephant House is a cosy cafe that doesn’t look like too much from the street but stretches back to give views over Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars Kirkyard (other Harry Potter sites I’ll mention soon).

It’s a well-known narrative that J K Rowling first wrote the Harry Potter series in cafes around Edinburgh because it was cheaper to buy a cup of coffee than pay for her heating bill.

She was a newly single mother, scraping by on welfare, having moved back to the United Kingdom from Portugal after a failed marriage.

Although a sign in the window of The Elephant House states it is the birthplace of Harry Potter, J K Rowling actually imagined the idea of Harry Potter on a delayed train from Manchester to London in 1990 and had already begun writing the first book before moving to Edinburgh in 1993.

The Philosophers Stone was finished in 1995, which is also the year the Elephant House opened.

J K Rowling did write some of the series there, but it was more likely The Chamber of Secrets and The Prisoner of Azkaban.

The Elephant House is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can try your hand at visiting all day.

Seats near the back window give the best views of Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars Kirkyard, and it’s not hard to imagine the inspiration for some of Harry Potter might have come from here.

The cafe has kept its elephant theme and not turned too Harry Potter, but make sure you check out the bathrooms.

Nicholson’s Cafe (then Spoon, now a Chinese restaurant)

6A Nicholson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9DH

So where did J K Rowling write the first book in the Harry Potter series?

Most likely at Nicholson’s Cafe in Edinburgh, known for awhile as Spoon but is now a Chinese Restaurant.

At the time, it was co-owned by her brother-in-law and would have been a space that she could feel comfortable spending time in.

Nicholson’s Cafe later became a Chinese buffet and then turned into Spoon, a cafe/restaurant, and is now a Chinese restaurant again.

There is a plaque on the corner of Drummond Street, outside Black Medicine Cafe, which confirms that J K Rowling wrote Harry Potter on the first floor of the building.

If you take a look in many cafes around the world today, you’ll see plenty of people typing away on laptops.

However, J K Rowling actually wrote the first Harry Potter novel on paper and later typed it on a typewriter at home.

I actually finished and published this post on the 20th anniversary of the publishing date for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in Spoon!

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QQ

Greyfriars Kirkyard is just down the road from The Elephant Cafe, and so another popular Harry Potter site in Edinburgh.

William McGonagall was a Scottish poet and weaver who has a gravestone here and is believed to have inspired the last name of Professor McGonagall.

Some think that the gravestone of Mrs Elizabeth Moodie may have inspired the name for the Harry Potter character Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody.

While J K Rowling has never confirmed the gravestones at Greyfriars are a direct inspiration for some of the Harry Potter characters, she did mention that gravestones are a useful source of information in general, and has confirmed she took walks through the graveyard as it was close to both the Elephant Cafe and Nicholson’s Cafe.

I’ve never seen the graveyard closed, although it must be at times, but that doesn’t mean finding the graves of those who might have inspired Harry Potter characters is easy, although easier now it is more commonly visited as they’ve had to place down protection on the grass.

Walk behind the church towards Flodden Wall, and you’ll find most of the graves behind here.

The grave of Thomas Riddell Esquire, of Befsborough in Berwick, and his son, Thomas Riddell Esquire, is on the wall, and usually, a well-worn path on the grass will give it away.

Many prominent Scottish people are buried here, and it’s a point of interest to visit in Edinburgh even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan.

The church is still active, and it’s also famous for being the burial site of Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye terrier who is said to have held vigil by his owner’s grave for 14 years after his death.

Read More:  Ultimate Guide to the Top Free & Not So Free Things to Do in Edinburgh

George Heriot’s School

Lauriston Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9EQ

Behind Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the most prestigious primary and secondary schools in Edinburgh.

One look at this building, originally built in 1628, and it’s easy to see how it may have provided some inspiration for Harry Potter.

The school has four obvious wings, and it actually has a house system similar to Hogwarts with the houses of Castle, Lauriston, Raeburn, and Greyfriars.

It’s easy to assume a connection given its proximity to other Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh, but there’s no concrete evidence to suggest this is a Harry Potter site.

While it may seem inspiring to outside visitors, Edinburgh and the United Kingdom, in general, are full of grand historical buildings, especially universities and schools.

You can’t visit George Heriot as it is still an active school, but you can see it from the gate, from Greyfriars Kirkyard, Lauriston Place, Geroge IV Bridge, and Edinburgh Castle.

Victoria Street (or Diagon Alley?)

Victoria Street is a narrow curved street with high-rise buildings, curling down from George IV Bridge to the Grassmarket, a popular spot for eating, drinking, and taking in views of Edinburgh Castle from the cobbled streets below it.

The whole area is a wonderful place for people to explore when they visit Edinburgh, and given it’s in the vicinity of other Harry Potter locations, it’s easy to get to.

Some people think Victoria Street may be the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley, with its colourful shops, many with pointed roofs.

In the 1990s, a bank and stationery shop were on the street, in locations similar to Gringotts and Flourish and Blotts on Diagon Alley.

While there’s nothing to confirm that Victoria Street is directly linked to Harry Potter, it’s a well-known spot in Edinburgh and highly likely that J K Rowling spent time here while she was writing the series.

It may not be a direct Harry Potter location in Edinburgh, but it almost certainly provided some inspiration.

In August 2017, Diagon House was opened on Victoria Street, meaning there is now a real-life Harry Potter shop on what is thought to be the inspiration for the street.

So yes, you can actually buy a wand from Diagon Alley!

The Balmoral Hotel

1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

This 5-star hotel located next to Waverley Station in the centre of Edinburgh is a more luxurious Harry Potter location than the rest.

In January 2007, J.K. Rowling was in room 552, where she finished writing Harry Potter. A big difference from where she started, writing in Edinburgh’s cafes because it was cheaper to buy coffee than pay for heating, with her baby daughter at her side.

When she finished the book, she wrote on a gold bust of Hermes, “JK Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in this room (552) on 11th Jan 2007” .

The bust is still in the room, and you can stay there for around £1000 a night.

After finishing Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone  J K Rowling returned to study at Edinburgh University.

Potterrow is a street next to the Edinburgh University campus, filled with Edinburgh University buildings, university accommodations and places to eat.

While some say Potterrow was the inspiration for the name of the main character of the series, there is no evidence it did so.

J K Rowling has said that she used the name Harry because it was her favourite boys’ name, and Potter came from the last name of siblings she played with as a child.

So while this isn’t exactly a Harry Potter location, it’s a fun place to visit in Edinburgh to see the signs that look to be Harry Potter related, and there are some great places to eat and drink in the area and lots of things happening during Edinburgh Festivals in August .

JK Rowling’s Handprints

253 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ

In front of the Edinburgh City Chambers just off the Royal Mile are the golden handprints of recipients of the Edinburgh Award.

In 2008 J K Rowling added hers to others, including Chris Hoy and Ian Rankin.

Edinburgh Castle

Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG

This possible Harry Potter location or inspiration is the most recognisable landmark of Edinburgh.

J K Rowling has never confirmed Edinburgh Castle, or anywhere else, as inspiration for Hogwarts, although in the series it does mention it is located in Scotland.

From certain perspectives, it’s easy to see how Edinburgh Castle, perched on top of a rock, could fit the Hogwarts description.

The Dog House

18-24 Clerk Street, Edinburgh EH8 9HX

This isn’t exactly a Harry Potter location, but it should now be on every Harry Potter fan (over 18) list when looking for Harry Potter places to visit in Edinburgh because they serve BUTTERBEER.

It’s a combination of syrup and Fosters, which doesn’t sound terribly appealing but does have the taste of popcorn and beer.

Butterbeer was a drink made up by J K Rowling and not based on anything in particular, but you can now find recipes all over the internet and several places selling it, although if you want butterbeer in Edinburgh, then The Dog House is the place to go.

Read More: Essential Sights on a Quick Visit to Edinburgh

Should you take a harry potter tour in edinburgh.

If you want to take a tour, you can join The Potter Trail , a free walking tour (but with tips strongly encouraged).

To join the free Harry Potter walking tour, you just need to meet them at the Greyfriars Bobby Statue before the tour time.

There is also a more extensive paid Harry Potter Walking Tour .

Taking a tour gives you the opportunity to hear all the information from a guide, which may remind you of things you’ve forgotten, or you could learn things you didn’t know before.

You’ll also get to meet other Harry Potter fans and enjoy the experience together.

However, be aware that sometimes the line between fact and fiction can be a little blurred on tours, and some sites are touted as certain Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh when this may not be strictly true.

This guide to the top Harry Potter sites around Edinburgh should help you to find your way on your own, and here’s a map to help!

Edinburgh Harry Potter Sites Map

While much of Edinburgh might have inspired J K Rowling in writing Harry Potter, none of the films were actually shot here, although there are Harry Potter filming locations around the rest of Scotland, including the viaduct at Glenfinnan and Glen Coe.

Basically, if you want to visit some awesome locations and sites related to Harry Potter, then Edinburgh and Scotland are the places to go! Wondering what to wear for your Harry Potter adventure in Edinburgh?

Check out this fun Harry Potter Packing List !

Planning an Edinburgh visit? Check out these posts:

• Edinburgh in Winter: Things to Do + Reasons to Visit
• 22 Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids
• 25 of the Best Beer Gardens in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Festivals in August Guide: Must Do + Top Tips
• An Unforgettable Experience: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2023
• Scotland Roadtrip: Edinburgh to Glencoe by Car
• Haunted Edinburgh: Spooky + Spine-Chilling Attractions
• 23 Films to Watch Before You Visit Scotland

Have you ever visited a location or taken a tour because you loved a book or movie?

If you liked it, pin it!

Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

35 thoughts on “ Harry Potter in Edinburgh: The Top Locations + Self-Guided Tour Map ”

Visiting Edinburgh has been on my bucket list for SO long now, mostly for the Harry Potter connection! The fact that there are so many places around the city that “could” be connected, but there’s no evidence just makes it all the more exciting and mysterious. And in answer to your last question — umm, yes! 😀 Just a few months ago I went to Croatia simply to see as many Game of Thrones filming locations as possible, and later on in the year will be heading over to NZ for Hobbiton (as well as seeing my boyfriend, but mainly Hobbiton!).

The speculation does make it fun! There’s so much that you could say that is similar, but I do love that there are a few concrete places like the cafes that you can visit! I loved being able to visit Spoon, even if it’s different from what the cafe would have looked like then!

I loved seeing the Game of Thrones locations in Croatia too, and I’m also headed to Hobbiton this year!

Yes I visited Shere, Surrey especially to see the locations from three favourite movies, Bridget Jones – The Edge of Reason, The Holiday and The Wedding Date. I visited the church and White Horse pub, it was exciting seeing them for real and knowing these were the actual sites that were filmed.

It’s so much fun to visit film or book locations I think. Sometimes they look completely different, and sometimes it’s like you walked into the movie!

I love this and the map you created! I have seen many of these sights, but am so sad to have missed JK Rowling’s handprints! Also, I didn’t know that the series mentioned that Hogwarts was located in Scotland!?! I would really like to do one of the two tours you mentioned…I guess I will have to return to Edinburgh one day.

Thanks! I don’t think the handprints are that well-known. I completely forgot about them for awhile, even though I walk past where they are all the time! And yes, it mentions it’s located in Scotland, and you can even ride a train that’s like the Hogwarts Express over the Glenfinnan Viaduct like in the movie!

What!?! I think I was in High School when I heard about Harry Potter for the first time. Jeez, now I feel super old 🙁 My husband is a huge HP fan and I think this may convince him that we *need* to go to Edinburgh! The walking tour sounds fabulous!

Haha it made me feel old too! I think I was 10 when they first came out, because I remember being the same age as Harry! Hopefully you do make it here :D. You can do a couple of different tours, or just take yourself around with the map!

Looking left at the top of Victoria Street you see the spitting image of Gringotts Bank. It’s the museum on the mound, a free banking museum with slightly strange guides.

This is really cool. I live not even an hour from Edinburgh down in the Borders and I had no idea about these places. A wonderful article on the birthday of Harry Potter. Fantastic read

Thanks so much! There’s a lot of different information out there but I wanted to see what was really accurate!

Come up when the steam train runs on the border line!

I’m not a Harry Potter fan but I have watched all the movies so I recognize some places, maybe I am a fan? J K Rowling wrote the first Potter book in Spoon the long way by writing then typing it, but it sure has paid off! It’s amazing that just by the act of her writing a book all those years ago in this cafe that the most popular theme park in Orlando would appear years later. Now there is a bust in room 552 of the Balmoral with a 1K GBP per night price tag, JK Rowling has become royalty!

Edinburgh does have that look about it! It is crazy to think about how Harry Potter has led to all these things. Imagine if someone had told her that then!

I love this, Sonja! I wasn’t much of a fan of the movies, so it’s refreshing to see a guide which puts an emphasis on what inspired the novels instead. I can’t believe those books have been around for twenty freaking years. And also if I had a spare 1000 quid I’d totally want to stay in that hotel room, haha.

Thanks so much! I love finding real life locations from books, not just movies :). I still can’t believe it either!

What a fantastic list!! I didn’t know about some of these. How cool would it be to stay in that hotel room? Although maybe not for £1000 a night, haha! I found a “Diagon Alley” sign by Grassmarket (think it was somewhere between Victoria Street and the kirkyard), not sure who put that there lol.

I’ve been to afternoon tea at The Balmoral and it was lovely, so I imagine the rooms are worth it! Although I most definitely can’t afford it haha. I saw that too but I think it’s been removed at the moment!

This is a really in depth guide for any Potterhead! Doesn’t it make you feel old knowing that Harry is 20 now? I had no idea how many Potter locations there were in Edinburgh. I don’t think I’d need to take a tour though, I’d just use this post instead.

Thanks! I don’t think you need a tour unless you want to have someone tell you all the things as you go around. But I really wanted to let people know how much of it is fact and how much is fiction haha.

Harry Potter has been out for 20 years? I just turned 50 last week (spent it in Greece 🙂 and between those two…I feel old!!! LOL!! We are HUGE HarryPotter fans and a trip around the Harry Potter series would be SO much fun! Talk about easy to get the kids interested! LOL! I’m bookmarking this because as soon as we get the chance we’ll be over there exploring with Harry Potter in mind!

I turn 30 this year, and I remember being the same age as Harry when it came out! So weird. I think this would be a great thing to do with kids. There is a special kids tour which mentions the books, but you could also make a treasure hunt of this!

I had been to Edinburgh five years back but i didn’t check Harry Potter sites since i went during Christmas time. It was too cold to go out anywhere 😛 I am planning to visit this fall. Your guide will come real handy. Thanks for sharing.

Haha it does get pretty cold around that time! It’s great you’re coming back and you’ll have the opportunity to see them. I hope the guide will be useful for you!

Ahhh so cool! I would love to go visit ( I would probably read all the books again before I did! ) Those buildings do look straight out of a fairytale! I definitely need to come to Scotland asap! ??

Writing this post made me want to read all the books again! I think I’m going to make a start. Living in Edinburgh and Scotland does feel like being in the middle of Harry Potter sometimes! Or at least, the muggle part.

OMG this is awesome! I’m trying to build an itinerary for whenever I visit Edinburgh, so I’ll definitely be pinning and bookmarking your post. Cheers!

Thanks so much! I’m really happy that it’ll be useful for you!

I’ve been to Edinburgh once before on a short family trip but the only place I saw from this listt was Edinburgh Castle. Think I need to go back (and maybe combine it with the Jacobite steam train!)

Coming back is an excellent idea haha. Edinburgh is great! And I need to make it to the Jacobite steam train myself, it looks amazing too!

Wow! I love the way you found the sources of J. K. Rowlings inspiration. It must ave taken so much of research to get this post together. Loved every bit of it!

Thanks! It was a bit of research but I really enjoyed it :). I like knowing and investigating things haha.

I need to go in search of those hand prints! I felt really nostalgic reading this, thank you.

I didn’t know they existed for so long! It’s pretty cool 🙂

what’s weird is i’m a huge Harry Potter fan and got to George heriots and walk through the Kirk everyday and see all theses places yet the only ones I realised was the school, Victoria Street, the Kirk and the castle you know more about my home town than me

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Edinburgh Harry Potter Tours: 10 Best Walking Tours (Free + Paid)

Take a magical trip through harry potter’s edinburgh with these amazing walking tours.

If you’re visiting Edinburgh, Scotland, you have to take a Harry Potter tour! Speaking from experience- as a full-blown Potterhead (I’m basically a red-headed Weasley😂), there’s nothing like it! Over many trips to Scotland, I’ve done self-guided Harry Potter walking tours in Scotland and I’ve taken some of the best guided tours, too! Magical sites that inspired J.K. Rowling are littered all around Edinburgh. Diagon Alley, Tom Riddle (Lord Voldemort’s) Grave, and even the “original” Hogwarts School! Seeing them, at least for me, felt almost like a dream. This article rounds up the top Edinburgh Harry Potter tours so that you can narrow down which is the best fit for you! From shorter walking tours in Edinburgh to hours-long Potterhead tours, and even a multi-day trip to the Highlands from Edinburgh, I’ve covered all of the Harry Potter bases to see in Scotland!

⚡ The #1 Harry Potter Edinburgh Tour:

The Potter Trail (My absolute favorite of the tours I’ve taken- 10/10 recommend!)

1. The Potter Trail : The Best Edinburgh Harry Potter Tour I’ve Taken!

⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 1.5 Hours |   Book Now!

The Potter Trail is hands-down the most well-known, mainstream Harry Potter tour in Scotland. And I can confirm, after my tour with them in November, that it is just as amazing as everyone says! Visitors flock to Edinburgh to take Potter Trail tours. Why? They’re exciting, informative, and the perfect length (not too long, not too short). Your guided walking tour starts in Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, where you’ll see McGonagall and Lord Voldemort’s graves and George Heriot’s School (Hogwarts). You’ll tour through Edinburgh city, seeing sights like the National Museum of Scotland , and ending at The Elephant House, a cafe that touts itself as the “Birthplace” of Harry Potter. Our tour guide, Sam, was incredible! I took 40 travelers with me on my last tour, and he spellbound each and every single one of us with his witty banter and HP knowledge! There was plenty of spell-casting, laughter, trivia, and even a house sorting! The Potter Trail offers two options for tours: a free Harry Potter walking tour, and a private, paid tour.

We took the private paid tour, and that is definitely the option I recommend. It is customizable, and it also prevents anyone from the public from ruining what’s bound to be a magical experience. Plus, you’ll get personalized interaction with the tour guide , which you definitely wouldn’t get normally!

⭐ One thing to note: It’s positively RUDE to show up to The Potter Trail without a wand (or something wand-like!).

2. Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh

 ⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 2 Hours |   Check Rates & Availability

Get your wand ready, because this Harry Potter walking tour is one of the most awesome experiences to have in Edinburgh. Join your acclaimed tour guide for a 2-hour, family-friendly experience around the city . This is a great tour to take if you’re visiting Edinburgh with kids! You’ll take in the local Harry Potter filming sites, but you’ll also check popular tourist attractions in Scotland like Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street off your list, too!

Had a great time on this tour. Clare kept it interesting and even had us competing to answer Harry Potter trivia. I definitely learned new stuff about Harry Potter but also about the area. Highly recommend. Nicole L. ( Read More reviews )

Explore Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, walk past the original Diagon Alley, and learn where much of J.K. Rowling’s inspiration came from, including what building originally inspired Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As if that wasn’t enough fun, participate in Harry Potter trivia and hear local stories that any Potterhead will devour.

3. JK Rowling’s Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh

  ⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 2 Hours |   Book Now!

This highly-rated Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh is easily accessible from any Edinburgh accommodation and will leave you spellbound as you walk through the narrow closes and alleyways chasing the heart and soul of Harry Potter here in Scotland. Start on The Royal Mile and dive into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Edinburgh. Believe it or not, Lord Voldemort himself is buried within the walls of a cemetery in the city. Explore the resting place of “He Who Must Not Be Named” if you dare!

This tour was an amazing experience. The tour guide, Australian David, was highly entertaining and informative. I also really liked all the trivia questions he gave us. It was so cool to see and walk around beautiful Edinburgh and I definitely recommend this tour for anyone who has an interest in the Harry Potter series. -Myra ( read more reviews )

Other popular places on the tour include a stop at the original Hogwarts, where you’ll even see some familiar faces, and a glimpse of the way Quidditch even started! Pop into a cafe or two where J.K. Rowling wrote her famous stories, enjoy regaling stories, and take photos to last a lifetime!

4. JK Rowling’s Edinburgh and the Writing of Harry Potter

⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 4 Hours |   Check Rates & Availability!

Sam ( Note: NOT the same Sam that I rave over above) is known for giving fantastic Edinburgh Harry Potter tours. I mean, literally, the reviews just constantly RAVE about him (see below, too!). If you’re one of those “you have to read the book before you watch the movie” people (because OF COURSE you do), then this just might be the best tour for you! This literary-based tour covers the famous Harry Potter Edinburgh sites, but it also takes real wizards to more obscure locations affiliated with J.K. Rowling herself.

Wow, this tour far exceeded our expectations. Sam was simply AMAZING. The four hours flew by, and we were moving quickly. Any serious Potter/Rowling fan would devour this tour. Sam is a fount of knowledge, not only on all things Rowling and Potter, but Edinburgh in general. I HIGHLY recommend this tour. We had a fantastic time. -victor C. ( see more reviews )

Explore Edinburgh from the lens of J.K. Rowling’s rags to riches story. Learn about her humble beginnings sketching out the Wizarding World on the back of a napkin in an Edinburgh cafe. Trace her footsteps around the city as you hear more about her personal journey, and visit places like The Writer’s Museum , Edinburgh City Chambers, and The Balmoral- where Rowling wrote the final words of the Harry Potter books.

5. Best Private Tour For Harry Potter Fans: The Genius of Harry Potter

 ⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 5.5 Hours |   Book Now!

If you’re looking for the Hallmark of Edinburgh Harry Potter tours… I highly recommend this one! A VIP In-depth Harry Potter private tour! That’s right, 5 and a half hours nerding out over Harry Potter…just you and (up to) four of your closest friends! This extravaganza run by The Potter Tour goes in-depth like no other tour to give Harry Potter fans special insights and stories, you know….stuff like “where the secret section is in Madam Pince’s library.” Seriously, you get this treatment nowhere else.

The coolest part of this tour is that it includes access to various historical sites around the city , like the Museum of Scotland, The Headquarters of the Royal Bank of Scotland, and Old Parliament Hall. Plus, you’ll visit Edinburgh Castle and other haunts like Victoria Street! So, check off some sightseeing and must-see places in Edinburgh while you tour around like the Weasley VIP you really are!

6. Harry Potter’s Edinburgh: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

 ⭐RATING 4.5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 1 Hour |   Book Now!

Look…sometimes, guided tours just aren’t your thing. TOTALLY get it. Once in a while, you just need some time and freedom. Plus, you might already know how to get around Edinburgh on your own! So, get your Harry Potter fix in, and get a flexible and budget-friendly tour while doing it! This self-guided Harry Potter audio tour is the perfect combination of info and independence.

We had a great experience! Everything worked perfectly easy to use easy to follow! We would recommend it to everyone! Thank you. -John W. (read more reviews )

Download the provided app (which works offline if you don’t have an international cell phone plan!), and begin whenever you’re ready. The full audio tour lasts about an hour , but you can take breaks to sightsee or grab a bite anytime you’d like! See sights like Greyfriars Kirkyard, Diagon Alley, and Edinburgh Castle , while you hear the history of the city and the stories behind J.K. Rowling’s best wizard!

7. Scottish Highlands and Hogwarts Express Tour from Edinburgh

 ⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 13.5 Hours |   Book Now!

One of the most lusted-after Harry Potter locations in Scotland is the magnificent Jacobite Steam Train, or the Hogwarts Express. Visitors can actually ride this train and take the famed path over the Glenfinnan Viaduct for stunning views of the countryside- a Harry Potter fan’s dream! If you want to see the Hogwarts Express but don’t have a rental car, this tour out of Edinburgh is the perfect way to get out into the Scottish Highlands and see the Glennfinnan Viaduct…in just one day!

This was amazing! Literally the best money I’ve ever spent! Such an informative tour guide who obviously enjoys his job… gave us lots of historical facts about a country! The unexpected stop literally made my life and seeing the Harry Potter filming locations was amazing! -Eloise G. ( Read more reviews )

Start your morning in the area of Pitlochry , a charming Scottish countryside town that I absolutely loved visiting , where you can grab breakfast before continuing on for stunning views of the viaduct. You’ll visit Mallaig , where you’ll climb aboard the Jacobite steam train for your journey north to Fort William . After you’ve had your fill of pretending you’re off to Hogwarts, see some of the backdrops used for scenes from the Harry Potter movies in Glencoe, a town in the Highlands. This tour is a must-do for the Potterhead in your life – how many people can say they’ve actually ridden the Hogwarts Express?!

8. Harry Potter Day Trip From Edinburgh: Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & The Kingdom of Northumbria

 ⭐RATING 4.5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 9.5 Hours |   Book Now!

From Edinburgh, you can take some truly incredible tours that head outside the city for the day (or a few days) in order to see some of the popular Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland.

You can’t be a Harry Potter fan and not want to see THE film Hogwarts, am I right? This day tour from Edinburgh makes it possible to head over the border of Scotland into England and enjoy a day exploring places like the Lindisfarne Priory and Castle as well as Flodden Battlefield on your way to Alnwick.

Alnwick Castle is where many Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry scenes were filmed. In fact, one of the most popular scenes that you’ll recognize this castle from is in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone , when Malfoy steals Neville’s Remembrall during the first flying lesson! Get this…you can even reserve a time (for free with entry) to get your own broomstick training!

9. 3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Tour Including “Hogwarts Express” Ride

  ⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 3 Days |   Book Now!

Getting outside of the city and into the countryside to see other Harry Potter fan locations can be tough- especially if you’re not renting a car during your time in Scotland. Thankfully, this top-rated, multi-day tour hits the motherload of places throughout Scotland and takes care of all of the transportation for you! Your tour price also includes hotel stays and breakfasts as well as entry to attractions. Overall, it is an amazing way to see the Highlands, especially Inverness and other popular towns, and, of course, get that coveted ride on the Hogwarts Express.

I had an absolutely amazing time traveling with the tour, everyone was so friendly and kind, including our awesome driver, Rich! He was so funny and full of great stories to tell. We traveled from Edinburgh to Isle of Skye with stops in-between. The Hogwarts express ride was a personal highlight, being a huge Harry Potter geek.. I mean fan! Thank you for an incredible adventure! I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to experience the Highlands of Scotland including Harry Potter fans! -Sarah c. ( See more reviews )

See famous sites like the Isle of Skye , where you’ll visit Old Man of Storr, Eilean Donan Castle, Inverness, and Loch Ness . You’re getting the Scottish highlights tour in just 3 days! On your way back to Edinburgh, you just might hear “Anything from the trolley, dears?” as you pass over the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the Jacobite Steam Train, the real Hogwarts Express. GAH! Can you imagine anything cooler?!?

Although not technically a “walking tour” of Edinburgh, this in-depth tour of Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must for any die-hard Harry Potter fan. Greyfriars has so many graves associated with characters from the books and movies!

10. Small-Group Tour in Greyfriars Kirkyard

 ⭐RATING 5 Out of 5 Stars | ⚡ Duration: 90 Minutes |   Book Now!

Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the top locations in Edinburgh associated with Harry Potter, and it is also one of the most haunted spots in the city . In this creepy, old-world, walled graveyard, you’ll find tombs and gravestones paying homage to many characters that just might ring a bell. This small-group tour of Greyfriars lets you get up close and personal with the histories of some of Edinburgh’s dead. Learn the famous story of Greyfriars Bobby , a tale you must hear during your time in the city, and find the final resting places of Tom Riddle (Lord Voldemort), McGonagall, and some other household Potter names.

Informative, fun, and such a great introduction to some of the important, and not so well known, characters from Edinburgh. The Harry Potter extras were much appreciated by both myself and my 12 YO daughter. Robin is a delight. Take this tour, you will not regret it! – read more reviews

FAQ: Edinburgh Harry Potter Tour

There are so many options for Edinburgh Harry Potter Tours both in terms of places to see and the types of tours. From free walking tours to guided tours and even self-guided ones…the opportunities are endless.

Which Edinburgh Harry Potter Walking Tour is Best?

The Potter Trail is easily the best Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh. We had the best time casting spells, competing in Harry Potter trivia, earning house points, and seeing all of the Edinburgh Harry Potter locations!

Can you visit Hogwarts Castle in Scotland?

You can visit the original place that inspired Hogwarts, George Hariot’s School , in Edinburgh. The Hogwarts from the Harry Potter films, Alnwick Castle , is also visitable, but it is in England!

Is Diagon Alley in Scotland?

The “original” Diagon Alley, also known as the famous Victoria Street, is located in Edinburgh, Scotland. However, the film version of Diagon Alley was actually a set piece and is only visitable at Warner Brother’s Studio outside of London.

Can you ride the Hogwarts Express in Scotland?

Yes! The Hogwarts Express is the Jacobite Stream Train. And taking a ride on it is just one of the many things that make Scotland worth visiting ! However, you can only ride the steam train between April and October. Make sure to take a ride that goes over the famous Glennfinnan Viaduct!

Wrap Up: Edinburgh, Scotland Harry Potter Tours

No matter which of the above tours you take, you’re sure to have an amazing time pretending to be a Potter (or a Weasley like me!) on your way around Edinburgh and beyond. Seeing Edinburgh Harry Potter tour locations like Greyfriars and The Elephant House were among the highlights of my trips to Scotland, and I recommend you visit as many of these places as you can if you’re traveling abroad!

In Edinburgh For A While? Check Out These Other Helpful Posts For Scotland:

✔️ Grab my 2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary so you can plan out the BEST days in the city! ✔️ Need a Hotel? Here are ALL of the best places to Stay in Edinburgh . ✔️ AND All of the best Spa Hotels in Edinburgh! ✔️ Read About Exciting things to do in Edinburgh with Kids! ✔️Is Scotland Even WORTH Visiting? Here’s what you need to know. ✔️ Wondering How To Get Around Edinburgh? (Hint: You can use Uber! ) ✔️ If You’re Traveling to Inverness, Make sure to Try the BEST Afternoon Tea Spots ✔️And… here’s how you’ll want to get from Inverness to Loch Ness (a can’t miss!)

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour in Edinburgh

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I am a massive Potterhead. Although Edinburgh had featured on my bucket list for a very long time, it was the city’s connection with the famous boy wizard that made me know I had to visit.  

I couldn’t wait to do a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh after discovering that so much of the wizarding world had been inspired by landmarks dotted around the city. J.K. Rowling moved to Edinburgh after leaving Porto, where she was said to have found the inspiration for Flourish and Blotts in the beautiful bookshop, Livraria Lello .

The move signified a turbulent time for Rowling, who had recently separated from her husband. Armed with just three chapters of Harry Potter, she took her young daughter to Scotland’s capital, in the hope of making a fresh start.  

This post contains affiliate links. If you use them, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

Read more: (opens in new tab)

• Harry Potter at Alnwick Castle, England
• A Guide to Livraria Lello, Porto

Why Edinburgh?

It originally seemed that it was family that brought J.K. Rowling to Edinburgh. However, since her arrival in 1993, she has confessed to falling in love with the place and still lives there to this day.

“Edinburgh is very much home for me and is the place where Harry evolved over seven books and many, many hours of writing in its cafés.”  – J.K Rowling, upon accepting the Edinburgh Award.  

There are plenty of Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh, some of which have concrete evidence to point to the boy wizard connection whereas certain others, are just based on speculation. Either way, they are all brilliant places to enjoy on a Harry Potter tour!  

Guided Harry Potter Tours, Edinburgh

For those of you who are looking to see the main Harry Potter sites around Edinburgh but don’t fancy finding them all yourself, a guided Harry Potter tour is ideal. There are plenty of options out there and I would probably recommend booking in advance through Get Your Guide if you are visiting during summer. After all, Harry Potter is very popular and these tours book up quickly.

There is also a brilliant free Harry Potter walking tour that runs daily. It is called The Potter Trail and attracts hoards of visitors, even in the off-season. Follow your cloaked guide as you run around Edinburgh, wand in hand, freezing all the traffic lights. It probably goes without saying that although this tour is marketed as free, it is actually donation based and you are encouraged to donate what you think the experience what worth. When I did The Potter Trail tour it was fantastic and I encourage everybody to tip generously if they feel the same!

A Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour, Edinburgh

For other nerds like me who don’t want to be confined to the tight schedule of a guided Harry Potter tour, a self-guided option is a better option.  

Self-Guided Harry Potter Tour Map

Although you can see these Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh in any order, the following route plan makes the most sense as a walking tour. Please use the map below to see all of the locations featured on the walking tour and also other attractions around the city that may interest Harry Potter fans.  

Spoon Cafe, 6A Nicolson St, EH8 9DH

Although the Elephant House Cafe claims to be the birthplace of Harry Potter, this is in actual fact, not true. Spoon Cafe, formerly known as Nicolson’s Cafe, was co-owned by J.K. Rowling’s brother in law. He let her drink coffee in his cafe for free whilst she was a struggling writer and this was where she penned several chapters of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.  

Unlike The Elephant House Cafe which has capitalised on this connection, the only indication of this cafe’s link to Harry Potter is a small plaque on the wall outside.  

J.K Rowling always said that it was a running joke between her and her brother in law that if Harry ever got published, she would get the cafe loads of publicity. Little did she know how right she would be!

Surgeons Museum, Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9DW

Here is one for the nerdiest of you. Anyone remember that section in Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone when Snape asks Harry where he would find a bezoar? Well, a bezoar is actually a real thing and you can see one in Edinburgh’s Surgeons Museum.  

For those of you that don’t know (and why would you unless you were taking a potions class with Snape?), a bezoar is an undigested clump of matter which forms in the stomach. In the museum, you can see a few examples of these, including bezoars formed by the digestion of human hair. Nice.  

As a warning, the Surgeons Museum is most famous for its pickled body parts which may not be suitable viewing for all, especially young children.  

Potterrow, Potterrow Street, Edinburgh EH8 9BL

Potterrow Street has long been rumoured to have been some of the inspiration behind Harry’s surname. However, these claims have never been backed up by J.K. Rowling. Whilst it is likely she knew of the street’s existence, she has always said she chose the name of Harry Potter simply because she liked that it was a nice, ordinary name.  

George Heriots School, Lauriston Pl, Edinburgh EH3 9EQ

Next to Greyfriars Kirkyard is the George Heriot School. This is said to have been the inspiration for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Not only is the building architecturally stunning with real turrets but it also uses a house system.  

Could this be where the idea for Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin came from? J.K. Rowling has never outright confirmed this herself, although she always stated that Hogwarts was in Scotland. Even more interesting, J.K. Rowling is also said to have sent her own children to study at the school once she moved to Edinburgh permanently.  

As the school is still active, Potter fans have to be very careful when taking photos of the building. Generally, the school is not open to the public, however, occasionally, they do host events which allow public access. Pay close attention during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival as this tends to be when these functions happen.  

Greyfriars Kirkyard, 26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QE

Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Edinburgh’s most famous graveyards. There are a few reasons for this, namely because of the connection to the city’s most renowned canine, Greyfriars Bobby and also because of its supposed Harry Potter link.

As you walk around the graveyard, you will see a few familiar names jump out at you from the gravestones. The most famous is the grave of Thomas Riddell and his son of the same name, famously given to Lord Voldemort. The eagle-eyed among you will have noticed the difference in spelling but the reason for this is to ensure the anagram in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets worked effectively.  

It is not uncommon to see trinkets left by adoring Slytherins at the grave of Thomas Riddell. Although some years ago, the grave was hard to find in the cemetery, I have marked it on the map so Potterheads should have no trouble tracking it down!  

Also in the graveyard, you will find the name William McGonagall thought to have inspired the name of Transfiguration Professor, Minerva McGonagall. Other potential character inspirations include Margaret Louisa Scrymgeour Wedderburn (maybe a muse for Rufus Scrimgeour, Minister for Magic in the final books) and Elizabeth Moodie (perhaps with a link to Mad Eye Moody).

The Elephant House, 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN

A must-visit for any Harry Potter fan is the Elephant House Cafe. Although it is probably not the birthplace of Harry Potter as its bold window sign claims, there is no denying that this is a spot that J.K. Rowling used to frequent during her writing of the early Harry Potter books.  

The Elephant House is open all day for food and is busy the vast majority of the time. I would recommend visiting for breakfast first thing in the morning as you are able to beat the queues that quickly build up over the day.  

The food is very good and reasonably priced so although the Harry Potter connection is the main draw, the cafe is still worth a visit in its own right. There are nods all over the place to J.K. Rowling’s former visits here and this is perhaps no more apparent than in the toilets.  

Fans have come from all over to leave messages for their hero and there are now so many that it is a struggle to read the graffiti underneath. Originally, the staff at the Elephant House used to paint over these quotes and messages but after failing to curb the graffiti, they eventually gave in and left the toilets as a sort-of shrine to Harry Potter and his famous creator.

As well as playing host to J.K. Rowling, the Elephant House Cafe was is also a favourite amongst other authors, including Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall-Smith.

Victoria Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2JW

Welcome to Edinburgh’s most instagrammable street! Victoria Street runs adjacent to Candlemaker Row, both of which are suspected to have been influences for Diagon Alley.

Museum Context is an official Harry Potter store located on the street which sells some truly stunning items that any good Potter fan will want to get their hands on. Also down this street is another HP dedicated shop: The Boy Wizard. There is also another one of these located along the Royal Mile.  

Perhaps the most Diagon Alley-esque part of Victoria Street is the Aha Ha Ha joke shop which is very reminiscent of Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes. Sadly though, I didn’t see any redheads nearby during my visit (there were also no mirrors nearby)!  

Although perhaps the most beautiful of all the spots on this Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh, it is also one of the most popular and gets very crowded. If you are looking to get good photos without crowds of people, firstly, good luck and secondly, I advise that you get there first thing in the morning. Be warned that many of the cars parked down the road seem to stay there overnight, so even early arrival doesn’t guarantee a clear view of the street!  

City Chambers, 253 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ

Located down the Royal Mile lies the Edinburgh City Chambers. This huge council building features the handprints of those who have won the Edinburgh award in the courtyard. J.K. Rowling won for her contributions to the city in 2008 so her handprints have been immortalised outside for all to see!  

The Balmoral Hotel, 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

This 19th century, five-star hotel is the place where it all ended. As Harry Potter continued to grow in popularity and Rowling could no longer work undisturbed in cafes and coffee houses, she booked herself into the Balmoral to finish writing the Harry Potter Saga.  

Room 552 was the suite that she booked and she spent days holed up finishing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. When she had finally completed the manuscript, she signed the bust of the Greek god Hermes which was in the room, in celebration. It says, “J.K. Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows   in this room (552) on 11th Jan 2007.”

Room 552 has since been christened the Rowling Suite and avid Potterheads can book their own stay there if they happen to have a cheeky £1000 lying around. We can all dream, right?

Princes Street Gardens, Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2HG

This is a spot that fails to make it on many Harry Potter tours, but Princes Street Gardens is still an important stop. These gardens were created by draining Edinburgh’s Nor Loch, a large loch previously used as a medieval defence method alongside Edinburgh Castle.  

Rumour has it that it was this old loch that acted as the inspiration for the Black Lake, which surrounds Hogwarts.

Edinburgh Castle Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG

In her time living in Scotland’s capital, J.K. Rowling would have seen Edinburgh Castle from all angles. Although Rowling has never explicitly stated that the castle inspired Hogwarts, with it being so present during her writings of Harry Potter, it wouldn’t be surprising to discover that there is some link between the two.

Other Magical Activities in Edinburgh

If you’ve completed this Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh and are still looking for more Potter magic to fill your trip, then don’t miss these places!

Harry Potter Themed Bus Tour  

Hop onboard a vintage double-decker bus to be wined and dined whilst taking in the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh! Upon arriving at the Harry Potter bus tour you will be given your table and served up some delicious I-can’t-believe-it’s-not-butterbeer!  

There are two food options to choose from, either Italian antipasti and wine or pizza and Prosecco. Tours depart both Friday and Saturday evenings and can be booked here.  

The Witchery

Located just a five-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, The Witchery Restaurant is a five-star dining establishment set in a former 16th-century merchant’s house. Although not directly linked to Harry Potter, the decor certainly feels a little Hogwarts in places!  

A four-course meal will set you back $53/£40 per head but with all of the locally sourced Scottish produce available, it is well worth the price tag.    

The Cauldron  

The Cauldron Magical Experience is a class in which you use your own wand to brew beautifully drinkable elixirs, also known as cocktails. Tickets start at £29.99/$39 and include a welcome drink, two cocktails and the immersive experience.  

More Harry Potter Locations

Ride the hogwarts express.

Those looking to ride a real steam train along the same bridge (The Glenfinnan Viaduct) that appears in the movie, need to head to Fort William, in the Highlands.  

The Jacobite Steam Train , also known as the Hogwarts Express, departs from here before making its way to Mallaig, the jumping-off point for ferries to the Isle of Skye.  

The West Highland Line navigates through some stunning scenery, including Ben Nevis. The train only runs from April to October and gets booked up way very early. Therefore it is very important to book your place in advance.  

Visit Alnwick Castle

A popular filming location for not just Hogwarts in Harry Potter but also as Downtown Abbey, Alnwick Castle is a popular day trip from Edinburgh. As always, if you are short on time, it is worth booking your trips and excursions in advance.  

Accommodation in Edinburgh for Harry Potter Lovers!  

Castle rock hostel ($).

My favourite hostel in Edinburgh is Castle Rock. Although not strictly Harry Potter themed, it does feature a Harry Potter dorm and is rated as one of Scotland’s best hostels. Located in the best spot in the city, opposite the castle, this hostel is an ideal place to stay.  

Dorm beds start at just $14 (£11) per night which is pretty great when you consider the number of social events on offer, communal areas and the size of the rooms. For budget backpackers, there is no better choice in Edinburgh!  

Canongate Luxury Homestay ($$)

This Harry Potter themed apartment overlooks the Royal Mile and is the perfect base for any diehard fan. The attention to detail is incredible and the master bedroom has been made to look like (a rather extravagant version of) the Gryffindor dormitory.  

The location is excellent and the apartment promises to be everything you’ve ever wanted and more. However, as you would expect, it comes with a steep price tag. There is a two-night minimum stay requirement which costs upwards of $238USD (£208). Whilst not completely unattainable for average Joe, you’re probably only going to book this accommodation as a special treat.  

The Balmoral Hotel ($$$)

Only one hotel could bag this spot on my accommodation list for Harry Potter lovers in Edinburgh. Already featured on the self-guided walking tour, The Balmoral has plenty of Potter history.  

Those with a wallet fat enough can stay in the famous J.K. Rowling suite where she finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This room features a bust of Hermes which J.K. Rowling signed once she was finished with the manuscript. I would hate to think what would happen if I defaced a bust of a Greek God in a 5-star hotel but I am pretty sure I wouldn’t get a suite named after me!  

Search for more accommodation in Edinburgh here. 

Would you do a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh?

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FREE PUBLIC TOURS

PRIVATE TOURS

The original magical walking tour of Edinburgh's Old Town

You will need to book in advance to get a place on our Free Public Tours. Please read all the information below carefully before booking.

We ask you to bring something you can use as a wand on our tours. This can be anything roughly wand-shaped - pens, pencils and umbrellas all welcome!

THE FREE TOUR MODEL

Yes, you read that right. We’re currently offering this spellbinding tour for FREE. At the end of the tour our guides will welcome any donations via cash or   contactless card payments. All of our guides are equipped with card readers.

You’re never under any pressure or obligation to give anything; feel free to give whatever you thought the tour was worth. Our professional guides work hard and with real passion to entertain you, and we

value your support.

Why are we doing this?  Well, we know what it’s like to be travelling on a budget, so we’d rather give a tour for free and let folks who can afford it choose to support our tour.

Most walking tours in Edinburgh cost between £15 and £20 per head - if you can afford it we would love a donation in that range! 

A percentage of your donation will also go to the Scottish Trans Alliance. You can find out more about what they do and why we're donating here .

Where does the tour start?

Our tours start at Bobby's Sandwich Shop near  the junction of George IV Bridge and Candlemaker Row, and end on   Victoria Street.

The tour will last between 75 and 90 minutes depending on how busy the city is.

Is there a way of catching up with the group if I'm running late?

We do normally leave pretty sharply on the hour so it's best to aim to arrive at least 5 minutes before your tour's scheduled start time. Our guides are easy to spot, they all wear black capes and usually carry our big blue potter trail umbrellas.  

You will get a text from your guide  on the morning of the tour and if you are late, this is the number you should text/call to find the group . If you respond to the guide's question confirming you plan to attend or you text them in advance of the tour, then they will know to wait for you.

What time does the tour start?

12pm  every day

(These times apply  November - March)

Our guides will be waiting at the start point from 10 minutes before the tour start time. Please aim to be at the start point by then.   The guides all wear bl ack capes and usually we carry our blue potter trail umbrellas. You will have your guide's number from the text they send on the morning of your tour to confirm your attendance.

BOOK A PLACE ON OUR FREE TOUR

Bringing a larger group?

If your group is larger than 8   then you must book a private tour with us. Trust us- it's much more fun this way and allows us to cater to your group's interest and ages.

Any bookings for Free Public Tours larger than 8 will be immediately cancelled even if they are booked under multiple names. If the guide discovers on the day that a group exceeds the capacity, either via the addition of unannounced party members or by splitting the group across multiple bookings, we reserve the right to charge your group before the tour begins. This charge will amount to £10 per party member. The guide's assessment of whether you constitute a larger group is final.  

We ask that you respect this policy. We have learned from experience that larger groups within our public tour sometime do not behave respectfully toward the other attendees or the guide.  We're certain you'll have a better experience with a tailored tour, which is what we want to provide for all our guests.

We do also offer discounts for school and educational groups which you can find here.

Bringing children under 7 years old?

This a literary walking tour and is not suitable for children under the age of 7. In our experience they will not engage with the content. Please do not bring children under the age of 7 on to the free public tour. More information.

Click the portrait to see Magus Negus in action

Extended Magic Tours

On special dates, the tour is extended to 2 hours with the addition of magic from Edinburgh’s premier family-friendly conjurer, Magus Negus!

He is a real-life magician who aims to delight, dazzle, and maintain the secrecy of the existence of the magical realm (if you are a muggle, please don’t read that last bit – thank you). Presenting a mixture of classical illusions with a unique Potter twist , he has over 10 years’ experience performing for families, international audiences, and even Hollywood film directors!

So whether you’re a witch, wizard, or muggle, you’re going to be in for some serious surprises and maybe even some fantastic beasts...

Our team donate 30% of the money collected at the end of tours featuring Magus Negus to a Multiple Sclerosis charity.

Magus Negus will next be on The Potter Trail at 12:30pm on:

Saturday 6th April 2024

Magus Negus can also be booked privately any day at 1.45pm

If the date you want is sold out...

During busy periods our Free Public Tours can sell out pretty fast, but we do tend to receive one or two cancellations per day. If  the day you are looking to book for is unavailable we can put you on to a list to be contacted on the morning of the tour if we do receive any cancellations.

If you would like to be included on this list then please email our Head Wizard Sam  at [email protected] along with the day you were looking to book for, how many people are in your group and a contact number.

For info on what the tour covers

(and why we're the best in Edinburgh)

Want a more personalised one-on-one tour with one of our guides? We may have a Private Tour slot available for you!

Any questions?

You might find an answer on our FAQs page!

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

Muggle’s Guide to the Best Edinburgh Harry Potter Tours

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

All Potterheads come to Scotland wanting to go on one of the Edinburgh Harry Potter tours!

Throughout this post, you’ll learn all about the best Harry Potter tours in Edinburgh. Harry Potter walking tours in Edinburgh offer fans a chance to explore the iconic locations mentioned in the famous book series.

From souvenir shops to cafes to plenty of sites that appear in the books but not on the screen, Edinburgh is the perfect destination for Potterheads! Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for a day or longer, try to fit one of these into your schedule.

Read on to learn more about the best Edinburgh Harry Potter tours for your epic trip to Scotland!

Table of Contents

Top 3 Best Harry Potter Tours in Edinburgh

Original Harry Potter Locations Tour

✅ 2-hour family-friendly tour

✅ Includes all must-visit locations

✅ Highly-rated by Potterheads

Alnwick Castle as Featured in Harry Potter and Scottish Borders Day Trip from Edinburgh

✅ Air-conditioned transportation

✅ Visit Alnwick Castle

✅ Brings you out of Edinburgh

Harry Potter’s Edinburgh Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

✅ Great if you are on a time crunch

✅ See the top sights with an audio guide

✅ Affordable (less than $10 USD)

Best Edinburgh Harry Potter Tours

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ⚡ Book now

This tour is one of the more unique Edinburgh Harry Potter tours! In the Original Harry Potter Locations Tour tour , which is about 2 hours long, you’ll go on a fun walking tour of Edinburgh while partaking in a quiz that you can do along the way.

“My daughter and I loved this tour. Monique did a fabulous job making the tour informative and very, very fun. If you are a Harry Potter fan, this tour is a must.” Anna P ( see more reviews )

The tour starts right in Edinburgh’s Old Town and includes multiple Harry Potter spots along the way, like Castlehill, Victoria Street, the Royal Mile, and, of course, Edinburgh Castle. Plus, the fun quiz will keep your attention the entire way.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan at all, then this is one tour that you won’t want to miss out on!

🤩 Book this tour!

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 9.5 hours | ⚡ Book now

Another excellent Harry Potter Edinburgh tour is this day trip to Alnwick Castle ! It’s a full-day trip, and the tour is about 9.5 hours in total, including transportation time.

If you are visiting Edinburgh and want to visit Harry Potter spots in another location, this is definitely the one for you!

“Wonderful day trip. Both castles were amazing to see. Our tour guide Owen was great and fun! I would highly recommend this trip.” Ruby E ( see more reviews )

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle with wifi and a local guide. Entrance fees to Alnwick Castle are not included, so you will have to pay your entrance fee to get in and purchase your own food and drinks throughout the day.

The tour begins at around 8:15, when the tour departs! Then, the first stop is at Bamburgh Castle for an hour, which dates back to the 5th century.

After, you’ll spend about 3 hours exploring Alnwick Castle, which looks an awful lot like Hogwarts! End the day at Coldstream for thirty minutes, a small town in Scotland .

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour | ⚡ Book now

One of the top self-guided Edinburgh tours for Harry Potter fans is this one ! It’s only $7.99 per person, and the tour takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete. Since it’s self-paced, you have a lot more control over how long the tour takes.

“We had a great experience! Everything worked perfectly easy to use easy to follow! We would recommend it to everyone! Thank you.” John W ( see more reviews )

The tour takes place through the VoiceMap app, where you can download the tour and have lifetime access to it. Then, walk around and take in the scenery as you learn more about what you’re looking at!

Some of the top spots you’ll pass by on this Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh include Edinburgh Castle, The Elephant House, and Victoria Street. These are also some of the most Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh , so don’t forget your camera!

Private One Hour Harry Potter Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 1 hour | ⚡ Book now

This is one of the Edinburgh Harry Potter tours that’s completely private. The walking tour covers some of the most popular spots that you can visit in Edinburgh that are related to Harry Potter.

The tour is capped at just eight people and includes Greyfriars Kirkyard, Grassmarket, the Writer’s Museum, and the Royal Mile. This tour is the perfect way to dip your toes into all of the Harry Potter sights in the city.

“Kat was amazing!! So much knowledge and fun facts in addition to Harry Potter. It moved at a great pace. And we saw a lot of areas we would not have known about on our own. My 11 year old loved the Harry Potter part. My 15 year old and husband and I loved it all. Big thumbs up!” Cathy ( see more reviews )

In addition to learning about the Harry Potter landmarks, you’ll also learn about their importance to Edinburgh.

Private 5 ¼ Hour Harry Potter Tour

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 5.5 hours | ⚡ Book now

This longer Harry Potter tour is a great way to explore all of the Edinburgh Harry Potter locations fully! The tour covers spots like the Museum of Scotland, Old Parliament Hall, the Royal Bank of Scotland HQ, and more!

Start the tour right at Edinburgh Waverley Station, where you can catch the train to go all over Scotland . Instead of taking the train, though, you’ll be looking out for your tour guide in a red robe wearing Spectrespecs!

“Sam possesses a vast amount of knowledge on both Harry Potter and the history and culture of Edinburgh and his enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge in a fun manner. This is not an ordinary touristic tour but a genuine EXPERIENCE you will not forget with a unique individual. Not to be missed.” Anton ( see more reviews )

The tour is excellent for Edinburgh visitors of all ages, especially children who love the Harry Potter franchise. The tour guide truly gets really into the tour and is so passionate, so you will for sure leave with a huge smile on your face.

Edinburgh: Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ⚡ Book now

Last but not least is the Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour ! This tour is just two hours, making it perfect if you’re visiting Edinburgh in a day . Along the way, there are also fun Harry Potter trivia questions to keep you on your toes.

The tour includes stops at Tom Riddle’s grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, the handprints J.K. Rowling left by City Chambers, and more. The tour is also usually capped at a small number, so it will feel private without the private tour price.

“What an amazing way to start my trip to Edinburgh! Monique our guide was incredibly engaging, knowledgeable and really brought the Harry Potter magic to the tour! I had a great time hearing the stories and seeing the places that inspired JK Rowling, with some fun HP trivia along the way!” Kelvin ( see more reviews )

Even though the tour is about Harry Potter locations, it also includes lots of history about Edinburgh! You’ll leave the tour having learned a lot about the city and Rowling’s relationship with it.

Edinburgh’s Amazing Harry Potter Walking Tour Kids Free

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ⚡ Book now

On this 2-hour tour, you’ll discover the enchanting world of Harry Potter. Delve into the rich history and captivating lore of the city while exploring the iconic locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s beloved franchise.

Experience the magic firsthand as you visit the very cafes where the original books were written.

“Our tour guide was amazing and so knowledgeable! You could tell she is a true Harry Potter fan! I loved seeing the locations where J.K. Rowling wrote her novels, as well as the cemetery where she found inspiration for names.” Laura S ( see more reviews )

In addition to exploring Harry Potter sites, marvel at the majestic Edinburgh Castle, wander through the mystical Greyfriars graveyard, and admire the beauty of local churches and monuments—an unforgettable adventure for both kids and adults alike.

JK Rowling’s Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh

Immerse yourself in the magical world of ‘Harry Potter’ with this 2-hour walking tour that brings you closer to the inspirations behind J.K Rowling’s famous books.

Explore the real-life locations in Edinburgh that sparked the creation of Diagon Alley and witness the cafes and hotels where the writer brought her beloved series to life.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, navigate the city on foot, maximizing your time and uncovering fascinating Harry Potter trivia. Plus, you’ll stop at the very spot that inspired Diagon Alley itself.

“Tour was amazing! Highly recommend for any Harry Potter fan. It was so good that I would actually pay to do it again. And our tour guide was great!” Ashley C ( see more reviews )

Harry Potter and Horrible Histories Walking Tour in Edinburgh

Join in on an unforgettable walking tour that combines the world of Harry Potter, fascinating history, and delicious Scottish cuisine.

Prepare to be entertained, enlightened, and amused as we explore J.K. Rowling’s life, uncover the dark secrets of Edinburgh’s past, and even follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin.

“This trip was what we were hoping it would be. We learned about and saw many special areas that influenced the writings of JK Rowling. Additionally we were treated to historical stories of Edinburgh that were unknown to us. We were lucky to have a private group of just our family and a guide that was enthusiastic about what he was doing. It was a great tour.” staudlegirls ( see more reviews )

And to top it all off, indulge in authentic Scottish delicacies like haggis and deep-fried Mars bars. Get ready for a unique, interactive, and mouthwatering experience with this 2-hour tour!

FAQs About Harry Potter Edinburgh Tours

Click any of the bright green buttons above to book a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh.

Each Harry Potter tour has different inclusions. Some include just walking with a guide introducing landmarks, others include train rides, etc.

We recommend booking your Harry Potter tour at least two weeks in advance due to limited availability. This will give you plenty of time to plan your trip and get ready for your magical adventure!

Each tour has its own restriction so make sure you check when you book. All children must have an adult guardian present at all times during the duration of the tours.

Final Thoughts: Tours for Harry Potter Fans in Edinburgh

This post was all about the Edinburgh Harry Potter tours that you won’t want to miss. Truly, no matter what tour you choose to go on, you’ll have an incredible time. Just remember to book your tour in advance!

Watch our vlog all about our 24 hours in Edinburgh!

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KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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Harry Potter in Edinburgh: 15 Places You Must Visit

With its towering Gothic buildings, conspicuous spires and turrets, dingy wynds and medieval alleyways, and the riveting past, Edinburgh transports you to the magical world of Hogwarts.

Discovering the places that might have inspired the creation of the world’s most beloved wizard, Harry Potter, is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh .

It’s not hard to see why author J. K. Rowling was inspired by this city. According to the author, this city is “where Harry evolved over seven books and many, many hours of writing in its cafes.”

While wandering around the Old Town of Edinburgh, you might feel as if you might stumble upon Harry Potter and his mischievous friends.

So, get your wands out and grab your Nimbus 2000. We’re going to explore this magical city on a self-guided walking tour. Here are some of the Potter pilgrimages we could add to your Edinburgh itinerary.

Harry Potter Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Edinburgh

1. wander around victoria street.

Without a doubt,  Victoria Street  is one of the most photographed places in Edinburgh. This elegantly curved, cobbled street oozes timeless charm and is bound to cast a spell on all Potterheads.

Victoria Street is believed to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley, the fictional shopping area used by the world’s most beloved wizards, Harry Potter and his friends.

It is located only a few steps away from the busy Royal Mile. J K Rowling wrote some of the chapters sitting at a nearby cafe. So, it is very likely she has indeed walked around this area.

Even long before Harry Potter, the historic Grassmarket area of Edinburgh was associated with witchcraft.

Today, Victoria Street is lined with various cosy cafes, busy restaurants and souvenir shops.

Try to visit this pretty street early in the morning or late in the afternoon to take photographs without the crowds.

Climb the narrow stairs to Victoria Terrace. From this viewpoint, you will get a lovely perspective of this cobbled street and the nearby George Heriot’s School, rumoured to be an inspiration for Hogwarts.

2. Get spooked in Greyfriars Kirkyard

For all Harry Potter fans, Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the must-visit attractions in Edinburgh . Some of the favourite characters of the Harry Potter series were born here.

At the entrance of the Greyfriars Kirkyard, you will find the headstone of Bobby, the beloved Skye terrier who guarded his owner’s grave for 14 years.

Stroll around the atmospheric graveyard adjacent to the church. There are several monuments, memorials and ornate headstones.

Although it looks peaceful during the day, this graveyard is one of the most haunted places in Edinburgh.

Watch out for the engraved name of Robert Potter; William McGonagall, the inspiration behind Hogwarts’ Professor Minerva McGonagall; Elizabeth Moodie, the inspiration for famed auror Alastor ‘Mad-Eye’ Moody; and Margaret Louisa Scrymgeour Wedderburn, inspired Rufus Scrimgeour, the Minister of Magic.

But the most famous one here is of Thomas Riddle, Lord Voldemort himself.

The real Thomas Riddell buried here was a lawyer with no connection to He-who-must-not-be-named. When he died in 1802 at the age of 26, little did he know that one day, his name would inspire one of the most notorious villains in literature.

3. Ride the Hogwarts Express via the Glenfinnan Viaduct 

Harry Potter lovers can’t miss the opportunity to ride the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express. 

The train leaves from the town of Fort William and passes through the incredibly beautiful scenery of Scottish Highlands, before reaching Mallaig, a small port town.

If you are short on time, there are several companies running day tours from Edinburgh. 

The most famous section of the journey is when the train crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, a pilgrim site for all Potterheads. It was featured in the Harry Potter movies.

You must have remembered the scene from the Chamber of Secrets, when Harry and Ron stole Mr Weasley’s flying car after they missed the train, and they were spotted flying over this viaduct. The bridge was also seen in the Prisoner of Azkaban movie.

4. Indulge in delicious coffee and cakes at The Elephant House

Located on George IV Bridge, at the heart of Edinburgh Old Town, The Elephant House is a small cafe where J. K. Rowling wrote significant portions of the first two novels of the much-loved book series. 

Opened in 1995, it is a popular site in Edinburgh for all Harry Potter fans. Visitors flock here to get photos of the ‘birthplace’ of the Harry Potter sign. 

They are open for breakfast and lunch. Pop inside for some delicious cake and a hot cup of coffee. During the summer months, it gets super crowded. 

The cafe is beautifully decorated. You will find old newspaper articles and photos of J. K. Rowling.

Don’t miss a visit to the bathroom. It is covered in graffiti made by Harry Potter fans from all around the world. It is fun to read all the messages and quotes from the books. 

The Elephant House was frequented by some other famous writers as well, including Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall-Smith.

5. Take a day trip to Alnwick Castle from Edinburgh

Spend a day exploring the magnificent Alnwick Castle in Northumberland. 

It is one of the  best day trips from Edinburgh  for all Harry Potter lovers.

Alnwick Castle is one of the filming locations of two Harry Potter movies – the Philosopher’s Stone and the Chamber of Secrets.

Harry and his classmates learned to fly their broomsticks with Madam Hooch on the Outer Bailey of this castle. Also, Harry learned to play the wizarding sport Quidditch here. Try to spot the location where Ron crushed his dad’s flying car.

Young Potterheads can take part in the Broomstick Training sessions on the grounds.

Hop on a train from Edinburgh Waverley station to Alnmouth. Then, catch a local bus to visit the castle.

While you are here, we would highly recommend adding historic Bamburgh Castle to your itinerary. It has been featured in many films and TV series including Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and The Last Kingdom. 

6. Spend the night at Balmoral Hotel

While J.K. Rowling started writing her magnum opus at various modest cafes in Edinburgh, she did complete her final book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, in one of the city’s grandest hotels, The Balmoral Hotel.

The lovely clock tower of this hotel is a part of Edinburgh’s iconic skyline. Climb the nearby Calton Hill for a stunning view over this historic building.

J.K. Rowling stayed in Room 552, which was later renamed in her honour as J.K. Rowling Suite. She spent around six months here finishing her book.

Affluent Harry Potter fans visiting Edinburgh will love a stay in this tastefully decorated room.

We were lucky enough to have spent a night here. Inside, you will find the marble bust of Hermes that J.K. Rowling signed after finishing the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It says, “J.K. Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in this room”.

Even if you are not staying here, you can still visit the in-house restaurants. We would recommend experiencing a decadent afternoon tea at Palm Court.

7. Admire the Architecture of George Heriot’s School

Located next to Greyfriars Kirkyard, the stunning architecture of George Heriot’s School has led many to believe that it is the inspiration behind the magical school of Hogwarts.

This magnificent Renaissance-style turreted building was established in 1628 as a hospital. Today, it serves as a private primary and secondary school. Coincidentally, it also has four houses, just like in the Harry Potter books.

George Heriot’s School is not open to the public. They often allow visitors during the Doors Open Days.

But you can admire the gorgeous architecture from Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, Victoria Terrace, Lauriston Place and Greyfriars Kirkyard.

There is no denying that buildings here have outstanding architecture. We think George Heriot’s School, along with the city’s Fettes College and Stewart’s Melville College, give away a strong Hogwarts vibe.

8. Discover the handprints at the City Chambers

You can find the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling on the flagstone at the courtyard of The City Chambers off the busy Royal Mile in Edinburgh Old Town. 

The handprint was installed on the occasion of J.K. Rowling winning the Edinburgh Award in 2008 for her outstanding contributions to the city.

Aside from the creator of Harry Potter, there are handprints of other notable personalities. You will find handprints of Scottish writer Ian Rankin, cyclist and racing driver Chris Hoy, artist Elizabeth Blackadder and rugby player Doddie Weir.

9. Explore the captivating Edinburgh Castle

Some believe Edinburgh Castle was an inspiration behind Hogwarts in the Harry Potter books.

Perched over an ancient volcanic plug, this magnificent fortress is one of the best castles in Scotland and a must-visit tourist attraction in this city.

We do know from the books that the school of wizards is located somewhere in Scotland. The dramatic setting of Edinburgh Castle does have similarities with Hogwarts. 

The author was living in this historic city while writing her books. So, it’s not possible that she hasn’t seen this imposing castle. Moreover, there is a view of this castle from the windows of The Elephant House, the cafe where she wrote a few chapters of the first two books.

10. Harry Potter shops in Edinburgh

If you are interested in buying some Harry Potter-themed gifts and souvenirs, pop inside Museum Context on Victoria Street . They also have another store on Cockburn Street just off the Royal Mile in Edinburgh Old Town.

You will find an extensive collection of quirky and magical objects across the two floors of this shop. Budding wizards might be interested in buying their wands or broomsticks. Also, you can buy officially licensed house scarves.

Decorated with various Harry Potter memorabilia and sculptures, you might mistake it for the Ollivander’s Wand Shop in Diagon Alley. On the top floor, there is a small photo area where you can pose with a sorting hat.

In summer there is usually a long queue to enter this store. So, come early to avoid crowds.

Also, take a look inside The Enchanted Galaxy, another Potter-themed store in this city.

11. Visit The Writers’ Museum

Edinburgh has inspired not only the Harry Potter creator but also several other celebrated world-famous writers, poets and playwrights.

This city was designated as the UNESCO City of Literature in 2004. This was the first city in the entire world to receive such honour.

It has inspired literary geniuses such as Sir Ian Rankin, Alexander McColl Smith, Arthur Conan Doyle and Sir Walter Scott.

Bibliophiles visiting Edinburgh would love a visit to the Writers’ Museum, located at Lady Stairs close, near the top of the Royal Mile.

This small museum celebrates the lives of three legends of Scottish literature, Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. 

After a visit to this museum, ramble around the courtyard of Makar’s Court. Look out for the quotes of Scottish writers engraved on the flagstones.

12. Find the Lewis Chess Pieces

Housed in the Nation Museum of Scotland, the legendary Lewis chess pieces were created in the 12th century.

They were discovered on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland in 1831.

The beautifully sculpted chess set will surely remind you of the nerve-wrenching game of chess played by Harry, Ron and Hermione in the Philosopher’s Stone movie.

You can find them in the Kingdom of the Scots section of the museum.

While you are here, visit the exhibitions on natural and ancient history, ancient civilisations, archaeology and the history of Scotland.

Also, head to the rooftop terrace for a breathtaking view over Edinburgh rooftops.

Harry Potter Experiences in Edinburgh

13. department of magic.

Located at Blair Street near the Edinburgh Royal Mile, the Department Of Magic has two escape rooms and a magic potion tavern.

Delve into a world of witchcraft and wizardry as you solve the mysteries and puzzles of the escape room. This immersive experience is perfect for a small group.

Aspiring wizards would enjoy mixing their potions in this immersive cocktail experience. So, put on your cloaks and begin potion-making. You will be given easy-to-follow instructions and incantations. It’s a fun experience for both adults and kids.

They also serve Harry Potter-themed magical afternoon tea.

14. The Dog House

What’s a better way to end the Harry Potter adventure in Edinburgh, than chilling with a glass of butterbeer? The drink is made with butter syrup and beer. 

They also serve butterbeer cocktails, which have a dash of whisky in them. You can find the Harry Potter-inspired wizarding beverage at The Dog House in Clerk Street. 

The interior of this pub is very quirky. You will find an array of funky items hanging from the ceiling, like teddy bears, toys, pictures and guitars.

They also host pub quizzes and live music performances on certain days. Also, this bar is a popular place with local students.

15. The Cauldron Edinburgh

The Cauldron Edinburgh is another place in the city where you can get an immersive cocktail-making experience. It’s perfect for all fans of Harry Potter. 

Upon your arrival, find your wand. Cast a spell to receive a welcome drink. The potion-making class lasts for an hour and 45 minutes, and you can make two cocktails for yourself. Experiment with the art of molecular mixology to brew some magical drinks.

They also have an alcohol-free potion class suitable for young witches and wizards.

Map of the Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh

Here is a map showing all the places mentioned in this guide. If you wish, you can save this to your phone for future travel inspiration. Click on this link to open it in Google Maps.

Was Harry Potter filmed in Edinburgh?

No. Edinburgh is not the filming location of the Harry Potter movies. Rather, this city has inspired the author J.K. Rowling, who was living here while writing some of the books.

However, various locations across the Scottish Highlands were featured in the films, and you can easily visit them.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Shiel, Steall Falls, Glencoe and Rannoch Moor are some of the filming places of Harry Potter movies in Scotland. Also, you can visit Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, on a day trip from Edinburgh. 

We wish you a lovely stay in Scotland’s capital city. It is truly a magical place. Have fun exploring all these beautiful places. 

We hope this travel guide has inspired you to visit Edinburgh.

Love, Moumita & Sankha.

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7 of the Best Harry Potter Tours in Edinburgh 2024

Have you been wondering about the best harry potter tours in edinburgh i’ve got you covered.

I’ve been to Edinburgh a few times, and I always enjoy taking Harry Potter Tours when I’m there. The tours are an incredible way to experience the city, as you get to explore many of the locations that were used in the films.

Plus, you get an insider’s look at the city from a knowledgeable guide who can tell you all about its fascinating history and culture. Not only do you get to see some of the most iconic Harry Potter film locations, but you also get learn more about Scotland from locals who have lived in Edinburgh for years.

This means that you’re not just getting a tour from people who are reading off a script, but rather people who truly understand and appreciate the city. If you’re planning on travelling to Edinburgh and want to make sure that your experience is as authentic as possible, then I highly recommend taking one of these Harry Potter Tours. You won’t regret it! If you would prefer do do your own walking tour, you can check out these Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh .

Table of Contents

My Top 3 Picks: Best Harry Potter Tours in Edinburgh

Harry Potter And Horrible Histories

• Local guide
• Max of 8 people

The Potter Trail Private Tour

• Private tour
• Great for kids

JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & The Writing Of Harry Potter

• 4 hours 15 mins
• 5km of walking

7 of the Best Harry Potter Tours in Edinburgh

1. harry potter and horrible histories walking tour in edinburgh.

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!

Embark on a one-of-a-kind Harry Potter walking tour that seamlessly blends the enchanting world of wizardry, dark histories, and the delightful flavours of Scottish cuisine, all infused with a dose of laughter.

On this unique walking tour, you will engage in a Harry Potter experience Edinburgh as you uncover the layers of J.K. Rowling’s life, traverse the shadows of Edinburgh’s dark history marked by executions and grave robbers,  relive the heartwarming legend of the city’s cherished dog, and tread the paths once wandered by the iconic Charles Darwin himself.

After witnessing the history and wizardry, you will experience an array of authentic Scottish delicacies, from the traditional allure of haggis to the surprisingly delectable deep-fried Mars bar.

“I would say JUST DO IT! ✔️ This was our first tour in Edinburgh and it was well worth it. Rob is a friendly guy and an excellent guide with good knowledge of the city and its history. He walked us around, giving a tour of some of the city’s prime spots and told us how they inspired events in the Harry Potter universe. This tour covered both the gruesome history of Edinburgh as well as its connection to Harry Potter, thus making it a best of both worlds. “ – Arjun_T

This walking tour is perfect for a devoted Potter fan, history enthusiast, or someone captivated by the essence of Edinburgh; this journey will undoubtedly fulfil your expectations.

The first spot would be in Victoria Street, where you would learn how and what inspired J.K Rowling to write Harry Potter. Before heading to Edinburgh Castle, you will first witness the area where public executions occurred. 

Throughout the tour, you will discover various inspirations for J.K. Rowling, like Heriot’s School and gravestones. Lastly, you’ll visit The Elephant House, which is a cafe that Rowling used to wrote in before.

This has been a big part of her journey in writing. You will end the tour at Royal Mile to try their unusual Deep-fried Mars bars.

Important details 

• Start Time (and location): Start at your chosen time at the National Library of Scotland
• Duration: 2 hours
• Includes: Professional guide, all fees and taxes 

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

2. The Potter Trail Private Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 1 hour and 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!

Edinburgh is famously known as the birthplace of the beloved boy wizard, Harry Potter. Avoid the rushed pacing of extensive group tours in this private walking tour that promises a truly immersive and customisable experience.

Wander the maze-like streets of Edinburgh with a seasoned guide who’ll navigate the city, ensuring you get all the captivating details.

You can customise the private tour experience to align with your interests, allowing you to delve deeper into your preferred aspects. Engage in conversations with your guides who are entertaining and well-versed in all things Potter, ready to satisfy your curiosity. 

During this Harry Potter magical guided walking tour, you can ask your guide queries to enhance your Potter knowledge. You can bring your own wand for a more engaged experience. 

“The guide was very knowledgeable and fun. We learned a lot. Fantastic experience. Highly recommend this tour.” – Scott_W

You will meet your guide at Greyfriars Bobby’s grave, and here, your tour guide can be easily distinguished by their black cloak.

You will start the potter trail Edinburgh tour at Greyfriars Kirkyard, reliving the moments when JK Rowling spent a lot of time writing the books and getting inspiration. Here, you’ll see several names on gravestones that inspired characters in the series, including William McGonagall and Thomas Riddell. 

Afterwards, you will then visit Potterrow, which is an area of the city where Rowling wrote most of the first part of the book. This tour also includes a visit to the National Museum of Scotland.

Before finishing the private tour, you will drop by The Elephant House, the “birthplace” of Harry Potter. You will end the trip at Victoria Street, enjoying one of Edinburgh’s most iconic areas. 

• Start Time (and location): Start at your chosen time at Greyfriars Bobby’s grave
• Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Includes:  Professional guide

3. JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & The Writing Of Harry Potter 4¼Hrs

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 hours and 15 minutes | ✅ Book it!

Embark on an enchanting journey through Edinburgh Harry Potter locations that delves deep into the origins of the iconic series penned by J.K. Rowling. 

Immerse yourself in the locales that shaped Dementors and the Ministry of Magic as your passionate guide, a true Harry Potter enthusiast, unveils the connections between Edinburgh and the wizarding world.

Not only is this tour one of the best Harry Potter tours in Scotland, but this tour also celebrates Scottish literature. Engage yourself in the legacy of Scottish writers at Makars’ Court, a homage to literary brilliance. 

“Very beautiful and detailed tour. I joined the tour with my friend. We felt we were visiting all the city. We enjoyed our guide, discovering more about Harry Potter and Rowling’s life. The guide had funny hats and accessories and we took wonderful pictures. We were afraid the tour was too long but we finished it before we realized. I recommend it. :-)” – Valeria_T

You will begin at the iconic Balmoral, where Harry’s journey ended. You will also visit EH8 9DH to witness the maternity ward where his fictional life began. 

Along the way, you will be able to see the various places that Rowling took inspiration from for her series. These include Greyfriars Kirkyard and George Heriot’s School. You can also treat yourself to the most Scottish ice cream in the world at Over Langshaw Farmhouse Ice Cream. 

You get to continue the Harry Potter walking tour Edinburgh at a wizarding street to have a moment to check out a bunch of Harry Potter shops for your souvenirs. To end the tour, you will visit the iconic place of Rowling’s Handprints.

• Start Time (and location): Start at your chosen time and meeting point
• Duration: 4 hours and 15 minutes
• Includes: Professional guide, All day parking, Escort back to Edinburghs ‘Harry Potter Street’ at the end of the tour 

4. Original Harry Potter Locations Tour – Edinburgh

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for family-friendly Harry Potter tours in Scotland. Guided by your Potter-passionate expert, traverse the enchanting winding streets and secretive alleys that ignited J.K. Rowling’s imagination, giving birth to the beloved wizarding realm.

This family-friendly adventure unveils the Harry Potter filming locations Edinburgh as showcased in the movies.

As you travel through the historic city, you’ll uncover the places that sparked the creation of the magical novels. This immersive experience goes beyond the wizarding world as you visit famous Edinburgh landmarks, from the majestic Edinburgh Castle to the bustling thoroughfare of Princes Street.

This 2-hour Harry Potter tour promises an unforgettable encounter with the wizarding universe and Edinburgh’s captivating charm.

“Great experience and tour with Alex who knew so many things about HP and the inspiration sources of JK R in the city of Edinburgh. A true experience for true Potterheads!” – Martijn_P

Your magical journey begins at the gates of William Chambers Monument, located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Here, you’ll meet your guide and step into the magical wizarding realm of Harry Potter. 

As you wander through the historic streets of Edinburgh, you will learn fascinating Harry Potter trivia, insider tales, and insights into what fueled J.K. Rowling’s creation of one of literature’s most beloved franchises. 

At Castlehill, you’ll encounter the resting place of ‘He Who Shall Not Be Named’ and witness the original facade of Diagon Alley. Your route will lead you down the Royal Mile through the bustling Princes Street, where you can shop. Your tour ends on the iconic Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, near the Castle.

• Start Time (and location): Start at your chosen time at William Chambers Monument

5. JK Rowling’ S Harry Potter Walking Tour In Edinburgh

⭐️ RATING: 5/5   | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you’re okay with large group tours, this tour is perfect for you. Step into the enchanting world of ‘Harry Potter’ through this captivating walking tour in Edinburgh. Walk through the areas that inspired the creation of places like Diagon Alley.

Delve into the history of J.K. Rowling’s journey and witness how Edinburgh’s charm is intricately intertwined with her storytelling.

As you stroll through the city, you’ll gain insights into ‘Harry Potter’ and savour the city’s sights up close, adding a dynamic twist to your vacation.

This ‘Harry Potter’ walking tour offers a seamless experience, with a convenient meeting point that’s easy to find. Join this adventure to unearth the inspiration behind the wizarding world, connect with Edinburgh’s magic, and add an active and immersive experience to your vacation.

“This tour was an amazing experience. The tour guide, Australian David, was highly entertaining and informative. I also really liked all the trivia questions he gave us. It was so cool to see and walk around beautiful Edinburgh and I definitely recommend this tour for anyone who has an interest in the Harry Potter series.” – Myra_S

You can pass by the Royal Mile at the beginning of your tour. This is where you’ll meet your guide for the day. Afterwards, you will head to the day’s first destination — Edinburgh Old Town, where you will visit the various Edinburgh Harry Potter locations. 

At Edinburgh Old Town, you’ll discover the sites that J.K. Rowling took as inspiration for Hogwarts and the characters in the iconic series. See where Diagon Alley came to life and witness Lord Voldemort’s burial place.

This is also where the cafes and hotel J.K Rowling wrote her famous book Harry Potter, and the place where the Quidditch inspiration came from. 

All these you can enjoy and digest during the walking tour. You’ll also gain a lot of information about Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling from your guide. So, if you’re a Potterhead, this tour is a must-try!

• Start Time (and location): The tours starts at your chosen time at 130 High Street (The Royal Mile)
• Includes: Professional guide

6. Edinburgh’s Amazing Harry Potter Walking Tour Kids Free

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5   | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you’re visiting Edinburgh with kids, this child-friendly tour is best for you. On this Harry Potter walking tour, you will see some of the significant places in Edinburgh connected with the origin of Harry Potter. 

Besides visiting iconic Harry Potter places like Victoria Street, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and The Elephant Cafe, you will also be immersed in Edinburgh’s factual history. 

You can do the tour in small groups of 15 or fewer to embark on this adventure. Walk through Edinburgh’s centre like a local, guided by experts who bring the stories and history you might otherwise miss if you tour without a guide. 

“What a great tour this was,thank you. We loved the small group, really knowledgable,friendly guide who once auditioned to be in the films themselves. Couldn’t recommend this tour enough.” – Jennifer_J

This tour starts at the historical Waverley Train Station to cater to the kid’s enjoyment. The reason is that trains are an iconic part of the start of a wizard’s journey. So, like them, you can start your journey by passing by the famous Train Station. 

Continuing your journey, you will visit Edinburgh Old Town, where most of the iconic Harry Potter-related spots are. This includes Edinburgh University Old College, Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars Kirkyard.

During the tour, you will also see Victoria Street, which inspired the iconic Diagon Alley, and see and witness the various cafes and areas around the city where Rowling herself wrote about the magical wizarding world of Harry Potter. 

This 2-hour fun and informative Harry Potter walking tour should be experienced by Potter fans, especially the young ones with their families. 

• Start Time (and location): Start at your preferred time at Tron Kirk (The Royal Mile Market) 

7. Harry Potter Guided Tour In Edinburgh – In French

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!

Head on a unique tour led by dedicated Harry Potter enthusiasts and city connoisseurs eager to share their profound passion. This exceptional experience is conducted entirely in French, a rarity in Edinburgh and perfect for French speakers. 

This tour promises an extraordinary journey that seamlessly merges the magic of the wizarding world with the charm and history of Edinburgh. 

You will visit Edinbugh’s old town to discover the places that became an inspiration and a place for J.K. Rowling to write the fantastic series. 

“A fantastic experience with our guide Marie, who portrayed herself as a proud Hufflepuff student. She led us through every corner of the city for 2 hours, immersing us in the ambiance of J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter. Beyond her in-depth knowledge of the wizarding world, Marie also shared her favorite spots and insights about the city’s history. In short, both our children and we were captivated!” – Celine_T

On this Harry Potter walking tour Edinburgh, you’ll explore the roots of the enchanted world of Harry Potter at the Old Town of Edinburgh. You will have the opportunity to unravel the locations that ignited J.K. Rowling’s imagination, setting the stage for creating her iconic characters and settings. 

Follow the path paved by Rowling herself as this guided tour leads you through the charming streets of Edinburgh. 

This immersive experience offers more than a mere tour; it’s an opportunity to experience and immerse into the enchantment that birthed Harry Potter.

• Start Time (and location): Start at your chosen time at Scotland Edinburgh iCentre Royal Mile 

FAQs About harry potter tour edinburgh

What is the best harry potter tour in edinburgh.

The best Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh is undoubtedly the Warner Brother’s Studio Tour, which takes you behind the scenes of the movies!

On this tour, you’ll get to walk through the Great Hall, explore Diagon Alley and visit Hagrid’s Hut.

You’ll learn about the special effects used to create the magical effects and see actual props and costumes from the films. It’s a great chance to experience a bit of Hogwarts magic!

is harry potter filmed in edinburgh

Harry Potter was indeed filmed in Edinburgh. In fact, many of the movie’s iconic locations were shot there, such as Diagon Alley and The Hogwarts Express.

From the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile to the underground chambers of Edinburgh Castle, these places were used to create a magical cinematic experience. In addition, other nearby towns and cities such as Glasgow and Dundee were also used for filming.

what part of harry potter was filmed in edinburgh

Edinburgh was used as a filming location for several scenes throughout the Harry Potter movie franchise.

The most iconic being the Hogwarts Express departing from Edinburgh’s King’s Cross Station in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Other memorable moments filmed in Edinburgh include exteriors of Hagrid’s hut, Hagrid and Harry flying over Arthur’s Seat, and Hagrid walking through the city with Norbert the dragon.

Final Thoughts: edinburgh harry potter tours

Travellers who love Harry Potter can experience the magic of J.K Rowling’s creation and journey through the actual locations featured in her novels with a Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh.

Not only will they get to explore the iconic settings, but they will also be able to learn about the rich history and culture of this storybook city.

So don’t miss out on these incredible experiences! Book a Harry Potter tour while in Edinburgh today for an unforgettable adventure!

• Lodging in Edinburgh Scotland
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• Luxury Travel Guide to Edinburgh
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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Savvy Travel Advice

Comprehensive Guide to the Top Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh Scotland

Last updated: February 23, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 84 Comments

Edinburgh has a deep connection with the wizarding world of Harry Potter and there are several Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh that fans can visit. Most notably, it was the home of J.K. Rowling when she wrote the majority of the Harry Potter books.

Rowling has acknowledged her connection to the city stating that “…Edinburgh is very much home for me and is the place where Harry evolved over seven books and many, many hours of writing in its cafés.”

Want to sit and sip coffee in the same café that J.K. Rowling wrote the Harry Potter books? See turreted buildings that may have been the inspiration for Hogwarts? See graves and streets that may have influenced the names of Harry Potter characters? Drink a pint of butterbeer in a local pub? We’ll provide all you need to know to find these places on your own or visit them on a fun walking tour.

However, as we dug into the evidence we found that some of the places and sights associated with J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter seem to be based more on fiction than reality. We’ll provide not only a list of the top Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh and how to visit them, but we’ll also try to separate fact from fiction in their relationship to Harry Potter and his famous inventor.

We also provide a walking map of all the Harry Potter spots in Edinburgh to help you explore on your own, a graveyard map to the famous Tom Riddle grave and others, and a list of tour companies that offer guided Harry Potter tours.

J.K. Rowling grew up in England but it is interesting to note that she is 1/4 Scottish on her mother’s side, and her parents actually met on a train ride to Scotland. Fateful train rides seem to run in the family as Rowling would first have the idea for Harry Potter on a delayed train from Manchester to London in 1990.

Rowling would come to Edinburgh in 1993 to be nearer her sister and although she had already started work on Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone , much of the writing of the seven Harry Potter novels would take place in Edinburgh.

Despite the connection between Edinburgh and the Harry Potter series, none of the filming for the movies took place in Edinburgh. However, you can find Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland , including the Hogwarts Express steam train. You can find a list of tours here from Edinburgh that visit these sites and some even include a train ride.

But fans will still find many places to visit that were real-life places in J.K. Rowling’s life and places around the city that may have inspired Harry Potter characters and places. The great thing about these sites is that most of them are very close together and are easy to walk to from central Edinburgh. There are a number of Harry Potter themed city walking tours that include these sites that you can book.

Ready to learn about the top things to do in Edinburgh for Harry Potter fans? Grab your broomsticks and wands and let’s get started as we explore the top Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh!

Table of Contents:

Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh

Here is a comprehensive list of the top Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh. We’ve visited them all, most of them several times, so do let us know if you have any questions. These are listed in no particular order although see map towards end of post about where they are each located in Edinburgh:

1. Nicolson’s Cafe (now Dun Dun Delicious, formerly Spoon)

Address :  6a Nicolson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9DH

Harry Potter Connection 

Nicolson’s Café was one of the places where J. K. Rowling as a newly divorced single mother wrote parts of her first Harry Potter novel, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone . She had already started writing the novel before her arrival in Edinburgh, but she would finish the manuscript in Edinburgh, writing in her spare time while taking care of her young daughter Jessica.

Rowling had very little money in her early years living in Edinburgh and she would often go to write in the city’s cafés where she could write for the price of a cup of coffee.

One of the reasons that Rowling spent so much time at the cafe was that at the time it was  co-owned by Rowling’s brother-in-law Roger Moore.  Nicolson’s Café was a first floor restaurant (second floor for Americans) on the corner of Nicolson and Drummond Street.

Tips for Visiting

Nicolson’s Café has long since closed. The location was then turned into a Chinese buffet restaurant, then a bistro named Spoon , and is now a Chinese restaurant called Dun Dun Delicious .  

There is a plaque on the corner of Drummond Street saying that “J.K. Rowling wrote some of the early chapters of Harry Potter in the rooms on the first floor of this building”. 

You can stop in here for lunch or dinner if you are hungry for some Chinese food. This place is generally much less busy than The Elephant House so go here if looking for a quieter place to enjoy a former haunt of J. K. Rowling.

NOTE: You may see the cafe’s name and address incorrectly spelled across the Internet by people who have simply copied and pasted the wrong name and address from others (there are hundreds of people who appear to have done this!). The street is Nicolson Street not Nicholson street and the cafe was called Nicolson’s Cafe not Nicholson’s Cafe.

Fact or Fiction?

This one is fact and it has a plaque to prove it. J. K. Rowling has talked about how she had very little money when she moved to Edinburgh and that she spent a lot of time writing in cafés. Rowling said this when asked about the best place to write in an Urbanette interview :

“It’s no secret that the best place to write, in my opinion, is in a café. You don’t have to make your own coffee, you don’t have to feel like you’re in solitary confinement and if you have writers block, you can get up and walk to the next café while giving your batteries time to recharge and brain time to think. The best writing café is crowded enough to allow you blend in, but not too crowded that you have to share a table with someone else.”  

In a BBC TV interview special in December 2001, she noted: “I went out and wrote in cafes because the way to make Jessica fall asleep was to keep her moving—in the pushchair. So I used to take her out, tie her out, put her in the pushchair, walk her along—the moment she fall asleep, into the nearest café and write.”

She also noted that her baby daughter Jessica would often sleep next to her while she wrote. She wrote Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in long-hand and then later would type it out on a typewriter at home.

She said in the 2001 BBC Interview that Nicolson’s Cafe was where she wrote huge sections of her first Harry Potter book. She noted,

“This was a really great place to write, because there were so many tables around here that I didn’t feel too guilty about taking a table up too long and that was my favorite table. I always wanted to try and get that one because it was out of the way in the corner. It was just great to look up when you were writing and stop and think about things and be able to look out on the street which was quite busy.”

That said, the actual cafe she visited (Nicolson’s Cafe) is long gone but the building is still there and you can still get coffee or tea here (alongside some Chinese food!).

2. The Elephant House

Address:   21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN

Harry Potter Connection

The Elephant House , which has a sign proclaiming itself as the “birthplace of Harry Potter”, was where J.K. Rowling penned later Potter novels and is probably the best known of the Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh. The café was also once frequented by a number of other now famous writers such as Ian Rankin and Alexander McCall-Smith. 

The cafe owes much of its current popularity to J. K. Rowling, and this is the busiest of all the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh. On our last walk by the cafe, there was a note on the door saying that the cafe has instituted a policy where you need to either order food or a drink or pay a small fee for photographs if you want to come inside.

The Elephant House is typically open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so stop by for a meal anytime or just a cup of coffee and pastry. You’ll be asked to wait and then place an order at the counter before being seated. This place is a popular tourist spot and can be a zoo so best to come early or late to avoid waiting in a long line for a seat.

However, despite the loads of tourists the lunch we had there recently was reasonably priced and portions were generous. Ask for a seat near the window (if you can) for views of nearby Greyfriar’s Kirkyard and the more distant Edinburgh Castle. 

The decor here is mostly elephant related, but there are some Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling associated photos on the wall. Perhaps the greatest homage to Harry Potter here lives in the bathrooms so be sure to visit the toilets during your visit.

NOTE: On August 24, 2021, a fire in the building sadly caused significant damage to The Elephant House and two neighboring businesses. We were here in September 2021 and although the exterior looks pretty much the same, the inside has suffered significant damage caused by fire and water. The owners hope it will reopen by Summer 2024. Please check the cafe’s website for the latest news regarding the reopening dates.

In the meantime, while the original Elephant House is closed, you can visit The Elephant House Magical Cafe, a small cafe opened by the same owners. It opened in December 2023 and is located a short walk away at 30 Victoria Street. It serves coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and butterscotch beer.

Currently, the table that J.K. Rowling sat at (which the owner said was salvaged and refurbished after the fire) is here along with some photos of the J.K. Rowling. So you can stop here and enjoy a drink until the real Elephant House is able to reopen.

Fact with a dash of fiction. It is definitely a fact that Rowling wrote here and there are photos and interview materials to prove that Rowling spent some time writing here.

However, its claim to be the “Birthplace of Harry Potter” is not really true and she had started writing Harry Potter years before visiting this cafe. Rowling has stated a number of times that she conceived the idea of Harry Potter on a train ride from Manchester to London in 1990. She first started writing in a flat in Clapham Junction flat in London and continued after moving to Porto, Portugal. She continued working on the novel after moving to Edinburgh in 1993, finishing the first manuscript in 1995.

The Elephant House opened in 1995. So while she may have not started Harry Potter here and most likely did not write any of the first novel here, she definitely spent some time writing here when working on subsequent books.

There is a good video interview of J. K. Rowling in The Elephant House on the coffeehouse’s homepage, at the time of the interview Rowling had just sold her second Harry Potter book and was working on a third. It is interesting to watch.

Rowling finally directly addressed The Elephant House’s claim as the “birthplace of Harry Potter” a few years after I wrote this article. As we’ve been saying here for years, this was in no way the “birthplace” of the idea or the first place she starting writing Harry Potter. In response to a fan’s question, she said the following on Twitter in May 21, 2020: “I’d been writing Potter for several years before I ever set foot in this cafe, so it’s not the birthplace, but I *did* write in there so we’ll let them off!”

3. Greyfriar’s Kirkyard

Address: Greyfriars Place, Edinburgh. EH1 2QQ

Greyfriar’s Kirkyard is the graveyard surrounding Greyfriar’s Kirk (church), and it was a place close to both of the mentioned coffee houses frequented by J. K. Rowling. It has been said that some of the gravestones here may have given Rowling inspiration for some of her famous Harry Potter characters. The most famous is the grave of Thomas Riddell which may have inspired the name for the fictional evil Lord Voldemort (birth name: Tom Marvolo Riddle).

A gravestone for Voldemort’s father is mentioned in the books and depicted in the film Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire , with the fictional movie gravestone bearing the names of Thomas Riddle (Voldemort’s paternal grandfather), Mary Riddle (grandmother), and Tom Riddle Snr. (the character’s  father).

In Edinburgh there is the gravestone of the real-life deceased Thomas Riddell Esquire, of Befsborough in Berwick, who died at the age of 72 on November 24, 1806. The gravestone also commemorates other Riddell family members, including his son Thomas Riddell Esquire who served as a Captain of the 14th Regiment and died at Trinidad in the West Indies in September 12, 1802 at the young age of 26. 

There are several others graveyard names that have been thought to perhaps be tied to Harry Potter characters, and one could spend forever trying to find similarly named people in the graveyard. In fact there are graves that have the first or second names of many characters in the books. However, there are two other ones that seem to regularly attract Harry Potter fans.

The first is the gravestone of William McGonagall, who shares a last name with fictional Harry Potter character Professor Minerva McGonagall played in the films by the revered Dame Maggie Smith. The real-life  William McGonagall was a Scottish poet and weaver, and is actually rather well-known (at least in Scotland) for being a notoriously bad poet. He died in September 29, 1902 at age 77. 

Finally there is the grave of Mrs. Elizabeth Moodie which some think may have inspired the name of the fictional Harry Potter character Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody. The real-life Ms. Moodie was wife of James Barid, the Deputy King’s Remembrancer of Exchequer. 

The graveyard is almost always open to visitors so it is an easy place to visit although finding the graves is more difficult, but if you go behind the church and stick to your right, most of the graves of interest to Harry Potter fans are in this back section behind remains of the old Flodden wall .

In addition to the Harry Potter connection, the church and graveyard are an interesting place to visit in Edinburgh. Greyfriars Kirk (Greyfriars Tolbooth & Highland Kirk) is a parish church of the Church of Scotland. The church was built between c. 1602 and 1620 and it is most notable for being the site of the signing of the National Covenant in 1638. It is still an active church as well as a concert and event venue, and there is a small museum in the church that contains an original copy of the National Covenant document.

The church is normally open to the public during the busy tourism months (Monday-Saturday from April to October) as well as being open to guests for worship services year round.

The kirkyard is famous for being the burial site of many prominent Scottish people, the site of the Covenanter’s prison (can only be visited on tours), and perhaps most famously for being the burial site for Greyfriars Bobby (and his owner John Gray), the loyal Skye terrier who is said to have sat next to his master’s grave for 14 years. 

A lot of fiction and a bit of fact.   This one is harder to confirm but Rowling has never stated (to my knowledge) ever having directly used any names from the tombstones at Greyfriars Kirkyard in her Harry Potter books. However, she has noted she draws names from all kinds of places and has mentioned gravestones as a good source of information and Greyfriars Kirkyard is a short walk from The Elephant House.

In a  1999 radio interview with Christopher Lydon  Rowling stated when asked where she gets her names that she invents some of them “…but I also collect them, from all kinds of places: maps, street names, people I meet, old books, old saints…”. Similarly, in a 1999 Barnes and Noble interview when asked about names: “And so far I have got names from saints, place-names, war memorials, gravestones. I just collect them — I am so interested in names.”

In terms of the Thomas Riddell gravestone, Rowling does not appear to have borrowed the name, at least not knowingly. According to several newspapers (although none provide any sort of verifiable quote), Rowling has been asked about the Thomas Riddell gravestone and whether it inspired the name for the fictional evil Lord Voldemort, and she has said she did not intentionally use the name from the gravestone but that it may have “subconsciously” been an inspiration.

For instance an Edinburgh News article in 2013 reported: “JK Rowling has previously said that the tombstone of Thomas Riddell Esquire in the famous Kirkyard may have subconsciously been the inspiration for nasally challenged Voldemort’s true name, since she often took strolls through the spot, which is overlooked by the Elephant House cafe, where she wrote several of the books.” 

So this connection seems weak at best. She has stated when asked about Harry Potter character names that “some of them are invented; Voldemort is an invented name” and it is French for “flight of death” or “theft of death” so we do know the origins of that part of his name.

I could find no information from J.K. Rowling or elsewhere that showed any connection between the gravestone or name of Elizabeth Moodie and the naming of Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody. Although I could also find no information on where she got this name. This one seems to have no basis in any facts.

J. K. Rowling has confirmed a connection between the name of Professor McGonagall and the Scottish poet (whose grave is at Greyfriars), stating when asked about how she came up with the name for the character in the 1999 radio interview with Christopher Lydon:  “yeah, McGonagall, old erm – very, very, very bad Scottish poet, McGonagall is – I just loved the name.”

So Rowling may have indeed saw the name on the tombstone, although it is also likely that Rowling as a British person with Scottish ties would have known the poet’s name without having seen it on a tombstone. Out of the three, this one actually seems to have the most merit.

4. George Heriot’s School

Address:  Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9EQ

George Heriot’s School was built in 1628 and first opened as an orphanage and charitable school (hospital) for boys, and is today a co-ed prestigious primary and secondary schoo l.  This notable turreted Scottish Renaissance school with its four buildings is believed by many to have served as the inspiration for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. 

George Heriot’s School is still an active school and therefore not open to the general public, but you can still admire the building through the gate or from different spots in the city. You can see it from a several places, including from Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, Lauriston Place, Edinburgh Castle esplanade, and the Geroge IV Bridge. 

It has been open to the public on rare occasions, such as for Open Doors day events.

Fact or Fiction? 

False. I could find no evidence for it being true. I could not find any information on JK Rowling ever saying what building or buildings inspired her description of Hogwarts. She has only said that Hogwarts is located in Scotland, but not that it is based on any particular school in Scotland.

In fact, she has said that she had already written about Hogwarts before she came to Edinburgh or had visited Edinburgh Castle. Although even before she moved to Scotland, she did imagine the school of witchcraft and wizardry to be in Scotland.

She said in a  2002 interview that “Hogwarts is a very real place to me, and although I wasn’t then living in Scotland, I’ve always imagined it to be in Scotland… which… it was never made explicit in the books but the British reader will know that because if you do travel for a day from King’s Cross Station in London and you go north, you end up in Scotland. So it was always supposed to be here.”

Hogwarts, unlike George Heriot, is a boarding school and Rowling has talked a bit about why she chose to set much of the book within a boarding school. Here is a quote from a 1997 interview with The Sunday Times :

“It had to be a boarding school to sustain the fantasy….He [Harry] had to go somewhere that’s an enclosed world to have his adventures. Kids are incredibly powerless because everything is determined for them, so a rich fantasy life in which they do have power is almost inevitable. And a middle-class boarding school is a world where they are free of their parents. Being an orphan is very liberating in a book. I think it’s a common fantasy of children that somehow these parents aren’t their parents.”

Rowling has said she does not know exactly where the name for Hogwarts came from, although she has noted in a 2001 interview with the Syndney Morning Herald that it may have been taken from a type of lily that she saw with her friend at Kew Gardens in London.

However, given the fact that George Heriot’s School is a co-ed secondary school with four houses, four towers and the 17th century architecture, it is easy to see how many people have assumed that there may have been a connection between this school and Hogwarts. Especially since the George Heriot’s School is located in central Edinburgh and right next to the cafés that Rowling frequented regularly.

However, the UK is full of historical schools and university buildings with turrets and interesting architectural features so a number of places could have served as inspiration. In Edinburgh alone you have George Heriot’s School, Fettes College, Stewart’s Melville College, and Donaldson’s School. It could also have just have easily come mainly from her imagination or from another writer’s depiction of a school.

We’ve had people comment and write us emails telling us quite vehemently that this school or that school was the inspiration for Hogwarts. However, there is no evidence for any of this and recently Rowling has stated specifically that none of the Edinburgh schools or collages served as a direct inspiration for Hogwarts

J.K. Rowling wrote this on Twitter : “I sometimes hear Hogwarts was based on one or other of Edinburgh’s schools, but that’s 100% false, too. Hogwarts was created long before I clapped eyes on any of them!”

5. Balmoral Hotel

Address:  1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

The Balmoral Hotel is a 5-star 19th century hotel in central Edinburgh, and it was here that Rowling finished her final Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows . It is also here that she famously wrote on a marble bust of the god Hermes in the expensive suite, scribbling the following on the bust: “JK Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in this room (552) on 11th Jan 2007”. 

The Balmoral Hotel is a luxury hotel and anyone can stay here for a price (check current prices here ). You can even stay in the same room (552) as the famous author, which has been renamed the J.K. Rowling Suite.

This beautiful suite is currently priced at about £2,000 a night and is a pilgrimage site for well-off Harry Potter fans. We’ve been lucky enough to see the room but have never stayed here. In the room, the marble bust she wrote on is still kept in the room but has been placed in a glass display case in order to protect it. 

If you aren’t staying here, the hotel has some great restaurants and also serves afternoon tea each day. So if you want to visit without staying, you might consider enjoying a meal or afternoon tea here.

This is definitely a fact and has been confirmed by statements by both  J. K. Rowling and Balmoral Hotel staff. Rowling stated that she was having a hard time finishing the novel at home and wanted to get away from distractions for a while and decided to head to the Balmoral.

Apparently very few people knew she was staying here and it was kept quiet until after she finished her book (ah, the days before everyone was on social media!). It is pretty amazing how Rowling wrote her first book while living on welfare and working in cafés and was able to finish her book in one of the most expensive hotels in Edinburgh.

Note that some new articles and blogs report the wrong hotel room number, but it is definitely 552 based on our research.

6. Victoria Street & the Grassmarket Area

Address: Victoria St., Edinburgh EH1 2HE

Victoria Street is a narrow curved street in central Edinburgh’s Grassmarket area and is believed by some to be an inspiration for Diagon Alley (a cobblestone shopping street with stores selling wizardly supplies) in the Harry Potter books.

Victoria Street is a colorful old street with many brightly painted shops and buildings, some with pointed roofs, which many fans say are similar to the shops described along Diagon Alley.

More generally, some believe that many of the streets (like West Bow and Candlemaker Row) and buildings in the Grassmarket area may have served as inspiration for Rowling.

The Grassmarket area is a great place to wander around if you are visiting Edinburgh for the first time. Victoria Street is a pretty street and not far from The Elephant House or the location for the weekly Grassmarket market (every Saturday).

The Grassmarket area is a popular place for tourists to eat, drink, shop, and take photos. You can find a few different souvenir and novelties shop that sells Harry Potter and magic items along Victoria Street, including Museum Context store, The Enchanted Galaxy, and 

Formerly there was even an actual magic shop called AHA HA HA Jokes & Novelties at 99 West Bow. Sadly it closed a few years ago and is now a cashmere shop.

There used to a Diagon Alley sign alongside a nice mural on the Lackdhu (recent name change from Maple Arts Framing) building on Candlemaker Row that read: “No setting could be more perfect for a magical school of witchcraft & wizardly than the majestic Gothic grandeur of this old toon. So it is no surprise that J.K. Rowling selected Scotland as the home of Hogwarts, or that several sites lie nearby this Diagon Alley.”

**Update April 2017: The sign and mural are now gone from Lackdhu building, hopefully these will return! The owners told us that the are hoping to have a new Harry Potter themed mural up at some point but so far there is just the store logo. But as of early 2023, it is just a painted pair of red and purple wings.**

Unsubstantiated. I could find no evidence that J. K. Rowling has made any statements that Victoria Street or Candlemaker Row (or any other street) inspired her description of Diagon Alley.

However, given that Rowling would have certainly have walked along these streets during the time she was writing Harry Potter and they were so close to some of the cafés she visited, it is indeed possible that Victoria Street and other parts of the Grassmarket area did provide some inspiration.

7. Museum Context & Harry Potter Stores

A ddress: 40 Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH12JW

Museum Context (aka Diagon House) is a shop selling all things related to Harry Potter from wands to broomsticks to stuffed Hedwigs and Harry Potter T-shirts as well as a variety of other stuff. The shop rebranded over the summer festival season of 2017 as Diagon House (not its real name) as a marketing ploy to cash in on Harry Potter fans.

The marketing ploy worked as there were lines out the door for a couple of weeks and the place is often crowded year-round. They have also recently set up a desk with a wizard hat on the top floor that customers can put on for a Harry Potteresque selfie on the top floor. But the store has long sold a collection of officially licensed Harry Potter items along with an eclectic collection of gifts and home accessories.

In addition to their main Victoria Street location, Museum Context also have a second location on 42-44 Cockburn Street which also sells Harry Potter items.

There are actually several shops in Edinburgh that sell Harry Potter merchandise and related wizard and magic stuff. There are The Enchanted Galaxy stores (formerly The Boy Wizard and The Great Wizard) which have locations now on Victoria Street, South Bridge, and at the airport. There was a store on HIgh Street but it appears to have closed.

For books, I recommend heading to Blackwell’s book store and they also have some other Harry Potter gift items as well.

NOTE : All of the Galaxy/Wizard shops (and many many other souvenir shops in central Edinburgh) are owned by the Singh Gold Brothers. Warner Brothers has taken legal action against them a couple of times over breaches of intellectual property rights, which seems to be why they keep changing names and locations. If looking for a place for Harry Potter things, I’d recommend shopping at Museum Context or Blackwell’s first.

Here is a list of other places to stop for Harry Potter souvenirs:

• Blackwell’s book store –  53-62 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1YS
• Galaxy – 47-49 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1LL
• The Enchanted Galaxy (formerly the Boy Wizard) – 1 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HE

If you are looking for Harry Potter souvenirs in Edinburgh, Museum Context is a good place to find them. In addition to Harry Potter stuff, it sells some other interesting gifts and items. I am a fan of their vintage style gifts and items, especially the globes. But there are also many other options in the city now that also sell Harry Potter books, gifts, and souvenirs.

This is just a store selling Harry Potter items, and J.K. Rowling has no known relationship to any of these stores in which we are aware. 

8. Former Rowling Residences

Addresses: All over the city

Edinburgh is often referred to as the birthplace of Harry Potter. Rowling has lived in several places in Edinburgh since 1993 and still resides here although she also now owns properties elsewhere in the UK and abroad.

According to a book by Joanne Soroka, Rowling first stayed with her sister in a flat on Marchmont Road, before moving to Gardner’s Crescent, then South Lorne Place, and Hazelbank Terrace. She then lived in a Merchiston area mansion at Abbotsford Park with her family until 2009.

Rowling and her family now live behind high hedges in the Edinburgh area of Branton. She also owns the Killiechassie Estate in Perthshire. 

There is not much to visit other than the outsides of buildings and some peeks of houses through gates, but a stroll through these areas may give Harry Potter fans a sense of the neighborhood in which Rowling has lived and how her circumstances have changed from a woman living on welfare to a best-selling author worth millions. It may also introduce visitors to some new Edinburgh neighborhoods that are well off the well-beaten tourist path.

Just note that J. K. Rowling and her family enjoy their privacy (and they have a lot of security) as do the people who live in her former residences, and you are wise to respect this. I decided not to publish any of the actual addresses (or photos) of her former or current residences out of both respect for those who live in them and for the fact that none are open to the public so there isn’t much to see at any of the locations.

Fact. Rowling has indeed lived in Edinburgh since 1993, and there is little doubt that she wrote a substantial amount of the books while in the city although she did begin writing the series prior to her arrival in the city. She has acknowledged this on many occasions.

9. Potterrow Street

Address:  Potterrow Street, Edinburgh EH8 9BL

There is a street in central Edinburgh called Potterrow Street. Some say it may have given J. K. Rowling inspiration for her famous hero’s last name.

Along Potterrow Street, you’ll find University of Edinburgh buildings, students housing, and a few student geared eateries. Potterrow Port is a pedestrian underpass tunnel under Potterrow Street. There is not much to see here for Potter fans other than the signs.

Fiction. This particular association seems to have no evidence to stand on from what I can find other than the assumption that Rowling likely walked or drove along this street during the time she was in Edinburgh. In fact, there is substantial evidence against the street name having influenced Rowling in naming Harry Potter.

In a  1999 Barnes & Noble online chat (the first she ever did in America), Rowling was specifically asked where she came up with the name Harry Potter. Here is what she said: “Because Harry is one of my favorite boy’s names. But he had several different surnames before I chose Potter. Potter was the name of a brother and sister who I played with when I was very young. We were part of the same gang and I always liked that surname.”

Later in a 2000 Scholastic interview she reiterates this and goes on to say that if her first child had been a boy, she would have named him Harry and chosen a different name for her boy hero.

10. JK Rowling’s Handprints

Address:  253 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ

J.K. Rowling’s handprints were reproduced on flagstone in front of the Edinburgh City Chambers after J.K. Rowling was awarded the Edinburgh Award in 2008 for her contributions to the capital city. This was soon after she had finished the final book in the Harry Potter series.

You can find the golden handprints on a flagstone just off the Royal Mile, in front of the Edinburgh City Chambers. You can also find the handprints of others who have won the award (established in 2007), including writer Ian Rankin and athlete Sir Chris Hoy.

Fact. J. K. Rowling did indeed receive the Edinburgh Award. She said the following when accepting the Edinburgh Award in September 2008 (as reported by  The Telegraph on September 20th ): “It is an absolute honour to receive this award, as Edinburgh is very much home for me and is the place where Harry evolved over seven books and many, many hours of writing in its cafés.”

11. Edinburgh Castle

Address:   Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG

Edinburgh Castle, the most recognizable landmark in the city, is a fortress castle with existing buildings dating back to the 12th century. Some say it was an inspiration for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter books. 

Edinburgh Castle is the most recognizable landmark in the city and one of the main tourist attractions in Edinburgh. Whether or not it has any connection with Harry Potter, I would definitely recommend a visit for any visitor. Located at one end of the Royal Mile, you’ll see it from multiple viewpoints from around the city and it is easy to visit.

It is very popular so I’d recommend trying to visit when it first opens or nearer to closing time to avoid large crowds. You may also want to buy your ticket in advance or join a guided tour to skip ticket lines. A popular (but busy) time to be at the castle is for the firing of the gun, which takes place nearly every day of the year to mark 1pm.

You can read more about the castle in an earlier post where we highlight the 21 top attractions in Edinburgh . 

Unsubstantiated. As noted for George Heriot’s School, J.K. Rowling has not named any locations as being an inspiration for Hogwarts, but she has noted that Hogwarts is located in Scotland in the books.

When Rowling was specifically asked in a 2002 TV interview if Edinburgh Castle looks like Hogwarts, she said that she hadn’t been to the castle when she first imagined Hogwarts and started writing the books. But then goes on to say: “Bizarrely, I’ve come to live in the shadow of what could be a lot like Hogwarts, except Hogwarts has a lake.”

Of course Rowling would have seen the castle regularly as someone living in Edinburgh as it is visible from many locations. In fact, you can see it from the windows of The Elephant House. So it would not be surprising if a little of Edinburgh Castle crept into her image of Hogwarts.

J. K. Rowling when asked to visualize Hogwarts in the 2000 Scholastic interview, said that she imagines it as “A huge, rambling, quite scary-looking castle, with a jumble of towers and battlements. Like the Weasley’s house, it isn’t a building that Muggles could build, because it is supported by magic.”

This does suggest that Hogwarts may be partially based on a castle. However, given that the UK and Europe have thousands of castles, there is no data to suggest it was based on Edinburgh Castle (or even a real castle at all) other than the fact that it was near to the place she wrote the books.

12. Edinburgh International Book Festival (August Only)

Address:  Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4HQ

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is the world’s largest celebration of books and is an annual 2-week event that has included J.K. Rowling. It was one of the first places Rowling gave a reading from her first Harry Potter novel in 1997. She also attended in 2004 and 2014. 

If you are in Edinburgh in August and enjoy books, you should definitely plan a stop at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Unlike most of the other August Edinburgh festivals (check out our planning guide), this one takes place almost entirely in one location at Charlotte Square gardens in a series of large tents.

Anyone can attend the festival for free and peruse the book stores, read a book in the square, go to book signings, and take part in the free programming. However, you do need to book a ticket if you want to attend most of the author talks and readings. Authors range from the famous (e.g., J.K. Rowling, Philippa Gregory, Ian Rankin) to the relatively unknown.

If the weather is good, you could spend a few pleasant hours reading a book in the square and enjoying a cup of coffee (there is an on-site café).

Fact. J.K. Rowling has read and talked at the Edinburgh International Book Festival and to my knowledge she has attended at least three times. In fact, way back in 1997 when no one reading this post had probably ever heard of Harry Potter, an unknown new author listed as Joanne Rowling read to a group of about 20 children from her first book.

Fast forward to 2004, and a special tent had to be erected to contain a crowd of 600 Harry Potter fans (chosen via lottery given the enormous demand) and special security employed as J.K. Rowling returned to the book festival . 

In 2014, J. K. Rowling made a surprise appearance at the Book Festival to introduce Malala Yousafzai. It is possible she may do so again in the future. 

13. The Dog House

Address:  18-24 Clerk Street, Edinburgh EH8 9HX

Of the many Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh, The Dog House is a fairly new one to be associated with Harry Potter. This association is due to the fact that it has started selling butterbeer. In the Harry Potter books, butterbeer was sold at a number of wizardly pubs, notably The Three Broomsticks and The Hog’s Head.

The pub is mostly known for being dog friendly (and its mascot and resident English bull dog Hero) and for its chicken wings. It is also an oddly decorated pub with all sorts of things hanging on the walls and from the ceiling, including a teddy bear graveyard. Its a unique place.

They introduced butterbeer around 2016 in hopes of drawing in some Potter fans. You can buy butterbeer by the pint or half-pint, which is made by using a sweetened syrup (that the pub buys) mixing it with Foster’s beer. They have also more recently introduced a Butterbeer Cocktail.

I honestly expected it to taste horrible but it tasted like buttered popcorn and beer, and we found it very easy to drink. A pint of butter beer was £4 on our first visit in 2017 but I think prices have gone up with inflation. Just note that these are made using beer so are of course alcoholic and only served to adults.

A pint of butter beer at The Dog House is a great way to end a day of exploring in Edinburgh.

Note that The Dog House was the first to serve a version of butterbeer in Edinburgh but they are not the only ones now. You can also try butterbeer at The Magic Potions Tavern (part of the Department of Magic) and they offer both non-alcoholic and alcoholic versions so great for kids and adults. Another option is the Potions Cauldron which has a non-alcoholic butterscotch beer.

Fiction. Well, butterbeer is a fictional drink and the drink served here was not an inspiration for Rowling and as far as we know Rowling was not involved in its development. However, the pub does indeed serve butter beer and the drink is based on the one described in the Harry Potter books. It is a relatively recent addition to the pub’s drink list (we think it was first sold in 2015).  

J.K. Rowling did not base butterbeer on a real drink (although there were historical drinks called buttered beer or ale ), she simply made it up for the books. When Rowling was asked by Bon Appétit magazine in 2002 what it tastes like, she said : “I made it up. I imagine it to taste a bit like less sickly butterscotch.”

Many recipes and versions of butterbeer exist online now and many are alcoholic (like the one at The Dog House). In 2010, Universal worked with Rowling to produce a nonalcoholic butterbeer that is now sold at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter  (along with several other Harry Potter inspired drinks and foods) which is said to be cold and frothy and taste a bit like shortbread and butterscotch. 

14. Department of Magic

Address: 9 Blair Street, Edinburgh EH1 1QR

The Department of Magic offers a small tavern, Magic Potions Cocktail Masterclass, and two magic-themed escape room puzzles. Everything is Harry Potter, witches, magic, and/or wizard themed.

You need to make reservations in advance (online or by phone) if you want to do one of the escape rooms (2 to 5 people each) or the Magic Potions Masterclass. If you have booked one of the escape rooms, be sure to arrive a little before the starting time so you can get the directions and don your wizard robes. You can also stay to have a drink before or after or to play the free table games.

We’ve done the Magic Potions Masterclass and had a lot of fun. Each person gets to pick 2 different cocktails (or potions) you want to make. Then you get all the ingredients and the magical spell formula (e.g., directions) to make the cocktail. Some fizz, change colors, smoke, etc. Just note the cocktails are all on the sweeter side.

If you don’t have a reservation, you can still visit and have a drink at the tavern if there is seating available. They have a large list of drinks, many are magic themed, which include beers, cocktails (including a few you can make yourself), butterbrew (alcoholic), sodas, and butterbeer (non-alcoholic). They also have a small selection of cakes and snacks.

A visit to the escape rooms or the cocktail class is a great activity for small groups!

None of these activities are affiliated or endorsed by JK Rowling, her publishing company, or Warner Bros. So none are officially licensed. The Department of Magic opened in April 2018.

15. Harry Potter Themed Events

Address: Multiple locations in Edinburgh.

There have been, and will be, a number of Harry Potter events taking place in Edinburgh. Most are one-time events and some have been for charity, but a few are more regular. I’d check online to see what might be taking place during your visit.

Here are some events that are taking place or have taken place in Edinburgh to give you an idea of what might be happening:

• Usher Hall often has had several shows with music from the Harry Potter films, including by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, and the London Philharmonic & Symphonic Film Orchestra. These tend to take place about once a year. You can check the latest schedule and buy tickets here .
• Events by the University of Edinburgh Harry Potter Society. Yes, indeed, the local university has a Potter Society. They hold regular events although most are for members only. They even have a quidditch team, the Holyrood Hippogriffs! You can learn more on their website here .
• The Cauldron offers wizard-themed drinks mixing classes similar to the potions masterclass we took at The Department of Magic. The Cauldron opened in June 2019 in Edinburgh but the company runs other experiences and bars in London and New York City. They also have a Wizard Afternoon Tea. You can see more here .
• Spontaneous Potter is an improvised Harry Potter comedy show that is based on audience suggestions and fanfiction. It is improvised on the spot with a team of several actors and accompanied by live music. Not appropriate for children. Show was held weekly in Ediburgh at Monkey Barrel Comedy ; however, the troupe appear to be currently touring the UK with the show. You can check their schedule here .
• In December 2018 there was a Harry Potter themed afternoon tea at the Corn Exchange (now the O2 Academy).
• In October 2018 there was Harry’s Witches & Wizards Ball at the Liquid Room

All the events above have been Harry Potter or wizard themed.

There seems to regularly be a Harry Potter or wizard associated event happening in Edinburgh these days. The popularity of Harry Potter seems to only be increasing in terms of commercialism and tourism products, and there is a good chance there might be something going on during your visit. 

Most of these events need to be booked in advance, and many sell out in advance. So I’d start looking before your visit or as soon as you arrive into the city. I’d try online searches, asking at the Visitor Center, and consulting locals. Or you can leave a Comment and we can let you know if we know of anything happening!

None of these events, to our knowledge, are affiliated or endorsed by JK Rowling, her publishing company, or Warner Bros. So none are officially licensed. Most of these events have started taking places relatively recently in Edinburgh.

Exploring the Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh: Take a Harry Potter Tour? 

For many Harry Potter fans, they want to learn as much information as possible on Harry Potter connections and see all the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh with a group of fellow Potterheads. These fun guided tours are designed for fans and will take you to all the main Potter sites, including The Elephant House, Victoria Street, the Grassmarket, and Greyfriar’s Kirkyard.

You might also consider choosing a more general Edinburgh literary tour or booking a guided day tour or multi-day trip from Edinburgh to see some of the Harry Potter filming sites. You can check out our guide to day trips from Edinburgh which includes a list of Harry Potter film locations.

Harry Potter Walking Tours in Edinburgh

Here are some of the main options for Harry Potter tours in Edinburgh:

Harry Potter Magical Walking Tour

This  2 hour walking tour of Harry Potter sights in the city runs most days, and visits the locations that inspired JK Rowling when she was writing the novels. This is one of the most popular ones and one we have enjoyed as it is great for Potter fans of all ages.

If the above times/dates don’t work, here is a very similar tour option .

If you are looking for a private Harry Potter tour, there are a couple of options such as this one or this one .

Harry Pottr J.K. Rowling Focused In-Depth Tour

If you are wanting something more serious and in-depth than I’d recommend this 4 hour walking tour . This one still covers the regular Harry Potter fan sites but goes to more off-beat places and focuses more on J.K. Rowling, her life, and where she wrote Harry Potter.

Just be sure that you have 4-5 hours to spare for this tour and that everyone in your group can comfortably handle several hours of walking. Wear comfortable shoes!

Harry Potter Tour with Edinburgh Castle

This walking tour takes in the Harry Potter sights and then includes your entrance tickets so you can visit Edinburgh Castle at the end of the tour.

The Potter Trail

Another popular option is The Potter Trail walking tour which is a 1 hour 15 minute to 1.5  hour walking tour. It is free but tips for the guide are strongly recommended (and expected).

You don’t need to book The Potter Trail tours in advance (unless you are in a larger group), just be at the meeting spot (normally at Greyfriar’s Bobby statue but check the website) before the tour time to join.

If you are traveling in a group of 10 people or more, you will need to book a private tour in advance.

Note that the main disadvantage to this tour is that the group sizes can be really large. We enjoyed the tour but it was hard to hear the guide at times and you don’t really have much chance to ask questions.

There is also a paid private version of this tour you can book if you want a more slow-paced and personalized tour. I would definitely recommend the private version if you want to take this tour with younger kids or you want to have private interactions with the guide.

Harry Potter Tour with Whisky Tasting

This 3.5 hour walking tour takes in the typical Harry Potter sights and then includes a whisky tasking for the group in an underground vault location. The second part of the tour some history of the city, whisky, and how whisky varies across the Scottish regions. Then finally you are get to taste 3 drams of Scottish whisky at the “The Lost Close”.

This is a good tour to consider if you don’t have a lot of time but want to do both a Harry Potter walking tour and a whisky tasting while in Edinburgh.

Note that you must be at least 18 years or older to participate in the whisky tasking and you should bring a photo ID to prove you are at 18+.

General Edinburgh Literary Tours

As a UNESCO City of Literature, Edinburgh has a rich literary history and if you are interested in Scottish writers, there are plenty of famous authors and poets to learn about here. These include Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Ian Rankin.

Other literary oriented tours in Edinburgh not focused on Harry Potter but which are likely to include some information about J.K. Rowling include the The Edinburgh Book Lovers’ Tour and   The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour (uses real actors!).

Should I take a Harry Potter tour?

I think that if you are a big fan of Harry Potter, the tours are well worth taking and you’ll likely be able to meet some like-minded travelers. However, I will say that the line between fact and fiction is blurred during some of these tours, but if that doesn’t bother you, I’d recommend looking into taking them.

The other option of course is to explore the sites on your own. But it is nice to have a tour guide and other people who love Harry Potter while learning about the sites. And tours are fairly inexpensive.

Plan your Own Self-Guided Harry Potter Walking Tour with our Map

If you’d prefer to do it on your own, the sites are all fairly easy to find and you can use this guide and map below to help plan your own walking tour of all the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh. Just click on the map link or double click on the image below to open in Google Maps:

Harry Potter Day Tours from Edinburgh to Filming Locations

If your travels are taking you further afield in Scotland or the UK, you might want to book a Harry Potter themed day trip or guided multi-day tour that takes in many of the filming locations from the Harry Potter films such as Alnwick Castle and Glenfinnan Viaduct .

Below are a few tours that depart from Edinburgh, but you can also see a longer list of tours for more options here and here :

• Highlands & Jacobite Steam Train Day Tour – This full day trip from Edinburgh takes visitors to see several filming locations and includes a ride on the Jacobite train that was featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. Here is a another similar tour .
• Alnwick Castle & Scottish Borders Day Tour – This tour visits Alnwick Castle, a filming location for Hogwarts in Harry Potter as well as Downton Abbey and Transformers: The Last Knight .  The tour also stops in a Scottish Borders market town and along the scenic Northumberland coast. We’ve done this Rabbie’s tour and can recommend.
• 3 Day Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train Tour – This 3 day tour from Edinburgh includes a visit to the Isle of Skye, several iconic Scottish Highlands locations, and includes a ride on the Jacobite steam train.

If you are also headed to London, you can check out our Harry Potter London guide .

Other Noteworthy Places of Interest for Harry Potter Fans

There are so many noteworthy places to visit in Edinburgh, and for first time visitors to Edinburgh, I’d recommend starting with this list of the  21 highlights of Edinburgh . Walking up and down the Royal Mile and around the Old Town reminds many visitors of the world of Harry Potter with its cobbled streets, narrow alleys, and historical stone buildings.

For second time visitors or those looking for some lesser known attractions, I’d also check out this guide to loads of lesser known attractions in Edinburgh . 

Edinburgh was the first UNESCO City of Literature and there are a lot of great literary places to learn more about the writers and poets of Scotland, including The Writers’ Museum  (free) and the Scottish Storytelling Centre  (free). Outside of The Writers’ Museum, the Makars’ Court includes quotes from a number of important British writers and poets on the flagstones.

Learn more about the city and its people at the Museum of Edinburgh (free) and The People’s Story Museum (free), and explore the full history of Scotland and its culture via the National Museum of Scotland   (free). The Lewis chessmen , some of which are on display at the National Museum of Scotland, were the inspiration for the chessman of Wizard’s Chess in the Harry Potter films.

For some childhood fun, consider the Museum of Childhood (free)  or the Camera Obscura and House of Illusions   (entry fee), both contain some illusions that Harry Potter may have appreciated. The great thing about many of Edinburgh’s museums is that they are free to enter (although donations are greatly appreciated!). 

For Harry Potter fans, I would also recommend searching to see if there are any Harry Potter or J.K. Rowling events happening during your visit. For instance, in 2016 a rare first edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone that was illustrated by J.K. Rowling went on public display at The Writers’ Museum in Edinburgh. Other Harry Potter and/or J.K. Rowling events and exhibitions are not uncommon in the city. 

Best Places to Stay in Edinburgh for Harry Potter Fans

If you are planning to spend the night in Edinburgh, you have a lot of options for places to stay in the city from hotels and apartments to B&B’s and hostels. If you are looking for a central location for Harry Potter sites we’d suggest looking for places near Victoria Street and the Grassmarket area. Also anything near the Royal Mile or Waverley train station is central.

There are hundreds of options, but we’ll share some places we recommend for Harry Potter fans. These accommodation options were selected because they are within a short walking distance of the main Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh, have an interesting Harry Potteresque decor or setting, and/or have a direct Harry Potter or JK Rowling connection.

We’ve chosen some for all travel styles and budgets, whether you are a room service queen or a light-walleted backpacker. All are centrally located within Edinburgh.

**Note that in the peak seasons (during summer Edinburgh festivals as well as Hogmanay ) accommodation prices double (or more) across most of the city. Budget finds can be difficult and we recommend booking well in advance to get the kind of lodging you want as the city books almost to capacity during these periods.**

Budget Lodging for Harry Potter Fans

• Castle Rock Hostel – Well-rated hostel with a castle theme, offering dormitory and private rooms. Each dorm room here is themed and one is Harry Potter themed. Located within the Grassmarket area near Victoria Street and about a 3 minute walk to The Elephant House. Adults only.
• Royal Mile Backpackers – Located along the Royal Mile, this centrally located hostel offers dormitory rooms in a central spot. About a 7 minute walk to Victoria Street. 
• Budget Backpackers  – Colorfully decorated hostel with dormitory style rooms located in the Grassmarket area. Great location for Harry Potter fans, only a few minute walk to both Victoria Street and The Elephant House. 
• Stay Central Hotel – A very nice budget hotel that is perfect for those traveling as a group. Hotel offers rooms that can sleep from 2 to 9 persons, so can be a great deal if you have several people to split the cost of the stay. Located about a 6 minute walk from Victoria Street.
• Motel One – A popular modern budget design hotel centrally located in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Located only a few minute walk from the Royal Mile and about a 6 minute walk from Victoria Street. 
• Travelodge Edinburgh Central – A 3-star chain hotel located just a few minute walk from the Royal Mile and a 10 minute walk from Victoria Street. 

Mid-Range Accommodation for Harry Potter Fans

• The Grassmarket Hotel – This 3-star hotel is located within the Grassmarket area and just a couple of minutes walk to Victoria Street and The Elephant House. Hotel has a quirky and colorful modern decor.
• Canongate Luxury Apartment – Dubbed the “Harry Potter apartment”, this 2-bedroom apartment is decorated with a witchery and Harry Potter theme, and has a number of Harry Potter related details and vintage items. Located just off the Royal Mile.
• Holiday Inn Express – This 3-star hotel offers well-priced rooms in the Old Town. Located near the Royal Mile, it is a 5 minute walk from Spoon and about a 10 minute walk from Victoria Street.
• Dunedin Apartments – This well-rated Old Town apartments have a modern decor and all the amenities you need for a self-catering stay. About a 7 minute walk from Waverley train station and a 10 minute walk from The Elephant House.

Luxury Hotels for Harry Potter Fans

• The Balmoral – This hotel opened in 1902 as a traditional railway hotel and has long been a landmark hotel in Edinburgh. This hotel is a mix of traditional and modern decor and has some beautiful suites, including the JK Rowling Grand Suite where Rowling finished writing the final Harry Potter book. Located next to the Waverley train station.
• The Witchery – This popular boutique luxury hotel & restaurant named after the witches who were burned at Castlehill in the 16th and 17th centuries. The hotel has 9 different themed suites which are lavishly decorated with Gothic touches, large 4-poster oak beds, antiques, and flamboyant decorations. If there is one place that will transport you to another place and time, this is it! Located in a 17th century building, this hotel sits just below Edinburgh Castle along the Royal Mile. A 5 minute walk to Edinburgh Castle or a 2 minute walk to Victoria Street.
• The Scotsman – This 4-star hotel with a majestic historical exterior and a modern interior. This 1905 building used to be the offices for The Scotsman newspaper. The Scotsman is a 2 minute walk from the Waverley train station and 1 minute walk from the Royal Mile.
• Radisson Collection Hotel – This 5-star luxury hotel is perfectly located for Harry Potter fans just around the corner from Victoria Street in the Old Town and a 2 minute walk from The Elephant House. Rooms and suites have a modern decor.
• The Principal Edinburgh  – This 5-star hotel consists of seven inter-connecting townhouses and sits in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. A beautifully decorated hotel with a mix of modern decor and vintage travel touches. Across from Charlotte Square where the Edinburgh Book Festival takes place in August, and is about a 17 minute walk from The Elephant House. 

There you have it, our guide to the top Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh! We hope that you have found this useful and helpful in planning your trip to Edinburgh.

We also suggest you check out some more of our Edinburgh content to help you plan your trip to the city, including our guide to what to do in Edinburgh , and our g uide to visiting the Edinburgh festivals in August .

Which of these would you want to visit? Have you been to any of these Harry Potter sites? Feel free to let us know if you have any updates on information about the sites or know of any additional J.K. Rowling or Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh you think should be added to this list.

As always, we love your comments and feel free to ask us any questions about Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh or any other question you may have about visiting the city or Scotland in general!

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Mackenzie Jervis Post author

March 4, 2024 at 3:16 pm

All of these places are so amazing. Perfect locations for a Harry Potter fan road trip!

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

March 4, 2024 at 3:27 pm

Hi Mackenzie,

So glad you enjoyed our Edinburgh Harry Potter post! Yes, in this article everything is located within the city of Edinburgh, but if you check out our Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland and Harry Potter filming locations in UK articles, those are definitely ones you could build a great road trip from with sites all over the country.

My husband Laurence and I have been lucky to visit all the major filming locations in the UK, and although all the filming locations are interesting, the one not to miss place for most fans is definitely the studio tour .

If you have any questions about Harry Potter locations, just ask!

Best, Jessica

Prinietha Post author

August 25, 2019 at 10:10 am

Hi Jessica, good day!! First and foremost, love love love this post! It is my personal itinerary now when I’m walking around Edinburgh. Thank you for that. Are there any upcoming Harry Potter events this Oct/Nov? This is my first time travelling to Edinburgh and I want to have the best Potter experience I can!! (within budget of course :))

August 25, 2019 at 11:59 am

Hi Prinietha,

Glad you enjoyed our article! Yes you can definitely spend most of a day exploring the JK Rowling and Harry Potter related sites in Edinburgh. You can explore the Harry Potter sites in our article on your own or join other fans by taking one of the Harry Potter walking tours in Edinburgh.

Let’s see, I think the Spontaneous Potter improv shows are still going strong at the Monkey Barrel. You can do wizard themed drinks mixing classes at either The Cauldron or The Department of Magic. The Department of Magic also has magic themed escape rooms. So if those are of interest, I’d check dates for those (links are above in the article).

I know there is a Harry Potter concert in September at Usher Hall but I am not aware of any specific special events for October or November. However, I’d check back again in the next month or so as there will likely be something. Edinburgh tends to have about one one-off Potter event every month or two 😉

Of course, if you want to see Harry Potter filming locations, you’ll want to plan some time outside of Edinburgh. So I’d consider doing a day tour if you are interested in any of the Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland .

Hope that helps and just let me know if you have further questions as you plan your trip to Edinburgh!

August 26, 2019 at 2:50 am

Thank you for the quick reply! I’m looking forward to the trip ????

Pam Post author

May 20, 2019 at 12:14 pm

Wow… Can’t wait to see when I visit in late August!

May 20, 2019 at 12:29 pm

Hi Pam, Hope you enjoy your visit to Edinburgh and have fun finding all the HP related sites 😉 ~ Jessica

Tim B Post author

May 17, 2019 at 1:48 pm

Our daughter, Nicole just finished her first year in veterinary school at the University of Edinburgh and has been living in old town since last July. I was fist there last year to settle her in and summed up the city as a mix of Harry Potter, Oliver Twist and Peter Pan all in one. Its the only city I found in all the world that is even close to the novels in real life. I would encourage anyone interested in visiting Europe and expect an old world and enchanting vacation to visit.. My wife and I stay at The Witchery, As outlined in your article , this place totally immerses you back to all that you expect if you were to visit Hogsmeade. Its pricey, but you get what you pay for. Every turn in Edinburgh is what you dream about seeing. Gothic architecture, dark closes and winds, cobblestone streets, ect. Its all there. Food, entertainment and drinks are everywhere are about the same price as what you would expect in any larger city in the US. If you stay near the city center, you can walk anywhere. forget about renting a car, they drive on the left and speed traps are everywhere. an Uber gets you anywhere really fast and affordably

May 18, 2019 at 2:33 am

Hi Tim, Glad you enjoyed your first trip to Edinburgh and stay at The Witchery! The Old Town is pretty special and thanks for sharing your experience. I hope you get a chance to return again soon 😉 Best, Jessica

TIm B Post author

May 18, 2019 at 7:36 am

My wife and I are going back June fourth to spend a week there and staying at The Witchery when we visit Nicole before she comes home for the summer break. Certainly stopping by the pub in Holyrood Park. I’m told it’s the oldest pub in the UK and it resembles The Poison Apple from Shrek where all the naughty fairytale characters hung out in every way.

May 18, 2019 at 7:59 am

Hi Tim, Oh that is great you get to return to Edinburgh summer. I am guessing you are referring to The Sheep Heid in Duddingston? It’s not the oldest pub in the UK (we’ve been to a several in England with much older claims) but I believe it does lay claim to being the oldest surviving public house in Scotland. Not sure how much you’ll think it resembles a pub in Shrek, but it’s a great place for a nice pub lunch or dinner – Queen Elizabeth II even dined there once back in 2016 😉 Best, Jessica

Ian Post author

April 22, 2019 at 9:21 am

So good to see an attempt to sift fact from fiction. I live in Exeter, where JK Rowling was a student. There is much wild speculation, presented as fact, and constantly repeated online, that certain Exeter locations are inspirations for the Harry Potter books. It seems unlikely to me that she would have been thinking about the place she spent three years as a student a decade earlier when she was writing, and there isn’t a shread of evidence for it all. The funniest thing was when a pub, the Old Firehouse, here sold recently. Popular folklore held it to be the inspiration for the Leaky Cauldron (even though it bares no resemblence to the pub described in the books). On its sale, this made the press a fuss about this and Rowling saw it, and tweeted that she had never even been in the place!

April 22, 2019 at 10:18 am

Hi Ian, Yes, it can be difficult to find facts and there is a lot of inaccurate and speculative information given as fact in regard to Harry Potter. I had to do a lot of digging to find information and even reputable newspapers often just repeat the same information without doing any fact checking so I primarily relied on JK Rowling’s writing and interviews as sources.

That is interesting about Exeter, I didn’t realize it claimed HP related sites as well. Funny about the pub, at least people can say for sure now that it was NOT an inspiration for anything HP related! We were in Bristol on a tour a few years ago and the guide pointed out some street as having been the inspiration for Diagon Alley and we just shook our heads 😉 Best, Jessica

Frenchrikku Post author

March 16, 2019 at 3:20 am

I can vouch for George Heriot’s being the inspiration for Ravenclaw, not Hogwarts. She used Fettes College for Griffindor. I forget which other ones she used for the two other houses. They have the exact same school colors as the houses. Fettes College is much more similar to Hogwarts in comparison of size. The interviewer giving me a tour I was with told me so.

When I was in HS I studied abroad in Edinburgh. I applied to Fettes, and George Heriots and another I’ve forgotten. I was allowed a tour of Fettes and it resembles Hogwarts inside the hallways to a t. It had grounds/fields and dormitories. The area with the headmaster is just as cozy as Dumbledores, fireplace and chairs and all. I was in awe when I saw the films after studying there. It was like being back in Fettes.

However, George Heriots is where I ended up going bc it cost a little less and didn’t require boarding. The halls are a little darker, and it has the wee four towers to get to classes on different floors. Perhaps that’s why Ravenclaw tower is so dark? They have sadly “modernized” all the classrooms to be stale, trailer-looking environments. It is known for being the “clever” school.

I forget the name of the school she modeled Slytherin after but it was definitely the “hated/rival” school to George Heriot’s. Hufflepuff was the one you went to if you couldn’t get into any of the others. Fettes College was noted for it’s “glory and sports.” This was very clearly explained to me by my friend when I asked what the other school uniforms were. She did not directly say they were HP related. However, school colors and exact sentiments about the corresponding schools are too close of a coincidence. So all of JK Rowling’s houses main characteristics were directly influenced by schools in Edinburgh.

Hope this helps!

March 16, 2019 at 9:06 am

Hi there, Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences visiting Fettes College and time at George Heriot’s. There are a lot of people who think they know the inspiration but Rowling has never revealed any direct inspiration, so we may never know. But it is fun to guess 😉 Best, Jessica

frenchrikku Post author

June 23, 2019 at 11:23 pm

Well, if you feel that way, I would amend your own post then.

No author, this famous, in their right mind would give credit to “influences.” It also prevents Potterheads from swarming her supposed influences. It’s probably done as a defense against insane Harry Potter fans, not confirming influences.

The school colors match (part of your post you have yet to mention). The buildings look way too similar. The sentiment felt by actual students within those schools are the same characteristics found in her books. Believe what you will. George Heriot’s is not an inspiration for Hogwarts, but for Ravenclaw.

June 24, 2019 at 6:51 am

Hi there, I think you’ll find if you visited a lot of UK schools that many of the older schools are very similar and have a number of houses and school colors and similar uniforms. JK Rowling has acknowledged many influences in her books, but not for Hogwarts. Many people think they know her influences for Hogwarts and other places in the books which range from a number of places in the UK and even Portugal. George Heriot’s sit near where she wrote and lived so a common guess, but as stated, we have no real idea. We try to stick to facts based on what she has said or written. Best, Jessica

Elizabeth G Post author

February 26, 2019 at 2:36 pm

Hi Jessica & Laurence,

Wow, as others have said, this is an amazing post for a Potterhead like me. I am so excited to use this as my guide during our trip to Edinburgh, actually just exciting to read it at home and learn!!!

Now, unfortunatly, my husband is not such a big fan of the books or films and we have only a short time in the city. So instead of wandering around on my own (and probably getting distracted by everything and taking up lots of time!) I am thinking to do a tour on my own while my husband goes off to visit the National Museum. I won’t have a lot of time to do and was wondering what you recommend to see the most in a relatively short period.

Any advice appreciated!

February 26, 2019 at 3:09 pm

Hi Elizabeth, So happy you enjoyed our Edinburgh Harry Potter article 😉

If you are looking for walking tours, I’d look at perhaps the 2 hour one as it covers the highlights and isn’t too rushed. If you want something a little quicker I’d consider the free Harry Potter tour. Since the walks do not go into the cafes, you may want to stop into one before or after your tour, and maybe something where you husband can join you 😉 Elephant House is a short walk from the National Museum of Scotland.

Hope that helps and wishing you a wonderful visit to Edinburgh! Jessica

Shani Post author

November 17, 2018 at 1:37 pm

Well done! An incredible list and a very well written article!

Don’t forget the HP escape room on Blair Street 🙂

Also if you pass by Middle Meadow Walk in the Meadows on a Wednesday or Saturday afternoon, you might catch the Holyrood Hippogriffs during their quidditch practice. They are an amazing bunch of people and will let you watch them practice (muggle rules) 🙂

November 18, 2018 at 7:05 am

Hi Shani, Glad you enjoyed our article on Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh.

Yes, we haven’t been to the Department of Magic yet for drinks or their escape room, but are going to check it out soon. It is not Harry Potter themed (no rights to do so) but it is magic and wizard themed. But will definitely add it once we have been.

Ah, yes, that is great if you can catch the Holyrood Hippogriffs in action playing quidditch. I think they are currently playing abroad in Spain right now!

Ronald Laan Post author

October 24, 2018 at 12:24 am

Hi Jessica, Laurence,

I loved this post as it gave me some much needed substance between all the marketing/sales blabla out there on Harry Potter & Edinburgh. So really appreciated that you made the effort to sort this all out.

When travelling through Edinburgh I have found one more Harry Potter reference, which I think should definately be mentioned to others as well. I think they fit in the Fiction-section but on the other side is is so clear that I would not be surprised that Mrs. Rowling has been influenced by it.

I saw it during my visit to Edinburgh Castle. It is when the Scottish ‘King’ is going to be knighted. He gets offered all kinds of attributes by important people (these are all mannequins) and the final most prominent offer and mannequin is an Italian knight and he offers the king not a sword, gold or some other fancy ornament, which you would expect in these times but no he presents him with a hat (!). How it is portrayed there it really resembles the sorting hat in my opinion. I can send you a picture if you want.

Thanks again for the post!

Cheers, Ronald

The first is the colour of Gryffindor during Quidditch matches.

October 25, 2018 at 12:20 pm

Thanks for taking the time to comment. First, so glad you enjoyed our Edinburgh Harry Potter guide and thoughts on Potter related things to see and do.

I am also happy to hear that you found even more potential Harry Potter connections as well as references during your visit to Edinburgh! The knighting of the king at Edinburgh Castle sounds very interesting and the presentation of the hat is rather unexpected, I think I’d rather have some gold 😉 Interesting that it looks a lot like the sorting hat – I have not seen or heard about that before. Thanks so much for sharing – it is definitely hard to know where J.K. Rowling took some of her inspiration!

Sounds like you had a great trip to Edinburgh and wishing you safe travels home if you are still traveling.

Harry Post author

October 18, 2018 at 8:54 am

Wow, wonderful and detailed guide to everything Harry Potter and JK Rowling in Edinburgh – big help for planning our Scotland trip as we are huge Potter fans!

October 18, 2018 at 12:04 pm

Hi Harry, So happy you enjoyed our guide, and wishing you a wonderful trip to Edinburgh! Best, Jessica

vanessa Post author

July 11, 2018 at 4:10 am

OMG ! Thank you sooo much for this ! I am going to Edinburgh and you made it so easy ! THANKS SO MUCH. Can’t wait to follow your Harry Potter list by myself this sunday. xxx

July 11, 2018 at 5:19 am

Hi Vanessa, Thanks for taking the time to comment, and glad you found our Harry Potter post helpful in finding what you want to see on your trip. Wishing you a great visit to Edinburgh this Sunday!! Best, Jessica

Bernadette Post author

June 14, 2018 at 1:49 pm

Very extensive list, more than most websites for Harry stuff. We are making our first visit in a few days and your list and map will be very helpful. I suspect my kiddo will have some wonderful photos and stories for Harry Potter camp this year! Thanks.

June 16, 2018 at 2:11 pm

Hi Bernadette, Glad you found our article and Harry Potter map helpful for planning your upcoming trip to Edinburgh! Hope your kiddo has a lot of fun visiting all the spots. Thanks for taking the time to comment! Best, Jessica

Kim Post author

March 20, 2018 at 2:53 pm

Thank you for a very informative post, it was awesome! We’re coming to the end of a holiday in Edinburgh and have seen lots of great things both Potter and non-Potter related, and your post was a great help!! I am a huge Potter fan like half the rest of the world 😛

It was really cool to read about what is conjecture, what is fact and what is fiction! Like you’ve said I think there is enjoyment in the links even though they actually might not be true e.g. I still enjoyed seeing the grave with the name Thomas Riddell even though I knew it was unlikely to have actually influenced J K. It does make me laugh though, the idea of these claims spreading. We visited the zoo and a staff member was telling us about how if you enter the territory of the Southern Cassowary (bird that looks like a dinosaur) they will attack you with their sharp claws or a strong kick… Now I’m just imagining in a few months “Visit Edinburgh zoo – home of the Southern Cassowary, inspiration for Harry Potter’s Hippogriffs!!”

Thanks again!

March 20, 2018 at 5:18 pm

I am so glad that you found our Harry Potter article helpful. Yes, the blurring of fact and fiction is really interesting and some people really believe in these places as being true Harry Potters sites. That is an interesting thought about Edinburgh Zoo, that is the first time I have heard someone propose a connection with J.K. Rowling although she has almost certainly been there. I can see the resemblance between the cassowaries and hippogriffs, anything is possible 😉 London Zoo is already a Harry Potter destination as one of the filming locations .

But there is a connection between Edinburgh Zoo with JK Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts series as the first film was shown there and there was a Fantastic Beasts trail there a couple of years ago – likely will be future events as the new films are released.

I hope you enjoy the remainder of your holiday in Edinburgh – it has been really cold but we’ve had some really beautiful sunny weather this past couple of days!

Jon Post author

March 16, 2018 at 7:35 am

Hi, I just came across and read your post today. I have actually lived in Edinburgh all my life and spent a great deal of it in and around many of the places you mention here. Especially the area around the High Street and Greyfriars (I’ve had a few flats around this area).

I have a possible HP inspiration location that I’ve not seen mentioned anywhere else. To one side and at the back of the Tron Church just off the High Street in Edinburgh is a street called Blair Street. About half way down used to be an old ironmongers shop called Dunns of Blair Street. I had cause to visit this on quite a few occasions during the late seventies and into the eighties. This shop inside was a dead ringer for the shop where Harry gets his first wand in the first book/film. Down the middle was a counter which looked like it had seen centuries of service and directly behind it was shelving reaching up to the roof made up of lots of pigeon hole style compartments. These in turn were filled with tons of old small cardboard boxes much like the ones the wands came in and were filled with items the like of you will not find in many places today. Everything there looked really old and the smell as you entered was amazing – not bad but a bit like going back in time – the smell of lots of history.

I’ve often mused whether at some point JK Rowling found herself in that shop for some reason and used it as a basis for the wand shop. Sadly it is long gone as the owners were quite old and probably passed away. They themselves also reminded me of John Hurt’s character as they too used a big sliding ladder to reach the upper shelves and their merchandise. I remember watching in fascination as they would creak their way up the old ladder to the upper shelves.

Sadly I’ve not come across anyone else who remembers it. Perhaps I’ll sketch it out – only I’ll have to avoid my memory being tainted by the shop in the film.

Thanks for the post. Really enjoyed it.

March 16, 2018 at 10:20 am

Thanks for your comment! I just searched and found a photo online so can see where you are coming from with all the shelves and ladders, it does remind you a bit of Ollivander’s, the wand store in Harry Potter.

However, I am not sure the Dunn’s ironmongers store was still open by the time J.K. Rowling moved here in the early 1990’s (the financial records at the Archives seem to indicate it closed in the mid-1980’s). You could find out more at the Edinburgh City Archives as they have files there about J & J.A. Dunn , including their financial and company records. There are also some old photos online if you do a search.

Good luck with your search and I hope you find out more about the company. Doing a sketch might be a good way to preserve the images you have in your head!

Gerry Lowe Post author

March 15, 2018 at 1:56 pm

Really awesome work here! Taking my son to Scotland on holiday from America and suspect we’ll be taking in some of these specific Harry Potter sights. Thank you so much for taking the time to document and doing such a wonderful job!!!

March 16, 2018 at 10:08 am

Thanks Gerry for taking the time to comment, and I hope that you and your son enjoy your trip to Scotland. Hope your son enjoys the Harry Potter places in Edinburgh as well as all the other great attractions that Scotland has to offer! Just let me know if you have any questions as you plan out your trip! Best, Jessica

Bazz Post author

February 8, 2018 at 9:49 am

Great article for Harry Potter fans! We were in Edinburgh last year and used a private guide from Edinburgh Walks who gave us some of the information you have here as well as great recommendations for eating out etc. The guide told us how McGonnigle was well know to everyone as Scotland’s worst poet and that Tony Blair’s old school in town looked more like Hogwarts to him. It’s nice to get that balance without spoiling things and gives you the chance to decide what you think is true. Thanks again for this great Potter article!

February 10, 2018 at 12:10 pm

Hi Bazz, Thanks so much, and thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. Yes, we know the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh better than most 😉 One of the problems we have heard from some visitors is that some guides are stating information as facts that is far from being proven (or is definitely false). So I do agree that it is good to be able to separate the facts from fiction, and people can then choose to believe what they wish. We’ve heard that some guides are using information from our article during their tour.

Tony Blair’s school is Fettes College and we agree that it does look more castle like (especially when you look at it from an angle) than George Heriot’s School, but the George Heriot’s School school is closer to where Rowling lived and wrote hence the association people have made. There are loads of interesting castle-like schools and other buildings in the area, my personal fave is probably Donaldson’s College. There is also Stewart’s Melville College. All are cool buildings (all private), although my personal thoughts are likely that none were the inspiration for Hogwarts but you never know 😉

Glad you had such a great experience of visiting the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh, and hope you get a chance to return to Edinburgh!

Melanie Chadd Post author

January 23, 2018 at 8:55 am

This is one of the best Harry Potter location posts I have read. I love that you have added the fact or fiction section to each place too.

Fab images too

January 24, 2018 at 6:00 am

Hi Melanie, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment! Glad you enjoyed the post, and yes we put a bit of time into researching some of the history and background of each site as associated with JK Rowling and Harry Potter. Best, Jessica

Fideli Post author

September 24, 2017 at 4:25 am

We live quite close to Hazelbank Terrace and have passed it a gazillion times going to the playground in Harrison Park, never knew J.K. Rowling used to live there. Now we will pass it with another kind of reverence. Very interesting article on Harry Potter sites even for an Edinburgh resident!

September 25, 2017 at 11:35 am

Yes, Rowling has lived in several spots in and around Edinburgh, including a flat in Hazelbank Terrace. According to the The Herald, she actually gifted the apartment to a friend after she moved out. Seems like a nice thing to do! Glad you enjoyed our article on Harry Potter spots in Edinburgh, especially as a resident!! Best, Jessica

Anna Post author

June 10, 2017 at 6:55 am

I love Harry Potter and I have read them all three times. This summer I am about to start the fourth run and I’m out reading up for inspiration. It’s not like spoilers are an issue after so many reads 😉 Would definitely plan to visit all these places in Edinburgh.

June 15, 2017 at 10:14 am

Hi Anna, You sound like a very big Potter fan and I hope you get a chance to visit the many Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh and elsewhere in the UK! Best, Jessica

Simon Feegrade Post author

April 10, 2017 at 2:45 am

An interesting post, always good to see some solid sense being applied to some of the more fanciful claims about origins and inspirations, though it can be quite good fun speculating about them. I always thought it was a bit of a stretch for The Elephant House to say they are the “birthplace” of HP, but I have had a very decent hearty breakfast there before so that’s to its credit.

Do you know what, though – whatever the reason might be for an Edinburgh visit, it will always be worthwhile. Potter locations or not, it’s a wonderful city full of character and great places and interesting locations. Anyone who’s never been – make sure you do!

April 10, 2017 at 10:47 am

Hi Simon, Glad you liked our post on finding the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh! Yes, there are a lot of false (or stretched) claims out there about the Harry Potter sites (in Edinburgh and elsewhere) but I think most travelers don’t care that much and the places are still worth visiting. But I do think people should be aware of the actual facts about some of these places. And as you say, Edinburgh is a lovely city and there is so much to do here! Best, Jessica

Kay Rodwell Post author

March 7, 2017 at 5:54 pm

Hello, Wow, I have been searching for some information on Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh all evening and I was getting fed up with some of these blog posts that had inaccurate information or showed no information about real connections. Thank you so much for putting so much effort into this and I am going to use your post to put together my own Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh when I visit in April with some fellow Potterheads. Thanks again! Kay

March 7, 2017 at 6:18 pm

Hi Kay, So happy to hear that you found our post helpful and I hope you have a great time finding all the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh. Many are more JK Rowling sites than Harry Potter I suppose 😉 Have a great trip in April and do let me know if you are needing any info for planning your trip in April! Best, Jessica

J. Suchozebrsk Post author

February 16, 2017 at 10:38 pm

Wow, what incredible city! It looks like the great place to visit. Truly nice photos.

February 17, 2017 at 4:15 am

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it and Edinburgh is a fantastic city to visit, whether you are interested in the Harry Potter sites or not. We have a bunch of Edinburgh posts on the blog where you can learn about some of the main attractions and also the festivals! ~ Jessica

February 15, 2017 at 7:04 am

Thanks, glad you liked it 😉

Michele Post author

February 14, 2017 at 1:14 pm

What a well researched post! I really like that you separated fact from fiction as I suppose local legends may attempt to draw more of a connection than may actually exist. I was also struck by the difference in writing location between the cafes and Balmoral hotel. Earlier in the post, I had been wondering how anonymous she could have been writing in cafes by the end of the series. I’d love to visit these sights… some for the Harry Potter connection and others just because they seem quite scenic.

February 14, 2017 at 4:59 pm

Hi Michele, Oh, you know me! I intended to write a quick short, fluffy blog post covering the Harry Potter sites with lots of photos. However, I ended up doing a lot of research into it and it took me over a week to write! I definitely think that while JK Rowling probably worked a lot in cafés when she was writing the early Harry Potter books, my guess is that she rarely went for the later ones. She was too well-known and famous by then and I would imagine fans would have interrupted her all day long. I can definitely see why she chose to get away from her house to the Balmoral suite rather than a coffeehouse to finish her final book. I bet she misses that anonymity. She said that the “best writing café is crowded enough to allow you blend in, but not too crowded that you have to share a table with someone else”, unfortunately for her she’d have to go some place pretty remote to “blend in” now. I hope you get a chance to visit some of these places! ~ Jessica

eileen g Post author

February 14, 2017 at 1:09 pm

Breakfast at Elephant House was a must when we visited the city with our young Potter fan. it was the thing she told all her friends about when she got home. A plus was that the food is good and not expensive. We stopped into the Balmoral too and I have to say it is the most dull hotel lobby I’ve ever seen in a luxury hotel (I guess it’s understated). I don’t really buy that the Grassmarket inspired Diagon Alley, though I’ve read it in a few places. i think it’s too wide and light and brightly colored. Diagon alley is more narrow and dark. I thought the many keeps along the Royal MIle were more Diagon-Alley-ish.

February 14, 2017 at 3:44 pm

Hi Eileen, That is funny that breakfast at The Elephant House was her most memorable thing from Edinburgh 😉 I have to admit though our food was also good and reasonably priced although the lines here can be terrible. I think Victoria Street is quite pretty and photogenic but I can think of alleys in Edinburgh (and in many other places) that better match J.K. Rowling’s description. I would love to know the source of her inspirations for so much after writing this article. Best, Jessica

Jim Post author

February 12, 2017 at 12:11 am

This is a great theme to base a trip to Edinburgh around. It’s such an amazing city and this could give some focus and reference for those Harry Potter fans out there.

February 12, 2017 at 8:40 am

Hi Jim, Yes, indeed, it is a great way to put together an itinerary for Harry Potter fans visiting Edinburgh! Best, Jessica

Bryna Post author

February 11, 2017 at 4:47 pm

I love this post, as a big fan of the Harry Potter books! I was in secondary school. living in the UK when the books were still being released and have many fond memories of waiting in line to buy the books at midnight! If I ever make it out to Edinburgh again, I’d for sure check out the spots on this post!

February 12, 2017 at 8:39 am

Hi Bryna, So many people have fond memories of Harry Potter as you do, and I am sure seeking out these Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh would be a fun experience for you! ~ Jessica

Rob+Ann Post author

February 11, 2017 at 4:11 pm

I imagine that Harry Potter connections in Scotland are much like George Washington connections in what was Colonial America. Real or imagined, they are great fun to hunt down. Handy list – thanks for sharing it!

February 12, 2017 at 8:38 am

Hi Rob & Ann, Yes, I think that is the case with many famous people or even fictional ones isn’t it? It is the fun of searching and learning I think that is most important 😉 ~ Jessica

Anda Post author

February 11, 2017 at 11:24 am

Haven’t seen Edinburgh yet, but I am a great fan of Harry Potter, so I hope to visit Scotland one of these days. I would especially like to see the Edinburgh Castle that might have been the inspiration for the Harry Potter books. And even if it wasn’t, I’d still enjoy visiting this great fortress.

February 11, 2017 at 1:32 pm

Hi Anda, Yes, Edinburgh Castle is definitely worth the visit! Hope you get a chance to visit Edinburgh! ~ Jessica

Ruth Post author

February 11, 2017 at 9:43 am

I am amazed of the many places associated with Harry Potter in the city. Plus, I imagine how many stories people tell that are not necessarily true (just to attract fans). Also, I find interesting how the actual places where J.K. Rowling wrote have a plaque or sign to prove it. That is some good publicity! And, gotta love the pub selling butter beer. I know it is sold in the Universal Studios Harry Potter area but didn’t know other where making their own version.

February 11, 2017 at 10:00 am

Hi Ruth, Yes, so many places have tried to cash in on the Harry Potter series and you definitely see some of this in Edinburgh. Many cafés have made claims that JK Rowling wrote the Harry Potter books there, but now its mainly The Elephant House that really promotes this (and has a legitimate claim although it goes too far with the “birthplace of Harry Potter” thing). Spoon doesn’t promote this though and doesn’t get the tourist crowds. Likewise, the Harry Potter Trail tours don’t really try to dispel fact from fiction for fans, but I think people like to believe the associations, whether they are true or not. Fans actually leave notes at the Thomas Riddell grave to Voldemort…and have sadly defaced gravestones in the cemetery ;-( However, there has been some backlash to this and interestingly, you can find signs at local businesses now that say things like “JK Rowling never wrote here” 🙂 ~ Jessica

Paul and Carole Post author

February 11, 2017 at 9:08 am

This is a really insightful post regarding all things Harry Potter, we are big Potter fans and love the detail here. JK Rowling went to the same school at the same time as me at Wyedean, she was in the year above. However, unfortunately I didn’t know her!

Great post, have pinned this for future reference for when we visit Edinburgh. Thanks for sharing.

February 11, 2017 at 9:25 am

Hi Paul & Carole, Glad you found our Harry Potter post insightful and that is so cool that you went to the same school as JK Rowling. Too bad you don’t know her, she seems like an interesting lady! Thanks for pinning and thanks for taking the time to comment! Best, Jessica

Anisa Post author

February 11, 2017 at 4:55 am

So I haven’t seen the movies or read the books yet! I know I need to, it is just a matter of time. I still really enjoyed the post though as I love Edinburgh and want to explore it now. It is funny I did look at staying at the Balmoral Hotel but decided it was too expensive. It is a beautiful hotel and interesting to learn the Harry Potter connection. Also, I did visit Edinburgh Castle and just loved it. I am fascinated with Mary Queen of Scots after reading the Other Queen by Philippa Gregory. So it was also interesting to learn about the book festival. I think that would really be a great event to attend.

February 11, 2017 at 5:54 am

Hi Anisa, Yes, the Balmoral Hotel is a bit expensive (especially the J.K. Rowling suite), but you can also visit for a meal, drink, or tea. Edinburgh Castle is definitely a great place to visit and the one place we’d recommend for any visitor – I’m also very fascinated with Mary Queen of Scots and if you return I’d also recommend Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh and Linlithgow Palace (elsewhere in Scotland) – there are a lot of places with Mary Queen of Scots associations but those three are great ones. We were lucky to get to see Philippa Gregory speak at the Edinburgh International Book Festival last year when we were covering the August festivals and she is an excellent speaker – I’ve read most of her books. I’d definitely recommend the Book Festival for anyone with a love of books! ~ Jessica

Lyn Post author

February 10, 2017 at 6:43 pm

I love the depth of your posts and I should be planning a trip to Edinburgh after reading this post… or at least start familiarising myself with Harry Potter. Am I the only person who has never read or watched Harry Potter?

February 11, 2017 at 5:49 am

Hi Lyn, I have not read all the books but I have seen all the films. You are not the only one but the popularity of the series is immense. The book series I think is the best selling books series ever and the movies are one of the most lucrative media franchises ever! J.K. Rowling is one of the best-selling living authors and people in the UK. I would have thought that the popularity of HP would died down after the last movie was released but it seems to just keep going with new theme parks and Harry Potter attractions being released almost ever year. If you live in the Uk as we do, it is hard to escape the Harry Potter references, since it was filmed all over the country and the association has increased tourism to a number of film sites. ~ Jessica

Lolo Post author

February 10, 2017 at 12:41 pm

As usual, incredibly thorough and very detailed! You have shown me the side to Harry Potter in Edinburgh most don’t write about, so it’s definitely interesting to see the places that inspired her!

February 11, 2017 at 5:38 am

Hi Lolo, Thanks and yes most Harry Potter posts just simply say this inspired XX but often there is no basis for this so I wanted to write a post for those who want to know if there is any factual data behind the claims (did J.K. Rowling actually write here, did she actually base the character name on this gravestone or road?). However, I think many Harry Potter fans are happy to go to the sites and don’t necessarily care about whether it really is connected or not 😉 Jessica

Tanja Post author

February 9, 2017 at 9:31 am

I’ve been to Edinburgh and I’ve visited a couple of places from this list but visiting HP places wasn’t really my priority when being in Edinburgh, maybe it looks like I made a mistake?! 🙂

February 10, 2017 at 9:56 am

Hi Tanja, There is a lot to do in Edinburgh, so not surprised you didn’t make it to many of these places on a first visit. But if you are a HP fan, hope you get to see more of the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh on your next visit! Best, Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

February 9, 2017 at 6:34 am

I literally just watched a marathon of all of the movies over the weekend so these are “fresh” in my mind. I would love coming here and seeing all of it. I agree that it is amazing how J.K. Rowling began with no money or resources. She has an incredible mind and the tenacity to see her idea through – the keys to success. Such a fun trip and post to read!

February 10, 2017 at 9:54 am

Hi Seana, Yes, to be honest, I’m not a super huge Harry Potter fan although have enjoyed the books/films. In researching this post, I got to learn more about Rowling and listened to a number of her interviews and became an admirer. Hers is an amazing story that shows that having a plan and being persistent really pays off! ~ Jessica

Holly Post author

February 8, 2017 at 7:32 pm

I feel like I need to use this blog and give myself a tour now!

February 10, 2017 at 9:51 am

Hi Holly, You can definitely use the attached Google map to do your own walking tour and add or subtract places as you wish! Edinburgh is very walkable and all of these places are located within walking distance (or short bus ride if you’d rather take a bus) of central Edinburgh! ~ Jessica

Dani Post author

February 8, 2017 at 7:00 pm

As a huge Harry Potter fan, I was so excited to see this post pop up on my feed! This post is so comprehensive, I love all the little facts that I never even knew about. I can definitely see how Victoria Street and the Grassmarket Area COULD have been inspiration for Diagon Alley!

February 10, 2017 at 9:50 am

Hi Dani, Glad you enjoyed our Harry Potter in Edinburgh guide! Yes, Victoria Street and the Grassmarket area were already popular with visitors and the Harry Potter connection now draws even more people now. I think Edinburgh is a great place for Potter fans as there are several places that are tied to JK Rowling and the books and it is also a great city to walk around and there is so much else here. Best, Jessica

Ethan Post author

February 8, 2017 at 6:19 pm

This is a very fun and interesting post. I never knew Scotland had so much to do with Harry Potter books!

February 10, 2017 at 9:48 am

Hi Ethan, Yes, I think most people think of London and Harry Potter, but Scotland (and Edinburgh in particular) is the place where JK Rowling actually wrote the books and has lived since 1993. It doesn’t have any ties to filming but is tied to the author and books. Thanks for your comment! ~ Jessica

Jane Post author

February 8, 2017 at 4:51 pm

Well now I need to plan a trip to Scotland after reading all this!

February 10, 2017 at 9:47 am

Hi Jane, Sounds like you must be a Harry Potter fan. Just let us know if you have any questions! Best, Jessica

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Activities , For Locals

15 must-see magical harry potter sites in edinburgh.

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Have you read all the books and watched the films? Growing up in Edinburgh meant that I got as close as I could to my dream of being a real-life boy wizard. Not only did J.K.

Rowling write the books in cafes in Edinburgh, but many of the sights, sounds and smells of the city inspired her characters and locations.  If, like me, you’re a major Harry Potter fan, you’ll need to check out the inspiration for Diagon Alley, Gringotts Bank and even the name of The Dark Lord himself. 

If you’re visiting Edinburgh, or are a local looking to learn more about the inspiration behind the novels, check out our guide and plan your own Harry Potter walk of Edinburgh. 

There are plenty Harry Potter things to do in Edinburgh to keep you entertained on a trip to the capital, so whether your planning a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh, or are planning to book a professional Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh, keep reading to learn about the sites that inspired J.K. Rowling in Edinburgh.

Harry Potter Things to Do in Edinburgh

1. the elephant house.

Known as the Harry Potter café in Edinburgh, it’s hard to miss this bright red eatery on George IV Bridge.  It’s one of the most well-known Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh.

You’ll see a sign in the window that says this is the “birthplace of Harry Potter.”

Whilst this is partially true, this is not actually the place where Rowling wrote the first book, The Philosopher’s Stone (or Sorcerer’s Stone for our US audience!).  

The first book was written at the other end of Chambers Street, in the Nicolsons Café, above Black Medicine.

When you visit the Elephant House, check out the bathroom walls, which are scrawled with Dumbledore’s Army signups.

There’s even a (tiny) plaque dedicated to the first chapters outside Black Medicine Coffee. 

See if you can find it!

Luckily, this is a Harry Potter landmark that Rowling herself has confirmed as true! Huzzah!

That one’s true! I used to write in Nicolsons all the time. I once wrote an entire chapter in there in one sitting and barely changed a word afterwards. Those are the days you remember. I think Nicolsons is now a Chinese Restaurant. pic.twitter.com/JNKDP0ywJK — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) May 21, 2020

Just across the road from The Elephant House is McGonagalls Gin & Whisky Emporium, which has a little Potter vibe to it.

You may also like – Where to eat in Edinburgh .

2. Artisan Roast

“J.K. Rowling Never Wrote Here” – or so the sign says. In a comical nod to The Elephant House, Artisan Roast plastered this handwritten chalk sign on its wall.

But Rowling did write something here, one time – look carefully at the bottom of the sign and you’ll notice Rowling has appended it with  “And I never will.” This is an example of a classier version of ‘J.K. Rowling woz ‘ere. ‘

Check out Artisan Roast on Broughton Street in the New Town .

I saw that sign when I was in there a couple of years ago and it made me laugh. I’m thinking of going and writing in there one day so they have to correct it: ‘…. except that one time.’ https://t.co/IEGFWsVoJ6 — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) May 21, 2020

3. Potterrow

Home to the University of Edinburgh’s student’s union, it could be that Rowling took inspiration for Harry’s family name from this street name.

Just behind the union, there’s an underpass called ‘Potterrow Port’ which is spookily similar to the dingey location of Harry and Dudley’s Dementor attack, complete with blinking lights and graffiti.

4. Greyfriars Kirkyard Edinburgh Graveyard

No Harry Potter experience of Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Not only will you find a whole host of famous character names here, but the owl-eyed might notice this graveyard shares a lot of similarities with the scene from Goblet of Fire.  

In the scene, Harry and Voldemort engage in an epic battle located in a misty graveyard with a little church in the background. 

Not convincing enough for you?  There’s even a brief moment when the grave of Thomas, Mary and Tom Riddle comes into shot, which closely resembles one of the graves in Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Cemetary.

The graveyard at Greyfriars is teeming with names you’ll recognise from the books:

• Anne and Robert Potter – the Potter family
• William McGonagall – Minerva McGonagall (Professor of Transfiguration)
• Elizabeth Moodie – Mad Eye Moodie (Professor of the Dark Arts)
• Margaret Louisa Scrymegeour Wedderburn – Rufus Scrimgeour (Minister of Magic)
• Thomas Riddell – Tom Marvolo Riddle (Lord Voldemort)

Notice some spelling differences? 

There are a few theories here. 

One is that Rowling wanted to prevent tourists from associating the graves directly with the characters (that didn’t seem to work out!) 

Another reason might be spelling differences in old names.

The Riddells are believed to have lived just ten minutes away, off the Lawnmarket and Royal Mile, in Riddle’s Court—notice the spelling difference?

5. Victoria Street & Cockburn Street

A tip for non-locals – it’s pronounced Co-burn street. 

Don’t get that one wrong!

These two sweeping streets located in Edinburgh’s Old Town are said to inspire Diagon Alley.

Wizards and witches can purchase wands, broomsticks and butterbeer on this magical shopping street.

Anyone walking these streets, with their hodgepodge and higgledy-piggledy layout, will feel like they are walking down Diagon Alley.

Even some shops on these streets might remind you of their magical counterparts.

• The Old Town Bookshop – Flourish & Blotts
• The Bow Bar – The Leaky Cauldron
• Aha Ha Ha Jokes and Novelties – Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes 
• Robert Cresser Brush Shop – Quality Quidditch Supplies (no longer there – it’s now a Harry Potter museum and Edinburgh’s Harry Potter shop!  There’s no Harry Potter shop at Edinburgh Airport, so make sure to buy your Potter presents here!)

However, She Who CanNot Be Named has never confirmed whether Victoria Street or Cockburn Street inspired Diagon Alley.

Good news for Edinburgh, however!

Rumours that the Harry Potter author has debunked Gandy Street in Exeter.

Even though Rowling still has not confirmed or denied that Edinburgh inspired Diagon Alley, this adds more weight to the argument!

Read next – Most Instagrammable Places in Edinburgh .

Yes, both of these are untrue, I'm afraid. I can't remember ever going to the Old Firehouse when I was a student and Gandy Street is nothing like the Diagon Alley in my head. pic.twitter.com/6kR0EmGrLq — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) May 21, 2020

6. The Bank of Scotland Headquarters

This grand building at the top of The Mound is home to the Bank of Scotland. 

Its domed roof and imposing facade will remind you of Gringotts Bank.  I don’t think any tellers would be too happy to be called goblins, though!

While you’re here, visit the Museum on the Mound , which is under headquarters.  You’ll be able to see a million pounds in real life among many historical artefacts!

7. J.K. Rowling’s Handprints

Check out the prints of the very hands that wrote the books.

Head down to the City Chambers on the High Street/Royal Mile to see how closely your hands match! Could you be the next literary hero?

8. George Heriot’s School/Hogwarts School Scotland

Just up from Greyfriars on Lauriston Place is George Heriot’s School, a prestigious private school that Rowling’s children attended.

Although some say the building resembles Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Rowling has confirmed that this building is not the inspiration for the magical school.

I sometimes hear Hogwarts was based on one or other of Edinburgh’s schools, but that’s 100% false, too. Hogwarts was created long before I clapped eyes on any of them! I did finish Hallows in the Balmoral, though, & I can’t lie, I’d rate it a smidge higher than the Bournville. pic.twitter.com/Evt0ttqfYH — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) May 21, 2020

Although it may not look as imposing as the version in the movies, Rowling’s drawings match the shape of this building.

It’s hard to imagine that, when writing the books and gazing out of the window of The Elephant or Nicolson’s, Rowling didn’t notice the incredible architecture of Heriot’s—even if it wasn’t the original inspiration.

The quad inside is similar to where Harry, Hermione and Ron hang out, with tall and grand stone pillars.

The colours of the houses—Lauriston (Green), Greyfriars (white/yellow), Raeburn (red), and Castle (blue)—match those of the houses at Hogwarts.

So, even if it isn’t entirely accurate to say that Hogwarts is based on Heriot’s, it’s still worth walking past to get a feel for what Hogwarts might be like.

9. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle and Harry Potter also have connections. 

Many point to Edinburgh’s famous castle as the inspiration for the Hogwarts school building. 

Perched atop a rock, it looks very grand from all around.

During the Military Tattoo, the Castle Esplanade is transformed into an event venue with spectators towering steeply around the show. 

Anyone who has watched Harry snatch the Golden Snitch will recognise this as inspiration for the Quidditch Stadium.

Many people are unaware that Princes Street Gardens, located at the foot of the Castle Rock between the Castle and Princes Street, was once the ‘Nor Loch,’ a body of black water.  Many have likened this appearance to the Black Lake at the foot of Hogwarts.

Rowling even tipped a nod at these connections by launching her sixth and penultimate novel, Half-Blood Prince, here.

Visit Edinburgh Castle from your sofa on a virtual tour of Edinburgh .

10. The Balmoral Hotel

Arguably the most prestigious hotel in Edinburgh, Rowling stayed here in Room 552 and finished her final book, the Deathly Hallows, in this very suite.

The suite door is painted purple and has an owl door knocker!

To mark the occasion, Rowling signed a marble bust of Hermes within the room. 

The bust has since been safely locked in a glass cabinet in the room.

Now, visitors with some serious cash to splash can book into this very room – now named the J.K. Rowling Suite – and sit in the very chair where Rowling finished writing her final book.

If you’d like to find out more about The Balmoral, you can read our Balmoral Hotel review .

We stayed in the Deluxe Castle View room, 314.

Read next – Where to Stay in Edinburgh – by a Local .

11. The Rowling Parking Meter

Sorry, folks.

One thing we can be sure of is that Rowling did not utilise the services of a parking meter when she was writing The Deathly Hallows.

This may be one of the more comical ‘landmarks’ attributed to the Potter series. And, although a tour was overheard purporting that Rowling used an Edinburgh parking meter, she has confirmed that she cannot drive!

My favourite bit of utter nonsense about Potter landmarks is still this one. I can’t drive. pic.twitter.com/szugSAkIOA — J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) May 21, 2020

It’s unrelated to the books, but The Dene in Stockbridge will give you all the Potter vibes. Stockbridge is a pretty neighbourhood that is well worth spending an afternoon in if you have more than a day in Edinburgh.

Second-time visitors might even want to stay here !

If you are into architecture, walk along the Water of Leith from Stockbridge to Dean Village to see the old mill buildings in the city. You won’t believe it is Edinburgh!

12. The Cauldron (Frederick Street)

Want To Try Out Being a Wizard For Yourself?

Alcoholic Harry Potter drinks and Harry Potter-themed bar in Edinburgh. 

The Cauldron is an immersive magical experience. 

Don a cloak, wave your wand and utter those magic words to brew your potions (cocktails.)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Cauldron Magical Pub (@thecauldronpub) on Mar 5, 2020 at 1:30am PST

13. Juniper (Princes Street)

If you prefer a muggle to brew your cocktail, head to Juniper and order a ‘Strawberries and Steam’ smoking cocktail teapot. You may also like our guides on what to eat in Edinburgh and which restaurants to visit .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Juniper Edinburgh (@juniperedinburgh) on Mar 13, 2020 at 6:43am PDT

14. Monteith’s

Fancy a butterbeer?  Get to Monteith’s and order a Hot Buttered Beer.

15. Tattu (West Register Street)

Shiny new Chinese restaurant. 

Order the magical ‘Dragon Egg Nest’ or smoking ‘Cherry Blossom’ for dessert. 

Harry Potter Tours Edinburgh

Potter trail: harry potter walking tour edinburgh.

Both private and group tours are offered to visit the very important landmarks that influenced She Who Cannot Be Named’s writings.

Take a tour of Greyfriars Kirk to find Voldemort’s grave, look at the loos inside The Elephant Cafe, and discover Scotland’s very own Diagon Alley with your very own tour guide, wizard.

Richard, our wizard, and his team are all performers and trained tour guides so you are guaranteed a good show whether you are a Potterhead or not.

Quote everythingedinburgh5 at checkout for 5% off. Reserve your slot here . Any referral we receive will be added to The Potter Trail’s donation to the Scottish Trans Alliance, which was made in response to JK Rowling’s recent actions.

Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour Edinburgh

Take this magical 2-hour walking tour of Edinburgh to discover the sights that inspired the novels.

Get sorted into your Hogwarts House, visit Tom Riddle’s (Riddell’s) grave and take part in a fun audio-visual quiz!

Read next | Some of the best walking tours in Edinburgh .

Harry Potter Airbnb in Edinburgh

Hey, Muggles, do you want to stay at the Edinburgh Wizarding Residence on Grassmarket? This one-of-a-kind Airbnb  will make you believe you’re in Diagon Alley.

Located on West Bow, Victoria Street, aka Diagon Alley, this one-bedroom apartment offers a magical stay for up to four guests.

It overlooks the Grassmarket in the centre of  Edinburgh’s Old Town  and city centre, making it easy to walk to The Royal Mile and Princes Street.

Amenities include heating, washing facilities, a fully-equipped kitchen, and Wi-Fi.

The host has designed each room to resemble an area of the Wizarding World and even created a hidden storage space in the hallway.

Harry Potter Train From Edinburgh

Want to experience the journey to Hogwarts for yourself?  Take this one-day tour to experience some of Scotland’s stunning scenery, visit the sites in the Highlands that inspired Rowling and take the Hogwarts Express from Fort William! The tour leaves very early in the morning from Edinburgh, and the price includes the train ride from Fort William to Mallaig over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The train itself is a smoking Jacobite Train! History and Harry Potter rolled into one.

Here’s our guide to tours that leave Edinburgh for the Highlands .

Our Old Town Edinburgh Guides

• The Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh’s Old Town
• 50 Things to Fo for All the Family
• Where to Stay in the Old Town
• Best Old Town Airbnbs incl. Harry Potter apartment
• Old Town Edinburgh Restaurants for Every Budget
• Our Fave Old Town Pubs
• Walking Tours
• Spooky Ghost Tours

Essential Edinburgh Information 

Food & drink in Edinburgh Best time to visit Edinburgh Things to do in Edinburgh How much does Edinburgh cost? Free 7-day Scotland itinerary

Plan Your Trip To Edinburgh 

Book accommodation at Booking.com Reserve a skip the line pass or guided tour at GetYourGuide Save money with this Edinburgh Pass

Ronan has lived in Edinburgh his whole life. He loves to spend time in Edinburgh’s unique neighbourhoods sampling the excellent food and drink scene, interesting culture and weather (hah!)

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Harry Potter Tour

All Harry Potter fans rise up and follow us, as we are to unfold before you the history of how the book saga of the Boy Who Lived was created!

Every lover of magic and fantastic stories will feel right at home here in Edinburgh! No wonder that this is where JK Rowling lived for years while writing her worldwide bestseller. She drew her inspiration from Scottish history, enchanted by Edinburgh’s architecture and local legends. And today thousands of Muggles (and wizards and witches alike) flock to the Scottish capital in search of a bit of magic from a series of their favourite books and movies….

During our tour we’ll learn how it all began. Where Rowling lived, and which corners of the Scottish capital she transferred straight into her novel. We’ll visit various places associated with Harry Potter books: cafes, stores, and even the cemetery where He Who Must Not Be Named was resurrected… It doesn’t matter if you read the book 20 years ago as a child or are just beginning your adventure with the wizards of Hogwarts. On this tour we will take you to a wonderful world of magic, where there is something for everyone!

During this 1.5 hour tour we will see and discover:

• Advocates close street
• Diagón Alley
• Balmoral Hotel, where some of the books have been written
• castle surroundings
• College of George Heriot
• The Elephant House and The Spoon cafes 
• The most popular cafes among wizards
• JKR Winner of the City of Edinburgh Award

… and much, much more!

Want to learn more about magic and feel the thrill? Join our Edinburgh Ghost Tour! Do it, you won’t regret it!

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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