Welcome, fellow Harry Potter fans! If you're planning a trip to Edinburgh, then you're in for a treat. Not only is it a beautiful city with a rich history, but it's also the birthplace of Harry Potter. As a long-time fan and resident of this magical city, I've created a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh that takes you to all the must-see spots that inspired J.K. Rowling's world-famous novels. The best part? You can take this tour at your own pace, with extra details, information, and recommendations provided at each stop.
The first stop on our tour is the Elephant House Cafe, where J.K. Rowling wrote the first few chapters of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. This cosy cafe boasts stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and is the perfect spot to soak up the inspiration that sparked the creation of this magical world. Sadly, it is temporarily closed.
Next, we head to Greyfriars Kirkyard, the resting place of some famous characters' namesakes. Pay your respects at the grave of William McGonagall and keep an eye out for the grave of Thomas Riddell Esquire, rumoured to be the inspiration for the infamous Lord Voldemort. Of course, you'll get loads of details when downloading the tour and strolling around this area.
From there, make your way to Victoria Street, where the colourful buildings and quirky shops served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley. This bustling street is the perfect place to grab some souvenirs, stock up on spellbooks, and imagine yourself walking among the witches and wizards of Hogwarts. Located just off the historic Royal Mile, Victoria Street is a charming and narrow street that winds down from the Grassmarket to the George IV Bridge.
With its brightly painted buildings and eclectic mix of shops, Victoria Street is a must-visit for any Harry Potter fan. It's easy to imagine yourself wandering among the shops of Diagon Alley as you peruse the offerings of the various shops and boutiques on Victoria Street. The street is home to a variety of shops that sell everything from artisanal cheeses and handmade jewellery to vintage clothing and antiques. Keep an eye out for shops that sell Harry Potter merchandise, such as the Museum Context store, which stocks a range of Harry Potter-themed products.
Whether you're a die-hard Harry Potter fan or simply appreciate the charm and character of Edinburgh's historic streets, a visit to Victoria Street is a must. And, of course, it's a key stop on our self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh.
Speaking of Hogwarts, no Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to George Heriot's School. This magnificent building served as the inspiration for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Take a moment to soak in the grandeur and imagine yourself strolling through the halls of this magical institution. Other highlights of the tour include New College, which is sure to make you feel like you have entered the magical halls of Hogwarts, and the Royal Mile, where you can see the hotel in which Rowling wrote the final chapters of the Harry Potter series.
I've also included extra details, information and recommendations at each stop, so you can fully immerse yourself in the magic of Edinburgh and the world of Harry Potter. Take your time, enjoy the sights and sounds, and don't forget to share your photos with the hashtag #Pandemictours and tag me (@juledinburgh) to let me know how much you enjoyed the tour! So what are you waiting for? Book your Edinburgh Harry Potter self-guided walking tour today and discover the magic for yourself.