Calling all witches, wizards, and curious muggles! 🔮
Ever dreamt of stepping into the charming world of Harry Potter? Well, grab your wands and broomsticks, we’re about to embark on a spellbinding journey through Edinburgh, the city that inspired J.K. Rowling’s fantastical world.
From cobbled streets to ancient graveyards, Edinburgh is brimming with locations that sparked Rowling’s imagination and found their way into the beloved Harry Potter book series.
So, whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or simply looking for a unique way to explore this historic city, buckle up for a whirlwind tour of the Scottish capital with our enchanting Harry Potter guide to Edinburgh!
Visit the ‘birthplace’ of Harry Potter: The Elephant House
First stop on our Edinburgh adventure: The Elephant House in Old Town. Proudly claiming the title of the ‘birthplace of Harry Potter,’ The Elephant House, a charming café spot, is where J.K. Rowling wrote the first novel and outlined the Harry Potter saga.
Step inside and be greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the gentle chatter of locals and Potter fans. Take a seat (hopefully you won’t have to wait too long!), soak up the atmosphere, and imagine Rowling scribbling away on her early drafts while sipping a warm beverage. The café even boasts a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle, adding a touch of real-life magic.
Explore a real-life Diagon Alley: Victoria Street
Next up on our enchanting Edinburgh tour we’re heading to Victoria Street – often dubbed the real-life Diagon Alley! This vibrant, curving street is a feast for the eyes, bursting with colourful facades that wouldn’t look out of place in a hidden wizarding world.
With towering, narrow buildings painted in dusky orange, deep red, and aqua blue, Victoria Street’s window displays are decorated with playful signage overflowing with curious trinkets. As you meander down the cobbled path keep an eye out for quirky shopping gems. Selling everything from tartan kilts and handmade jewellery to even Harry Potter merch… you never know what magical treasures you might unearth!
Spend your galleons at Museum Context
Stepping into Museum Context on Victoria Street feels like stepping through a hidden doorway into Diagon Alley itself. This charming shop, a magnet for Potterheads worldwide, boasts a treasure trove of officially licensed Harry Potter gifts and merchandise.
Offering a delightful blend of Potter-themed magic and local charm, you’ll find intricate Basilisk bookends, your favourite Harry Potter character’s wands and even boxes of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans! Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for a fellow Potter fan or simply looking for a special Edinburgh souvenir, Museum Context has something to ignite the spark of magic within.
Escape the Department of Magic
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Craving a more interactive magical experience? Then look no further than the Department of Magic in the heart of Edinburgh. This Harry Potter escape room and cocktail bar perfectly combines the thrill of puzzle-solving with the delight of potion-making (well, cocktail-making in this case!).
Choose from two thrilling escape room adventures: “Prophecies Quest” or “Dark Lord Resurrection.” Both take you on a captivating journey, testing your problem-solving skills and teamwork as you decipher cryptic clues, overcome mystical challenges, and race against the clock to escape before time runs out.
Stay nearby
Join a Harry Potter walking tour
If you’re a true Potter fan seeking deeper city secrets and hidden gems, why not join a Harry Potter walking tour? Run by fellow Potterheads, Edinburgh’s Harry Potter walking tours are bursting with trivia and insider knowledge. Discover the not-so-known locations that inspired J.K. Rowling’s books and explore spooky spots reminiscent of Knockturn Alley!
And best of all, there are plenty of Harry Potter walking tours of Edinburgh to choose from. From the free Potter Trial to quirky Harry Potter tours with whisky tastings included – book your spot today!
Craft enchanting potions at The Cauldron Edinburgh
Fancy yourself as a potion master? At The Cauldron Edinburgh, you can ditch the everyday cocktail menu and unleash your inner witch or wizard! Donned in your very own robe, follow the instructions of The Cauldron’s resident potion master and mix up your own enchanting brews.
So, grab your friends, embrace the magic, and prepare to whip up bubbling concoctions and sizzling elixirs that even Severus Snape would be proud of!
Explore Hogsmeade’s doppelgänger: Dean Village
Discover Edinburgh’s very own Hogsmeade nestled by the Water of Leith. Dean Village is a charming corner of Edinburgh that’s like stepping straight into the Harry Potter books.
A trip to Dean Village is the perfect way to escape the bustle of Edinburgh’s centre. Imagine strolling down narrow, cobbled streets, lined with adorable stone houses, picturesque cottages and unique bridges. So grab your camera (or sketchpad, if you’re feeling inspired) and explore Dean Village’s enchanting Hogsmeade aesthetic.
Grab a butterbeer at The Dog House
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