Edinburgh is one of the most magical cities in the world, and for fans of the boy wizard, it's nothing short of enchanting. With its Gothic architecture, winding closes, dramatic castle, and misty atmosphere, the Scottish capital feels like it stepped right out of the pages of J.K. Rowling's books.
For anyone seeking to trace the spellbinding connections between the city and the stories, there are countless Harry Potter experiences to discover. From real-life inspirations for Hogwarts and Diagon Alley to dedicated tours and themed shops, here's a complete guide to Harry Potter in Edinburgh.
Did J.K. Rowling Write Harry Potter in Edinburgh?
Many fans wonder: Did J.K. Rowling write Harry Potter in Edinburgh? The answer is yes - at least a large part of it. Although Rowling began the series in Portugal and later continued in London, it was in Edinburgh that the boy wizard truly came to life.
The first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, was famously completed while Rowling lived in the city.
She often wrote in cafés, taking advantage of the warm spaces with views of Edinburgh's historic streets. Today, visitors can stop by The Elephant House café and Nicholson's (formerly Nicholson's Café), both of which claim Rowling as a past patron.
While she's clarified that she wrote in several spots, the charm of these cafés lies in the knowledge that they helped shape the wizarding world. For fans, sitting with a coffee in the same atmosphere is an experience in itself.
Exploring Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh
The city itself is brimming with places that feel straight out of Rowling's imagination. If you want to experience Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh, there are several must-sees:
Victoria Street and Diagon Alley Magic
Victoria Street deserves its own spotlight, as it's arguably the most photographed Harry Potter site in Edinburgh. The cobblestones, vibrant shopfronts, and winding curve make it one of the most enchanting streets in the city.
Potter-themed shops, including Museum Context (once known as Diagon House), sell everything from wands to scarves, turning the stroll into a shopping adventure for fans.
Standing here, it's easy to picture Harry, Ron, and Hermione rushing through to buy books at Flourish and Blotts or trying out new sweets at a wizarding joke shop. The street's atmosphere is so alive that even non-fans find themselves enchanted.
George Heriot's School
With its turrets, Gothic style, and four house system, this prestigious school is often thought to have influenced Rowling's vision of Hogwarts. While not open for casual visitors, it can be admired from the gates or nearby streets.
Greyfriars Kirkyard: Where Names Live Forever
Greyfriars Kirkyard may be a place of history and rest, but for Potter fans, it's also a treasure hunt. Many believe Rowling drew inspiration from these character names, and gravestones such as those of Thomas Riddell and McGonagall have become popular spots for photos.
Visiting the graveyard is more than just checking names off a list. The winding paths, ancient stones, and quiet corners create a Gothic atmosphere that feels distinctly magical. It's not difficult to see how this eerie yet beautiful place could inspire parts of the wizarding world.
These sites together weave a sense of magic into the very fabric of Edinburgh.
Rowling's Edinburgh: Cafés and Inspiration
Beyond specific sites, Edinburgh itself feels like a muse for Rowling. Sitting in a café with the castle looming above or walking the Royal Mile's medieval closes, it's easy to understand how the city seeped into her imagination.
Cafés such as The Elephant House and Nicholson's remain pilgrimage spots. Even though Rowling has said she wrote in several places, fans gather to sip coffee and reflect on the beginnings of the wizarding phenomenon. For many, it's not just about retracing Rowling's steps—it's about soaking in the creative atmosphere that inspired her.
Is Hogwarts in Scotland?
In the Harry Potter universe, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is indeed said to be hidden somewhere in the Scottish Highlands.
While no single castle was used for all the filming, several real locations across the UK brought the magic to life. One of the most famous is Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, which stood in as Hogwarts in the first two films.
From Edinburgh, it's easy to join a day tour to Alnwick Castle, combining a scenic drive through the Borders with the thrill of visiting a place where Harry learned to fly his broomstick.
For Potter fans, the trip blends Scottish legend with cinematic history, making the Hogwarts connection feel all the more real.
Take a Harry Potter Tour
For the full experience, nothing beats joining a dedicated Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh. Several walking tours explore the key filming inspirations, historic sites, and hidden corners tied to Rowling's world.
Knowledgeable guides share stories not only about the books but also about Rowling's life in the city, her writing process, and Edinburgh's rich history.
A Harry Potter tour is the best way to make sure you don't miss those tucked-away details, like the inspiration for Knockturn Alley or the café graffiti left by devoted fans. It also helps connect the dots between the real streets of Edinburgh and the wizarding world.
Whether you're a casual admirer or a lifelong fan, these tours add layers of meaning to what might otherwise be just another wander through the Old Town.
The Hogwarts Express Tour from Edinburgh
No Harry Potter experience would be complete without mentioning the Hogwarts Express. While the films were shot far from Edinburgh, fans can still enjoy the Hogwarts Express tour from Edinburgh.
This full-day adventure typically takes visitors through the Highlands, ending with a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train—the real-life train that became the Hogwarts Express on screen.
Departing from Edinburgh, the journey takes in dramatic scenery, lochs, and glens before reaching Mallaig, where the Jacobite Steam Train adventure begins.
The highlight for many is crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, instantly recognisable from the films as the iconic bridge leading to Hogwarts. For Potter enthusiasts, this moment is pure magic, as the train steams over the curved arches with the Highlands stretching beyond.
Shops and Souvenirs for Harry Potter Fans
Edinburgh is also home to shops that delight Harry Potter fans. Museum Context on Victoria Street is the most famous and is packed with themed décor, wands, and collectables.
Other independent shops sell scarves, sweets, and keepsakes to commemorate the magical experience.
The city's official bookshops, such as Waterstones on Princes Street, often feature Harry Potter displays too, making it easy to find something special to take home.
Shopping becomes part of the adventure, blending the real and the fictional worlds seamlessly.
Harry Potter in Edinburgh: The Full Experience
So what's the best way to experience Harry Potter in Edinburgh? Ideally, it's a mix: join a Harry Potter tour for expert storytelling, stroll Victoria Street for Diagon Alley vibes, pay respects at Greyfriars Kirkyard, and sip coffee in a Rowling haunt. If time allows, book the Hogwarts Express tour from Edinburgh for the ultimate day trip.
Each stop offers its own connection—some subtle, others obvious—but together they create a magical journey that blends history, literature, and imagination.
Discover Edinburgh with Scottish Tours
Edinburgh has a long tradition of stories and legends, but few have captured the world's imagination like the Harry Potter series. Let Scottish Tours be your guide to Scotland's historic capital city. We'll show you the most important Harry Potter locations on one of our Harry Potter tours.
If the mood takes you, explore more of Scotland's scenic Highlands and Islands with Scottish Tours. See our full programme and book your Scotland Tour today.
Photo credits: Shutterstock, VisitBritain and VisitScotland