Harry Potter in Edinburgh
J.K. Rowling wrote large parts of the Harry Potter novels in Edinburgh — and the city has deeply influenced the books. Those who walk through Edinburgh with open eyes will find Hogwarts around every corner:
The most important Harry Potter locations
- Greyfriars Kirkyard: The gravestones bear the names Tom Riddell (Lord Voldemort), William McGonagall (Professor McGonagall), and Elizabeth Moodie (Mad-Eye Moody). Rowling strolled here while writing the first books.
- George Heriot's School: The boarding school behind Greyfriars Kirkyard — with towers, battlements, and four houses — is the visual inspiration for Hogwarts. The best view is from the terrace of the Greyfriars cemetery.
- Victoria Street: The curved, colorful street with its small shops is the inspiration for Diagon Alley. Here you will also find joke shops and Potter shops.
- The Elephant House: The café on George IV Bridge where Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter — with a view of Edinburgh Castle (the model for Hogwarts from afar). Reopened after a fire in 2021.
- Spoon Café (formerly Nicolson's): Another café where Rowling wrote — in the early days when she was a single mother on welfare. Less known than the Elephant House, but historically more significant.
- Balmoral Hotel: In Suite 552, Rowling wrote the last sentence of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." She left behind a bust of Hermes and the inscription "JK Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in this room (Jan 11th 2007)." The suite can be booked (for a lot of money).
Harry Potter Tours
Several providers offer guided Harry Potter tours through Edinburgh (1.5–2 hours, from £15). The best are those that not only show the Potter locations but also tell the history of the city and its inspiration. Free walking tours (tip-based) are also available — "Potter Trail" is one of the most well-known.
