Whether you’re visiting Scotland as a seasoned Potterhead, or a new fan (like I was), there is something for everyone! When I visited, I had only read the first three books and seen movies 1-6. I feel like I had enough “base knowledge” to really appreciate all the HP sites. From J.K. Rowling’s beginnings, to seeing the places that filming happened: Scotland is a Harry Potter lover’s dream destination! Here are all the top things to hit if you are a Harry Potter fan visiting Scotland!
The Potter Trail Walking Tour
A Harry Potter fan in Scotland absolutely must book a free Harry Potter walking tour with The Potter Trail. This tour in Edinburgh is about 90 minutes long, but passes by a lot of great HP sights (most outlined below). The public walking tour is free, but tickets must be reserved in advance by clicking here. At the time of our tour, I met our witch guide outside of Bobby’s Sandwich Shop where I was asked my Hogwarts house (Hufflepuff, obviously). We quickly took off on the guided tour, and even did a little magic at the end. Make sure you bring a wand (or a wand-like object- I brought a pen) to cast your spells!
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery
Even if you’re not on The Potter Trail tour, a stop at the Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery in Edinburgh is a must for a Harry Potter fan visiting Scotland! This cemetery is where you’ll see gravesites that inspired J.K. Rowling naming characters! Entering the cemetery passes through the famous Flodden Wall, which is a stone wall from the 12th century that protected the old city of Edinburgh, which is a very cool welcome! Stroll amongst the tombs and try to spot some famous names. McGonagall, Moody, and most infamously- Tom Riddle!
The Elephant House
Next up: The Elephant House! This café is where J.K. Rowling famously wrote many of the early books and has dubbed themselves “The Birthplace of Harry Potter”. The original café, located here actually recently fell victim to a pretty severe fire, so was closed for renovations when I visited (August 2024). Therefore, they had a temporary location set up just a couple blocks away on Victoria Street, located here. Stop in for a coffee and look out the very same windows that J.K. Rowling gazed out gaining inspiration for the magical world.
Victoria Street (Diagon Alley)
Next up is Victoria Street, which is known as the inspiration for Diagon Alley! These brightly painted buildings are a photographer’s dream and are so fun to take in. Imagine yourself as an 11 year old wizard strolling down shopping for your first wand and set of robes. If you can, try to stroll Victoria Street in the morning to avoid crowds, as this is a very popular spot for tourists!
Museum Context
Any Harry Potter fan visiting Scotland must stop into Museum Context. This shop sells all officially licensed gear and is really fun to experience. Of course, I had to snag a Hufflepuff scarf and a few souvenirs to bring back home to fellow Potterheads. Expect a wait to get in to the store at peak times, but it’s worth it! There are three floors to shop and explore. My favorite part was the Chamber of Secrets mirror, that was on the landing between floors 2 and 3. Head up to the top to snag the ultimate mirror selfie!
Dean Village (Hogsmeade)
If you’re like me and always dreamed of visiting Hogsmeade, Edinburgh’s Dean Village is the next best thing! This picturesque village is an absolute must-do for Potterheads as it is known to be the inspiration for Hogsmeade! Unfortunately you won’t find a Honeydukes shop, but you will be charmed in other ways! There is a stream that flows through the center of the town that are lined with 19th century homes and cobblestone streets. Bell’s Brae Bridge will be your first stop and offers iconic views of the village. Next, make your way down Hawthornebank Lane for more views of the town (don’t forget to look behind you!). Don’t forget to cross the bridge at the bottom of the hill for views from the other side of the river!
Glenfinnan Viaduct (Hogwarts Express)
Next, make your way out of Edinburgh and up to the Scottish Highlands to view the Hogwarts Express! The Glenfinnan Viaduct is the iconic bridge that the train rolls over bringing eager witches and wizards to another school year. To get there you can rent a car and make the 3.5 hour drive, but I would recommend booking a tour instead. If you’re on your own, you can view the train schedule here. While this doesn’t list the exact times the train will pass over the viaduct, I’d plan to arrive at the parking lot no later than these times. Once you arrive and park, you will need to hike up to the viewpoints, which can take around 20-30 minutes. Plus, you’ll want to get there early to lock in your perfect view before others do!
Loch Shiel (The Black Lake)
Right across from the Glenfinnan Viaduct, you’ll find Loch Shiel. What makes Loch Shiel so significant for a Harry Potter fan visiting Scotland is that this is most famously known as Black Lake! When hiking to the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint, you can continue on just a little farther for viewpoints of Loch Shiel, here (a perfect vantage point to watch the Triwizard Tournament!). While us muggles cannot see Hogwarts, one would assume that it’s located right here, on the banks of Loch Shiel/the Black Lake!
Glencoe
Glencoe, the heart of the Scottish Highlands and home to everyone’s favorite gentle giant: Hagrid! While sure, you won’t find his actual hut, you can make a short hike to the spot! The exact location of his hut is pinned here. It’s a short 5-10 minute walk from the street. The best place to park is at the Clachaig Inn (just be sure to thank them for the parking by stopping in for a pint after your hike). Once you arrive, the location is unmistakable!
Traveling soon? Check out my Travel Tips page to help you score good deals on flights, packing tips, tools to help you plan, and more!
No Comments