J.K. Rowling moved to Edinburgh in the early 1990s as a struggling single mother. She wrote much of the Harry Potter series in the city's cafes, drawing inspiration from Edinburgh's medieval architecture, winding streets, and atmospheric graveyards.
While the films were shot elsewhere, Edinburgh's influence on the wizarding world is undeniable. Walk the same streets Rowling walked, visit the graves that inspired character names, and experience the magical atmosphere that helped create one of the world's most beloved stories.
Harry Potter Locations
Victoria Street
This curved, colourful street with its quirky shops is widely believed to have inspired Diagon Alley. The winding cobblestones, independent boutiques, and magical atmosphere make it easy to see why.
Victoria Street, Old Town
Greyfriars Kirkyard
This atmospheric cemetery contains graves of Tom Riddell (Lord Voldemort's real name), William McGonagall, and the Potter family. J.K. Rowling walked here while writing the early books.
Greyfriars Place, EH1 2QQ
The Elephant House
Famously known as 'the birthplace of Harry Potter', J.K. Rowling wrote significant portions of the early books here. The cafe suffered a fire in 2021 but has since reopened.
21 George IV Bridge, EH1 1EN
George Heriot's School
This stunning 17th-century school has towers, turrets, and a four-house system that mirrors Hogwarts. You can view the exterior from Greyfriars Kirkyard. Not open to public.
Lauriston Place, EH3 9EQ
The Balmoral Hotel
J.K. Rowling finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in Room 552 of this luxury hotel. She signed the marble bust in the room. The suite is available to book.
1 Princes Street, EH2 2EQ
Spoon Cafe
Another cafe where Rowling wrote parts of the books, formerly called Nicolson's Cafe. Less crowded than The Elephant House and still has the original atmosphere.
6a Nicolson Street, EH8 9DH
Harry Potter Tours
Potter Trail Walking Tour
Free walking tour covering the main Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh. Learn about J.K. Rowling's life in Edinburgh and the locations that inspired the books.
Edinburgh Harry Potter Walking Tour
Guided tour visiting all the key locations with in-depth stories about how Edinburgh inspired the wizarding world.
Jacobite Steam Train Day Trip
Take the 'real Hogwarts Express' across the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. Day trips depart from Edinburgh to Fort William.
Actual Filming Locations
While Edinburgh wasn't used for filming, these iconic locations are accessible as day trips from the city.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
4 hours from EdinburghThe iconic 21-arch railway bridge featured in all Harry Potter films as the Hogwarts Express crosses it. Take the Jacobite Steam Train for the full experience.
Alnwick Castle
1.5 hours from EdinburghUsed as Hogwarts in the first two films. Offers broomstick training and film location tours. In England but easily reached from Edinburgh.
Steall Falls, Glen Nevis
3 hours from EdinburghFeatured in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire during the Triwizard Tournament dragon scene. Stunning waterfall accessible by hiking.
Self-Guided Harry Potter Walk
Cover all the main Edinburgh Harry Potter sites in about 2 hours with this walking route:
- 1
Start at The Elephant House
George IV Bridge - where it all began
- 2
Walk to Greyfriars Kirkyard
Find Tom Riddell, McGonagall and Potter graves
- 3
View George Heriot's School
The Hogwarts-like school visible from the graveyard
- 4
Explore Victoria Street
The inspiration for Diagon Alley
- 5
End at The Balmoral Hotel
Where Rowling finished the final book
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Harry Potter filmed in Edinburgh?
No, the Harry Potter films were not actually filmed in Edinburgh. However, J.K. Rowling wrote most of the books here, and the city's architecture, streets, and atmosphere heavily inspired the wizarding world. Actual filming locations are in the Scottish Highlands and England.
Where did J.K. Rowling write Harry Potter in Edinburgh?
J.K. Rowling wrote in several Edinburgh cafes including The Elephant House (George IV Bridge), Spoon Cafe (formerly Nicolson's), and various locations around the city. She finished the final book at The Balmoral Hotel in Room 552.
Is Victoria Street really Diagon Alley?
While never officially confirmed by J.K. Rowling, Victoria Street is widely believed to have inspired Diagon Alley. The curved, cobbled street with colourful shop fronts has a distinctly magical feel that matches descriptions in the books.
Can you visit Tom Riddle's grave in Edinburgh?
Yes, there is a gravestone for Thomas Riddell in Greyfriars Kirkyard, believed to have inspired Lord Voldemort's real name. It's free to visit and is one of the most popular Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh.
Are Harry Potter tours in Edinburgh worth it?
Yes, especially for fans. The tours provide context about Rowling's life in Edinburgh and point out details you'd miss on your own. Free walking tours are available, or pay for more in-depth experiences.