Harry Potter – Edinburgh

J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, drew inspiration from various places in Edinburgh for her magical world. Here is a list of some sites in Edinburgh associated with Harry Potter:

  1. The Elephant House:
  • Location: 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN, UK
  • Association: Known as the “birthplace of Harry Potter,” J.K. Rowling wrote parts of the early novels in The Elephant House. The café offers a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle.
  1. Greyfriars Kirkyard:
  • Location: 26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QE, UK
  • Association: The graveyard is said to have inspired the names of several characters, including Tom Riddle. A grave with the name “Thomas Riddell” can be found here.
  1. George Heriot’s School:
  • Location: Lauriston Place, Edinburgh EH3 9EQ, UK
  • Association: The architecture of this school is believed to have influenced the design of Hogwarts. The school is often cited as a possible inspiration for the magical school in the series.
  1. Edinburgh Castle:
  • Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK
  • Association: The iconic Edinburgh Castle is thought to have inspired the creation of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, especially its majestic appearance on Castle Rock.
  1. Victoria Street and West Bow:
  • Location: Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1, UK
  • Association: This vibrant and colorful street is said to have inspired the fictional Diagon Alley, the magical shopping district in the wizarding world.
  1. Balmoral Hotel:
  • Location: 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, UK
  • Association: J.K. Rowling completed the final book in the series, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” in a suite at the Balmoral Hotel. The room is now known as the “J.K. Rowling Suite.”
  1. Writers’ Museum:
  • Location: Lady Stair’s Close, Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PA, UK
  • Association: While not directly related to Harry Potter, the museum celebrates Scottish writers, and J.K. Rowling’s work is acknowledged within the literary context of Edinburgh.

These sites offer a magical blend of inspiration and history, making Edinburgh a fascinating destination for Harry Potter enthusiasts.