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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Sean Murphy

The Edinburgh locations you can visit that inspired Harry Potter's wizarding world

Edinburgh is a city wrapped in its own kind of magic, from its rich history of the supernatural to its incredible buildings, it's no surprise that Harry Potter author JK Rowling was inspired by the city while writing the original books there.

This means that fans of the Wizarding World will find plenty of exciting things to see and do in the capital to enjoy a little of the magic from their favourite book series and film franchise.

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And with streaming giant Max reportedly looking for new stars to appear in a TV adaptation and all of the films landing on Netflix, there has never been a better time to reconnect with the world of Hogwarts, Gringotts and Diagon Alley.

In Edinburgh, you'll find the inspiration for everything from settings in the books to character names, here are some of the best locations to head to on a wee Wizarding tour of the capital.

The Elephant House, George IV Bridge

Though the author herself will admit that she spent much of her time writing across various cafés and coffee shops in the city, the most famous of which is the Elephant House, which styles itself as the "birthplace" of Harry Potter and even has a sign outside saying so.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

This famous graveyard is where some familiar names can be found - including that of Tom Riddell, said to be the inspiration behind the alter ego (Tom Riddle) of the evil Lord Voldemort in the books and films.

You'll also find names like Potter, Scrymgeour, McGonagall, and Moodie – see if you can spot any others.

Victoria Street

The colourful Victoria Street was said to be one of the inspirations for Diagon Alley (Lesley Martin/Reach)

One of the capital's most vibrant streets combining the fantastical with the cobbled streets of the old town is Victoria Street, which is said to be one of the inspirations for Diagon Alley thanks to its riotous mix of colourful shopfronts. Ideal not only for some great photos there are also plenty of exciting shops to explore (much like its fictional counterpart).

The Cauldron

This exciting pub is inspired by the wizarding world and recently launched its Potion Making 2.0’ experience, a re-designed and updated potion-making class set in their underground wizard pub on Frederick Street.

Pop in for the immersive drinks experience, where you'll be given a robe and working magic wand before making your 'potions'.

George Heriot's School

The historic George Heriot's school is also said to have played its part in inspiring Hogwarts (Getty)

Another famous Edinburgh location said to have perhaps influenced the writer was the imposing George Heriot's School, which served as an ideal blueprint for the now-famous Hogwarts (only perhaps without the moving stairways, floating candles and headless ghosts).

The Potter Trail

And don't worry if you'd rather an expert took you around to show you the sights, Wizarding aficionados The Potter Trail, Edinburgh's original Harry Potter walking experience offer free tours (as well as private ones) which you can book online to take part in.

Bo'ness Motor Museum, Bo'ness (45 mins drive from Edinburgh)

Lying not too far from Edinburgh (just 45 mins drive), the Bo'ness Motor Museum is where you'll find Ron Weasley's famous Ford Anglia.

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