Harry Potter
Harry Potter in Scotland
Yes! Scotland has a strong connection with Harry Potter, both as inspiration and through real locations used in the films.
Scotland was the setting for several parts of the Harry Potter films, with breathtaking landscapes that capture the essence of the wizarding world. The famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, for example, is where the Hogwarts Express crosses in several scenes, and the view of the loch and mountains makes you feel you have stepped into J.K. Rowling’s universe.
J.K. Rowling wrote the Harry Potter books while living in Edinburgh, and the city has many places connected to the story, such as Greyfriars Kirkyard, where the author found inspiration for some of her characters’ names (including Tom Riddle, the name behind Voldemort).
Beyond the films, Scotland’s landscapes are spectacular, with medieval castles, mountains and lochs that make the tour even more special, especially for those who love exploring nature.
Edinburgh itself has a historic and slightly mysterious atmosphere, perfect for feeling the magic and history behind Hogwarts. Its cobbled streets, pubs and Edinburgh Castle create an incredible setting for Harry Potter fans, and Just Scotland Tours takes you to all these amazing places with a local guide.
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Highlights of our private Harry Potter tour:
Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh
Here you will find gravestones bearing names that may sound familiar to Harry Potter fans.
Victoria Street, Edinburgh
As you walk through Edinburgh you will see the streets and landmarks said to have inspired J.K. Rowling. Colourful, curving Victoria Street is one of them, and one of the most photographed streets in the city.
Harry Potter shop and museum, Edinburgh
A visit to Museum Context is highly recommended. This quirky shop spreads over two stone-walled floors, with a huge dragon's head and a replica of Ollivanders wand shop. It sits on Victoria Street and stocks a wide range of Harry Potter merchandise, including a replica Nimbus 2001 broomstick.
J.K. Rowling's handprints
J.K. Rowling's handprints are in the courtyard of the Edinburgh City Chambers, set in 2008 as part of a tribute to notable people who have contributed to the city.
Rowling wrote much of the series in Edinburgh, including in cafés such as The Elephant House.
The handprints are free to visit and a favourite stop for fans of the books.
The Hogwarts Express
The iconic train from the films is the Jacobite Steam Train, a real steam locomotive that still runs in Scotland and delights Harry Potter fans. The route from Fort William to Mallaig on the west coast, 84 miles there and back, is often described as one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world.
Loch Eilt
Scotland is famous for its lochs. Loch Ness is the best known, but Loch Eilt is famous too: it appears in several Harry Potter films, and its small island is known as the site of Dumbledore's grave.
Glencoe
Shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions, Glencoe was once a refuge for the Jacobites who fought for Scotland. This dramatic landscape is where Hagrid's hut appears in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and it also featured in the James Bond film Skyfall.