Hidden Gems • 4 hours 5.0 (6)

Edinburgh's Wizarding World: A Harry Potter adventure

From Hogwarts' echoes in Edinburgh Castle to the city's enchanting streets. Delve into rich history & discover wizarding parallels.

Walking is undoubtedly the best way to see the city so bring a sturdy pair of shoes to deal with the cobbled streets!

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Your magical journey begins at the historic Edinburgh City Chambers. Here, a touch of magic awaits – J.K. Rowling's handprints are proudly displayed on the facade, hinting at the inspiration Edinburgh provided for her beloved Harry Potter series.
  • Ascend to the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, inspiration for the awe-inspiring Hogwarts. Feel transported as you explore its ramparts and courtyards, enjoying breathtaking views of the city that will leave you breathless.
  • Next, you’ll delve into the fantastical. Wander down Victoria Street, a vibrant labyrinth of colorful buildings said to have inspired Diagon Alley.
  • Uncover Harry Potter’s inspiration at Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic cemetery rumored to have influenced J.K. Rowling. Visit the grave of Thomas Riddell, a name linked to the infamous Voldemort.
  • Finally, your magical adventure culminates at the National Museum of Scotland. Here, you'll have the chance to see the Lewis Chess Set, a collection of ancient chess pieces that were actually used in the first Harry Potter film.

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

4 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Per person
Hosted experience lasting up to 4 hours
Private and tailored to your group only
Immersive walking experience between stops
Entrance to the attraction (Edinburgh Castle)
Hotel meet- up (available on request for central locations)

What’s not included

Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions other than what has been listed
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

The Balmoral, 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

Step into a world where Harry Potter leaps from the pages and onto the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. Your personal Harry Potter host awaits, ready to whisk you away on a spellbinding journey that blends the city's rich history with the enchanting world of your favorite wizarding series.

Your adventure begins at the illustrious Edinburgh City Chambers. As you stand beneath the grand quadrangle, your host will point out the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling herself, a testament of how Edinburgh sparked her imagination, setting the stage for the mystical adventure that lies ahead.

Next, ascend to Edinburgh Castle, towering majestically atop Castle Rock. Your host will unveil the uncanny resemblance to Hogwarts as you explore its labyrinthine passages and storied chambers. Imagine the legendary Stone of Destiny imbued with powerful magic, just like the one Harry and his friends sought! Don't forget your camera! Your host will capture the breathtaking panoramic vistas from the ramparts, showcasing the city bathed in centuries of wizardry and wonder

Next, wander along Victoria Street, whose whimsical charm and colorful facades are said to have inspired the magical allure of Diagon Alley. Step inside the Museum Context shop with your host, where artifacts and curiosities evoke the enchanting spirit of Harry Potter's wizarding emporiums. Your host will point out hidden details that harken back to Diagon Alley. 

Enter the hallowed grounds of Greyfriars Kirkyard, where J.K. Rowling sought solace and inspiration. Walk amongst weathered tombstones and the resting place of Thomas Riddell, whose name would echo through the ages as Lord Voldemort. Feel the ancient energies that permeate this sacred site, weaving tales of wizardry and intrigue alongside your host.

Finally, conclude your magical adventure at the National Museum of Scotland, a treasure trove where history and fantasy intertwine. Marvel at relics from Mary Queen of Scots to the legendary Lewis Chess Set, a tangible link to the magical realm of Hogwarts. Your host will explain the significance of these artifacts, revealing the connections between the real world and the world of Harry Potter.

Join your local host on this extraordinary expedition through Edinburgh. Explore hidden corners, unravel magical connections, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace the magic, be captivated by the stories, and embark on a journey that will leave you spellbound and forever enchanted by the charms of Scotland's capital.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

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What travelers think of this experience

Ross Apr 2025

Really great customizable tour. Tom was friendly, enthusiastic, highly knowledgeable and tailored stories and sites perfectly to keep our 7 and 10 year old engaged — so much so that they were sad when the tour ended. A+ all the way!

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Kevin Apr 2025

Our tour guide was fantastic. Very knowledgeable of the area and he showed us and educated us about the area. The kilt was a nice touch. Definitely would recommend this private tour. It does include alot of walking.

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Don Apr 2025

This was an exceptional experience. Edinburgh is a fascinating city with a dramatic history. Gains is a superb guide with an amazing grasp of the historic and “hidden gems” of the city. He has a PhD understanding coupled with a pleasant and friendly manner. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

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Jodi Apr 2025

If you are a gin lover, this is the tour for you and if you are really lucky you will get James as your guide. Once he found out where we were staying he adjusted to meet us at our hotel. We visited 3 great gin pubs and gained so much knowledge about how gin is made, the different blends, why it came to be in Scotland, and also learned a lot of Scottish history and culture along the way. This is a must do tour!!!!

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Jodi Apr 2025

If you are a gin lover, this is the tour for you and if you are really lucky you will get James as your guide. Once he found out where we were staying he adjusted to meet us at our hotel. We visited 3 great gin pubs and gained so much knowledge about how gin is made, the different blends, why it came to be in Scotland, and also learned a lot of Scottish history and culture along the way. This is a must do tour!!!!

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Don Apr 2025

Gains is fountain of knowledge and a highly interesting presenter. He was thoughtful and helpful in every way.

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