The Tailor-Made Guide to Harry Potter Places in Scotland
- Barry Pickard
- Dec 26, 2025
- 16 min read
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Author: Barry Pickard
Hi, I'm Barry, the owner of Tailor-Made Itineraries and I have been designing bespoke self-guided tours for adventurous and curious travellers since 2015. I am a history graduate with a passion for travel.
I created this blog to show, through my own adventures, how you can have an incredible travel experience as an independent traveller, giving you the information to navigate the world with confidence.
Contents
Where are the real Harry Potter places in Scotland that inspired JK Rowling and appeared in the films? Steam hisses from the Jacobite locomotive as it prepares to cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct's twenty-one arches, while moss-covered tombstones in Greyfriars Kirkyard bear names that became Death Eaters and professors. The sweet scent of Butterbeer-inspired cocktails drifts from Victoria Street's colourful shopfronts—that unmistakable Diagon Alley curve where JK Rowling once walked while imagining her wizarding world—and the rhythmic clack of train wheels echoes through Highland glens that doubled Dumbledore’s final resting place.
I'm Barry Pickard, and I've been designing bespoke Harry Potter-themed Scottish itineraries for independent travellers since 2015. As a history graduate who's ridden the actual Hogwarts Express train through the Highlands, climbed to the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint dozens of times, and traced JK Rowling's footsteps through Edinburgh's Old Town, I've discovered that Harry Potter and Edinburgh, and Scotland in general, is inseparably linked in ways most visitors miss. You'll get my tested guide to the essential Harry Potter places in Scotland, from booking the Jacobite steam train months ahead to finding the exact Hagrid's Hut filming location in Glencoe, discovering which Edinburgh gravestones inspired character names, and exploring the Harry Potter shops in Edinburgh where wands and house scarves await.
This is your complete guide to experiencing Scotland's magical connection to the wizarding world—packed with practical booking tips, exact viewpoint locations, and all those spine-tingling moments when you realize you're standing exactly where movie magic happened.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of these Harry Potter places in Scotland appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating Harry Potter and Edinburgh and the rest of this stunning country.
Harry Potter Places in Scotland
The Jacobite Steam Train and The Glenfinnan Viaduct
Few experiences in Scotland capture the imagination quite like a journey aboard The Jacobite steam train. This iconic service runs along the West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig, a route often hailed as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. As the train chugs past lochs, mountains, and remote Highland villages, it’s easy to see why filmmakers chose it as the stand-in for the Hogwarts Express. Fans of the Harry Potter films will instantly recognize the vintage carriages and the dramatic landscapes that appeared in scenes where Harry, Ron, and Hermione made their way to Hogwarts. This is the genuine Harry Potter train experience, and riding it feels like stepping into the films themselves.
One of the highlights of the journey—and a must-see even if you’re visiting on foot—is the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This sweeping, 21-arched bridge curves gracefully across the valley, overlooking Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument. Built between 1897 and 1901, the viaduct was a marvel of Victorian engineering, constructed entirely from concrete at a time when this material was still considered experimental. Today, it’s world-famous thanks to its starring role in several Harry Potter films, including the unforgettable scene in Chamber of Secrets where the Hogwarts Express steams across the viaduct as Harry and Ron soar overhead in the flying Ford Anglia. Standing at one of the viewpoints, watching the Jacobite puff its way across, and photographing the Hogwarts Express in Scotland crossing these iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct arches is a bucket-list moment for Potter fans worldwide.
The West Highland Line itself is steeped in history. Originally opened in 1901, the extension to Mallaig was designed to connect remote Highland communities with the rest of Scotland, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct was its crowning achievement. The route passes Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and skirts the deepest freshwater loch, Loch Morar, before reaching the fishing port of Mallaig. For decades, this line was a lifeline for locals, but today it’s equally celebrated for its heritage and romance. Riding The Jacobite is a nostalgic nod to the golden age of steam travel, with vintage carriages and the rhythmic hiss of the locomotive adding to the charm. It’s a journey that combines engineering brilliance, natural beauty, and cultural significance in one unforgettable experience.
If you’re tempted to experience this magical ride for yourself, booking early is essential. The Jacobite is operated by West Coast Railways and runs seasonally from April to October, with morning and afternoon departures from Fort William. Tickets can be purchased online through the official West Coast Railways website, and prices start around £69 for standard class, with upgrades available for first class or private compartments that evoke the Harry Potter films. Demand is high—especially in summer—so plan ahead to secure your spot. Alternatively, several tour companies offer packages that include transport from major cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow, making it easy to weave this bucket-list experience into your Scottish itinerary.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
The Jacobite is extremely popular, especially in summer and during school holidays. Book several months in advance via the official West Coast Railways website. If possible, choose a seat on the left-hand side, facing forward, when heading to Mallaig—this gives the best views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel.
The is a short stop at the Glenfinnan Station on the way to Mallaig. Check out the interesting little museum while there.
If you’re visiting the viaduct on foot, check the train timetable so you can catch the Jacobite crossing. Times can vary depending on the month, so confirm before you go. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good viewpoint and a space in the nearby carpark.
The most famous viewpoint is a short hike from the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre car park. It’s a gentle uphill walk of about 20 minutes to get to the hillside above the train track. Chose the hillside on the western side of the viaduct when the train is coming from Fort William and the eastern side when coming from Mallaig. Wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be muddy after rain.
Be aware that West Coast Railways may also operate a diesel train to pull its iconic carriages, so check the train timetable to see whether the diesel or the steam train will be in use.
Hagrid’s Hut Filming Location in Glencoe
High above Torren Lochan in Clachaig Gully lies the spot where Hagrid’s Hut once stood during filming for Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Order of the Phoenix, and Half-Blood Prince. The hut itself was a temporary set, complete with pumpkin patch and smoking chimney, built to take advantage of Glencoe’s dramatic backdrop of rugged peaks and sweeping valleys. Today, the set is long gone, and the hillside has returned to its natural state, but the magic lingers. Standing at the viewpoint, you can easily imagine Harry, Ron, and Hermione rushing to Hagrid’s side before Buckbeak’s execution or racing against time with the Time-Turner. It’s a pilgrimage for Potter fans and a chance to soak in one of Scotland’s most cinematic landscapes. The location represents one of the most remote Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland, requiring effort but rewarding with stunning Highland scenery.
Glencoe itself is a jewel of the Highlands, carved by ancient glaciers and framed by towering mountains like the Three Sisters. The glen offers serene lochs, cascading waterfalls, and moody skies that shift with the weather—a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
The location can be found here on Google Maps
Enjoy a meal at the Clachaig Inn, a historic hostelry famed for its warm Highland welcome, hearty meals, and local ales.
Use the Clachaig Inn car park or nearby lay-bys along the A82. Spaces can fill quickly in peak season.
Wear sturdy shoes for the short but rocky climb, pack waterproofs (Glencoe weather is famously unpredictable).
Combine your visit with hikes around the Three Sisters or a stop at the Glencoe Visitor Centre for history and panoramic views. Or take in another famous filming spot – this time for the James Bond classic Skyfall – and drive down through Glen Etive, which branches off from Glencoe.
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Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery, Edinburgh
Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric spots, steeped in history and literary lore. Nestled in the Old Town, this 16th-century graveyard is where J.K. Rowling found inspiration for several Harry Potter character names while writing in nearby cafés like The Elephant House. Among the tombstones, you’ll discover names that echo through the wizarding world: Thomas Riddell (Lord Voldemort), William McGonagall (Professor McGonagall), and Elizabeth Moodie (Mad-Eye Moody). Rowling has acknowledged Edinburgh’s influence on her work, and wandering these moss-covered stones feels like stepping into the pages of her imagination. This cemetery ranks among the most significant Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh for understanding Rowling's creative process.
Beyond its Potter connections, Greyfriars is a fascinating slice of Scottish history. Established in 1561, it’s the resting place of poets, politicians, and the legendary Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier who guarded his master’s grave for 14 years. The kirkyard is also reputedly one of Edinburgh’s most haunted sites, with tales of “Bloody Mackenzie” and the Covenanters’ Prison adding a spooky edge to your visit. From its peaceful paths, you’ll enjoy views of Edinburgh Castle and the surrounding Old Town—a serene escape from the city bustle.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
The three gravestones of Riddell, McGonagall and Moodie are pinned on Google Maps, as well as a Sirius Black inspired Tomb.
The cemetery has a couple of entrances on Candlemaker Row, just south of the Grassmarket and across the road from the National Museum of Scotland and is open 24/7 and free to enter.
Read on to discover if you have the same size hands as JK Rowling and where to drink a magic potion or two.
JK Rowling’s Handprints, City Chambers, Edinburgh
Just off the Royal Mile, in the courtyard of Edinburgh’s City Chambers, you’ll find a hidden gem that many Harry Potter fans miss: JK Rowling’s handprints. Set into the flagstones, these golden impressions commemorate Rowling’s receipt of the Edinburgh Award in 2008, an honour given to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the city. The courtyard is paved with Caithness stone, and each engraved slab celebrates one of Edinburgh’s greatest living citizens. Rowling’s prints sit on the left side of the quadrangle, just beyond the vaulted arcade—a quiet tribute in the very city where she penned much of the wizarding saga. For fans exploring Harry Potter places in Edinburgh, these handprints offer a tangible connection to the author herself.
Rowling’s handprints are part of Edinburgh’s own “Walk of Fame,” created to honour cultural icons who have brought global recognition to the city. The first recipient was crime writer Ian Rankin in 2007, and his prints lie close to Rowling’s. Other honourees include figures from literature, science, and the arts, all immortalized in stone as a lasting visual testimony to Edinburgh’s creative spirit. The tradition began as a way to celebrate those who embody the city’s values and inspire its residents, much like Hollywood’s famous sidewalk stars—but with a distinctly Scottish twist.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
You can find the handprints in the Edinburgh City Chambers courtyard, 253 High Street, just off the Royal Mile, which has free, 24-hour access to the public.
Combine with a stroll along the Royal Mile or a visit to St Giles’ Cathedral.
The Department of Magic, Edinburgh
Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the handprints, tucked away at 9 Blair Street, the Department of Magic is a must-visit for Harry Potter fans looking to add a little enchantment to their evening. As one of Edinburgh's most immersive Harry Potter attractions, it combines themed cocktails with wizarding atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town. The décor is full of nods to the wizarding world, creating an atmosphere that feels straight out of Diagon Alley. For an extra dose of fun, you can book their escape room experiences, where puzzles and potions await aspiring witches and wizards. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring Edinburgh’s Potter landmarks.
Tailor-Made Top Tips:
The Department of Magic can be found at 9 Blair Street, Edinburgh, just off the Royal Mile.
Booking is highly recommended. Reserve online via their official website for cocktail experiences or escape rooms.
While drinks are the star, light snacks are available; for a full meal, explore nearby Old Town pubs and restaurants.
Victoria Street, Edinburgh
Winding down from George IV Bridge to the Grassmarket, Victoria Street is one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque lanes—and a clear inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series. Its colourful shopfronts, quirky boutiques, and steep curve create a magical atmosphere that feels straight out of the wizarding world. J.K. Rowling often walked these streets while writing the books, and it’s easy to see how the eclectic mix of independent stores sparked her imagination. Today, you’ll find everything from artisan cheesemongers to spellbinding gift shops, including several dedicated to Harry Potter merchandise. The cobbled street, vibrant façades, and hidden stairways make Victoria Street a photographer’s dream and a must-see for fans seeking a real-world taste of Hogwarts shopping. It's one of the most photographed Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh and deserves its reputation.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Visit early morning for quiet photos or late afternoon for a lively atmosphere.
The Enchanted Galaxy and Museum Context, Victoria Street, Edinburgh
Victoria Street isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a treasure trove for Harry Potter fans. At The Enchanted Galaxy, you’ll find shelves brimming with officially licensed merchandise, from Hogwarts house scarves and robes to collectible wands and Horcrux bookmarks. They also stock other film and contemporary culture gifts. Across the street, Museum Context offers a more immersive experience with three floors of magical curiosities. Here, you can pick up elegant wax seals, gold-plated house pens, journals, and film replicas like the Golden Egg or Felix Felicis pendant. Both shops are perfect for finding unique gifts or souvenirs that bring the Wizarding World to life—whether you’re treating yourself or surprising a fellow Potterhead.
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The Elephant House(s)
No Harry Potter-themed tour of Edinburgh would be complete without mentioning The Elephant House, famously known as the “birthplace of Harry Potter.” It was here, in the original café on George IV Bridge, that J.K. Rowling wrote early chapters of the series while sipping coffee and gazing out at Edinburgh Castle. Sadly, that historic location was damaged by a fire in 2021 and remains temporarily closed, but the magic lives on at its new home on Victoria Street, a street often linked to Diagon Alley and home to several Harry Potter shops in Edinburgh.
The new Elephant House offers cozy seating, themed décor, and plenty of photo opportunities. Inside, you’ll find nostalgic displays, including the writing desk salvaged from the original café, and walls adorned with fan messages. During my visit, I enjoyed a Butter Scotch Beer at their takeaway booth at the entrance to the café. This was a tasty, sweet nod to Butterbeer!
The Balmoral Hotel
After a day exploring Edinburgh’s Harry Potter landmarks, few places feel more fitting for a night’s stay than the Balmoral Hotel on Princes Street. This five-star icon is where J.K. Rowling famously finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on 11 January 2007, marking the moment by signing a marble bust of Hermes in her room. That very room—now known as the J.K. Rowling Suite—is available to book for fans seeking the ultimate literary pilgrimage. The suite features elegant décor with subtle wizarding touches, an owl-shaped door knocker, and the original desk where Rowling penned the final chapters. Guests can enjoy views over Calton Hill, a luxurious marble bathroom, and even browse complete sets of the Harry Potter books displayed inside. It’s a stay that blends opulence with a dash of magic, making it the perfect finale to your Potter-inspired adventure in Edinburgh.
Tailor-Made Top Tip:
Expect premium rates for the suite (often over £1,000 per night), with other rooms starting at more accessible luxury prices. If this is beyond your budget, treat yourself to afternoon tea in the Palm Court or fine dining at Number One, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant.
Quick Questions Answered
How can I get Jacobite steam train tickets? You can book Jacobite steam train tickets directly through West Coast Railways or via certain guided tour operators. Advance booking is highly recommended, with booking open later in November 2025 for the 2026 season.
How do I find out the Jacobite steam train timetable? You can find the full Jacobite Steam Train timetable on the West Coast Railways website.
How do I find out the Glenfinnan Viaduct train times? Check the Jacobite Steam Train timetable on the West Coast Railways website. The train will cross the viaduct approximately 30 minutes after departure from Fort William (or 30 minutes before arrival if departing from Mallaig).
What is the Jacobite steam train route? The Jacobite Steam Train runs a scenic 84-mile round trip between Fort William and Mallaig on Scotland’s West Highland Line, passing iconic landmarks like the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Loch Morar, and Arisaig, as well as stopping for a short while at Glenfinnan Station on the first leg of the journey.
Is the Hogwarts Express in Scotland worth it? At first look, the tickets can seem expensive, but the scenery along this route is absolutely stunning and I would thoroughly recommend this unique day out.
Where is Hogwarts Castle located in real life? Hogwarts Castle isn’t a single real location—it’s a magical composite of several stunning sites across the UK, primarily in England and Scotland. The most iconic exterior shots were filmed at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland. The full Hogwarts silhouette was created using CGI, blending real architecture with fantasy design.
Is Hagrid’s Hut still in Glencoe? No, Hagrid’s Hut is no longer standing in Glencoe—but you can still visit the exact filming location above Torren Lochan in Clachaig Gully, where it was built for the Harry Potter films.
Where was Diagon Alley filmed? The primary filming location for Diagon Alley was Leadenhall Market, although undoubtedly, the inspiration for alley is Victoria Street in Edinburgh.
Where is Dumbledore’s grave in real life? Dumbledore’s grave was filmed at Eilean na Moine, a small island in Loch Eilt in the Scottish Highlands. It’s a real location you can visit, though the grave itself was a temporary movie set and no longer exists. You get a brief view of the island when the Jacobite steam train glides past.
Conclusion
Scotland's Harry Potter connections run deeper than most fans realize, weaving together JK Rowling's Edinburgh inspirations with some of the films' most iconic locations across the Highlands. From riding the actual Hogwarts Express train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to discovering the Edinburgh gravestones that inspired Voldemort and McGonagall, from standing where Hagrid's Hut once stood in Glencoe to sipping themed cocktails in the Department of Magic, these experiences create a complete magical journey.
What struck me most was how accessible everything felt—the Jacobite steam train runs seasonally with advance booking, Victoria Street's Harry Potter shops welcome browsers daily, and Greyfriars Kirkyard remains free to explore 24/7. The practical reality of visiting these Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland involves planning ahead (especially for the Jacobite), embracing unpredictable Highland weather, and accepting that some magic requires muddy boots and uphill hikes. Yet that's precisely what makes it rewarding—you're not visiting a theme park but discovering real places that inspired or hosted one of literature's greatest phenomena. Whether you're a die-hard Potterhead or simply appreciate stunning Scottish landscapes, these locations deliver genuine experiences that theme parks can never replicate. The steam train journey alone justifies the trip, but combined with Edinburgh's literary connections and those dramatic Highland filming locations, Scotland offers the most authentic Harry Potter pilgrimage available anywhere in the world.
Where to Stay: Fort William & Edinburgh
Whether you're chasing steam trains through the Highlands or tracing magical footsteps through Edinburgh’s cobbled streets, choosing the right place to stay can elevate your entire experience. Below are handpicked accommodation options in both Fort William and Edinburgh, tailored to suit every budget and travel style—with a sprinkle of wizarding charm where possible.
Fort William offers a range of accommodation, from luxurious lochside retreats to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels. Staying here puts you within easy reach of the Jacobite Steam Train departure point and the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint.
High-End: Inverlochy Castle Hotel
For a truly regal experience, check into Inverlochy Castle Hotel, a 19th-century baronial mansion nestled beneath Ben Nevis. With opulent rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and views that rival Hogwarts itself, this is the ultimate splurge for Potter fans seeking luxury and romance.
Mid-Range: Guisachan Guest House
Just a short walk from the train station, Guisachan Guest House offers comfortable rooms, hearty breakfasts, and warm Highland hospitality. It’s ideal for travellers who want charm and convenience without breaking the bank.
Budget: Chase The Wild Goose Hostel
Located in nearby Banavie, Chase The Wild Goose Hostel is perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious adventurers. It’s clean, friendly, and just a short bus ride from Fort William—plus, it overlooks Neptune’s Staircase, another engineering marvel.
Meanwhile, Edinburgh’s Old Town is brimming with Harry Potter connections, and its accommodation options are just as varied. From boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find something to suit your style—all within walking distance of Rowling’s inspirations.
High-End: The Witchery by the Castle
If you’re looking for gothic glamour, The Witchery by the Castle is pure magic. With lavish suites, velvet-draped beds, and candlelit dining, it’s a fantasy come to life—just steps from Victoria Street and Edinburgh Castle.
Mid-Range: House of Gods Hotel
This boutique gem on Cowgate blends decadence with whimsy. House of Gods Hotel offers plush interiors, themed cocktails, and a vibe that feels straight out of a wizarding speakeasy. It’s a stylish base for exploring the Old Town’s magical landmarks.
Budget: Castle Rock Hostel
For budget travellers who still want atmosphere, Castle Rock Hostel delivers. Located beside Edinburgh Castle, it features Harry Potter-themed décor, cozy common rooms, and unbeatable access to Greyfriars Kirkyard, Victoria Street, and the Royal Mile.
Related Blog Posts
If you would like more information on Scotland’s other magical locations please view the Tailor-Made Itineraries posts below:
Share in the comments which Harry Potter location in Scotland you're most excited to visit, or tell me about your own magical Scottish experiences!
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting any of these Harry Potter places in Scotland appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating Harry Potter and Edinburgh and the rest of this stunning country.
Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries create one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
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