Scotland is the perfect place for any Harry Potter fan. With the moody, magical atmosphere (and the fact that Hogwarts is located in Scotland!), coupled with the many locations that actually inspired the series , there’s a ton of Harry Potter things to do in Scotland. A good portion of Harry Potter was actually written in the Scottish capital of Edinburgh. That being said, there’s a ton of Harry Potter inspired things to do in Edinburgh! My fiance and I did a number of Harry Potter inspired activities when we were in Edinburgh, and we loved them! Here’s 4 of our favorite Harry Potter things to do in Edinburgh:
1. The Potter Trail
The Potter Trail is one of my favorite things that I did in Edinburgh! It’s a free Harry Potter walking tour. Yes, you heard that right- FREE (although it is recommended you tip your guide at the end). You’ll meet your magical guide at GreyFriars Bobby and head through the Kirkyard to hear about the magical origin of the Harry Potter series. I won’t spoil the tour, but you’ll learn so much about the books and the origin of characters that you’ve never known before (and see where JK Rowling wrote the series and things that inspired specific characters and places). You’ll also be able to cast your own magic spell or two! This tour was one of our favorite things we did in Edinburgh and I highly recommend it if you’re looking to add things to your Edinburgh, Scotland itinerary.You can book your Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh here.
2. Visit Victoria Street
This street is iconic, and if you’re a Harry Potter fan chances are you’ve already heard of this one. Lined with shops and a pub or two, this colorful street is said to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley. There’s plenty of stores to pop into- such as Edinburgh Natural Skincare (LOVE this one- try their lip balm and solid hand cream!), candle shops, tweed and tartan shops, and more. There’s even a few officially licensed Harry Potter shops.
3. Visit Museum Context
Speaking of officially licensed Harry Potter shops- you must take a peak into Museum Context! While it is just a shop, it’s the coolest place to geek out over some official Harry Potter merch! You’ll be able to see wands, house inspired clothing, books, cauldrons, and more. Be sure to head upstairs for a great photo op and to check out the basilisk head!
4. Mix Magical Cocktail ‘Potions’ At the Department of Magic
For Potterheads in Scotland, this is a must!!! Did you know that there’s a real Department of Magic located right in Edinburgh? Well, now you do and now it’s time to go! Seriously though, The Department of Magic is so much fun. It’s centrally located in Edinburgh Old Town, so you’ll be easily able to get from the other Harry Potter activities in Edinburgh to this one.
First, they offer a variety of magical escape rooms. You can either go on a Prophecies Quest or face the Dark Lord’s Resurrection. We unfortunately didn’t get to do an escape room as they were booked up. The Department of Magic Edinburgh also offers a magical afternoon tea in their potions tavern if you’re looking for something light, refreshing, and a bit to eat. They require reservations for Magical Afternoon Tea- so book ahead of time!
We went to the Department of Magic as a night cap and made our reservation for the magic potions tavern to mix magical cocktails. The reservation came with one magical ‘potion’ and shot each, and I love that they have just as many nonalcoholic options as they do alcoholic- so there’s an option for everybody. Upon arrival you’ll choose your seat in the underground tavern- you’ll feel like you’re in Potions class at Hogwarts! You’ll receive a menu in which you’ll choose which potion to make and also which shot you’ll have at the end. They’ll deliver all of the necessary ingredients, tools, and even a piece of parchment with the potion-mixing instructions.
Thoughts on the Department of Magic
My fiance and I had so much fun concocting our own cocktails, and they turned out delicious! Our shots were delivered in a magical manner, and those were good as well. After your drinks, you have the option to order extras- such as butterbeer! We of course said yes, and the warm butterbeer was my favorite drink of the night. If you’re interested in the Edinburgh Department of Magic, you can book your reservations here!
Harry Potter Inspired Activities in Edinburgh
When planning you Edinburgh itinerary, there’s certainly no shortage of Harry Potter things to do in Edinburgh. Whether a Harry Potter walking tour through Edinburgh’s Old Town, or mixing magical potions at the Department of Magic in Edinburgh, you’ll find plenty of magic in the Scottish capital. Which of these activities is the first on your list for your next trip to Edinburgh? Let me know in the comments!
If you’re looking for more things to do in Scotland, check out this post!
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