In Harry Potter’s Footsteps: A Family Tour of Scotland
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Harry Potter in Scotland
Have you always dreamed of travelling aboard the Hogwarts Express and stepping into the legendary settings of the Harry Potter films?
This tour is an invitation to discover the Scottish filming locations of the iconic saga. Join us on this magical adventure, following in the footsteps of your favourite wizard, and book the journey that takes you back to where it all began. From Edinburgh to Fort William, via Glasgow and the dramatic Glencoe Valley, mount your broomsticks and set off on an enchanting journey through Scotland’s most spellbinding landscapes.
From £ 1,445 per person
8 days / 7 nights
Price Based on Bed & Breakfast accommodation (with pricing available for 3-, 4- and 5-star options)
Why we think you’ll love This trip…
A surprising and spellbinding itinerary: follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter and discover the iconic Scottish landscapes that served as filming locations for the saga.
A deep dive into Edinburgh’s mystical atmosphere, with its ancient streets, ghostly legends and hidden passageways.
The unforgettable journey aboard the Hogwarts Express, trailing its plume of white steam as it crosses the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. Along the way, admire Scotland’s wild, shimmering lochs, often watched over by castles, each with a story of its own to tell.
YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE
Edinburgh
Scotland played a central role in inspiring J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books, with its mystical atmosphere and dramatic landscapes shaping the wizarding world. This itinerary is both a tribute to the author’s Scottish roots and to the places that helped bring her stories to life.
In Edinburgh, J.K. Rowling wrote the first lines of Harry Potter in 1997 at The Elephant House café. Although closed since a 2022 fire, its iconic red façade and commemorative plaque can still be seen. Years later, she completed the final book at the Balmoral Hotel, where Suite 552 (now the Rowling Suite) bears her handwritten inscription marking the completion of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in 2007.
Nearby, the colourful curves of Victoria Street and Cockburn Street are thought to have inspired Diagon Alley, with their quirky shops and storybook charm. The journey ends at Greyfriars Kirkyard, where gravestones are said to have inspired the names of famous characters such as Sirius Black, Rufus Scrimgeour, and Voldemort.
Glasgow
Though fewer in number than in Edinburgh, certain landmarks in Glasgow will transport you straight back into the world of Harry Potter, most notably the impressive University of Glasgow, perched on a hill in the Hillhead district. Founded in 1451, this prestigious institution played a key role in the city’s development.
A perfect example of Gothic architecture at its finest, the university boasts dark stonework, wide-arched cloisters and mysterious walkways, giving the complex an undeniably esoteric charm. For devoted fans of the saga, there is little doubt that this setting inspired J.K. Rowling when recreating the distinctive atmosphere of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Open to the public and free to visit, the university lies just minutes from the Kelvinhaugh district, its parks and gardens, museums and the lively city centre. Glasgow is known as a vibrant, youthful and welcoming city, easy to explore on foot or by public transport: make the most of it!
Fort William & the Glencoe Valley
On the way to Fort William, the dramatic Glencoe Valley comes into view, its mountains and lochs featured in several Harry Potter film scenes. This area was used for key sets including Hagrid’s hut, the bridge to Hogwarts, and locations along Loch Etive.
Nearby, the impressive Steall Falls (one of Scotland’s highest waterfalls) appears in scenes with the dragon and during the Triwizard Tournament’s Quidditch matches.
From May to October, the famous Jacobite Steam Train departs from Fort William, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Instantly recognisable as the Hogwarts Express, this two-hour journey to Mallaig is one of the most magical experiences for Harry Potter fans.
Along Loch Eilt, often called “Hogwarts Lake,” a small island is believed to represent Dumbledore’s White Tomb. Though easy to miss, its quiet, mystical setting made it the perfect choice for the headmaster’s final resting place in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Perthshire
While many of Scotland’s great regions are associated with the Harry Potter saga, Perthshire also earns its place on this list.
Often overlooked and considered merely a stopover by visitors, this lesser-known region hides a wealth of remarkable sights and discoveries.
As part of this Harry Potter itinerary, devoted Potterheads will have the chance to explore the landscapes and panoramic views of Perthshire that are said to have inspired J.K. Rowling, bringing this magical journey to a fitting close.
