In Harry Potter’s Footsteps:
A Family Tour of Scotland

Exploring Edinburgh’s Wizarding World

Arrive in Edinburgh — the city that sparked a global phenomenon. 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. In 1997, Rowling wrote the first lines of Harry Potter at The Elephant House café; years later, she completed the final book at the Balmoral Hotel, where the Rowling Suite still bears her handwritten inscription.

Wander the colourful curves of Victoria Street and Cockburn Street, thought to have inspired Diagon Alley with their quirky shops and storybook charm. End at the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, where gravestones bearing the names of Sirius Black, Rufus Scrimgeour and even Voldemort reveal how deeply Edinburgh shaped the saga’s characters.

Glasgow — The Real-Life Hogwarts

Travel to Glasgow and make straight for the University of Glasgow, perched on a hill in the Hillhead district. Founded in 1451, this is a perfect example of Gothic architecture at its finest — dark stonework, wide-arched cloisters and mysterious walkways give the complex an undeniably esoteric charm. For devoted fans of the saga, there is little doubt this inspired Rowling’s vision of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Open to the public and free to visit, the university lies just minutes from Kelvingrove Park and its world-class art museum. Glasgow is a vibrant, youthful and welcoming city — take time to explore its parks, galleries and lively city centre before heading west towards Glencoe.

Fort William, Glencoe & the Hogwarts Express

On the way to Fort William, the dramatic Glencoe Valley comes into view — its towering mountains and brooding lochs featured in several Harry Potter film scenes. This area provided key settings including Hagrid’s hut, the bridge to Hogwarts, and sweeping locations along Loch Etive. Nearby, the breathtaking Steall Falls — one of Scotland’s highest waterfalls — appeared during the Triwizard Tournament sequences.

From May to October, the legendary Jacobite Steam Train departs 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 any Harry Potter fan can have. Along Loch Eilt — often called “Hogwarts Lake” — a small island is believed to represent Dumbledore’s White Tomb, its quiet, mystical setting the perfect choice for the headmaster’s final resting place.

Perthshire — Hidden Gem of the Highlands

Often considered merely a stopover by visitors, Perthshire hides a wealth of remarkable sights and discoveries. This lesser-known region is said to have been another source of inspiration for J.K. Rowling, its sweeping panoramic views and ancient landscapes lending themselves to the magical world she created.

Explore the Pass of Killiecrankie, a dramatic wooded gorge steeped in history, and wander through charming market towns and tranquil lochs that feel like they belong in another world entirely. For devoted Potterheads, this is a fitting and enchanting close to the journey.

Departure — with Magical Memories

Make your way back to Edinburgh for your departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of Scotland’s spellbinding landscapes, iconic film locations and the magical world that J.K. Rowling built from these very streets, mountains and lochs. Return your hire car and depart with a new appreciation for the land that brought Harry Potter’s world to life.