JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter 4½hrs

Edinburgh , Scotland

JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter 4½hrs

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(213 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

JK Rowling... she’s sold a few books - what?!

✒ On this tour, we dive deep into her history. Learn to use failure as a springboard, be inspired, stay committed & conquer the world. Discover the events that moved her & the cafes which fueled her. Experience how, through a caffeine-charged imagination, a penniless single mother put a dent in the Muggle-verse.

◘ Learn the entire genesis of Potter, from lightning striking on a Manchester train to becoming a pillar of British culture & shaping generations.
◘ Reviewers say it’s a good introduction to our Hogwartian old town, discover fabulous gothic scenes off the Muggle track, the stonework of Rowling's imagination.
◘ There’s magic, I never got my letter so I’m giving you yours.

✒ Darker than an Azkaban prison cell, more brilliant than all the gold in Gringotts, 4+ hours long for those with double the love. Stand on the shoulders of Rowling, Nimbus-charge your originality & drive; fill that aching Potter-shaped hole inside ϟ

Available options

JK Rowling’s Edinburgh & the Writing of Harry Potter 4½hrs

What's included

Resurrection stone. To revive the magic

Escort back to Edinburgh’s ‘Harry Potter’ street at the end if you wish

4½ HOURS of Edinburgh’s world heritage site, the Hogwartian half, the Old Town

Spoilers, it explores JK’s themes so is terrible for whetting appetites

A peek inside JK Rowling’s head. It’s fairly big but leave only footprints

Discounted all day parking cost £10, please contact me

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour starts where Harry Potter died. (He might also have revived - *SPOILERS*).

Stop 2

Harry's maternity ward

See the fabulous hall where JK Rowling had a ball

JK Rowling has disowned this cemetery as an inspiration, we dig up the truth.

JK Rowling insists this castled school isn't Hogwarts. So what is JK Rowling's connection? Why has she visited so many many times and why has it had such a profound impact on her life?

Stop 6

The birthplace of Harry Potter? Ummm, no. Beloved by JK Rowling nevertheless.

Stop 7

Scottish whisky ice cream, the most scottish Ice cream in the world. Sometimes, when the elves have been busy, they also have a butter brew flavour.

We visit Victoria Street, Edinburgh's winding wizarding street and unpack its famed Harry Potter shops

Stop 9

What does Harry Potter have to teach? Nothing really, Rowling didn't see herself as children's baby sitter or teacher. Here though we explore some of her ideas and views of the world as embedded in her epic.

Stop 10

JK Rowling's Europillia - Oh my!

Stop 11

Edinburgh is UNESCO's first 'city of literature', we now mentor the others around the world. In this special court to makars - writers, we have a look at the ascent of Edinburgh's most famous adopted daughter.

Where poverty & sovereignty meet. Or something.

Stop 13

We have a look at Rowling's Edinburgh Award

The finale, we give thanks. The tour ENDS HERE.

What's not included

Genocide: We’re a local company compliant with Scottish law

Tips: Help!

Potter guides & aspiring guides: please look elsewhere, I love you but I have too many "tributes"

French. If your English is weak I am able to appoint a French guide, please contact me

Flexibility: due to the start point it’s difficult to cut the tour short SEEK my 8hr Potterhead tour

Breakfast. We can pause for sandwiches to be eaten during the tour, but BREAKFAST IS KING

Kids who have not read the books. Buy them the books already. Meantime try potter trail instead

This is a tour for those who've read & love the books. Squibs are there for true fan’s ride

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

192 reviews

5★

165

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Many children have enjoyed the tour, however it’s based on Rowling’s rags to riches story & so is dark. The more difficulties a person has overcome, the more you can learn from them. This tour has darker stories from Rowling’s instructive biography, which I hope will inspire those ready to achieve more

The tour is also based on the books, the books have some adult themes which I give credit too, because 'they're just children's books' annoys me. People who have just seen the movies may not be aware of these darker themes

5 km+ of up and down walking through Edinburgh’s hilly old town

4½ HOURS is a long time so BREAKFAST. Think everybody’s favourite Gameskeeper: if your feet haven’t swollen to baby Dolphins - keep shovelling!

This tour is also available as a private tour, along with a more JKR-comprehensive 5¾ hour private tour & 8hr Potter Cornucopia with lunch. Please contact Potter Tour

ENDS AT: City Chambers, 253 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1YJ

Not recommended for people requiring mobility aids, e.g. a stick, 6km of hilly walking is demanding. Contact me for a private tour

Meeting point

ENDS AT: City Chambers, 253 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1YJ

MEETING POINT: Outside General Register House, beside the statue of the Duke of Wellington on his rearing horse, adjacent to the Apple store.
Opposite the Balmoral Hotel with its big clock tower.

Important notes

You're brill brill brill!
For instructions on discounted all-day parking in NCP, please contact me NOW. I can pickup & walk you to the start point at 09.47 am but can't wait.

If coming by the Floo network it's "Edin-BURRRR", too many have landed in Borgin & Burkes, they've started complaining.

Your guide Sam usually wears red wizard robes. He's a total nerd.

See you soon
x
Sam

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city of historic and cultural significance. Known for its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of ancient and modern. The city is famous for its annual festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe, and its iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Historical 2-3 hours £18 (adult), £11 (child)

Royal Mile

A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical/Cultural Several hours to explore fully Free to walk, attractions vary

Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city. A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours (hike) Free

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The former royal yacht of the British monarchy, now a museum docked in Edinburgh's port.

Historical 2 hours £19 (adult), £10 (child)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's offal, oats, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Not vegetarian or vegan.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, raspberries, honey, and toasted oats.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Irn-Bru

Scotland's iconic bright orange, fizzy soft drink with a unique flavor.

Drink Contains caffeine and sugar.

Popular Activities

Hiking Arthur's Seat Kayaking on the Water of Leith Cycling the National Cycle Network Afternoon tea at The Dome Visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Strolling along Princes Street Gardens Exploring the National Museum of Scotland Visiting the Scottish National Gallery

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals. The weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions.

15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Edinburgh is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings at night
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Edinburgh Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket

By bus

Edinburgh Bus Station (Stance 20)

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent bus services cover the entire city. Key routes include the Airlink 100 to the airport.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FREE NOW

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town New Town Leith

Day trips

Lothian

10-20 km (6-12 miles) • Half day to full day

Lothian offers a mix of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and outdoor activities. Visit historic castles, explore picturesque villages, and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Fife

30-50 km (18-31 miles) • Full day

Fife is known for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and the famous St. Andrews, home to the University of St. Andrews and the Old Course golf course.

Stirling

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Stirling is a historic city known for its castle and its role in Scottish history. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland's past.

Festivals

Edinburgh Festival Fringe • August Edinburgh International Festival • August Hogmanay • December 31

Pro tips

Visit the camera obscura for a unique view of the city
Explore the underground closes for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past
Try a whisky tasting at one of the city's many whisky bars
Walk the Royal Mile at night for a quieter and more atmospheric experience
Visit the National Museum of Scotland for a comprehensive overview of the city's history and culture