Harry Potter's Edinburgh Tour and House of Illusions Experience

Edinburgh , Scotland

Harry Potter's Edinburgh Tour and House of Illusions Experience

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(4 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Experience the magic of Edinburgh with our fun Potter-head guide, and see the places that inspired JK Rowling to create her wizarding universe. Then immerse yourself in over 100 amazing tricks and illusions at the city's most magical attraction! And with one of the city's best views!
Starting on The Royal Mile, see historic Waverley Station. and Edinburgh University Old College —a famous old campus that provided lots of inspiration for JK Rowling’s creations. Continue through the atmospheric Old Town, visiting Greyfriars Kirkyard to see Tom Riddle's Grave, and the Elephant Café where JK Rowling dreamed up Harry Potter's world!
Get amazing views of Edinburgh Castle on our way to Victoria Street—said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley. We finish near Edinburgh City Chambers to learn about JK Rowling’s impact on the city.
After the tour, you'll be given your tickets for the World of Illusions experience - 5 floors filled with tricks and fun things to do!

Available options

Harry Potter's Edinburgh Tour and House of Illusions Experience

What's included

Tickets for House of Illusions experience

Access to the Rooftop Terrace for a spectacular view of the city

See Edinburgh's top Harry Potter sights

2-hour walking tour with a small group

Fun local guide!

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After meeting your guide and fellow Potter-heads near Tron Kirk Market, your tour starts with a stroll along Edinburgh’s world-famous Royal Mile!

We’ll stop at a great viewpoint to see the historical Waverley Train station, much used by JK Rowling and an inspiration for trains being an iconic part of a young wizard's journey.

Looking over Edinburgh New Town, your guide will point out some key features that played a major part in the creation of the magical Harry Potter world.

Next, we’ll pass by this famous old campus which provided lots of inspiration to JK Rowling’s creations…. This place might remind you of Hogwarts!

We continue through the atmospheric streets of the Old Town, where your guide will show you many of the city’s most famous historical landmarks.

In this spooky graveyard you will see many recognisable names from the Potter world - this is the site of Tom Riddell’s grave and a number of other names used for JK Rowling’s characters.

Stop 7

You’ll enjoy wonderful views of this beautiful old castle, which plays a huge part in Scottish history as well as inspiring JK Rowling's Potter Universe.

With its colourful independent shops, overhanging street signs and the cobbled street that twists and turns out of view, it's easy to see why this is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley!

We end the tour at the City Chambers where we see the impact that JK Rowling has had on Edinburgh itself, and her huge contributions to the local community.

Stop 10

After the tour, you'll be given your tickets for Camera Obscura to explore five floors filled with tricks and fun things to do — perfect fun for all ages and nationalities, rain or shine!

There's also an incredible viewpoint where you can look out over the city!

What's not included

Food & Drinks

Hotel pickup / drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Infants are welcome to join the tour for free, but please be aware that the route includes parts that would be difficult to navigate with a stroller

Meeting point

We meet outside of the Tron Kirk (The Royal Mile Market). Opposite Bella Italia on the world-famous Royal Mile. The nearest train station is Waverly Station, a 10-minute walk away.

Important notes

Please show your booking confirmation to your walking tour guide. You’ll be given your World of Illusions entry ticket at the end of your walking tour.

The tour will commence on time : so please do not be late!

We won’t be able to answer our cell phones once the tour has started. It is essential that you arrive 10 minutes before the start and unfortunately, we will not be able to provide a refund due to lateness or delay. Please use a journey planner to ensure you leave enough time to get to the starting point.

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