Harry Potter film and book locations itinerary

The Elephant House claims that JK Rowling spent endless hours in the 1990s gazing out of the window and dreaming up her magical characters. With its beautiful views of Edinburgh Castle, the café has become known as the 'Birthplace of Harry Potter'. You can also see JK Rowling's handprints set in stone at the Edinburgh City Chambers on the Royal Mile.   

Visit this infamous, spine-tingling graveyard and burial place of several notable Edinburgh academics and writers of the past. However, also buried here are a few other notable residents: Thomas Riddell, William McGonagall and Elizabeth Moodie. A coincidence? We think not.

After a day wandering the streets of the Old Town, treat yourself to a stay in The Balmoral Hotel, one of Princes Street's finest landmarks with its tall clock defining the city skyline. You can also pop into the hotel for a cocktail or perhaps some afternoon tea if you don't fancy splashing out on a night's stay. 

Admire some of Glasgow's gorgeous gothic architecture in the West End, with a university which might remind you a little of Hogwarts. Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is the fourth-oldest in the English-speaking world, so take a guided tour around this magical space

Once you arrive, there are a variety of accommodation options in the lovely Fort William, an outdoorsy town lying in the shadow of the lofty Ben Nevis, our highest mountain. If you're looking for an unusual place to stay, why not channel your inner half-giant, and stay the night in a Hagrid-style cabin?

Some say that the West Highland Line is the greatest rail journey in the world. In the summer, the Jacobite Steam Train* travels along the route in addition to the regular trains. Take the journey over the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, whilst enjoying views of Loch Shiel from your window, a key location in the Harry Potter films.

* Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train is running with reduced capacity for the 2024 season. Please check directly for the latest availability.

When you arrive at Mallaig, explore the small but bustling harbour village, which was once the busiest herring port in Europe. Watch boats and ferries come and go, or learn more about the village's fishing community at the Mallaig Heritage Centre. What's for lunch? You have the choice of a few cafés, pubs and restaurants - try to find the local favourite, Mallaig kippers! Then, hop back on the train and retrace your steps to Fort William. 

This idyllic short walking route should take around an hour and a half, leading you through the dramatic Nevis Gorge and towards the striking Steall Falls. 

With towering peaks looming out of every window, this cosy inn has made room for weary travellers for over 300 years. It's the perfect place to stop and refuel after a day outdoors. Get to know the locals and try some of the local ales and beers, or settle down for a hearty pub dinner. 

Explore this area on foot and take some photos of the surrounding glen, with tall peaks looming from all directions. Visitors coming to the area to seek out the famous James Bond's Skyfall and Braveheart film location can follow the driving route along the River Etive.