Harry Potter Book & Filming Locations in Scotland

The Elephant House café has become associated with the early days of Harry Potter and is sometimes known as the “Birthplace of Harry Potter”, with J.K. Rowling said to have spent time writing in this area of Edinburgh’s Old Town during the 1990s. It may be among several cafés around the Old Town she frequented while working on the early books, and inside a portrait of Rowling pays tribute to her connection with the area. 

You can see JK Rowling’s handprints set in stone at the Edinburgh City Chambers on the Royal Mile, celebrating her contribution to the city’s literary heritage. 

With colourful shopfronts, winding cobbles and stacked medieval buildings, Victoria Street is often linked to the inspiration behind Diagon Alley. The curved street sweeps downhill from George IV Bridge to the Grassmarket and remains one of the most distinctive corners of Edinburgh's Old Town.

Browse independent shops, stop for coffee or simply admire the architecture and viewpoints across the city. Early mornings and evenings are often quieter if you’d like to avoid the busiest crowds. 

Step inside one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric graveyards, where centuries-old gravestones and winding pathways have fuelled countless stories and legends. Among the names carved into the stone, Harry Potter fans may recognise Thomas Riddell, William McGonagall and Elizabeth Moodie. 

Whether coincidence or inspiration, Greyfriars Kirkyard offers a fascinating glimpse into the historic surroundings that influenced the mood and character of Rowling’s wizarding world. 

J.K. Rowling retreated to The Balmoral Hotel to finish writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, bringing the story to a close in one of Edinburgh’s most famous buildings. Located at the east end of Princes Street, the hotel is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, with its grand clock tower dominating the skyline.  

After a day exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town, you could pop into The Balmoral for a cocktail or afternoon tea, even if your budget doesn’t stretch to an overnight 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 its spellbinding campus. 

Surrounded by mountains and sitting beneath mighty Ben Nevis, Fort William makes an excellent base for exploring several Harry Potter filming locations in the west Highlands. 

After arriving, settle into one of the town’s hotels, lodges or cosy woodland cabins before enjoying an evening beside Loch Linnhe or wandering through the lively town centre. If you’re travelling during autumn or winter, this area becomes especially atmospheric beneath mist-covered peaks and snow-dusted mountains. 

Cross the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, pass remote lochs and travel through rugged Highland landscapes that feature throughout the Harry Potter films. Loch Shiel, which appears beside the viaduct, was used as the setting for Hogwarts Lake in several scenes. 

The Jacobite Steam Train usually operates from April to October. It’s often busiest around train crossing times, so arriving early or visiting outside peak summer months can offer a quieter experience and better photo opportunities. Regular ScotRail services also run along the route year-round. 

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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. Ready for lunch? Mallaig has a selection of cafés, pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh local seafood – look out for local delicacy, Mallaig kippers. Afterwards, hop back on the train and retrace your journey to Fort William. 

Hidden within the spectacular Nevis Gorge, Steall Falls appeared in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire during scenes from the Triwizard Tournament when Harry faces down a Hungarian Horntail. A scenic walk through the spectacular Nevis Gorge leads to Steall Falls, one of Scotland’s highest waterfalls. The route is relatively short but can be uneven in places so sturdy footwear is recommended. 

Surrounded by towering peaks, this cosy inn has welcomed travellers for over 300 years. It’s the perfect place to stop and refuel after a day exploring Glencoe. Meet the locals, try some local ales, or settle in for a hearty pub dinner.

Surrounded by dramatic mountains and vast open scenery, Glen Etive is one of the Highlands’ most cinematic locations. Fans may recognise the landscape from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, when Harry, Ron and Hermione arrive here after escaping Gringotts Bank. 

The single-track road winding through the glen offers one of Scotland’s most spectacular drives, with endless viewpoints and opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.