Edinburgh: Harry Potter & Horrible History Walking Tour


Experiences

Discover Edinburgh’s Old Town where dark history meets Harry Potter magic. Visit famous Potter sites, meet Greyfriars Bobby and hear chilling tales of executions and the city’s grim past.

Highlights

  • Discover the inspiration behind Diagon Alley
  • Explore the Grassmarket and learn about public executions
  • Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard and see the grave of Tom Riddle
  • See the cafes where J.K. Rowling wrote the early chapters of her books
  • Learn about Robert Burns and Scotland's cuisine including haggis and cranachan

Description

Begin your tour at the National Library of Scotland, where you’ll explore the true birthplace of Harry Potter, how J. K. Rowling began writing the books, and what is believed to have inspired Diagon Alley. From here, head into the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Discover the gruesome history of public executions, enjoy one of the city’s best views of Edinburgh Castle, and wind through historic streets to the famously haunted Greyfriars Kirkyard. Among the atmospheric gravestones and mausoleums, meet the legendary Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog who captured the nation’s heart. See four gravestones, including Thomas Riddell’s, believed by fans to have inspired character names in Harry Potter. Leaving the graveyard, step back into Edinburgh’s darker past with stories of the notorious graverobbers. Towards the end of the tour, visit two cafés where J.K. Rowling spent time writing the early chapters of her books, before finishing at the Edinburgh City Chambers. Fancy trying a deep-fried Mars bar or haggis? Just ask.

Includes

Discussion on J K Rowling's life and inspiration Exploration of Edinburgh's old town Stories of executions and graverobbers Visit the Flodden Wall, the city wall Visit to Greyfriars Kirkyard Story of Greyfriars Bobby Thomas Riddell's grave Visit to cafes where J K Rowling wrote

Important Information

  • The tour involves walking through historical sites and graveyards. The tour includes stories of public executions and haunted locations.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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