Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour & Greyfriars Kirk

Summary

Walk Edinburgh’s wizarding streets from Royal Mile to Diagon Alley with stories, names and real-life magic along the way

You’ll wander Edinburgh’s Old Town with a local guide who brings Harry Potter’s world to life—from Victoria Street’s crooked charm to Greyfriars Kirkyard’s famous graves. Hear tales of witches, wizards, and Rowling’s writing spots as you walk cobbled lanes with fellow fans. It’s part history lesson, part storybook adventure—and you might find yourself believing in magic again.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel this much like a kid again, but there I was—standing on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, clutching my coffee and grinning at the group. Our guide (his name was Jamie, and he wore this battered scarf that looked suspiciously Gryffindor) started us off right outside 130 High Street. He had that Scottish warmth—dry humor, quick stories—and as we shuffled off together into the Old Town, I realized how much of Harry Potter is stitched into these streets. The stones were damp from last night’s rain; someone nearby was playing bagpipes, which somehow fit.

We stopped by this narrow alleyway—Victoria Street, but Jamie called it “the real Diagon Alley.” It did have that crooked magic about it: colorful shopfronts leaning in close, the smell of fresh bread from a bakery mixing with something more mysterious (maybe incense?). Jamie pointed out where JK Rowling used to sit and write. I tried to imagine her there, hunched over a notebook while tourists wandered past. He told us about some of the darker history too—witch trials and old superstitions—which made me glance up at the gray sky and shiver just a little.

Greyfriars Kirkyard was next. It’s quieter than I thought it’d be, all mossy stones and tangled branches. We wandered among gravestones hunting for familiar names—McGonagall, Moodie—and yes, even Tom Riddell (Jamie winked when he found that one). There was a moment when everyone just sort of fell silent; you could hear crows somewhere nearby and the distant rumble of traffic. I tried saying “Voldemort” under my breath—Li laughed beside me; probably not the best idea in a graveyard.

The tour wrapped up near The Elephant House café (though it was closed for repairs), but Jamie still pointed out where Rowling finished her last book. Funny how ordinary places can end up feeling magical after you’ve heard their stories. I still think about those cobblestones under my shoes and how for two hours Edinburgh felt like somewhere between reality and fiction—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh

• Begin tour at 130 High Street
• Visit locations inspiring Harry Potter books
• See street that inspired Diagon Alley
• Visit graveyard with character names and Voldemort's grave
• See where Rowling wrote final Harry Potter book

Top questions

How long is the Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the Harry Potter tour start?

The tour begins at 130 High Street on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

Is Greyfriars Kirkyard included on this tour?

Yes, you’ll visit Greyfriars Kirkyard during the tour.

Are children allowed on this Harry Potter walking tour?

Yes, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; under 5s join free with an adult.

Is this Harry Potter walking tour suitable for wheelchairs?

No, due to narrow stairways and steep hills it isn’t advised for wheelchair users.

Do I need to book public transportation for this tour?

No transport is included but public transportation options are available nearby.

Will we see where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter?

You’ll see locations where Rowling wrote parts of the books—including outside The Elephant House café (currently closed).

What’s included

Your day includes a guided group walk through Edinburgh’s Old Town with stops at Victoria Street (the inspiration for Diagon Alley), Greyfriars Kirkyard to spot character names on gravestones—including Lord Voldemort—and stories from your local guide along every cobbled lane.