Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour & Kids Free Entry

Summary

Wander Edinburgh’s wizarding streets with stories behind every corner

You’ll walk Edinburgh’s twisting streets with a Potter-fan guide, see Waverley Station and Greyfriars Kirkyard up close, spot Diagon Alley’s inspiration on Victoria Street, and end near Edinburgh Castle. Kids join free, but honestly—if you ever loved Harry Potter even a little, you’ll feel something spark here.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly tripped over my own scarf right outside Tron Kirk — blame the cobblestones or maybe nerves, but starting this Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh felt like stepping into a story I’d read a hundred times. Our guide, Jamie (who had the kind of dry Scottish humor that sneaks up on you), gathered us up with a quick “right then, witches and wizards!” and off we went down the Royal Mile. I caught the faint smell of roasted coffee from somewhere, mixing with that cold, damp air you only get here. It was busy but somehow felt secretive at the same time.

We paused at Waverley Station while Jamie explained how JK Rowling used to pass through here — I could almost see young wizards dashing for trains if I squinted hard enough. There was this moment when he pointed out the view over New Town and I realized how much of the city seeps into those books. The Old College looked so much like Hogwarts that even my skeptical partner raised an eyebrow. Kids in our group kept whispering spells under their breath (one tried “Alohomora” on a locked gate — no luck). It didn’t feel staged, just sort of… alive.

I wasn’t prepared for Greyfriars Kirkyard. The gravestones were slick from last night’s rain and Jamie showed us Tom Riddell’s name carved in stone — it gave me goosebumps, honestly. We wandered Victoria Street (the real-life Diagon Alley), dodging delivery vans and snapping photos of crooked shopfronts. Someone asked about the Elephant Café and Jamie just grinned: “Best view in town if you’re writing about dragons.” By the time we reached Edinburgh Castle looming above us, my feet were tired but my head was buzzing with all these new connections between the city and those stories I grew up with.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Edinburgh's Harry Potter landmarks

• Meet near Tron Kirk Market
• Stroll along the Royal Mile
• View historic Waverley Train Station
• See Edinburgh New Town from viewpoint
• Pass Edinburgh University Old College
• Walk through Old Town streets
• Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard graveyard
• Enjoy views of Edinburgh Castle
• Explore Victoria Street's Diagon Alley inspiration
• End at City Chambers

Top questions

Is this Harry Potter walking tour suitable for families?

Yes, kids can join for free and all ages are welcome on this small-group tour.

Where does the Harry Potter tour in Edinburgh start?

The tour begins near Tron Kirk Market on the Royal Mile in central Edinburgh.

How long is the walking tour?

The Harry Potter walking tour lasts about 2 hours.

Does the tour visit actual filming locations?

No filming locations, but it covers sites that inspired JK Rowling such as Greyfriars Kirkyard and Victoria Street.

Are strollers or prams allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the walk.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to the meeting point?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to Tron Kirk Market on the Royal Mile.

Will we see Edinburgh Castle during the tour?

You’ll enjoy views of Edinburgh Castle as part of your route through Old Town.

Does the tour include entry fees or is it all outside stops?

The experience is mostly outdoors; no entry fees required for included stops.

What’s included

Your day includes two hours exploring key Harry Potter sights around Edinburgh’s Old Town with a fun local guide; kids join free; strollers are welcome; service animals allowed; plus easy access by public transport—just meet near Tron Kirk Market to start your walk through wizarding history.