Edinburgh Castle in Scotland holds significant connections to the Harry Potter series, although it was not a direct filming location. As a Castles touring enthusiast, you’ll find a wealth of information and unique details about the castle’s ties to the wizarding world.
Inspiration for Hogwarts
- Architectural Resemblance: The Gothic architecture and strategic location of Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop, bear a striking resemblance to the fictional Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
- J.K. Rowling’s Inspiration: While J.K. Rowling has not explicitly confirmed that Edinburgh Castle was the direct inspiration for Hogwarts, the castle’s imposing presence and Scottish setting may have influenced the author’s vision for the iconic wizarding school.
Harry Potter Events at Edinburgh Castle
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in Concert: On Sunday, July 14, 2024, Edinburgh Castle will host a live concert featuring the Royal Scottish National Orchestra performing John Williams’ iconic score to the first Harry Potter film. Tickets went on sale on Friday, March 22, 2024, at 9am via Ticketmaster.
Nearby Harry Potter Attractions
The Elephant House
- J.K. Rowling’s Writing Spot: This café on George IV Bridge is where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of the early Harry Potter books. It is currently closed due to a fire but is expected to reopen.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
- Inspiration for Character Names: This historic graveyard is said to have inspired some character names and is famous for being the home of Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal dog.
Victoria Street
- Inspiration for Diagon Alley: This street is believed to have inspired the winding, cobblestone design and colorful shops of the wizarding world’s Diagon Alley.
Tours and Activities
The Potter Trail
- Duration: 90-minute guided tour
- Highlights: Covers key Harry Potter sights in Edinburgh, starting at Greyfriars Bobby Statue and finishing on Victoria Terrace.
- Cost: Free, but donations are recommended.
The Potter Tour
- Duration: 4 hours
- Highlights: Comprehensive tour covering various areas of the city with a focus on the Harry Potter experience.
Hogwarts Express Tour
- Highlights: A day tour from Edinburgh that includes a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express, which passes through scenic locations featured in the films.
Additional Information
- Cost: Prices for tours and attractions vary, but the J.K. Rowling Suite at the Balmoral Hotel costs around £1000 per night.
- Timings: The Elephant House is currently closed, but other attractions have varying hours. The Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in Concert event takes place on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
- Directory: Key locations include Edinburgh Castle, The Elephant House, Greyfriars Kirkyard, Victoria Street, and the Balmoral Hotel.
- Value: Edinburgh offers a rich Harry Potter experience with its connections to the author and the inspiration for various characters and locations.
References:
– The Ultimate Harry Potter Guide to Edinburgh
– Top 7 Harry Potter Filming Locations in Scotland and England
– Harry Potter Locations in Edinburgh That Muggles Will Love
– Harry Potter Locations to See in Edinburgh
– Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone to Play at Edinburgh Castle