The Potter Trail

Guided walks to the Harry Potter places in Edinburgh's old town since 2012; the public tour is free, with a donation.

Who they are

The Potter Trail has been running guided walks to the Edinburgh places linked to Harry Potter since 2012. Their guides dress as wizards, with a cloak and a blue umbrella, and are licensed by the council to guide at the sites they visit. As they point out themselves, they have no official connection with the author or the film studio, and no tour in Edinburgh does.

What the walk is like

It starts from 4 Greyfriars Place, opposite Bobby's Sandwich Shop, next to the entrance to Greyfriars graveyard, and ends on Victoria Street. It's 75 to 90 minutes and about 1.25 miles, almost all flat. It's not a scary tour: it covers what may have inspired Rowling and the city's literary history, with games for children, such as a house points and spells competition. They ask you to bring something wand-shaped.

Free, but you must book

The public tour is free: at the end they accept donations in cash or by card, with no obligation. It leaves at 11:00 almost every day, and in high season they add departures at 10:00, 15:00 and 16:00. You need to book on their website, with a maximum of 7 people per booking; larger groups have to request a private tour. The private tour is priced per person depending on group size, and there's a two-hour version with hotel pick-up and gifts.

They recommend it from about age 7, when children can usually read the books on their own. Dogs are welcome. It's in English.

What they run

The Geocalia activities run by The Potter Trail, with the prices and terms they publish.

Independent companies: you book with them, on their terms. Prices are as they publish them and may change.

Frequently asked questions

Is it really free?

Yes, the public tour. At the end you leave whatever donation you like, or none.

Do you need to book?

Yes. Without a booking you have no place, and in high season it fills up.

Where does it start?

At 4 Greyfriars Place, opposite Bobby's Sandwich Shop, next to Greyfriars graveyard.

Is it suitable for young children?

They recommend it from about age 7. Babes in arms go without a booking.

Can you bring a dog?

Yes, under the owner's responsibility.

Independent company: you book with them, on their terms.

Opening hours and prices can change: check them before you go.

Is this your company? Write to us to correct or complete the details.