Edinburgh: Harry Potter Origins Tour & Gin Tasting Combo

Embark on an enchanting journey through the magical world of J.K. Rowling’s inspirations in Edinburgh. This captivating 3.5-hour small-group tour explores iconic sites like the Elephant Café and Greyfriars Kirkyard, offering a glimpse into the author’s creative process. But the adventure doesn’t end there – a delightful gin tasting in an underground bar completes this immersive experience. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply curious, this tour promises to leave you spellbound.

Key Points

• This 3.5-hour small-group tour explores the Edinburgh locations that inspired the Harry Potter series, including the Elephant Café and Greyfriars Kirkyard.
• The tour includes a gin tasting experience in an underground bar, providing a unique blend of literary and culinary delights.
• Key stops include Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, the New Town, the Old College of the University of Edinburgh, and the Old Town.
• The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate experience with a focus on historical context and insights from the local guide.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Edinburgh: Harry Potter Origins Tour & Gin Tasting Combo offers a unique experience for Potter fans and gin enthusiasts alike. Priced from $84.32 per person, the 3.5-hour small-group tour is limited to 10 participants.

Visitors can explore key locations that inspired the Wizarding World, including the Elephant Café and Greyfriars Kirkyard. The tour also includes a gin tasting experience in an underground bar.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now and pay later option is available. The tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, and participants must be 18 or older, with photo ID required for those under 25.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Tron Kirk Market on the Royal Mile, where participants then head to Edinburgh Waverley Train Station.

Next, the group explores Edinburgh’s New Town and the Old College of the University of Edinburgh.

The highlights include:

Strolling through the picturesque Edinburgh Old Town, visiting the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard, marveling at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, and discovering the charming Victoria Street.

• Strolling through the picturesque Edinburgh Old Town

• Visiting the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard

• Marveling at the iconic Edinburgh Castle

• Discovering the charming Victoria Street

The tour culminates in an 80-minute exploration of The Lost Close, a hidden alleyway offering a glimpse into the city’s captivating past.

Key Stops

After departing from the Tron Kirk Market on the Royal Mile, the tour makes its first stop at Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, providing a 10-minute visit.

Next, the group heads to the Edinburgh New Town for another 10-minute stop.

They then proceed to the Old College at the University of Edinburgh, spending 10 minutes exploring the historic campus.

The tour then ventures into the Edinburgh Old Town, where participants get 20 minutes to enjoy the city’s rich history.

The Greyfriars Kirkyard, a 20-minute stop, offers a chance to learn about the locations that inspired the wizarding world.

Tour Features

While the guided walking tour explores Harry Potter’s origins in Edinburgh, participants learn about locations that inspired Diagon Alley and Tom Riddle’s Grave.

The tour features:

A visit to the Elephant Café where J.K. Rowling wrote early stories, a gin tasting experience in an underground bar, and a 2-hour walking tour.

• A visit to the Elephant Café where J.K. Rowling wrote early stories

• A gin tasting experience in an underground bar

• A fun local guide to provide insights and historical context

• A 2-hour walking tour through the iconic sites of Edinburgh

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Inclusions

The tour includes a fun local guide to provide insights and historical context throughout the 2-hour walking tour.

Participants will also enjoy a gin experience with tastings in an underground bar. Food and drinks are included during the walking portion of the tour.

However, hotel pick-up and drop-off aren’t included. It’s important to note that participants must be 18 or older, and photo ID is required for those under 25.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or children under 18. Luggage and large bags are also not allowed on the tour.

Important Information

Participants must be 18 or older, and photo ID is required for those under 25.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or children under 18.

The meeting point is outside Tron Kirk market, near Waverly Station.

Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed on the tour.

Plus, the guide won’t accompany the group inside The Lost Close.

Here are some key details to keep in mind:

• Participants must be 18 or older

• Photo ID required for those under 25

• Not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18

• Meeting point is outside Tron Kirk market

• Luggage or large bags not allowed

• Guide won’t accompany inside The Lost Close

Guided Walking Tour

During the 2-hour walking tour, the guide leads participants through the historic streets of Edinburgh, uncovering the city’s connections to the Harry Potter series.

Stops include the Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, which inspired King’s Cross, and the Old College at the University of Edinburgh, where the architecture evokes Hogwarts.

Explore the Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, which inspired King’s Cross, and the Hogwarts-esque Old College at the University of Edinburgh.

The tour also visits Greyfriars Kirkyard, home to the grave of Thomas Riddell, rumored to have inspired the name "Lord Voldemort."

Throughout the tour, the guide shares engaging stories and behind-the-scenes insights into J.K. Rowling’s writing process and the filming of the Harry Potter movies.

Gin Tasting Experience

After the walking tour, participants head to an underground bar for a gin tasting experience.

They learn about the history and production of gin, as well as the unique botanicals used in the distilling process.

The tasting includes:

• 4 distinct gin samples, each with its own flavor profile

• Tips on how to properly taste and appreciate the nuances of each gin

• Insights into the current gin renaissance and popular gin cocktails

• A chance to discuss their favorite gins with the knowledgeable bartender

The gin tasting provides a fitting end to the Harry Potter-themed tour, allowing participants to indulge in another beloved British institution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but participants should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid disrupting the experience for others. Specific rules may apply in certain locations, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for the tour. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves significant time outdoors. Participants should dress casually and be prepared for the Scottish climate.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. Private group bookings are available upon request, subject to availability. Contact the tour operator for more details and to check pricing for a private group.

Is the Tour Accessible for Guests With Disabilities?

The tour isn’t explicitly advertised as accessible for guests with disabilities. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any accommodations they can provide, as the walking and tight spaces may pose challenges for some visitors.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t allow outside food or drinks. Participants can enjoy included gin tastings and light snacks during the walking portion of the tour. Bringing your own items isn’t permitted, as it could interfere with the overall experience.

The Sum Up

The "Edinburgh: Harry Potter Origins Tour & Gin Tasting Combo" offers an enchanting experience for fans and newcomers alike. Explore iconic sites that inspired J.K. Rowling’s magical world, while enjoying a delightful gin tasting in an underground bar. This intimate, small-group tour provides insightful guidance and historical context, ensuring a memorable journey through Edinburgh’s enchanting Harry Potter connections.

You can check availability for your dates here: