A Magical Weekend in Edinburgh | WorldStrides

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From castle views to steam trains, read below about my unforgettable weekend in the city that inspired Harry Potter!

Majestic Glencoe Vista

Our trip officially kicked off bright and early with a tour of the Scottish Highlands. With mountains as high as the clouds in the sky, it’s truly every nature lover's dream. Fun fact: Our guide told us that it was around here where they filmed the Harry Potter scenes of Hagrid's Hut!

Highland Cow in a Scottish Field

It wouldn’t be the highlands without a few fluffy and hairy cows! Don’t be fooled by their demeanor — they loved being fed by the other passengers and even enjoyed taking selfies with everyone.

Highland Cow in a Scottish Field

Scottish Loch Landscape

If you watched Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, then you might recognize this enchanting lake. This was where the underwater portion of the competition took place in the film. We unfortunately didn’t take a swim and spot any of the water monsters... maybe next time!

Jacobite Steam Train on Glenfinnan Viaduct

The start of the tour was the infamous Jacob Steam Train that made an appearance in just about every Harry Potter film. It felt like magic had truly come to life as we watched it chug past us! Childhood nostalgia and travel blurred together here to make it a memory I’ll never forget.

Jacobite Steam Train on Glenfinnan Viaduct

Colorful Buildings of Victoria Street, Edinburgh

The following day, we visited Victoria Street, which is famous for being the street that inspired Diagon Alley in the films and books. Its bright, colorful walls mixed with the historic architecture and fun shops made it a perfect street to wander and explore! From bookstores to restaurants to souvenir shops, this street truly has something for everyone to enjoy!

Man Holding a Great Grey Owl

Animal lovers would have a hoot (get it?) in Edinburgh because on some streets, if you’re lucky, you can find real-life owls that can be held and seen up close! On our trip, Hedwig and his friends decided to pay us a visit. Its piercing eyes will give you a chill if you look long enough, but a fun and thrilling experience if you love animals nonetheless!

Man Holding a Great Grey Owl

Grand Gothic Architecture of Edinburgh University

If you’re visiting, you must visit the University of Edinburgh because not only is it beautiful, it’s also free! Just like in the films, its high stone walls and historical architecture made it feel like we were on our way to potions class. I was left in awe of how beautiful it was. It is a must-see if you’re visiting.

Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolates Outdoors

A must-try if you come to Edinburgh is the Uplands Roast proper hot chocolate! If you have a sweet tooth and an eye for aesthetics, then this cocoa will change your life. It’s warm, smooth chocolate and roasted marshmallows made it an experience and the perfect end to our magical weekend in Edinburgh!

Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolates Outdoors

Ascending to Edinburgh Castle

If you have seen the show One Day, then you’ll recognize these steps from where they met! Up here, you can find people sitting on the steps enjoying a meal or simply chatting and catching up with friends. Standing up here while the autumn leaves were falling around us was truly the picture of autumn in the best way possible.

Higher Ed Blogger - Rebecca O.

Rebecca O.

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