Things to love about the 2 new Harry Potter shops in Edinburgh
If you’re a big fan of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter books and films, you’ll be in for a treat when visiting Edinburgh. Two new Harry Potter shops in Edinburgh have opened and they are bursting with marvellous wizardry memorabilia. So, why not book one of our special offers and enjoy a stay at central Parliament House hotel during your Edinburgh city break? While on your Harry Potter trip, discover this beautiful city which inspired the author’s series of mystical wizard tales. If you love your Harry Potter films and books, put these two shops among the top places to see in Edinburgh.
Magical cobbled Victoria Street
The city’s Old Town is home to the charming cobbled Victoria Street. Rowling is said to have taken inspiration from the area when creating the hidden shopping street Diagon Alley. Now, a historic shop on this famous street has stocked up on unique items, which will delight fans on a Harry Potter tour. At 40 Victoria Street, proprietor Andrew McRae has crammed in Harry Potter merchandise and collectables, from wands to prop replicas. He began stocking items this summer to mark the 20th anniversary of the first publication of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Here, you’ll find a higgledy-piggledy collection of Harry Potter memorabilia to suit all budgets. Also, the shop has Scotland’s only stock of the official Harry Potter lambswool scarves. So, choose your favourite Hogwarts’ house scarf from Ravenclaw, Slytherin, Hufflepuff and Gryffindor!
Victoria Street’s history
Edinburgh’s Victoria Street is no stranger to mystical goings-on. It was built between 1829 and 1834 as part of a revamp of the city’s Old Town. Architect Thomas Hamilton designed the street in ‘Old Flemish’ style with arches and terraces. It also was the setting of Major Weir’s house, a man famously known as ‘the Wizard of the West Bow’. The house has since been knocked down, but some say the site is haunted. Before MacRae turned it into a Harry Potter memorabilia shop, 40 Victoria Street was Robert Cresser’s Brush Shop, operating since 1873. Today, the building retains its dark Dickensian atmosphere with a wooden counter and narrow stairs. However, they have replaced the hanging brushes with stuffed Hedwigs and Nimbus 2000 quidditch sticks. Why not book your stay at Parliament House Hotel, where you’re just a 15-minute walk from Victoria Street and Harry Potter mania?
Continue Potter fans, to Cockburn Street
The Harry Potter craze does not stop on Victoria Street. Following the success of 40 Victoria Street, McRae opened a second Harry Potter gift shop at 42-44 Cockburn Street. Here, you’ll find a similar collection of items from the film, from chocolate frogs to a marauders map. However, be prepared to queue as both shops are a famous pitstop on the Harry Potter trail in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh’s historic architecture and charm will transport you into a magical world. Choose one of our classic rooms at Parliament House and stay longer. When you’ve visited the Harry Potter shops in Edinburgh, see our city’s wide range of fascinating sights and attractions.
