Edinburgh

The UK is a diverse patchwork of native and immigrant cultures, possessing both a fascinating history and dynamic modern attractions. This is a country known for its eccentric and subversive popular culture and for having a music scene that many regard as the best in the world. Witness thousands of years of history – stone circles, castles, thatched cottages and palaces; in these islands the past comes alive. The capital and largest city is London, a truly global metropolis like no other, and many of the country’s other cities have much to offer. To understand their sheer diversity, compare genteel Oxford with brooding Edinburgh, gentrifying Manchester, sports-mad Cardiff, the cultural melting pot of Birmingham or newly thriving Belfast, while remembering these are but the tip of the iceberg. Although Britannia no longer rules the waves, it continues to be hugely influential in the wider world and welcomes over 30 million visitors to its shores each year. Whether you wish to walk in the steps of giants in Antrim, to immerse yourself in Celtic culture at Eisteddfod, to pound the streets of an English urban jungle, to climb, ski or snowboard Cairngorms-style or simply to dream of having tea with the Queen, there is something for everyone in the United Kingdom.

United Kingdom

The country also has almost 800 islands scattered around its coastline, with the largest and best known being the wind-swept little pieces of land called Shetland and Orkney (the Northern Isles) on the north-eastern coast and the Inner and Outer Hebrides on the north-western coast. Many people will know of some of the proud Scottish history from the hugely popular film ‘Braveheart’, about a famous rebel leader called William Wallace. The country has always had a somewhat difficult relationship with its English neighbours to the South, with a millennium of conflict and raiding before becoming part of Great Britain in the beginning of the 18th Century and part of the United Kingdom in the beginning of the 19th Century. Visiting Scotland is easy, with airports in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness. You can also reach it easily by train from almost any city in England. The most visited city in Scotland is undoubtedly Edinburgh, where charming streets, a dominating and historic castle and beautiful scenery all come together. Many people also visit the Cairngorms National Park in the northern part, and the Trossachs National Park to the west.

Scotland

Scotland is a place full of magic and beauty and I really enjoy writing about it. It has also been the source of inspiration for many famous writers like the amazing J.K. Rowling and her fantasy novels of Harry Potter. She wrote most of the Harry Potter books in the[ stunning city of Edinburgh](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/an-erasmus-trip-to-the-gorgeous-city-of-edinburgh-f75m), and if you visit the city, you can still visit some of these places today. She wrote her first books in several coffee shops when she first moved to the capital of Scotland in 1993 with her baby daughter, where her sister and brother in law were living - after divorcing her Portuguese husband. 

Cover Picture Credits to jentakespictures

But this article is not about J.K Rowling’s life, which is very interesting though – the previous paragraph was just a short introduction to have a bit of a background. In this article, I will write about one of the most famous coffee shops in Edinburgh in which J.K Rowling wrote some of the first Harry Potter books: The Elephant House. As the author said in an interview, “…Edinburgh is very much home for me and is the place where Harry evolved over seven books and many, many hours of writing in its cafés” and that shows quite well in this cosy and cute coffee shop.

The Elephant House is one of the most famous of the Harry Potter related attractions in Edinburgh and it attracts lots of visitors and Harry Potter fans every day.  It was probably the place where the author wrote her second and third Harry Potter books, in one of the tables next to the windows with views to the huge Edinburgh castle. 

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Check out the video of J.K Rowling’s interviews at the Elephant House by the time she started working on the novel. 

This place has become a very famous tourist attraction some years after that interview, and now is likely to have queues of people waiting at the door. I recommend visiting it outside of the busiest times of the day, so avoid brunch or lunch time, so you can skip long lines of people too. The bathroom is now a place for Harry Potter fans to do some graffiti and it is definitely worth visiting this coffee shop if you visit Edinburgh. The Elephant House also offers food and delicious cakes that are totally recommendable, and its prices are not really high. 

**The Elephant House was just one of the several places in Edinburgh that ended up changing J.K Rowling’s life, making her one of the most famous writers in the world nowadays. If you’re a Harry Potter fan and you visit Edinburgh, then you have to visit this coffee shop and try its delicious cakes! **

### The Elephant House: A Magical Haven for Harry Potter Fans in Edinburgh

If you're a Harry Potter fan, then a visit to The Elephant House in Edinburgh is an absolute must. This charming café, located on George IV Bridge, proudly proclaims itself as the "birthplace of Harry Potter." It was here that J.K. Rowling, the renowned author of the Harry Potter series, would often find inspiration and pen some of her early works.

### A Historical Haven

The Elephant House is not just a café; it is a historical landmark that holds a special place in the hearts of Harry Potter enthusiasts. In the early days of her writing career, Rowling would stroll through the streets of Edinburgh with her baby, waiting for her little one to fall asleep. Once her baby was peacefully slumbering, she would make her way to The Elephant House to immerse herself in the magical world she was creating.

### A Magical Atmosphere

Stepping into The Elephant House feels like entering a realm of enchantment. The café is adorned with Harry Potter memorabilia, including posters, artwork, and even a replica of the Sorting Hat. As you sip on your gourmet tea or coffee, you can't help but feel the creative energy that once filled the air when Rowling sat at one of the tables, bringing her characters to life.

### Fun Facts and Famous Patrons

The Elephant House isn't just famous for its association with J.K. Rowling. It has also been frequented by other renowned authors, such as Ian Rankin, the mastermind behind the bestselling Rebus novels, and Alexander McCall-Smith, the creator of The No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. Over the years, this café has become a hub for literary enthusiasts, offering a cozy and inspiring environment for writers and readers alike.

### Exploring the Surroundings

While The Elephant House is undoubtedly a highlight for Harry Potter fans, there is much more to explore in the vicinity. Just a short walk away, you'll find the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Take a stroll along the historic Royal Mile, where you can browse through charming shops, visit the stunning St. Giles' Cathedral, or delve into the captivating exhibits at the Museum of Edinburgh.

### When to Visit

The Elephant House welcomes visitors throughout the year, but it's worth noting that it can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during weekdays or early in the morning. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the magical ambiance and perhaps even find a quiet corner to let your own creativity flow.

### A Magical Journey Awaits

Whether you're a die-hard Harry Potter fan or simply appreciate the allure of a cozy café with a rich literary history, The Elephant House in Edinburgh is a destination that should not be missed. Step into the world of J.K. Rowling, sip on a delicious beverage, and let your imagination take flight in this enchanting haven.

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The Elephant House

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Edinburgh, home of Harry Potter

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Travelling, exploring, making new friends along the way and sharing my personal experiences are essential parts of my life. I currently live in Valencia (Spain), a beautiful Mediterranean city, and I work here as an English teacher in an English academy. I have spent some time living in the UK too whilst I was an Erasmus student, which gave me the opportunity to learn about the English culture and visit some of the most beautiful places of the country.  I am passionate about dancing and everything that involves music and drama. I seek out fun, energy and a good party wherever I go.  A fun night out is always part of my trips, although I really enjoy outdoor adventures and finding out about the historical background of the places I visit or live in.

Edinburgh, home of Harry Potter

The Elephant House

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