Private Tour Highlights
- Let your imagination soar on this trip through the historic towns, fascinating tales, and beautiful views of the borders of Scotland and England.
- Discover Edinburgh's Grass market, offering fantastic views of Edinburgh Castle, stories of ancient crimes, and many old-fashioned drinking spots.
- Take in the views of "Hogwarts Lake", Loch Shiel & Loch Morar. Both are present in all the films with many shots in the Prisoner of Azkaban and during the Second Task in the Goblet of Fire.
- Witness the sweeping cinematic scenery while visiting the Glenfinnan Viaduct and discover beautiful landscapes and the region's special atmosphere on the steam train that brought Harry to Hogwarts.
- Enjoy Glencoe, the most famous and most picturesque of the Scottish Highlands and where scenes of Hagrid's hut were filmed for The Prisoner of Azkaban.
- Visit Alnwick Castle, a playground for your imagination where daily broomstick classes are available
Tour Overview
The magical world of Harry Potter has enthralled muggles of all ages for over twenty years since the book’s author, J.K. Rowling penned the adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Plotting much of the series in the Scottish capital city of Edinburgh, it’s easy to tell where Rowling’s inspiration stemmed from with its winding alleys, medieval architecture, and cobblestoned streets. The massively popular film series of course captured Rowling’s vision perfectly with many shots being filmed in the magical countryside of Scotland with its vast lochs and cinematic landscapes.
While many still await their long-lost acceptance letter into Hogwarts, travelers can get a glimpse into Harry Potter’s Journey with a Spellbinding Tour of Scotland. Though apparition is tricky business and a portkey may not be of hand, Yampu makes the voyage comfortable with private transportation through Scotland’s darling highlands and historic cities that Potter fans will instantly recognize from scenes straight out of the series.
The journey begins in Edinburgh where charming allies filled with shops and pubs greet visitors much like Diagon Alley and young witches and wizards can walk the grounds of Edinburgh castle where broomstick lessons are taught daily. Other filming locations include Glenfinnan Viaduct where the Hogwarts Express takes its students to the school of witchcraft and wizardry and Loch Shiel & Loch Morar which were both used in the Prisoner of Azkaban and during the Second Task in the Goblet of Fire (gillyweed not included).
Note: All Ireland and Scotland tours include a private driver/guide throughout the itineraries. Self-drive experiences can also be arranged at a lesser cost. Please ask a Yampu Travel Expert for more information.
Inclusions
Exclusions
International airfare (unless specifically included), airport departure taxes that must be paid on-site, gratuities, meals not mentioned, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages with meals, early / late check-out, room service, visa fees/services, and other personal items or services not mentioned.
Package Price: From £$ 9587
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
International Flight to Scotland
Overnight International Flight to Edinburgh.
Overnight International Flight to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Historical City Tour
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Upon arrival to Edinburgh, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel by a private driver/guide in a comfortable Sedan.
Your Scottish Harry Potter adventure begins as soon as you land in Edinburgh. Discover this magnificent city, starting with Princes Street where you will learn about the Scott Monument and the Princes Street Gardens. Next, visit Grass market which offers fantastic views of the castle, stories of ancient crimes, and many old-fashioned drinking spots.
While visiting the Old Town, listen to the tales of ancient Edinburgh in the oldest part of the city and walk the royal to see the crown jewels in Edinburgh Castle before visiting New Town. This part of the city has stunning architecture, and is home to some of the country's finest writers and inventors.
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Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace & Scotch Whiskey Experience
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Continue discovering the city - Edinburgh castle sits on a high, rocky hill with a narrow ridge running east above the Old Town of Edinburgh. There has been a fortification of some kind here for thousands of years. The castle has existed through layers of time and history, and it is indeed magnificent. Edinburgh Castle has highlighted the city's skyline for 800 years, is a national symbol, and it is Scotland's most popular site to visit.
Visit the official residence in Scotland of Her Majesty, The Queen, The Palace of Holyrood House. This beautiful palace sits at the bottom of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, sheltered by Arthur's Seat. The Palace of Holyrood House is located in the heart of the City of Edinburgh. The famous Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle at its western end and Holyrood to the east. Holyrood has many strong ties in Scottish history and is well-known for being the home of Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors can view the stunning Royal Apartments, which show the different tastes of each monarch with fine plasterwork ceilings and decadent furnishings.
Next, enjoy an introduction to the world of whisky with The Scotch Whisky Experience, a five-star visitor attraction at the top of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, where they have been inspiring visitors to Edinburgh about the joys of Scotch whisky for over 30 years.
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Edinburgh Alnwick Castle
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Join the one-day tour departing Edinburgh and let your imagination soar on this trip through the historic towns, fascinating tales, and beautiful views of the borders of Scotland and England. Some dream of kings and queens, others imagine epic sieges, and a lot of us conjure up worlds of wizards and dragons: Alnwick Castle is a playground for your imagination that mixes the make-believe with true history. It's been a fiercely fought battleground for the Scots and English. It's posed as a plush home for powerful earls and dukes. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone was shot at Alnwick Castle in the fall of 2000. The following year, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2nd movie in the series) used Alnwick Castle for the shoot. Daily broomstick class are available at the castle. You may also recognize the place from the series Downtown Abbey. ...read less
Fife & Perth
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Today, you will leave Edinburgh and start your journey north. From today until day 11, you will enjoy a private driver/guide in a comfortable Sedan. You will pass through industrial areas of Fife and Perth, but be aware of the hidden photo stops in these places. On your way out of Edinburgh you will see Forth Bridge, an engineering marvel. You will pass by the charming little town of St Andrews, today known primarily for its golf courses. Originally placed on the map as a major religious monument, St Andrews later became the cradle of Scotland's oldest university, erected in 1410. Beaches and golf only appeared at the end of the 20th century, leaving to the city this architecture and atmosphere of the medieval city. A must see in the city is the Cathedral. Today, only the ruins remain, but they are spectacular because they extend over 30 meters high and 100 meters long and offer a glimpse of the grandeur of yesteryear. Founded in 1158, this cathedral was the largest in Scotland and held a prominent place in the country until it was discredited as a result of the Protestant Reformation. ...read less
Cairngorms National Park
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Before leaving Pitlochry, pay a visit to Blair Athol distillery. This small distillery produces 12-year-old single malt whiskey. It is used in Bell whiskey, and is bottled in the distillery, which is located in Pitlochry, near the Tummel River.
From Pitlochry, take a moment to admire the scenery from Queen's View, so named after Queen Victoria's visit in 1866 that made a deep love for Scottish lands. Today discover Cairngorms National Park, home to five of the six highest mountains in the UK. On-site activities include skiing, hiking, climbing, cycling, horse riding, orienteering and even sleigh rides. Take a ride on the highest railroad in Britain, board a steam train on the Strathspey Railroad.
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Culloden Battlefield Tour
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Experience the thrills of the Battle of Culloden in the 360-degree battle immersion theater of our reception center, which will put you in the heart of the action. Discover the true story of the 1745 uprising, from both a Jacobite and a governmental point of view, in our recently accredited museum, where unique objects from the period are on display. Take a guided tour of the battlefield where an expert guide will guide you into the key response areas of Culloden Moor, as well as the memorial cairn around which the graves of 1,500 fallen Jacobite soldiers rest. ...read less
Loch Ness Cruise Tour
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Today, go on a cruise on the most mysterious lake in the world! The starting point is 20 minutes from Inverness. Sail on the Loch and admire the castle on this one-hour trip to the deepest and most mysterious waters of The Loch Ness. From there, set your camera to the breathtaking view of historic Urquhart Castle. The Urquhart Castle is a castle of 1000 years of history. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of Loch Ness from the castle and you can explore the Grant Tower, which served as a prison cell. You will discover many objects that trace the life of the inhabitants.
Continue your adventure towards west and enjoy spectacular views of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. It is located at the western end of the Grampian Mountains, in the Lochaber region of Scotland, near the town of Fort William. He is affectionately called "the Ben". Ben Nevis attracts about 125,000 complete climbs and 100,000 partial climbs a year, most of which are done by walkers using the well-built mountain trail (pony trail) from Glen Nevis on the south side of the mountain. The summit, at an unusual altitude for a mountain of Scotland, at 4,413 feet (or 1,345 m on the new Ordnance Survey maps) shows the ruins of a building, an observatory, which has been permanently occupied by 1883 to its closure in 1904.
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Glenfinnan Viaduct & Hogwarts Lake Tour
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Fort William is not just a starting point for Ben Nevis, although riding on the highest mountain in the UK is of course a feat. Think of the pubs that house the best Scottish whiskey, Daredevil Mountain, a bike that attracts World Cup fans every year, loch walks and even trips on the steam train that brought Harry to Hogwarts. It's really a unique city in the heart of the mountains.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct attracts thousands of visitors from around the world to discover beautiful landscapes but also a special atmosphere. The famous Glenfinnan Viaduct carries the railroad to Glenfinnan Gate on a 1,000-foot span, 100 feet above the ground. The Jacobite steam train leaves from here for Fort William and Mallaig during the summer months. Regular trains are available the rest of the year. The filming of the second and third Harry Potter books, Harry Potter and the Secret Chambers and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban took place in this region, the Hogwarts Express calling to Glenfinnan!
Loch Shiel & Loch Morar are the main Hogwarts lakes. Both are present in all the films with many shots in the Prisoner of Azkaban and during the Second Task in the Goblet of Fire.
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Tour of Glencoe
Enjoy Glencoe, which is probably the most famous and most picturesque of the Scottish Highlands - and rightly so - that deserves the description of "spectacular". The best approach is from the south on the A82, one of the main highways across the Highlands. The picturesque village of Glencoe is located at the northwestern end of the valley. In the television series Outlander, Glencoe appears in the opening credits of the series. He has also played on the big screen in Harry Potter, Highlander, The Outlander, and Rob Roy.
Enjoy Glencoe, which is probably the most famous and most picturesque of the Scottish Highlands - and rightly so - that deserves the description of "spectacular". The best approach is from the south on the A82, one of the main highways across the Highlands. The picturesque village of Glencoe is located at the northwestern end of the valley. In the television series Outlander, Glencoe appears in the opening credits of the series. He has also played on the big screen in Harry Potter, Highlander, The Outlander, and Rob Roy.
International Flight Home
At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Edinburgh airport by a private chauffeured vehicle.
At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Edinburgh airport by a private chauffeured vehicle.
Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
Pitlochry, UK
Inverness, Scotland, UK
Fort William, UK
Stirling, Scotland, UK
Places You'll See
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Edinburgh
Serving as the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is watched over by the city’s hilltop castle, showcasing the city’s blend of historic and medieval atmosphere with modern delights in a distinctly Scottish fashion. Visitors will appreciate the charm of the Old Town with its winding streets and views of the castle with pubs and eateries just waiting to be discovered. See where inspiration for filming locations for the Harry Potter series came to be while visiting The Grass market with stories of ancient crimes, and many old-fashioned drinking spots.
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Inverness
Located on the stunning Moray Firth on Scotland’s northeast coast, Inverness is the perfect escape to enjoy the Scottish Highlands. Travelers can appreciate Inverness Castle and St Andrew’s Cathedral, and find tranquil peace with a stroll along the banks of the River Ness that flows from the famed lake located just south of the city.
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Stirling
Located in the center of Scotland is the city of Stirling. Sitting in the heart of the city is the famed Stirling Castle, perched upon a vast volcanic rock above the River Forth. Visitors can explore the city’s historic attractions, try a hand at a round of golf, taste delicious local delicacies, and browse boutiques in the historic Old Town and the Victorian Stirling Arcade
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Pitlochry
A pleasantly peaceful city located in the quaint Highland Perthshire, the stunning landscape is enjoyed by locals and travelers alike with numerous outdoor activities including golf, white water rafting, and hillside walks. After some exhilarating adventure, be sure to explore one of the oldest operating distilleries in Scotland and stop in for tea at one of the many local tea rooms.
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Fort Williams
Known as a gateway to Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis and Glen Nevis valley, Fort Williams is often referred to as the outdoor capital of The UK with its cinematic landscapes of mountains and stunning beaches. From skiing in the winter to mountain biking in the summer months, Fort Williams is a fantastic holiday destination for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Media Gallery
Hotel Options
4 Star Properties
Edinburgh : Jurys Inn Edinburgh
Jurys Inn Edinburgh
Edinburgh , UNITED KINGDOM
Jurys Inn and Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland are ideally situated in city centers across the UK and Ireland – our hotels provide guests with extremely convenient locations from which to enjoy local attractions.
When visiting any of our city center locations, Jurys Inn always offers superb customer service and a friendly welcome to all our visitors whether you are a regular or first-time guest.
Jurys Inn and Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland strives to provide a personal touch by listening to our guests needs, and because we’re a small group of hotels, we can quickly adapt to give that little extra. Whether it is our 24-hour available staff, free WiFi or an early business breakfast option, at Jurys Inn and Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland the little things make big differences.
We also understand that searching for city attractions and places to eat or drink can take time, so we have online hotel city guides for each location, to help you plan a trip. Alternatively, our onsite teams are always happy to offer tips on local attractions, and places to eat or drink.
Pitlochry : Craigatin House Hotel
Craigatin House Hotel
Pitlochry , UNITED KINGDOM
This beautiful early Victorian former Doctors house has been transformed into an award winning, boutique Bed and Breakfast providing a unique blend of the traditional with the luxury of contemporary design. Standing peacefully in two acres of manicured gardens with private off-road parking, Craigatin can be found at the northern edge of Pitlochry town just a 5-minute, flat walk from the town center where the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, good pubs, restaurants, shops and all local attractions can be found.
Inverness : Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
Inverness , UNITED KINGDOM
A stay at the Glen Mhor Hotel is more than just a room for the night. Located in the heart of Inverness, celebrate the rich heritage, beautiful setting and charming traditions of the local area. Our 110 bedrooms are set across 10 beautiful Victorian buildings, 11 self-contained apartments and a luxurious 4-bedroom river view townhouse.
Fort William : Alexandra Hotel
Alexandra Hotel
Fort William , UNITED KINGDOM
Part of the very fabric of Fort William since 1876, the Alexandra Hotel provides traditional Scottish Hospitality at its best. Situated in a great location everything is close by and whether it’s shopping in the High Street, catching a bus or taking a train to explore the spectacular local area, you’ll find the Alexandra Hotel is the perfect choice.
Golden Lion Hotel
Stirling , UNITED KINGDOM
Nowadays a sought-after setting for leisure, business and special occasions, the family-owned, family-run Golden Lion provides traditional Scottish hotel hospitality in modern style. From the contemporary comforts of the 67 rooms – now complemented by the stunning new Stirling Castle Apartments – to the timeless grace of the magnificent Regency Ballroom, this is a Stirlingshire hotel with personality as well as professionalism.
Testimonials
Linda S.
Traveled May, 2014
Can’t wait to plan another adventure.
This trip was another, Glad we did it when we could kind of trip. As usual, all of our guides and drivers were outstanding, but for the last and major part of the trip, our guide and driver were above and beyond. Kuelap was magical, and so many other tombs, museums, treasures, mummies, friendly people, animals (we loved the bull market), great food, pisco sours, that it truly was a trip of a lifetime. I loved the hot springs dips. I am awed to know these are sites few travelers even begin to consider, and that we have such special guides and drivers that we can trust completely. And we can rely on you to make it happen. Thank you, thank you. Can’t wait to plan another adventure.
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Debbie
Traveled February, 2014
I will always remember this trip
We have had opportunities to review our photos and share stories with family and friends, I will always remember this trip! Bangkok hotel and tour guide was fabulous. As soon as we got to the hotel they upgraded all of us to unbelievably fantastic rooms! Our guide met us at the airport and between her and the driver all went so smoothly. Due to the protest and closed streets, our guide helped us around the city using public transportation (upon our request), so no sight was unseen. The guide treated us as friends, sharing the local market place food and making sure we were safe at all times. Chiang Mai was great. Our hotel was in a perfect location. The hotel staff, food, and our guide were excellent.In Siem Reap, the hotel and surprise birthday celebration was fantastic, great location and fantastic staff! The guide and driver were kind, knowledgeable, accommodating and very flexible! Magical is a good word for Koh Samui. The hotel was perfect and would highly recommend it. I saw a few children, but not a place I would suggest for family with young kids. I must say that our guide showed us incredible places on the island that were not on the planned itinerary and that was beautiful. This guide had such a love for Koh Samui, which was a big plus! This guide saw we loved nature and added some unique experiences for us, like climbing a fantastic waterfall. In most of the locations the included lunches were not very good and in some cases bad. Maybe people should be given a chance on tour packages to upgrade to more of a local experience not a place all the tour buses go to. The first meal in Cambodia was fine but it went downhill fast from that one.I am so grateful for the chance to get check one place off my bucket list, Angkor Wat. Seeing Angkor Wat at sunrise completed one of my dreams.
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Tom
Traveled November, 2015
It was the trip of a lifetime literally and for many reasons
The Amazon portion of my trip was fabulous.The jungle is magical and waking up and spending every day and going to sleep every night to the cacophony of sounds from the boiling over of life the jungle and the rivers offer is amazing. As to the Sacred Valley portion, the guides were all very good, interesting, knowledgeable, and definitely had personality. Not having to stand in line for or worry about entrance tickets was great. Having our baggage dealt with so efficiently and securely was a real, real luxury that we really appreciated. If I were asked by ANYONE how our Yampu experience was I would say unequivocally that you did a fabulous, flawless really, job. Thank you. It was the trip of a lifetime literally and for many reasons, and I couldn’t be more pleased overall how it played out, and I will always remember it fondly, and your contributions with gratitude and admiration.
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