Victoria Street in Edinburgh is undeniably one of the city’s most captivating locations. With its graceful curve and vibrant, multi-coloured buildings, a stroll along this iconic street is a quintessential Edinburgh experience. Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, close to the famed Royal Mile, Victoria Street is a gem within a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognised since 1995 for its historical and cultural significance.
This enchanting, cobbled street holds a special allure, sparking whispers and fervent beliefs that it served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley, the magical shopping haven in the beloved Harry Potter series. For fans and curious visitors alike, the resemblance is strikingly uncanny.
The iconic curve of Victoria Street in Edinburgh, showcasing its colourful buildings and charming atmosphere
Victoria Street has gracefully stood the test of time since the 19th century, remaining a vibrant hub for photographers and tourists throughout the year. The street is alive with an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and unique shops, each adding to its distinctive character.
The captivating architecture, reminiscent of old Flemish designs with arched facades and striking Gothic influences, truly casts a spell on all who wander here. Whether you are a devoted Harry Potter enthusiast, a keen Instagrammer seeking the perfect shot, an admirer of architectural beauty, or a passionate shopper, Victoria Street is an essential destination to include in your Edinburgh travel plans.
Unveiling the Location of Victoria Street
Winding its way through the historical heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Victoria Street is conveniently located just moments from the renowned Royal Mile. The Royal Mile itself is a historic thoroughfare that stretches from the imposing Edinburgh Castle to the majestic Palace of Holyroodhouse, not far from the dramatic heights of Arthur’s Seat.
Victoria Street acts as a vital link, connecting the historic Grassmarket to the elegant George IV Bridge. Grassmarket, steeped in history as one of Edinburgh’s oldest areas, lies picturesquely in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle.
A vibrant display of the colourful buildings lining Victoria Street in Edinburgh, captured on a sunny day
Reaching Victoria Street from Edinburgh Castle is a short and pleasant stroll, taking only a few minutes from the castle esplanade. For those using public transport, the closest bus stops are situated at Grassmarket and George IV Bridge, offering easy access.
From Grassmarket, the Lothian bus service 2 provides direct access. George IV Bridge is well-served by bus services 8, 24, 27, and 41.
Edinburgh Waverley, the city’s main train station, is within easy walking distance, approximately 8 minutes away, making Victoria Street readily accessible for visitors arriving by train.
The Genesis of Victoria Street: History and Purpose
The conception of Victoria Street dates back to the early 19th century, designed by the esteemed Scottish architect Thomas Hamilton and constructed between 1829 and 1834. Hamilton, celebrated for his Neo-classical style, was responsible for numerous prominent landmarks throughout Edinburgh. However, for Victoria Street, he incorporated the distinctive Old Flemish architectural style, adding a unique flavour to this part of the city.
Historically, the area known as West Bow was a bustling centre of commerce and trade long before Victoria Street was built. It was a vital area for shops and markets. However, access to the Castlehill area was hindered by a narrow, steep path, making it challenging, particularly for carriages to navigate.
A historical view of Grassmarket in Edinburgh, showcasing its traditional architecture and open space
Victoria Street illuminated with festive Christmas lights, creating a magical and inviting atmosphere
The Edinburgh Improvement Act of 1827 addressed this issue, initiating a project to replace the older, less accessible route. The aim was to establish better connectivity between Grassmarket and the newly developed George IV Bridge. This ambitious undertaking led to the demolition of many of the closes and houses of West Bow to pave the way for the creation of this new, improved street.
Initially named Bow Street, it was later renamed Victoria Street in 1837 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s ascension to the British throne, marking a significant moment in British history. Interestingly, some buildings at the lower end of West Bow have survived from the 17th century, offering a glimpse into Edinburgh’s architectural past.
Beyond Victoria Street: Exploring Edinburgh’s Prettiest Streets
Edinburgh, a city renowned for its historical beauty, boasts an array of picturesque streets beyond the famous Victoria Street. Once you’ve experienced the charm of Victoria Street, consider exploring some of Edinburgh’s other equally enchanting streets.
Circus Lane is often cited as one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful spots. Located in the stylish Stockbridge neighbourhood, this cobbled lane is admired for its perfectly arranged mews houses, vibrant displays of flowers and greenery, all set against the backdrop of the imposing St Stephens Church tower.
A short distance from Circus Lane, Hawthornbank Lane is nestled in the serene and magical Dean Village. This winding lane offers stunning views of bright ochre, half-timbered houses and the nearby Well Court, providing a tranquil escape within the city.
Cockburn Street, another gem in Edinburgh Old Town, is lined with historic buildings, inviting cafes, and unique shops, making it a must-visit location. It’s conveniently located just a short walk from Victoria Street. And of course, no exploration of Edinburgh’s streets is complete without a wander along the Royal Mile, perhaps the most famous and historically significant street in the city.
For a different atmosphere, explore Melville Street in the West End. Here, you can enjoy spectacular views of St Mary’s Cathedral and admire the grandeur of the elegant Georgian houses, reflecting a different era of Edinburgh’s architectural heritage.
The Harry Potter Connection: Victoria Street and Diagon Alley
The enchanting atmosphere of Victoria Street has fueled the popular theory that it inspired J.K. Rowling in her creation of Diagon Alley. It is widely speculated that Rowling, who wrote parts of the Harry Potter series in Edinburgh cafes, drew inspiration from Victoria Street and the surrounding Grassmarket area.
The unique ambiance of this historic street resonates strongly with the description of Diagon Alley, leading many Harry Potter fans to believe it is the real-world counterpart to the magical shopping street.
The entrance to Victoria Street in Edinburgh, inviting visitors to explore its magical atmosphere
George Heriot's School in Edinburgh, a turreted building believed to have inspired Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
While J.K. Rowling has never officially confirmed Victoria Street as the sole inspiration, the visual similarities are compelling. Visitors are encouraged to experience Victoria Street and decide for themselves if they see the Diagon Alley connection!
Intriguingly, long before Harry Potter, the West Bow area had its own wizarding tales. Major Thomas Weir, a figure from the 17th century who resided in West Bow, confessed to practicing sorcery and met a dramatic end, being hanged. This historical anecdote adds another layer of mystique to the area.
Over the years, various streets across the UK have been suggested as inspirations for Diagon Alley, including Gandy Street in Exeter, the Shambles in York, and Cecil Court in London. Leadenhall Market in London was even featured in the Harry Potter films as the entrance to Diagon Alley, while the actual movie sets can be visited at Warner Brothers Studio in London.
Exploring Nearby Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s connection to Harry Potter goes beyond potential street inspirations. J.K. Rowling lived in Edinburgh during the writing of the Harry Potter series, and the city is rich with locations associated with her and her magical world.
Several Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh are conveniently located near Victoria Street, making it easy for fans to explore.
Visitors can discover gravestones in Greyfriars Kirkyard that bear names remarkably similar to characters in the books, and visit cafes and hotels where Rowling famously penned chapters of her series.
For Harry Potter enthusiasts, Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must-see Edinburgh tourist attraction. It is believed that character names like Tom Riddle, McGonagall, and Mad-eye Moody were inspired by names found within this historic graveyard.
Adjacent to Greyfriars Kirkyard stands George Heriot’s School, a striking turreted building that many believe served as the visual inspiration for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Victoria Street at dusk, showcasing its illuminated shopfronts and inviting ambiance in the evening
Victoria Street on a rainy day, reflecting the colourful buildings on the wet cobblestones and offering a unique photographic perspective
The Elephant House cafe, just a short walk from Victoria Street, is another significant Harry Potter landmark. This is where J.K. Rowling frequently wrote during the early days of the series.
The Balmoral Hotel is another key location, where J.K. Rowling completed the final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
For a more extended Harry Potter experience, fans might consider a trip to Fort William to ride the Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express in the films, although this is not in Edinburgh itself.
Capturing Victoria Street: Photography Tips
Victoria Street is a photographer’s paradise and one of the most photographed locations in Edinburgh. Its popularity means it can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season in the summer months. To avoid the crowds and capture the best shots, it’s advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
For a unique elevated perspective of Victoria Street, find the narrow stairs located between the shops Swish and Walker Slater. Climbing these stairs will lead you to Victoria Terrace, situated just above Victoria Street.
From this vantage point on Victoria Terrace, you can enjoy a stunning overview of the elegant curve of Victoria Street below. It also provides an excellent view of the nearby George Heriot’s School, allowing you to appreciate its impressive architecture, which is thought to have inspired Hogwarts.
During the Christmas season, Victoria Street is transformed with enchanting twinkling lights, making it particularly magical in the late evening. If visiting Edinburgh in December, a nighttime stroll along Victoria Street is highly recommended for photographers and anyone seeking festive cheer.
Shopping on Victoria Street: Unique Finds and Harry Potter Magic
Victoria Street is a delightful destination for shoppers seeking unique and quirky items. From artisanal Scottish cheese at I.J. Mellis to classic tweed jackets and coats at Walker Slater, the street offers a diverse shopping experience.
However, the standout shopping experience on Victoria Street is undoubtedly the selection of Harry Potter-themed souvenir and merchandise stores. Museum Context and The Enchanted Galaxy are must-visit shops for fans. These stores are treasure troves of home décor, unusual gifts, and, of course, a wide array of Harry Potter merchandise. Aspiring wizards will be thrilled to find wands, broomsticks, and all sorts of magical paraphernalia.
For those who enjoy markets, the weekly farmers market in Grassmarket, just adjacent to Victoria Street, offers a variety of goods from antiques to vintage clothing, providing further shopping opportunities in the area.
Dining and Drinks on Victoria Street and Nearby Grassmarket
Victoria Street and the neighbouring Grassmarket area are vibrant destinations for evening entertainment, offering a wide range of dining and drinking options. The restaurants in this area cater to various tastes and budgets, from fine dining experiences to more affordable and casual eateries.
For an authentic taste of Scotland, Howies is an excellent choice. This family-run restaurant has been serving traditional Scottish dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients, at reasonable prices for many years. They also have another location on Waterloo Street, near Calton Hill.
Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips is the perfect spot to sample classic British fare, including fish and chips, steak pies, haggis, and even the adventurous deep-fried Mars bar.
Oink on Victoria Street is renowned for serving what many consider the best-pulled pork sandwiches in Edinburgh. La Barantine Victoria offers a delightful selection of baked goods and pastries, while Hula Juice Bar provides healthy breakfast and brunch options.
For drinks, The Bow Bar is a traditional pub offering an extensive selection of beers, cask ales, and whiskies. Alternatively, experience a piece of history at the White Hart Inn, a nearby pub that dates back over 500 years.
A visit to Edinburgh is simply incomplete without spending time wandering along Victoria Street. Explore the Harry Potter souvenir shops, browse local artisan crafts within the historic storefronts, and pause for a relaxing break at a charming cafe for cake and a hot drink. We trust this guide has inspired you to discover the magic of Victoria Street.
Warmly,
Moumita & Sankha
