Victoria Street is the heart and soul of Old Town Edinburgh with a long stretch of colourful storefronts, restaurants and photo opportunities that inspired the creation of the Harry Potter book series. This historic street stretches just off the Royal Mile and is often featured in guided tours of Edinburgh's most scenic areas. Victoria Street starts off the Grassmarket at West Bow, which was its historic name, and snakes up the hillside. Some of the buildings along the way date to the 17th century.
The Victoria Terrace pedestrian route runs along the top of the road and offers an easy way to explore this historic and brightly coloured neighbourhood. Those who walk the street will be able to easily see how it served as the inspiration for J.K. Rowling's magical Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter novels.
Features and highlights of Victoria Street
Victoria Street's historical allure is one of the biggest reasons to visit. Though developed in its current form in the 1800s, several of the buildings date to the 1600s and 1700s. Keep an eye out for them as you travel. In particular, look out for the home of the Wizard of West Bow, Major Weir, who was tried and executed for witchcraft in the 1600s. It's said that the house is haunted.
Of course, Victoria Street's role as the inspiration for Diagon Alley brings thousands of Harry Potter fans every year who debate and photograph possible locations. Diagon House sits at 40 Victoria Street and is a major attraction. Even if you're not interested in history or fantasy literature, you can check out the endless collection of independent and boutique shops selling everything from custom stationery to local artisan crafts.
The story of Victoria Street
Victoria Street was developed in its current form between 1829 and 1834. It was part of a redevelopment and urban improvement project for the Old Town neighbourhood and was an attempt to improve access throughout the city. Before its creation, the West Bow, a steep and narrow alley, was the only access from the Grassmarket to the Lawn Market. The idea was to create a new street that would demolish the old West Bow and provide easy access to the new George IV Bridge.
After Queen Victoria came to the throne in 1837, the street was named in her honour. It has seen continued improvements ever since, and in the late 20th century it gained additional fame as the inspiration for Rowling's works. Today, it's a shopping and photo opportunity destination that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
Good to know about Victoria Street
If you're looking for an easy walk or a quick photo op, the best way to view the road is from the Victoria Terrace area that runs across the top of the road. Otherwise, wear comfortable walking shoes and prepare for a hike – the street is relatively steep and climbs a hill along a zig-zagging route, though you can stop at many of the shops, cafes or restaurants along the way.
Victoria Street is a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare that you can navigate without too much risk from vehicles. Aside from shops and photo opportunities, there are plenty of chances for rest along the street. It has a wide range of eateries from casual and local to fine dining, as well as several cafes, bars and pubs for you to grab a pint and kick back.
Victoria Street in Edinburgh
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