Join us for a stress-free travel experience! Our trip leaders will be with you every step of the way, from meeting you at the airport on arrival day to ensuring a safe transfer on departure day, and everything in between. We’ve got you covered!

Join us on magical adventure on this Harry Potter Journey through England & Scotland! This 11-day adventure takes you through iconic locations from the beloved Harry Potter series, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London, Christ Church College in Oxford, and the breathtaking Scottish Highlands aboard the Hogwarts Express. Explore the magical streets of Edinburgh, including Victoria street, a colorful curved street said to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley. Visit real-life filming locations, and immerse yourself in an optional viewing of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in London! Whether you're a devoted fan or simply seeking a unique travel experience, this journey is sure to leave you spellbound! 

Professional Development: Learning about a new culture and making connections with educators provides an authentic learning experience for you to reflect on and bring back to your classroom. All participants on the trip have the option to earn a certificate for 20 hours of professional development.

Terrain: Mostly flat, Some hills, uneven walking surfaces

Leaders:

Kirsten Leestma 

Ashlyn Ellsworth 

Questions? Visit our Bookbag Tours FAQ page.

*Reserve your spot with a nonrefundable deposit today!

Dobby and the crew are waiting for your arrival to kick start this magical journey!

Arrival in London, England: Step off the plane and feel the excitement in the air as you arrive in the heart of the wizarding world.

Welcome Reception (around 4 PM): Join us for a warm welcome reception where you’ll meet fellow Harry Potter enthusiasts and get a sneak peek of the enchanting adventures ahead.

Possible Afternoon Tea Event

Overnight at the Point A Hotel Paddington Station (or a similar charming accommodation) to rest and recharge for the next day’s magical experiences

Meals Included: Breakfast

Arriving early? Let us help you plan your early adventure! Fill in this form on our website

Enjoy a day filled with enchantment and discovery, perfect for educators looking to bring a touch of magic back to their classrooms! 

Group Activity:  (All day)

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter: Dive into the magical world of Harry Potter with an exclusive tour of the Warner Bros. Studios. Walk through the Great Hall, explore Dumbledore’s office, and see the intricate details of the sets, costumes, and props that brought the films to life. This behind-the-scenes experience is sure to inspire and captivate educators.

Evening-  Free Time in London

Overnight at the Point A Hotel Paddington Station (or a similar charming accommodation) to rest and recharge for the next day’s magical experiences.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Educational Take-Aways: 

Warner Bros Studio Tour

Film Production Insights: Educators can gain a deeper understanding of the filmmaking process, including set design, costume creation, and special effects. This knowledge can be shared with students to enhance their appreciation of the arts and media studies.
Art and Design: The intricate details of the sets, costumes, and props offer a rich source of inspiration for art and design lessons. Educators can discuss the creative processes behind these elements and encourage students to create their own designs.
Literature and Adaptation: Exploring how the Harry Potter books were adapted into films can provide valuable lessons in literature and media adaptation. Educators can discuss the challenges and creative decisions involved in bringing a literary world to life on screen.

Free Time Exploring London in the evening

Cultural Exploration: Visiting iconic locations like the British Museum or taking a walk along the Thames allows educators to immerse themselves in the rich cultural and historical heritage of London. This experience can be translated into engaging history and social studies lessons.
Historical Context: Exploring real-life locations that inspired J.K. Rowling and were used in the Harry Potter films can provide a historical context to the fictional world, enriching students’ understanding of how history and culture influence literature1.
 

Today we will enjoy a Harry Potter Walking Tour together and then a free evening.
Group Activity

11am-1pm Muggles Harry Potter Walking Tour

Join a group of fellow muggles for a walking tour through central London and see the real-life spots that inspired sets such as Diagon Alley, the Leaky Cauldron, and the Ministry of Magic. Even better, you’ll tick off iconic London landmarks along the way.

• See the real inspirations for Diagon Alley, the Leaky Cauldron, and more
• Learn about Harry Potter and the making of the movies from your guide
• Stroll past some of London's top landmarks as you go

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening to explore London at your own pace. 

Whether you choose to visit the British Library, explore the historic streets of Covent Garden, or relax in a cozy café, the city offers endless possibilities for discovery and relaxation.

Overnight at the Point A Hotel Paddington Station (or a similar charming accommodation) to rest and recharge for the next day’s magical experiences.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Day

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening to explore London at your own pace. 

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES: (ADDTIONAL FEES- See Add Ons on WeTravel)

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Broadway Show (Parts 1 & 2) 

1pm and 6pm (arrive by 12:30pm, break after first part, then arrive back by 5:30pm for second part. Ends around 8:30pm)

There’s magic in every moment at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the most awarded play in history and “one of the most defining pop culture events of the decade” (Forbes). And now, the 8th Harry Potter story is bringing the magic back to London’s West End..

Educator Takeaways:

Cultural Immersion: Exploring London at leisure allows educators to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural heritage. This experience can be translated into engaging lessons on British culture and history.
Relaxation and Reflection: Taking time to relax in a café or stroll through historic streets offers educators a chance to reflect on their experiences and gather new ideas for their classrooms.

Overnight at Point A Hotel Paddington Station (or a similar charming accommodation) to rest and recharge for the next day’s magical experiences.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Prepare for a day filled with enchantment, laughter, and a touch of wizardry!

Morning Departure -Leave Hotel around 9am

This morning, we’ll wave goodbye to London and hop on a train to Edinburgh, Scotland. Keep an eye out for any stray owls delivering last-minute letters from Hogwarts!

Train TBD(10:45AM- 3:15pm Approximate) 

At the hotel by 3:45pm

Free Time to grab dinner on your own 4pm-5:45pm

Group Activity- (Included)

(Arrive at 5:45pm)

6-9:30pm Department of Magic- Harry Potter Escape Room & Magical Potions  

We will head over to the Department of Magic together!

The Department of Magic experience offers a unique blend of adventure and creativity that educators can appreciate for its immersive, problem-solving approach. Participants will engage in escape rooms filled with magical puzzles, fostering teamwork, critical thinking, and resilience under pressure. The hands-on cocktail potion-making segment introduces creative experimentation and the concept of cause-and-effect in a whimsical setting.

Educator Takeaway: This activity highlights the value of experiential learning—by making abstract concepts (like problem-solving and experimentation) tangible and fun. Educators can draw inspiration from the interactive and thematic design to develop engaging classroom activities that encourage collaboration and critical thinking. It also provides an example of how storytelling can be seamlessly integrated into educational experiences to enhance engagement.

Overnight at the Aparthotel Adagio (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Group Activity:

10:15am- Edinburgh Castle Tour: Step into the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle, and let your imagination run wild as you envision its towering presence as a real-life Hogwarts. Explore the historic halls, ancient dungeons, and majestic views that make this castle a true gem. Who knows, you might even spot a ghost or two (Peeves, is that you?)!

 2:30pm- Harry Potter Walking Tour in Edinburgh: Upon arrival in Edinburgh, we’ll dive straight into the magical world of Harry Potter. Join us for a spellbinding walking tour of the city, where we’ll visit the enchanting Victoria Street (the real-life Diagon Alley), the spooky Greyfriars Kirkyard (watch out for Nearly Headless Nick!), and The Elephant House Café, where J.K. Rowling conjured up her magical tales.

Educational Takeaways

1. Historical Significance: Edinburgh Castle offers a deep dive into Scotland’s rich history. Educators can explore the castle’s role in various historical events, from royal residences to military strongholds, and share these stories with their students.
    
2. Architectural Appreciation: The castle’s architecture, from its ancient dungeons to its grand halls, provides a tangible example of medieval and Renaissance design. Educators can use this to discuss architectural styles and the evolution of building techniques over centuries.
    
3. Storytelling and Legends: The castle is steeped in legends and ghost stories, such as the tale of the ghostly piper. These stories can be used to engage students in discussions about folklore, oral traditions, and the cultural significance of storytelling.

Late Afternoon Travel: After our enchanting tour, we’ll embark on a scenic journey to Fort William. Keep your eyes peeled for any magical creatures along the way – you never know when a Hippogriff might make an appearance!

Overnight The Stronlossit Inn (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Group Activity: 

Hogwarts Express (Jacobite Steam Train)

In the morning we will travel to Fort William and then board the magical Hogwarts Express! We will take a scenic train ride through the Scottish Highlands to Fort William. Jacobite Steam Train and cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films. 

Educational Takeaway

Historical and Cultural Context: The Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express, offers a glimpse into Scotland’s rich railway history. Educators can discuss the significance of steam trains in the development of transportation and their impact on society.
Geographical Exploration: The scenic journey through the Scottish Highlands provides an opportunity to study the region’s geography. Educators can highlight the natural features, ecosystems, and landscapes, fostering a deeper appreciation for environmental studies.
Literary Connections: Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Harry Potter films, allows educators to draw connections between literature and real-world locations. This can enhance students’ understanding of how settings in literature are inspired by actual places.

In the afternoon, we will travel back to the hotel in Ft. Williams together.

Overnight The Stronlossit Inn (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

 Prepare for a day filled with laughter, mystery, and a touch of wizardry! 

Group Activity:

In the morning, we will explore the historic Urquhart Castle together on a guided tour. 

Next, we will board a boat and take a cruise to look for the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

In the afternoon, our adventure continues with a trip into the city of Inverness.  You will have time to get lunch on your own and explore the magical city. 

In the late afternoon, we’ll hop on a bus for a scenic 2.5-hour journey to our hotel outside of Perth, with a surprise stop along the way. Who knows what magical discoveries await us?

Educational Takeaways

Mythology and Folklore: The Loch Ness Boat Tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into Scottish mythology and folklore. Educators can explore the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, discussing how myths and legends shape cultural identity and storytelling.
Environmental Science: Observing the flora and fauna of Loch Ness can provide insights into local biodiversity and conservation efforts. Educators can use this to teach students about environmental science and the importance of preserving natural habitats.

Historical Exploration: Urquhart Castle’s ruins offer a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval history. Educators can discuss the castle’s role in historical events, such as the Wars of Scottish Independence, and its significance in Scottish heritage. 

 Architectural Studies: The castle’s architecture, including its defensive structures and layout, provides a tangible example of medieval fortification techniques. Educators can use this to teach about architectural history and the evolution of castle design. 

Cultural Heritage: Exploring Urquhart Castle allows educators to connect with Scotland’s cultural heritage. They can discuss the castle’s historical significance and its impact on local culture and tourism. 

Overnight at  Ballathie House Hotel   (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

As you travel from Perth to Edinburgh, there are several magical Harry Potter sights and attractions to catch a glimpse of along the way! We will stop for meal breaks along the way (TBD locations). When we arrive in Edinburgh, we will board a train back to London. 

Arrive back in London around 4pm

Some sights we will pass by:

*Loch Shiel: This beautiful loch served as the backdrop for the Hogwarts Lake in several scenes, including the journey to Hogwarts and the Triwizard Tournament1. It’s a picturesque spot to imagine yourself in the wizarding world.

Educational Takeaways

Geographical Studies: Loch Shiel, serving as the backdrop for Hogwarts Lake, provides an excellent opportunity to study Scotland’s natural landscapes. Educators can discuss the loch’s geographical features, ecosystems, and its role in local biodiversity.  

Literary Connections: The use of Loch Shiel in the Harry Potter films can help educators illustrate how real-world locations inspire fictional settings. This can enhance students’ understanding of the relationship between literature and geography. 

*Glen Coe: Known for its dramatic landscapes, Glen Coe was used for several scenes, including the location of Hagrid’s Hut in "The Prisoner of Azkaban". The rugged beauty of this area will transport you straight into the wizarding world.

Educational Takeaways

Historical and Cultural Context: Glen Coe’s dramatic landscapes offer a rich historical context, including its significance in Scottish history. Educators can explore the area’s cultural heritage and its impact on local folklore and storytelling.

*Rannoch Moor: This remote and wild moorland was used for the scenes where the Death Eaters stop the Hogwarts Express in "The Deathly Hallows". It’s a hauntingly beautiful place to visit.

Educational Takeaways

Environmental Science: Rannoch Moor’s remote and wild moorland offers a unique environment for studying ecosystems and conservation efforts. Educators can highlight the importance of preserving such natural habitats

Overnight in The Ashburn Hotel in London (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a free day to explore any Harry Potter attractions or any other famous sights that you might have missed earlier!

OPTIONAL ACTIVITY- Additional Fee (Sign up in WeTravel under Add-ons)

 Day Trip to Stonehenge & Bath

Leaves at 8:15 am/ Returns in the evening. Travel on a coach bus to Stonehenge, Bath and the Jane Austin  Discover two gems of southern England on this full-day coach trip to Stonehenge and Bath. Visit the UNESCO-listed, ancient marvel that is Stonehenge; explore the Roman Baths; and explore the Jane Austen Centre.

8:15AM (pick up from Victoria Station)- until about 7:30PM (drop off at Gloucester Road Station) 

INCLUDED:

• Round-trip, comfortable coach transit from Central London included
• Includes admission to Stonehenge
• Includes admission to Roman Baths
• Admission to the Jane Austen Centre is extra
• Includes professional guide 

Evening Group Activity:
Summit Dinner: We will come together in the evening for a delightful group Summit Dinner. Share your magical experiences and newfound knowledge with fellow educators as we reflect on our enchanting journey.

Overnight in The Ashburn Hotel in London (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

As our enchanting Harry Potter-themed adventure comes to an end, it’s time to bid farewell to the magical world we’ve explored together.

Departure Day: After breakfast, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you’ve made. From the bustling streets of London to the mystical landscapes of Scotland, we’ve walked in the footsteps of wizards and discovered the magic behind the scenes.

Final Goodbyes: Gather your belongings and prepare for your journey home. Share one last Butterbeer toast with your fellow educators, exchanging contact information to keep the magic alive in your classrooms.

Travel Arrangements: Ensure you have all your travel documents ready for a smooth departure. Whether you’re heading to the airport or catching a train, may your journey be as seamless as a ride on the Hogwarts Express.

A trip leader will assist you in travel to the airport or with your plans to continue on your own journey. 

Thank you for joining us on this spellbinding adventure. We hope you’ve been inspired and enchanted, ready to bring a touch of magic back to your students. Safe travels, and may your days be filled with wonder and discovery! 

Meals Included: Breakfast 

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