EDINBURGH WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Edinburgh’s Potter Trail (BSL): A 1.5‑Hour Old Town Stroll of Spells, Stories and a Sorting Ceremony
A 1.5‑hour, BSL‑led walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town that uncovers hidden locations, Potter‑themed stories and interactive moments — led by expert guide Gordon Hay.
Edinburgh’s Potter Trail (BSL): A 1.5‑Hour Old Town Stroll of Spells, Stories and a Sorting Ceremony.
Stroll through Edinburgh’s Old Town and uncover hidden gems, magical stories and Potter‑themed surprises with an expert British Sign Language guide. The Potter Trail mixes local lore, spellwork, trivia, house points and a sorting ceremony into a brisk 90‑minute walk that connects streets, courtyards and curiosities across the medieval heart of the city.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A compact tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town
The walk threads through the city’s famed Old Town, moving between narrow closes, historic streets and tucked‑away corners that form the tour’s theatrical backdrop.
Hidden locations and magical tales
Guides reveal lesser‑known spots and the Potter‑themed stories attached to them, offering surprise details and local trivia along the way.
Spellwork, house points and a sorting ceremony
Expect interactive elements throughout the tour — trivia challenges, house points and a final sorting ceremony that give the walk a playful, participatory feel.
What the day feels like
What the tour feels like
The Potter Trail moves at an approachable pace, weaving through Old Town lanes and pausing at tucked‑away locations for stories, hands‑on moments and informal contests of trivia. The guide — a BSL specialist — translates and signs the material, creating a layered experience of sight, gesture and storytelling that culminates in a light‑hearted sorting ceremony.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this tour — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour runs for 1.5 hours. Be aware that from November to January the tour may be cold and dark in parts; dress warmly and in layers.
Bring something wand‑shaped (pen, pencil, umbrella, etc.), comfortable walking shoes, weather‑appropriate clothing and a sense of adventure.
Meet at Bobby's Sandwich Shop near the junction of George IV Bridge and Candlemaker Row before the tour departs.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Potter Trail (BSL) tour?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours.
Where do we meet the guide?
The meeting point is Bobby's Sandwich Shop near the junction of George IV Bridge and Candlemaker Row.
Is there an age requirement for children?
The minimum recommended age is 7 for children to fully enjoy the tour.
Is the tour presented in British Sign Language?
Yes — the tour is led by a BSL guide (Gordon Hay), and the experience is delivered with BSL interpretation.
What should I bring for the walk?
Bring something wand‑shaped (pen, pencil, umbrella, etc.), comfortable shoes, weather‑appropriate clothing and a sense of adventure.
Will the tour be affected by winter conditions?
Tours may be cold and dark from November to January, so dress to stay cosy; your guide will bring a torch if needed.