The magical world of Harry Potter has always been at home in Edinburgh, but over the last three days Scotland’s capital has welcomed the gateway to the Hogwarts Express...and we went to go check it out.
The trolley from the world-famous Potter films was installed at Waverley station to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone being released in cinemas across the UK.
It is a replica of the original located at King’s Cross Station in London which is visited by two million people every year.
However, today was your last chance to visit the iconic Platform 9 ¾ installation at the city centre station - with the event packing up and moving on to Birmingham at 5:30pm Monday October 18.
Nonetheless, I went to go check it out so that those who were unable to make it can get a taste of the magic.
Upon arriving in the city centre, I rushed to the platform to try and catch the Hogwarts Express from Waverley to Hogsmeade Station, but unfortunately I arrived just after 11am, and ended up with a rather sore nose.
And to make matters worse, there was no Weasley on site to lend their flying Ford Anglia.
But despite this heartbreaking ordeal, I was able to call upon the sorting hat whilst arriving at the platform, and they determined that I would be best suited to Gryffindor.
Since I was unfortunately late, I was not one of the lucky first 100 visitors to receive a limited edition lego Hermoine toy that was handed out this morning.
Queues formed for most of the day with eager Potter fans keen to capture a spellbinding moment in front of one of the most iconic settings in the franchise's history.
Amongst all the fun and excitement, I was able to grab a chat with Jenny, the event organiser, who told us all about the experience.
She said: “We are on our third and final day in Edinburgh and we have had an amazing time. During the first hour we have 140 people come to have their picture taken! With first 100 of our early risers received a limited edition lego Hermione mini-set.
“Those who have made their way down to Waverley have been able to capture a picture at the platform 9 ¾ experience. We have also offered an opportunity to join our Harry Potter fan club and to take part in our sorting hat ceremony in order to tell which house you belong to.
“I myself am sporting Slytherin colours today as I love green, snakes and being a little devious. Of course Gryffindor is the most popular but there has been a lot of Ravenclaws over the weekend. Nonetheless, it is worth remembering that there is a house for everyone.
“Unfortunately we will pack up at around 5:30pm tonight before moving onto Birmingham, Cardiff, Belfast and then to other locations throughout the south of Ireland. So if you do find yourself in any of the above cities, do come and say hello.”
Be sure to let us know what you made of the experience in Edinburgh this weekend and feel free to share your photos in the comment section.
