The Elephant House is a gourmet tea and coffee shop that’s famous for one thing and one thing only. Yes, it was here that JK Rowling penned Harry Potter in the city’s writer-friendly cafe. And yes, it is this reason that lures tourists in their hundreds over the threshold every year. From far and wide, they arrive to see the spot where the Scottish author conjured her magical beasts and curious creatures. If you can see past the Potter-mania that pervades the characterful cafe, however, you’ll find a clutch of other reasons to visit – and to linger way longer than you’d anticipated. From its spot on the George IV Bridge, the large windows of The Elephant House afford the perfect vantage point from which to watch the world go by. It fairly hurtles past too, the thoroughfare thronged with bustling commuters, snap-happy Asian tourists and poncho-clad Americans dodging the rain showers that are as much a part of Edinburgh as the volcanic rock upon which the castle is seated. Since opening in the mid ‘90s, The Elephant House has carved out a reputation as a friendly spot that harks back to a bygone age, one where the pace of life moved decidedly slower, and mid-mornings were made for savouring a pot of tea and warm homemade scones. Roasted locally, the cafe’s coffee is served in three classic varieties, as well as a “historically famous blend” that is in great demand, both by the cup and by the bag, to be enjoyed at home. Voted Edinburgh’s best coffee shop by The List, The Elephant House does a roaring trade all through the year, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, tray bakes, wine, beer and much more. Visit for the cafe’s rich literary history or visit for the rich chocolate cake; just make sure you make it.
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Address:
21 George IV Bridge
Edinburgh
EH1 1EN
Telephone:
0131 220 5355
Website:
www.facebook.com/elephanthouseuk/
Yes, we’re Harry Potter fans and that was a large reason for us visiting, but that’s not why we loved the place! The staff were friendly, our meals were served quickly and they were delicious! I ordered Haggis so my son could try it, (plus I like it) and it was great!!!! You can stroll around the restaurant and look at articles about JK Rowling writing whilst there on the walls or you can visit the bathrooms and get lost in the thousands of scribbles all over the walls, doors and ceilings. Either way, come for the “history” stay for the food!
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Craig M -
04-03-2018
I went at around 3:30pm and waited in line to order at the counter for about 5 minutes. I ordered the chorizo, pesto, and mozzarella on a baguette and found a seat easily. Granted, I was visiting alone; larger tables were scarce. My food came promptly and the staff was courteous and attentive. Overall, a very good experience.
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Caroline Wadke -
19-09-2016
