Harry Potter birthplace reborn after four years – Daily Business

One of Edinburgh’s top tourist attractions, known as the Birthplace of Harry Potter, has been given a new lease of life after its recovery from a devastating fire.

The Elephant House on George IV bridge, where JK Rowling began writing her novels about the boy wizard, has been closed since the blaze broke out in an adjacent property in August 2021.

An antique wooden table on which Rowling wrote her early books was salvaged from the fire.

Earlier this year, property company Bellair managed by Colin Campbell, acquired the Elephant House and the neighbouring Patisserie Valerie units and invested in extensive reparations. The new owners of the building have agreed a 20-year lease.

The café first opened in 1995 and quickly became a mecca for Potter fans around the world. The new layout includes a reconfigured and improved Writers’ Room with its views of Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Castle, alongside The Enchanted Tearoom which will host Afternoon Tea and special events.

Elephant House owner David Taylor, today welcomed its first visitors for 1587 days.

“Seeing the doors open again is nothing short of a dream come true,” he said. “After everything the café has been through, to stand here at Christmas with the lights on, the coffee brewing, and people coming back through the door, it’s very emotional.

“This place has always meant so much to so many, and I’m overjoyed that its story continues.”

Andrew McRae, founder of Elephant House International, said: “Beyond thrilled to announce that magic finally returned to George IV Bridge today with the reopening of The Elephant House.

“Today we welcomed visitors from across the globe alongside loyal local customers who have supported the business, some since day one over thirty years ago. I can confirm some tears were shed.

“I am incredibly proud to have the opportunity to continue trading and developing this amazing brand and feel so grateful for the amazing support of so many people, family, friends and colleagues over the four years since I joined forces with David and became absolutely determined this day would come.

“In particular I would like to thank Colin Campbell and his fellow investors for believing in our dream to bring this historic property and cultural icon back to life.

“Over the coming weeks and months I can’t wait to welcome everyone that has eagerly awaited our return. The Elephant House is more than just a cafe, it is special space that has become synonymous with creativity, imagination and Edinburgh’s literary spirit”.