How to Visit Dumbledore's Grave / Eilean Na Moine in Scotland

Attention Muggles, Witches, and Wizards from every house! If you've ever been captivated by the Harry Potter films and pondered, "Where is Dumbledoes's grave in Harry Potter" this article was crafted just for you!

Nestled in the stunning Scottish Highlands, within the mystical Loch Eilt, you'll find Dumbledore's Grave Island, known as Eilean Na Moine. This enchanting location was the backdrop for Dumbledore's burial scene in the Harry Potter movies.

The fantastic news for all Potter enthusiasts is that this magical filming site is real, and you can personally journey to this island. With a relatively short drive from Fort William, you'll find yourself in the heart of this captivating destination.

Read on for a comprehensive guide on how to embark on your adventure to Dumbledore's Grave Island, or Eilean Na Moine, in the breathtaking landscape of Scotland!

Harry Potter

The Harry Potter series, penned by J.K. Rowling, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on pop culture, enchanting readers and viewers with its intricate world of magic, adventure, and unforgettable characters.

Since the release of the first novel, "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone," in 1997, the series has evolved into a global phenomenon, spanning seven books, eight movies, and numerous spin-offs. Harry Potter has captured the hearts of millions worldwide and influenced various aspects of society, from fashion and literature to tourism and language.

Scotland's tourism has benefited dramatically as many filming locations are to be found here, and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is fictionally based in Scotland too!

Who is Albus Dumbledore?

Albus Dumbledore, the wise and enigmatic headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is a central figure in the Harry Potter series. As a mentor and guiding force for Harry, Hermione, Ron, and countless other students, Dumbledore's wisdom, kindness, and unwavering faith in the power of love defines his character.

His strong sense of justice and commitment to fighting the dark forces led by Lord Voldemort further demonstrate his pivotal role in the story. Dumbledore's complex past, including his relationship with the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald, adds depth to his character and creates an emotional connection for readers and viewers. Through his journey, Dumbledore exemplifies the importance of learning from one's mistakes, friendship's value, and the human spirit's resilience.

Book and film spoilers ahead!

Description of Dumbledore's death in the "The Half Blood Prince"

In "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince," the sixth instalment of the series, Albus Dumbledore meets his tragic end. After embarking on a dangerous mission with Harry to retrieve one of Voldemort's Horcruxes, Dumbledore becomes critically weakened. Upon returning to Hogwarts, they find the school attacked by Death Eaters.

In a climactic moment atop the Astronomy Tower, Severus Snape, a complex character whose true loyalties remain uncertain until the very end, casts the killing curse, Avada Kedavra, on Dumbledore. This heart-wrenching event leaves both the characters and the audience in shock, setting the stage for the epic battle between good and evil in the final instalment, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows." Dumbledore's death signifies the loss of a great mentor and protector and leaves the wizarding world with the daunting task of carrying on his fight against the dark forces.

Dumbledore's grave

Following Dumbledore's poignant demise in the film, he rests on a quaint, tree-dotted island in the heart of Hogwarts' Great Lake.

This final resting place, known as the White Tomb, holds the unique distinction of being the only grave within the Hogwarts grounds. Dumbledore's burial includes the Elder Wand, which, as the story unfolds, is later stolen by Lord Voldemort.

So where is Dumbledore's grave film location?

As mentioned above, the fictional location is on Hogwarts Lake, directly next to the school. In reality, the location can be found just west of Fort William on Loch Eilt; the island is called "Eilean Na Moine".

How to get to Dumbledore's grave

Here are the directions from Fort William, the closest town. The journey is around 23 miles and will take about 40 minutes.

1. Leave Fort William via the A830 road (Driving by car is the best method).

2. Stay on the A830, passing Loch Eil, Glenfinnan Viaduct.

3. You will arrive at Loch Eilt, continuing driving alongside the loch until you reach its western side.

4. Keep your eyes open for a makeshift layby just off the A830. Park here.

5. A path from this layby will take you to the familiar island - Eilean Na Moine.

Between the road and the island can be extremely wet and boggy, it's worth bringing some wellies, or your feet might get soaked.

Please note that searching for Dumbledore's grave on Google Maps seems to take you to the wrong island, much further north.

What3words: ///upstairs.smarting.avoid
Google Maps Location

Visiting Dumbledore's Grave Island

After you navigate through the marshes, the higher ground will give you a great view of the island. It's very picturesque and ideal for photography, but there is nothing here relating to Harry Potter - so no information boards.

Upon arrival, you may notice that the island differs slightly from its portrayal in the movies. It was digitally superimposed onto Loch Arkaig to create the illusion of a more enormous lake.

Nevertheless, this charming isle is a must-visit destination for any true Harry Potter fan seeking to pay homage to the legendary wizard, Albus Dumbledore. Just admire the scenery and soak in the atmosphere. If you have a wand purchased from Diagon Alley, hold it aloft in respect of the great wizard!

FAQs on Dumbledore's grave location

Here are a few frequently asked questions about Dumbledore's grave film location:

Is there an actual grave/film prop at the location?

No, there is nothing related to the film left on the island to see; all you will see is the tree-covered island from the movie.

Is it possible to step on Eilean Na Moine Island?

No, the island is completely inaccessible. Swimming is possible but not recommended in Scotland due to the risk of cold water shock. Kayaking is possible for the more adventurous visitor.

Were any other Harry Potter films shot at Loch Eilt?

Yes, Loch Eilt appears in five Harry Potter films:

• Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002)

• Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)

• Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)

• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 (2010)

• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011)

Are there any nearby locations I can visit at the same time?

You will pass Glenfinnan Viaduct on your way to Loch Eilt, ideal for Potter fans as the Hogwarts Express famously passes over this viaduct multiple times in the film series. When travelling from Fort William, Glenfinnan Visitor Centre can be found on your right.

You can catch the Jacobite train in Fort William and ride on the actual train used in the movies and go over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. An announcement will even warn you when passing Dumbledore's grave island! Loch Shiel, directly next to Glenfinnan and Loch Morar to the north, were both also extensively used for Hogwarts Lake scenes throughout the movies.

Steall Falls is a stunning 120-meter waterfall that can be found 7 miles southeast of Fort William; it also starred in multiple Harry Potter films.

Unrelated to Harry Potter, Old Inverlochy Castle is well worth your time for a visit.

Can public transport take me to Dumbledore's grave?

No, no buses on this route will take you to the film location. Driving by car is the best way, or if you are an avid cycler, a 23-mile trip from Fort William.

Are there dedicated tours that visit the island?

Dedicated Harry Potter tours offer trips to the island. Silverscreen Tours offers a trip from Edinburgh that includes these locations:

1. Meeting point: The Elephant House

2. Rannoch Moor / Death Eaters boarding the Hogwarts Express

3. Glencoe Pass / Hagrid's Hut / Clachaig Gully

4. Fort William

5. Glenfinnan Viaduct

6. Glenfinnan Station

7. Eilean na Moine / Dumbledore's Grave

8. Mallaig

9. Glenfinnan Visitor Centre

10. Pitlochry

Will midges be a problem when visiting Eilean Na Moine?

It's possible. The wet conditions around the loch are a perfect breeding ground for midges. Please read my Midge Survival Guide for the best options for mitigating this tiny biting insect.

Are there toilets at Loch Eilt?

No, there are no tourist facilities of any kind to be found at the loch. Retrace back towards Fort William to Glenfinnan Visitor Centre for the nearest toilets.

Key information on Dumbledore's grave for the ultimate Harry Potter dan

• Dumbledore's fictional resting place can be found 23 miles west of Fort William.

• The island is called "Eilean Na Moine", found on Loch Eilt.

• The island is not signposted, and there is no dedicated car park, just a layby.

• The layby is full of potholes, so be careful.

• There are no film props left on the island.

• Glenfinnan Viaduct, also seen in Harry Potter, is close to the island.

• The Jacobite train from Fort William, used in the Harry Potter franchise, will take you over Glenfinnan Viaduct and past Dumbledore's final resting place.

Conclusion

I hope this article has been helpful in your attempts to visit film locations from the beloved Harry Potter film series. The Fort William area is packed with so much for Harry Potter fans, and I highly recommend the Jacobite train ride and the hike to Steall Falls for a truly magical experience.