ESCAPE THE CASTLE NEST

Tucked away in the ancient heart of the capital is an opulent and inviting wee home with all you need for a magical getaway

- Miriam Methuen-Jones

It might be too late for your acceptance to Hogwarts to drop through the letterbox, but no one is ever too old for a little bit of magic. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at this self-catering hideaway on the Upper Bow in the historic heart of Edinburgh. It’s easy to picture Harry Potter himself all grown up and living here in this bewitching apartment. A blend of fairytale and sorcery certainly informed the thinking behind the interior design, says Darren Armstrong of Strong Property, the developer charged with transforming the 19th-century flat.

“The initial brief was to design a luxurious Scottish hideaway that made the most of its location at the foot of Edinburgh Castle,” explains Armstrong. “I remember the day our builders were ripping the plaster off the walls, hoping to reach the original stone beneath. We hit the jackpot – it’s clear we’d found the entrance to Platform 9¾ and our theme,” he smiles. “Now, thanks to a carefully placed sign, you can see what I saw that day mid-renovation.”

That sign isn’t the only clue you’re in a Potter wonderland. There are nods to the wizarding world all over the beautifully accessorised apartment: jellybeans in every flavour, black cats guarding your coats and a portrait of Harry looking down from the display case.

The one-bedroom property is a mere 24 square metres but careful use of space allows for a relaxing stay. Armstrong has got the most out of every nook. The mustard-yellow sofa is slim but comfortable, and there’s space at the window for extra seating. Mirrored panels have been placed on most of the walls, making the rooms feel brighter and bigger.