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Pub trivia – fun facts you didn't know about wizarding inns

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__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the stories…__

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

Despite what many [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) think, the title of oldest pub in London goes to this well-loved wizarding establishment. Found on Charing Cross Road, the [Leaky Cauldron](/fact-file/locations/the-leaky-cauldron) was built in the 1500s – long before Charing Cross Road was even planned! Its true address is number one, [Diagon Alley](/fact-file/locations/diagon-alley).

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

This wizarding institution wasn’t always a place that where only magical folk congregated. As it was built two centuries before the imposition of the International Statute of Secrecy, it was initially visible to Muggle eyes too. Muggles weren’t made to feel unwelcome or turned away. Having said that, thanks to the *interesting* conversations and even more *interesting* magical pets, many scarpered before finishing their mead.

![LeakyCauldron WB F1 SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron Illust 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5sxx5inySIAWsKA0gcuUEG/ca736eb81e715e092136f42c579a2719/LeakyCauldron_WB_F1_SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron_Illust_080615_Land.jpg)

## Neville Longbottom and Hannah Abbott lived above the Leaky Cauldron

In a turn of events that we find extremely adorable, after leaving [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) not only did [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) continue his passion for magical plants as [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) professor, but he also married [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff), [Hannah Abbott](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hannah-abbott-fact-file). The happy couple decided to make a home for themselves living above the one-and-only Leaky Cauldron.

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

Although we never learnt which one it was, according to *Sites of Historical Sorcery*, one of the wizarding pubs in [Hogsmeade](/fact-file/locations/hogsmeade) was said to have been the headquarters of the 1612 [goblin](/fact-file/creatures/goblin) rebellion. Could it have been the [Hog’s Head Inn](/fact-file/locations/the-hogs-head) which was known for its dubious dealings and schemes? Or perhaps it was the cosiness of the [Three Broomsticks](/fact-file/locations/the-three-broomsticks) that convinced the goblins to make it their base?

![pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2zygTLqXtChkWM7Asbbca3/14624eac244b6e0d0dd667458176dd1a/pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero.jpg)

## The Hog’s Head Inn was run by a Dumbledore

While [Albus Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) ran Hogwarts, just down the road his brother, [Aberforth Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/aberforth-dumbledore-fact-file), ran the Hog’s Head Inn. Crochety and a big fan of goats, he and his brother didn’t always see eye-to-eye. Ultimately, they were both extremely good people and Aberforth even helped the resistance at Hogwarts after Albus’ death – thanks to a secret passage that connected the [Room of Requirement](/fact-file/locations/the-room-of-requirement) to his pub.

## Sybill Trelawney made her infamous prediction at the Hog’s Head Inn

The Hog’s Head Inn was the location of many crucial story moments from the founding of [Dumbledore’s Army](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dumbledores-army) to [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) winning a dragon egg in a game of cards. However, there was one particular moment that changed the course of wizarding history forever. On a gloomy night, Albus Dumbledore went to interview [Sybill Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) for the role of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher. He was thoroughly unimpressed until, among the ramshackle décor and sticky floor, she made her prediction about the boy destined to end [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) and rid the world of his evil!

![pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/YvfQFf3Sc7Y1rQNcmqoKm/7278f0704d0a659047a66375127ed129/pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero.jpg)

## Katie Bell was given the cursed opal necklace at The Three Broomsticks

Run by Madam Rosmerta, the Three Broomsticks was a warm and welcoming establishment in Hogsmeade. Yet Dark Magic still managed to worm its way in there in the form of the cursed opal necklace. Part of a clumsy attempt on Dumbledore’s life, [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) Quidditch team member, [Katie Bell](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/katie-bell), took the necklace from the pub while under the influence of the [Imperius Curse](/fact-file/spells/the-imperius-curse) and narrowly escaped its deadly power.

## It wasn’t just witches and wizards who frequented the Three Broomsticks

Said to be as old as the only all-wizard village in Britain, the Three Broomsticks was a bit of a haven for all sorts of magical beings, such as hags, who couldn’t disguise themselves particularly well in the Muggle world. In fact, Ron and Hermione once thought they spotted an ogre!

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

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Hermione wearing a red dress and smiling at Bill and Fleur's wedding.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## The importance of keeping things in perspective

![HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/qVjLFPXczR2mwGR54M1JK/5ffbc10854b90be415e66d18504a0f56/HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape)

‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery…’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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Despite being known for her exceptional brain power, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) also knew the importance of nurturing the other elements of her personality too. It’s a lesson she learnt in her first year after finding genuine friendship. It is also one that we could do with remembering too.

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3yxtbUPaKL5YRyOXEmcss7/b5f3840e6afd0c2e76548570d0532593/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape)

‘…anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.'

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Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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If you don’t ask you don’t get! As [Ginny](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley) reminds us, if we shy away from a challenge, we’re never going to achieve our dreams. If we find our courage? Well, the world is our oyster.

## Be proud of who you are

![HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/71JqjFqxFPKBLmoFUGKYJD/22d4d28400d268c5d1382d675b5ce1ae/HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape)

‘It’s high time your grandmother learned to be proud of the grandson she’s got, rather than the one she thinks she ought to have...’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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The no-nonsense [McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) was a witch worth listening to! It’s all too easy to get caught up in the comparison trap, trying to think about who you *should* be and feeling inadequate next to others. However, you are brilliant just the way you are. You are one-of-a-kind. If the Head of [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) can see that – so can you.

## There is always hope

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5zrwB81bovDEUXWbMyCWia/26babee3a72e41ff8557681a28703f5a/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape)

‘The things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’

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Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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When times are hard, it can be easy to give up hope and become despondent. Yet this poignant point from the wonderfully eccentric [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) is a reminder that good days are on the horizon – even if we can’t quite see them yet.

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

![WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7uWvZ2RIgkybj8J1lCs5RA/39672ce02de6ff4e27d39381deb3c05f/WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop.jpg)

‘I’m hoping to do some good in the world!’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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No matter who you are, you *can* make a difference. If you channel Hermione’s determination, we’re sure you will go on to do great and brilliant things.

## An excellent reminder

![HP-F5-molly-weasley-harry-potter-web-10744](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1ugOAEKJsmxHxy7rDSEkO8/d6f828346ab08de9e2eb69ed086fdf71/weasley-quiz-title-.jpg)

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

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Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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A sage piece of advice from [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley)! She might have said this to Harry before his [Ministry](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) hearing, but we think this is something that can be applied to many different areas of your life. From making friends to job interviews, things are always easier if you start off on the right foot.

## Do what is right, not what is easy

![WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4L5hkIozTd68acqd3hpP2I/27590dc492caea34621b56bdd472e45b/WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape.jpg)

‘Well, if you two are going to chicken out, fine… I don’t want to break rules, you know. I think threatening Muggle-borns is far worse than brewing up a difficult potion.’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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Hermione was the witch who once declared being expelled to be a fate worse than death. To hear her trying to convince [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) to break the rules was rather shocking. Yet she raises an extremely valuable point. Sometimes you need to push the boundaries to do what is right. Following the rules can only go so far – especially if those rules cause more harm than good. It can be hard to stand up and be counted but we should all try to do so.

## Protect what is important

![WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6PcDR4xjlhQ8xtErVUHYBc/198864f4ef4413d1ed6e50f91411088e/WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape.jpg)

‘I feel that if a single pupil wants to come, then the school ought to remain open for that pupil.’

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Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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This was a brave statement from [Professor Sprout](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) in the wake of [Dumbledore’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) death. [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) was so much more than a school. For many like Harry, it was a sanctuary and place they could call home. A place that should be protected. This is a sentiment we could all take on board. We should all work hard to take care of what, and who, is important to us.

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

‘What do I care how ’e looks? I am good-looking enough for both of us, I theenk! All these scars show is zat my husband is brave!’

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Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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You might think glamorous and goodlooking [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would also be extremely vain. Yet she wasn’t. Filled with self-confidence, she didn’t judge her husband based on his appearance – she knew it was the content of his character that truly mattered. That attitude is one we think everyone should embody.

## Boundaries are good

![mcgonagall-web-header-wand](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6J6heLMpK9Lee0eL8faPnj/18ebb3e1a6694c1ed440bf094b02a127/mcgonagall-web-headrer.jpg)

‘I do not generally permit people to talk when I am talking.’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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Quite right too! Don’t let anybody try to take your voice or diminish you. If someone tries to talk over you, channel your inner McGonagall and lay down the law – they’ll soon learn a valuable lesson.

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

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## January: The determined and dedicated Oliver Wood is your perfect match

![WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7iJHeRIUbca989dspC4c2t/a8eae533de5cb364c2b8ef17aa39c857/WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape.jpg)

When considering your ideal partner, you don’t want someone who is afraid of commitment and isn’t willing to put the work in. You want someone who is going to give the relationship their all. This is why you and [Oliver Wood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/oliver-wood) make a perfect pair. This [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) proved his determination time and time again as [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) Captain. He was always coming up with training techniques and drills to make the team better. Yes, some of his teammates might have complained about the early starts, but it didn’t put Oliver off… and it worked. That’s the type of dedication you admire.

## February: Your soulmate is the creative and eccentric Luna Lovegood

![WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5jiVEF9rz3GdDt6go666da/6431193cd66631881320a9921f2913fe/WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape.jpg)

There is nothing that bores you more than blending into the crowd. From your curious insights to your wacky wardrobe, you march to the beat of your own drum. You are proud to celebrate your uniqueness, and you are looking for a partner that doesn’t shy away from their individuality too. This is why [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood) with her [Spectrespecs](/fact-file/objects/spectrespecs) and radish-like earrings is your ideal match. The two of you would have a joyful relationship that celebrated creativity, eccentricity and a shared belief in the Crumple-Horned Snorkack.

## March: The brilliantly hilarious Ron Weasley is the one for you

![HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/51khMqIDGh7ltBpFgDIet4/4390b7228f2368b128a11304e8a73108/HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape.jpg)

Life’s too short not to have fun. Who wants to be miserable? Yes, serious things happen but you still want to find the joy in life, and you want a partner who can do that too. This is why you and [Ron Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) would make the perfect pair. From his ‘Merlin's most baggy Y-fronts’ exclamations to quippy ‘Oh, of course… I forgot we’ll be hunting down [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) in a mobile library’ comebacks – his quick with would keep you entertained for life.

## April: The elegant and poised Fleur Delacour is your ideal soulmate

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

Graceful, elegant and gliding through life – that’s the ultimate dream. You aren’t interested in awkward situations and embarrassing encounters; you want life to be as serene as possible. As you want this from your partner too, you and [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would make a flawless duo. No matter what situation she faced – from walking into the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) for the first time to rejecting [Yule Ball](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/yule-ball) dates, she was always perfectly poised which is something you appreciate.

## May: The thoroughly good Cedric Diggory is who you’re drawn to

![HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7Gg3rW3wpho401kh28ueXG/2ce6bdeb293a9f962407b31ab38c3c2b/HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape)

You have no time for people that like to play games in relationships. You abhor anyone who has a mean streak. You really can’t stand when people are rude to those around them. This is why [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) is the perfect person for you. Despite being handsome, intelligent and an extremely talented wizard, this [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) was also humble. He was *good*. He helped Harry despite him being his [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) rival and never let being the rising star at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) go to his head. Cedric is a partner you would always feel safe with… and he is perfect for you.

## June: Your soulmate is Lavender Brown who wears her heart on her sleeve

![HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/41iicwNjHTdrMVNZoiTdoC/ddf961f7074d912a9307c0dc9e2716aa/HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape)

As someone who is often described as vivacious and an open book, you have real difficulty bonding with people who are closed off or reserved. You find those who keep their cards close to their chest rather unsettling – which is why [Lavender Brown](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lavender-brown) is your soulmate. Whether she was snogging Ron in front of the whole [Gryffindor common room](/fact-file/locations/the-gryffindor-common-room) or giving him gaudy necklaces as a token of her affection, she was not afraid of her emotions or letting everyone else see them. This type of openness is something you can’t help but be drawn to.

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

![HP WB F4 Neville and his plant crop ](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/66z5lwGFVYTJTiW2dNdKfw/e99e49796545303b7dec644c11004840/NevilleLongbottom_WB_F4_NevilleLongbottomWithPlantPromoShot_Promo_080615_CROP.jpg)

Don’t underestimate [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom). He might have initially been a clumsy underdog, but he soon surpassed that and became a [sword-of-Gryffindor-wielding](/fact-file/objects/the-sword-of-gryffindor) hero. One who was loyal to his friends, his school and loyal to what was right. As someone born in July, this is what you would like to find in a partner. You don’t want a person who could easily be swayed. You want someone who is as committed to you as Neville is to his [Mimbulus mimbletonia](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia), which is why he is the one for you.

## August: The logical and intelligent Hermione Granger is the one for you

![HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5aJclseoYsrr4a0y0XPiQY/be44e1bfabc2a5f7422ed6e87a5df30e/HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape)

As somebody who is known for their sharp mind and love of learning, we think you and the [cleverest witch of her age](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger), who takes the largest books out of the [Hogwarts library](/fact-file/locations/the-hogwarts-library) for ‘light reading’, would get on like a house on fire. Your days would be spent verbally sparring with each other, debating Ancient Rune translations and generally broadening your minds and you wouldn’t want it any other way.

## September: The discerning Draco Malfoy is your wizarding soulmate

![WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4FeDA9gWYlkm3iFXZMUOF5/47927d38da6fcc8d4660a5cd92a7e6d6/WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape.jpg)

There’s nothing wrong with being shrewd or ambitious, these are traits that you rather admire. In fact, you find someone who knows exactly what they want and how to get it extremely attractive. This is why [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) is the one for you. We are in no way saying you are prejudiced or a bully like he was. However, the embodiment of [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) traits, he was not afraid to openly say he liked the finer things in life or believe he deserved them – just like you.

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

![GinnyWeasley WB F6 GinnyAtSlughornsParty Still 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4otWY19HKE4WyOOy4Q0wSu/66177ea78a84f5e28b9fb79b2b961e51/GinnyWeasley_WB_F6_GinnyAtSlughornsParty_Still_080615_Land.jpg)

If there was a witch that knew exactly who she was, it was [Ginny Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley). Having had a rough start at Hogwarts she blossomed into a fierce and phenomenal person – with an excellent talent for the [Bat-Bogey Hex](/fact-file/spells/the-bat-bogey-hex). That self-assuredness is something that you are looking for in a partner. You don’t want somebody who doesn’t take the time to work on being the best version of themselves. You want someone who is confident and powerful – exactly like Ginny.

## November: Harry Potter’s bravery is what makes him your soulmate

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[Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) is not afraid to confront the difficult things in life. He doesn’t shy away from a challenge or let fear stop him. He puts himself out there whether that’s soaring through the sky on his [broomstick](/fact-file/objects/broomstick), fighting the forces of evil or summoning up the courage to ask his crush to the Yule Ball. This is something that you strongly relate to. You’re not one to be called timid and you can’t stand cowardice. We’re not saying you’re necessarily an extrovert, but you stand up when it matters and that’s why Harry is your ultimate wizarding soulmate.

## December: The glass half-empty Moaning Myrtle is your perfect match

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There is no person that gets on your nerves more than the one who is relentlessly optimistic. You don’t have time from all that chirpiness and being constantly told to look on the bright side. In fact, being stuck with someone like that would be your worst nightmare. You want someone who will always look on the gloomy side – which is why [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle) (emphasis on the *Moaning*) is your perfect match. Despite her crush on Harry Potter, with your maudlin outlook, we’re sure you could win her over and many (un)happy centuries sitting in the [u-bend of a Hogwarts toilet](/fact-file/locations/moaning-myrtles-bathroom) discussing all the reasons why everything is awful.

For beginners, for novices, for Harry Potter superfans going 20 years-strong, dig deep into the wizarding world with our collection of features.

Features - Wizarding World

Cool British and Irish Quidditch teams to support that aren’t the Chudley Cannons

PMARCHIVE-Cool British and Irish Quidditch teams to support that aren’t the Chudley Cannons

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We all have a bit of a soft spot for Ron Weasley showing support for his brave Chudley Cannons even though they hadn’t actually won the League Cup since 1892. For some of us, though, orange isn’t a great colour (although, given how much it clashes with his hair, it probably isn’t Ron’s either). Luckily there are a lot of other teams in the British and Irish League to consider supporting – why not try some of these instead? 

## The Holyhead Harpies

The Harpies are the only all-female team in the league, representing Holyhead in Wales. The volatile beater Gwenog Jones, who was described as ‘brilliant but dangerous’, famously captained them for a number of years. Jones later went on to manage the Welsh national team, and during the 2014 Quidditch World Cup had to be restrained by her own Beaters when she made a spirited attempted to curse the Brazilian team’s manager (he having referred to the Chasers on her team as ‘talentless hags’). Ginny Potter, née Weasley, was a big fan of Jones – even having a poster of her on her bedroom wall – and it was probably a great source of pride for Ginny when she went on to play professionally for the Harpies herself.

## The Appleby Arrows

Hailing from the north of England, the Arrows have some of the most fetching uniforms in the league, clad as they are in pale blue robes with a silver arrow emblazed on them. They also boast a fantastic traditional crowd celebration – that being their fans firing arrows from their wands whenever an Appleby Chaser scored, though this was sadly banned when a referee received a free nose piercing from a wayward arrow. 

Perhaps the Arrows’s most famous, not to mention most impressive, achievement, was triumphing over the Vratsa Vultures of Europe in a match that went on for 16 days. They’re a formidable team to put your name behind.

## The Wimbourne Wasps

The Wimbourne Wasps, also from England, are named for an incident where their Beater batted a wasps’ nest at the Appleby Arrows's seeker (which has resulted in an enduring rivalry between the two teams). The Wasp’s robes are, somewhat predictably, striped in black and yellow, which suits the larger-than-life personality of Ludo Bagman, who played for them for some time before becoming the Head of the Department of Magical Games and Sports that Harry ran into at the 1994 World Cup. Fans of the Wasps call themselves Stingers, and buzz loudly during penalties in a spirited attempt to put the opposing Chasers off their game, so they’d be the team of choice for fans who like to bug their opponents.

## The Ballycastle Bats

This Northern Irish team are notable for their adorable mascot Barny the Fruitbat, who featured in a line of Butterbeer adverts. The bat theme is of course represented in the team robes, which are black with a scarlet bat logo, making them an imposing sight to see bearing down from the sky. The Ballycastle Bats are also notable for being the second most successful team in the British and Irish League with a total of twenty-seven league wins, which some people may consider of more importance than having a lovely mascot.

## The Montrose Magpies 

The Bats are pipped to the post for being the most successful team by the Montrose Magpies, a team from Scotland who have won the League Cup 32 times, and twice European Champions. They have, in recent years, lost some form after one of their Chasers became heavily invested in the Muggle game football and tried to introduce its techniques into Quidditch. This ultimately resulted in the Magpies losing a key match when the Snitch was kicked in the direction of their Seeker. This Chaser was ultimately fired, so the Magpies could be on the up and up again.

## Puddlemere United 

With rousing team songs to sing during matches like ‘Beat Back Those Bludgers, Boys, and Chuck That Quaffle Here’, Puddlemere United have some strong credentials for fans of the beautiful, broom-stick brandishing game. They not only poached former Gryffindor team captain Oliver Wood for their reserves, but are also Albus Dumbledore's team of choice.

Cool British and Irish Quidditch teams to support

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

A blagger’s guide to Quidditch 

PMARCHIVE-A blagger’s guide to Quidditch 

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There are seven players on each team (three Chasers, one Keeper, two Beaters and one Seeker), four balls (one Quaffle, two Bludgers and one Snitch), three hoops (but you can only score the Quaffle in them), ten points per goal, and 150 points if you catch the Snitch, which also ends the game. Also, it’s all played on broomsticks.

See? Entirely and utterly straightforward.

Not everyone can be adamant sports fans, but there are shortcuts along the way should you find yourself in an awkward group discussion about Quidditch. You know, if Quidditch was real. But never mind that. Thanks to our handy guide, look forward to hordes of new admirers as you wow the world with your sudden encyclopedic knowledge. You’re welcome!

## Remember it’s played on brooms

A really important fact not to forget about Quidditch is that it’s played in the sky, unlike your boring ground sports like football and netball. So, when discussing said game, throw in a few references to the fact that you actually know the sport involves flying, otherwise you’ll get a lot of stick. And we don’t mean broomsticks.

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Draco on his broom beofre quidditch match 

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## Don’t pick an obvious favourite team 

In the wizarding world, the likes of the Tutshill Tornados are one of your top dogs in the game, so when you’re embroiled in a match debate, the key sign of a Quidditch expert is to think outside the box, pick an up-and-coming team instead of one everyone has heard of.

For example, Ron Weasley’s favourite team, the Chudley Cannons, may have had their day, but are still a good, realistic team to support. You’ll be respected for staying faithful to a team past their prime, and also get a bit of ribbing for your choice, as is traditional in sports-based banter.

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## Remember key players’ names

We know it’s difficult to remember the names of people in the same room as you, let alone Quidditch players from across the globe, but you must have a few key names to hand just in case someone says ‘Mullet’ and you think they’re referring to a haircut. (They are, of course, referring to the Chaser from the Irish National Quidditch team.)

A good player to mention is Dragomir Gorgovitch, a popular Chaser who did wonders for the Chudley Cannons during Harry and Ron’s time at school. And by ‘did wonders’ we mean held the record for most Quaffle drops in a season.

If you want to accredit a more classic player, go for Ludo Bagman, a former star of the Wimbourne Wasps who worked for the Ministry of Magic. Not knowing who Ludo Bagman is as terrible a crime as saying ‘Who’s Andy Murray?’

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## Know your Quidditch controversies 

In these epic Quidditch chats you’ll be having, be prepared for huge Quidditch historical references to pop up. Imagine talking about Muggle football and not knowing who won the 1966 World Cup, for example. (It was England, by the way.)

A good example to reference is the 1473 Quidditch World Cup, the final of which was unique in featuring all 700 types of Quidditch foul. So saying, ‘I haven’t seen a game this bleak since 1473’ will win you guaranteed nods from your companions.

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## Don’t get your sports mixed up 

Whatever you do, above all other, do not say something terrible like ‘Red card! Send him off!’ Such a faux pas will make you the laughing stock of your Quidditch-loving friendship group. Although Quidditch does share some facets of other beautiful games, such as goal-scoring and blatant fouling, imagine the embarrassment of saying something like ‘offside’. Tread carefully. 

So there you have it. Absorb these expert tips and you too can be a champion of Quidditch small-talk in a matter of moments. Award yourself one miniature Firebolt (that’s a broomstick) and a palm-sized figure of Viktor Krum. (That’s a player.) 

...Okay, maybe you still have more to learn.

Molly Weasley’s most magnificent rants

PMARCHIVE-Molly Weasley’s most magnificent rants

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Yes, Molly was the true queen of red-haired rage. Sometimes we wish we could hire her out to get us out of some sticky situations. To celebrate Molly’s might, here are some of her most fantastic, most memorable and truly inspirational rants.

When we first met Molly Weasley she was described as a plump woman with flaming red hair and a kindly heart. She helped Harry figure out how to reach platform nine and three-quarters and she treated her children with fondness and warmth. She also almost immediately adopted Harry as one of her own, sending him an iconic lovely Christmas jumper from his first year. She seemed sweet and gentle, and a mother-figure for Harry, who never really had one.

Then Fred, George and Ron nicked their father’s flying car and we get our first glimpse into the steely Molly underneath…

> Ron had gone a nasty greenish colour, his eyes fixed on the house. The other three wheeled around. 
> Mrs Weasley was marching across the yard, scattering chickens, and for a short, plump, kind-faced woman, it was remarkable how much she looked like a sabre-toothed tiger. 
> ‘Ah,’ said Fred. 
> ‘Oh dear,’ said George.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

And that was just the warm up. 

> ‘Beds empty! No note! Car gone ... could have crashed ... out of my mind with worry ... did you care? ... never, as long as I’ve lived ... you wait until your father gets home, we never had trouble like this from Bill or Charlie or Percy …’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

We especially love that her beloved husband Arthur also couldn’t quite handle Molly’s almighty scorn. 

> ‘... but the things our lot have taken to enchanting, you wouldn’t believe –’ 
> ‘LIKE CARS, FOR INSTANCE?’ 
> Mrs Weasley had appeared, holding a long poker like a sword. Mr Weasley’s eyes jerked open. He stared guiltily at his wife. 
> ‘C-cars, Molly, dear?’ 
> ‘Yes, Arthur, cars,’ said Mrs Weasley, her eyes flashing. 
*Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

Another golden memory was during the era of Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, where Mrs Weasley had frequent run-ins with Fred and George over their variety of chaos-causing inventions. Although we know the twins eventually won their mother round with their unorthodox business, the developing stages of the Ton-Tongue Toffee didn’t go well.

> ‘Accio! Accio! Accio!’ she shouted, and toffees zoomed from all sorts of unlikely places, including the lining of George’s jacket and the turn-ups of Fred’s jeans. 
> ‘We spent six months developing those!’ Fred shouted at his mother, as she threw the toffees away. 
> ‘Oh, a fine way to spend six months!’ she shrieked. ‘No wonder you didn’t get more O.W.Ls!’ 
> All in all, the atmosphere was not very friendly as they made their departure. 
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

If Molly thought Fred and George were a handful as children, the twins’ coming of age was a joyous occasion. Did we say joyous? We meant fraught.

> ‘FOR HEAVEN’S SAKE!’ screamed Mrs Weasley. ‘THERE WAS NO NEED – I’VE HAD ENOUGH OF THIS – JUST BECAUSE YOU’RE ALLOWED TO USE MAGIC NOW, YOU DON’T HAVE TO WHIP YOUR WANDS OUT FOR EVERY TINY LITTLE THING!’’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

What about that time Mundungus got the sharp end of Mrs Weasley’s tongue when he tried to bring in stolen goods? 

> ‘WE ARE NOT RUNNING A HIDEOUT FOR STOLEN GOODS!’ 
> ‘I love hearing Mum shouting at someone else,’ said Fred, with a satisfied smile on his face as he opened the door an inch or so to allow Mrs Weasley’s voice to permeate the room better, ‘it makes such a nice change.’ 
> ‘– COMPLETELY IRRESPONSIBLE, AS IF WE HAVEN’T GOT ENOUGH TO WORRY ABOUT WITHOUT YOU DRAGGING STOLEN CAULDRONS INTO THE HOUSE –’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

We had to love it when Fred and George managed, once again, to land in her line of fire when they knocked Ginny down the stairs. Although, to be fair, she had a point.

> Mrs Black and Mrs Weasley were both screaming at the top of their voices. 
> ‘– COULD HAVE DONE HER A SERIOUS INJURY, YOU IDIOTS –’ 
> ‘– FILTHY HALF-BREEDS, BESMIRCHING THE HOUSE OF MY FATHERS –’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*
>

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Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

HP-F6

and the Half-Blood Prince

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Probably one of the best Molly rants was when Arthur decided to try Muggle stitches on the bite he received from Voldemort’s snake. Actually, we were the ones in stitches…

> ‘It sounds as though you’ve been trying to sew your skin back together,’ said Mrs Weasley with a snort of mirthless laughter, ‘but even you, Arthur, wouldn’t be that stupid –’ 
> ‘I fancy a cup of tea, too,’ said Harry, jumping to his feet. 
> Hermione, Ron and Ginny almost sprinted to the door with him. As it swung closed behind them, they heard Mrs Weasley shriek, ‘WHAT DO YOU MEAN, THAT’S THE GENERAL IDEA?’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

Next it was Harry’s turn to be at the receiving end of Molly’s ire. He was about to quit school and head out to find the Horcruxes and destroy Voldemort on his own. She was not, to say the least, amused.

> ‘I don’t see that you have to go, either!’ she snapped, dropping all pretence now. ‘You’re barely of age, any of you! It’s utter nonsense, if Dumbledore needed work doing, he had the whole Order at his command! Harry, you must have misunderstood him. Probably he was telling you something he wanted done, and you took it to mean that he wanted you –’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

Then, Molly hit her finest moment. She struck a chord in every wizard, witch and Muggle when she turned her impressive anger and prodigious talent towards Bellatrix Lestrange during the Battle of Hogwarts. You know what’s coming. One, two, three…

> ‘NOT MY DAUGHTER, YOU BITCH!’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

Hurray!

Pottermore’s guide to the twenties: 20 things that happened first in the 1920s

PMARCHIVE-Pottermore’s guide to the twenties: 20 things that happened first in the 1920s

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Here are 20 things that the Muggles and No-Majs of the era experienced for the very first time…

## 1.	Prohibition

Although the 1920s would later become known as a period of prosperity, for many Americans they didn’t start well. In January 1920 the so-called Prohibition Amendment went into effect, banning the production and sale of liquor across the US.

## 2.	Votes for women

Women had been fighting for the vote for years, and while some countries made gains as early as 1755 (good going, Corsica), it was in the 1920s that it began to catch on. American women won the vote in 1920, while most of their British counterparts had to wait until 1928 – although women in the UK and Ireland who were over 30, university graduates and/or property owners had been allowed to vote since 1918.

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## 3.	Commercial radio

On 20 August 1920, the country’s first commercial radio station – WWJ (AM) in Detroit, Michigan – began broadcasting. Then called 8MK, the station operated under a standard amateur radio licence. Its first known news programme was broadcast on 31 August 1920.

## 4.	The NFL

The year 1920 also saw the foundation of the National Football League (NFL), initially known as the American Professional Football Association (APFA). The NFL aimed to raise the bar for professional American football, and today its 32 teams play to the highest standard in the world.

## 5.	Agatha Christie

In the UK, a woman with high standards of her own was preparing for publication. *The Mysterious Affair at Styles* was released in 1920, and within a few years Agatha Christie and her hero Hercule Poirot were as familiar a sight on British bookshelves as Harry Potter is now.

## 6.	Charlie Chaplin

Another name now synonymous with the 1920s took his first (bumbling) steps towards stardom in the early part of the decade. Charlie Chaplin’s *The Kid*, released in 1921, was his first feature film. He produced, directed and starred in it, and it helped bring his instantly recognisable Little Tramp character to worldwide attention.

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## 7.	The New York Yankees win

In October 1923, one of New York’s baseball teams, the Yankees, won the World Series. It was their very first title, and they’ve gone on to win it 26 more times. 

## 8.	The Winter Olympics

It’s quite possibly the closest thing the No-Maj world has to a Triwizard Tournament: in 1924 France hosted the first-ever winter Olympics, a celebration of sports played on snow and ice.  

## 9.	The New Yorker

In 1925 – a year before Newt rolls up in New York with his suitcase of wonders – journalist Harold Ross unleashed another fantastic beast upon the city. *The New Yorker*, which Ross envisaged as a publication of ‘gaiety, wit and satire’, survives to this day.

## 10.	 Television

Scottish inventor John Logie Baird pioneered the introduction of TV to the masses, demonstrating the first colour television system to the world in January 1926. The rest, as they say, is history.

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## 11.	 Winnie-the-Pooh

The Bear of Very Little Brain first popped up in 1926. Winnie-the-Pooh was based on the real life teddy bear belonging to author AA Milne’s son, who was himself the inspiration for Pooh’s owner Christopher Robin. 

## 12.	 Gertrude Ederle swims the English Channel 

In 1926, 19-year-old American competition swimmer Ederle became the first woman to swim the Channel, completing it in 14 hours and 34 minutes.

## 13.	 The first movie soundtrack

In 1926, Warner Bros.’ *Don Juan* – based on Lord Byron’s epic poem of the same name – became the first feature-length film to include an instrumental musical score and sound effects.

## 14.	 The first talkie 

A year later, in October 1927, Warner Bros. secured another movie first. *The Jazz Singer* was the first film to feature sound. A ‘part-talkie’, it features several synchronised musical numbers performed by the cast, and some speech.

## 15.	Transatlantic flight

In 1927, American aviator Charles ‘Lucky Lindy’ Lindbergh became the first person to fly a plane across the Atlantic. He completed the journey in his plane, the ‘Spirit of St Louis’, flying from New York to Paris in 33-and-a-half-hours. Who needs magic, eh?

## 16.	Music for the masses

In 1928, a device that would later become known as the jukebox first appeared on the scene, allowing music fans to play their favourite track from a choice of eight records.

## 17.	The first all-talking film

In 1928 Warner Bros. completed a hat-trick with the release of *The Lights of New York*, the first all-talking film, complete with full synchronised dialogue, music and sound effects. 

## 18.	 Mickey Mouse

Walt Disney’s rodent character made his first appearance in 1928. *Steamboat Willie* was the movie that launched Mickey, and the animated mouse with the red shorts hasn’t looked back since.

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## 19.	 The Oscars

In a decade of firsts for the film industry, it’s probably not surprising that the end of the 1920s saw the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences host its inaugural awards ceremony. First held in 1929, this annual celebration of the movie industry would become known universally as the Oscars.

## 20.	The Museum of Modern Art

Although the American economy well and truly tanked in 1929, there was one ray of hope in a city and a year that would become synonymous with the Wall Street Crash. Just days after that momentous occasion, New York became home to the Museum of Modern Art, which opened in Manhattan on 7 November.

*In celebration of* Fantastic Beasts, *Pottermore will be delving into the history of the 1920s each week. Stay tuned for more!*

Everything you need to know about the Dementors’ Kiss

PMARCHIVE-Everything you need to know about the Dementors’ Kiss

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The Dementors’ Kiss is like something out of your most feared horror film: when the deadly Dementors suck out a victim’s soul. But how much do we know about this tragic punishment?  

## So just how bad is it?

Picture for a moment, those most terrifying of magical creatures, the Dementors. Cloaked in dark hoods, with slimy-looking, decayed hands and – shudder – no eyes. Imagine them advancing towards you, causing the air to freeze and bringing all of your worst fears and traumas to life. Then imagine them clamping their jaws on your mouth and sucking out your soul. Horrifying, isn’t it? 

## What are the effects?

When Harry first heard about the Dementors’ Kiss in *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*, he assumed it was a curse that killed. But it was so much worse than that. Professor Lupin explained to Harry that it was possible to ‘exist without your soul’ – but that’s all it would be; *existing*, not living in any sense of the word. You were effectively ‘an empty shell’.

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A swarm of Dementors arrive at the Quidditch Match.

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## Who suffers the Dementors’ Kiss?

Barty Crouch Jr, for one.

> Harry felt a chill in his stomach, as Professor McGonagall struggled to find words to describe what had happened. He did not need her to finish her sentence. He knew what the Dementor must have done. It had administered its fatal Kiss to Barty Crouch. It had sucked his soul out through his mouth. He was worse than dead. 
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

Shortly after confessing his traitorous deeds disguised as Mad-Eye Moody, the tortured Barty Crouch Jr had his very soul sucked from him. The order came from misguided Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge, who didn’t account for the fact that Barty would be rendered unable to testify about Voldemort’s return. 

## Any near misses? 

Absolutely. In the presence of a Dementor, the threat of their terrible Kiss was ever present. It was thanks to quick wit and an abundance of advanced magical skill that these characters were spared this fate worse than death in the first seven stories. 

## Harry Potter

Harry was plagued by the Dementors, who feasted on misery and wanted to leech happiness and joy from everyone they encountered. Harry was especially vulnerable because he experienced such a lonely, unhappy childhood and was haunted by tragic memories. 

But Harry took matters into his own hands, seeking help from Professor Lupin in mastering the Patronus charm, so that he may ward off the Dementors by summoning his happiest memories. Touchingly, they most often featured Ron and Hermione, whose friendship saved him in so many ways. And by learning this notoriously difficult charm, Harry was able to save many of his nearest and dearest, too.

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## Sirius Black

Harry’s godfather Sirius Black endured 12 years in solitary confinement in Azkaban for a crime he did not commit. By focusing on his innocence he was able to survive and escape the merciless Dementors, and would later narrowly avoid the Dementors’ Kiss with help from his godson.

## Dudley Dursley

Dudders certainly didn’t count as one of Harry’s dearest, but Harry was certainly nearest to him when Dementors struck in Little Whinging – and he had no choice but to break wizarding law and cast a Patronus to save his cousin’s soul. Given Dudley’s appalling treatment of Harry over the years, you’d be hard pressed to know he even *had* a soul, but this horrific ordeal did mark a shift in their relationship.

## Mary Cattermole

During her trial by the Muggle-Born Registration Commission, Mary Cattermole found herself in the presence of the Dementors and that other nasty piece of work, Dolores Umbridge. When the disguised Harry had enough of Umbridge’s lies and was momentarily distracted, the Dementors attempted their dreaded Kiss. Luckily for Mrs Cattermole, Harry saved her just in time, before encouraging her to get as far away as possible.

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Dementors WB F3 DementorsDecendOnHarryAndSirius Still 100615 Land

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## Hermione Granger

Hermione Granger was arguably the finest young witch of her generation, though the Patronus was the one spell she found difficult. But being Hermione Granger, she could of course still conjure her otter in times of need. On other chilling occasions, Harry was by her side with his stag to save them. 

## Ron Weasley

Like Hermione, Ron wasn’t directly threatened with a Dementors’ Kiss, but he had several close and frightening encounters. The worst could be said to be during the Battle of Hogwarts, following the tragic death of his beloved brother Fred. Hungrily seeking out grief and despair, the Dementors found Ron, Harry and Hermione easy targets. Thank goodness for Dumbledore’s Army, then: the trio were saved at the wands of Luna, Ernie and Seamus.

The most interesting buildings in the wizarding world 

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The outside of the Burrow from the Goblet of Fire 

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Some are homely and more similar to Muggle residences, while others are grand and dramatic and have magic oozing out of every brick. Here’s a list of the most interesting buildings we’d be very happy to pop over to visit if anyone’s offering.

## Hogwarts

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A rainy Hogwarts with the horseless carriages 

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The granddaddy of them all is, of course, Hogwarts: Harry’s home for so many years and a place that represented security and sanctuary. Hogwarts has meant so much to so many, and it’s known as one of the safest places in the wizarding world. Aesthetically, Hogwarts also takes the biscuit: a beautiful, dramatic castle with sprawling staircases, moving portraits, floating candles and so much more. Even Dumbledore professed to not know all of the castle’s secrets. 

Invisible to the Muggle eye, no one is quite sure where Hogwarts is, apart from it being ‘somewhere in Scotland’ and knowing you need a great whopping train to get there. Well, either that or an illegal flying car. Once you do actually get there, it’s definitely worth the trip.

The grounds of Hogwarts are populated by a large, sprawling loch (known as The Great Lake), the Forbidden Forest and a huge Quidditch pitch. The surrounding areas of the castle are also host to an owlery, the Herbology greenhouses and Hagrid’s hut, complete with a lovingly honed vegetable patch.

The set-up of Hogwarts and its grounds has had some historical and personal touches over the years, such as the Whomping Willow, a rather embittered tree that was planted over the entrance to a secret house called the Shrieking Shack, built especially for Remus Lupin, due to his ‘furry little problem’ of turning into a werewolf. 

And that’s all without even going into the interior, where the magic runs deep through every crevice. But don’t let us go on and on. You can read more about the secrets of Hogwarts [here.](/features/secret-passageways-and-hiding-places-infographic)

> ‘Oh, I would never dream of assuming I know all Hogwarts’ secrets, Igor,’ said Dumbledore amicably. 
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire* 

## Gringotts

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DiagonAlley PM B1C5M2 Gringotts Moment

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You would think that bank robberies would be pretty easy in a world where Apparating is a common mode of transportation. So in order to protect everyone’s valuables, Gringotts needs to have impossibly tight security. And it does, in the form of a staff of goblins. Oh, and a dragon. 

> ‘Yeah – so yeh’d be mad ter try an’ rob it, I’ll tell yeh that. Never mess with goblins, Harry. Gringotts is the safest place in the world fer anything yeh want ter keep safe – ’cept maybe Hogwarts.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

If you want to illegally access the bank you must first get past the goblins (in some cases the touch of a goblin is required to enter a vault, rather than a conventional key) and the dragon protects the more high-security vaults. There’s also the fact that the vaults occupy a vast cavern that is only accessible through carts.

By its very nature Gringotts is a deeply mysterious place, and the wizarding bank gives the impression that it harbours so much more than we are allowed to see. But perhaps Gringotts’ secrets are best kept secret.

## Number twelve, Grimmauld Place

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Like Hogwarts, Azkaban and a few other well-known magical locations, number twelve, Grimmauld Place is unplottable, meaning it’s completely hidden from unsuspecting Muggles, and definitely won’t be found on any maps. 

> ‘It’s ideal for Headquarters, of course,’ Sirius said. ‘My father put every security measure known to wizardkind on it when he lived here.’ 
> *Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

There are a few reasons to hide number twelve, Grimmauld Place, which is secretly squished in the middle of a terraced street in London: firstly, it used to home The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black, and you can bet none of Sirius’s family were interested in exchanging neighbourly pleasantries with any nearby Muggles. In more recent years, Grimmauld Place was repurposed as the official HQ for the Order of the Phoenix, and its unplottable status certainly helped. The infestation of Doxies? Not so much. 

Yes, Grimmauld Place isn’t the most homely of places, what with all the dead, mounted house-elf heads on the walls, the portrait of Sirius’s screaming mother, and the looming presence of Dark magical artefacts. But there is a sort of… macabre beauty to it, wouldn’t you say? 

Alright, perhaps not. 

## The Shrieking Shack

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The empty bedroom of the Shrieking Shack 

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‘The Shrieking Shack’ is a bit of a misnomer for what is, in fact, a perfectly innocent shack. Of course, we don’t know this until the final events of *Prisoner of Azkaban*. Before this time, the Shrieking Shack is defined as an abandoned house, which you can access via a tunnel hidden under Hogwarts’ Whomping Willow, which is avoided by locals and students at all costs, due to persisting rumours that the building is haunted – the ‘most haunted in Britain’, no less. 

The reality, of course, is that the Shrieking Shack isn’t haunted or home to some kind of malevolent creature: it was formerly the place where Lupin went when he needed to transform into a werewolf, who couldn’t be a lovelier guy. Apart from on full-moon days. Lupin’s deadly secret was, in fact, the real reason for all the screaming.

> It was a room, a very disordered, dusty room. Paper was peeling from the walls; there were stains all over the floor; every piece of furniture was broken as though somebody had smashed it. The windows were all boarded-up. 
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban* 

Long after Lupin departed Hogwarts, the Shrieking Shack was left with a bit of a reputation, and became a Hogsmeade tourist attraction despite its unsightly design and distinct lack of ghostly presence. You’d have better luck just wandering the Great Hall of Hogwarts and bumping into Nearly Headless Nick. 
 
## The Burrow

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The Burrow PM B2C8 Moment

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While Hogwarts is grand and Gringotts is opulent, neither of those establishments has quite the ramshackle topsy turviness and chaotic joy of The Burrow. So tall it looks like it’s had quite a few extra floors magically fused on top, The Burrow is pretty much the house equivalent of a trifle. After all, there are a lot of Weasleys to fit in. 

Tucked away somewhere in Devon, The Burrow is set aside a small orchard with a paddock, which has a tendency of being infested by pesky Gnomes. How Ron could ever do his family home down is beyond us, really. 

> ‘It’s not much,’ said Ron. 
> ‘It’s brilliant,’ said Harry happily, thinking of Privet Drive. 
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

The Harry Potter books from Severus Snape’s perspective 

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Severus Snape was often the villain to Harry and his friends, but what if the Hogwarts professor was actually the real hero all along?

The Harry Potter Books from Severus Snape's Perspective | Wizarding World

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JKR Severus Snape illustration

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## Prologue 

Once there was a wizard called Severus Snape. He was tall and lanky, and his black greasy hair hung like curtains around his face. He grew up as a half-blood wizard in an unhappy family, but found solace in a witch called Lily Evans, a childhood friend. Snape loved Lily deeply: through their years at Hogwarts; through her marriage to another wizard, [James Potter](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-potter-family); through his time as a Death Eater; and long after her murder at the wand of Lord Voldemort. After her death, a heartbroken Snape took up a position at Hogwarts as Potions master (under Dumbledore’s protection), and began his secret mission to keep safe the only thing that he had left of her: her son, a boy with his mother’s eyes.  

## Severus Snape and the Philosopher’s Stone 

Still, that didn’t mean that he had to like the guy, who looked annoyingly like his father (and Snape’s school bully) James Potter. 

Nonetheless, Snape had a job to do. During Harry’s first year, Dumbledore and Snape suspected a fellow teacher, Defence Against the Dark Arts’ Professor Quirrell, of trying to steal a precious magical object hidden within Hogwarts grounds: The Philosopher’s Stone. Because he was clever, Snape saw through Quirrell’s plans pretty quickly, which involved setting trolls loose in the dungeon, and trying to jinx Harry Potter’s broom during a Quidditch match. 

Snape, of course, gallantly confronted Quirrell, but in the end, Harry and his two friends got all the credit, with Snape getting set on fire in the process. Charming.

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Snape teaching potions from the Philosopher's Stone 

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## Severus Snape and the Chamber of Secrets 

Although this was a quiet year for Snape, his excellent teaching subtly led Hermione and Harry to discover two things that would prove paramount in their later years: Polyjuice Potion, and Expelliarmus. Unlike some wizards, he didn’t spend every year of Hogwarts trying to make himself the centre of attention.

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Polyjuice ready to drink fro the  Chamber of Secrets 

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