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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

![HP-F8-harry-lake-web-header](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3SzHQWDxZAPjea1KYpaIO0/cc24a62a6e35937f165b190cf14df8e6/harry_heaer.png)

[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

![HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2HdGuqY9aOgGStQJii0yVY/5013a2d38cecb8e9f536e42f6dbf0036/HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape.jpg)

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

Famous Gryffindors through the ages

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McGonagall at her desk from the Chamber of Secrets 

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> ‘You might belong in Gryffindor,  
> Where dwell the brave at heart,  
> Their daring, nerve and chivalry  
> Set Gryffindors apart’  
> 
> *The Sorting Hat, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

__Godric Gryffindor__  
One of the four Hogwarts founders, Gryffindor was bold, brave and a truly exceptional wizard. He was also the most accomplished dueller of his age, and his [sword](/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-sword-of-gryffindor "The Sword of Gryffindor by J.K. Rowling") is a treasured artefact. He was born in a West Country village, later called Godric’s Hollow in his honour and home to Lily, James and Harry Potter.

__Albus Dumbledore__  
Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and founder of the Order of the Phoenix, Dumbledore was widely considered to be one of the greatest wizards of all time. His achievements include defeating Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald, the discovery of the twelve uses of dragon’s blood, and his work on [alchemy](/writing-by-jk-rowling/alchemy "Alchemy by J.K. Rowling") with Nicolas Flamel.

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__Minerva McGonagall__  
The Head of Gryffindor house during Harry Potter’s time at Hogwarts, [McGonagall](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/professor-mcgonagall "Professor McGonagall By J.K. Rowling") was highly intelligent, exceptionally talented, and an accomplished Animagus. This Transfiguration teacher and deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts was as formidable as Gryffindor’s house animal. 

__Harry Potter__  
The Chosen One, the Boy Who Lived and perhaps the bravest Gryffindor the house has ever seen. Need we say more?

__Ron Weasley__  
Everyone’s favourite right-hand man, where would Harry have been without Ron? He may have started out in the shadow of his best friend but he would go on to face many of his fears, showing true leadership in times of need and becoming a credit to his house.

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__Hermione Granger__  
Impossibly intelligent, quick-thinking and considerate of others, Hermione was far and away one of the most brilliant witches of her time. Her immense bravery and intellect were crucial in the defeat of Voldemort.

__House Ghost: Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington__  
Otherwise known as ‘Nearly Headless Nick’. Following his death in 1492, Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington went on to become Gryffindor house’s [ghost-in-residence](/writing-by-jk-rowling/hogwarts-ghosts "Hogwarts Ghosts by J.K. Rowling"). Kind, noble and eternally proud, Nick lent a hand to many a Gryffindor in need over the years.

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Nearly Headless Nick greeting guests to his Deathday party 

Discover the films

Wizarding World Image Crediting

to Fantastic Beasts

6 reasons why it’s great to be a Slytherin

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Of course, Slytherin do have a couple of foibles: their issues with Muggles, a terrifying serpent emblem, and that dreadful chap Lord Voldemort. But if you do get Sorted into this house, there is absolutely no need to be down about it. This ancient community has just as much to offer as the other three houses, despite all evidence to the contrary. We promise.

__Not every Slytherin is a total git__ 

It’s a common misconception that Slytherin house is host to every dark wizard imaginable. Alright, so its founder, Salazar Slytherin, had a tendency to target Muggle-born students with a terrifying giant snake in a specially-made Chamber every now and then... And fair enough, Lord Voldemort is more or less the most evil force in wizarding history. But it’s not all doom and gloom...

Take one of Hogwarts’ most esteemed professors, Severus Snape, who gave his life for the greater good, all in the name of love.

How about Regulus Black, Sirius Black’s brother, who famously defected from being a Death Eater in order to try and vanquish one of Lord Voldemort’s Horcruxes? Nymphadora Tonks’s mother, Andromeda, defied the pure-blood traditions of her family (which included her sister Bellatrix Lestrange) to marry a Muggle-born: a very un-Slytherin sort of thing to do. And as for wily old Horace Slughorn, he may have had some skeletons in his cupboard, but in the end he shone true in the great Battle of Hogwarts.

Then there's *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*, where we met a few new Slytherin characters, including Draco Malfoy's son, Scorpius, who was far more compassionate and studious than his dad was at school. Scorpius showed that you didn't have to be cruel to get ahead, and championed wit and learning instead.

__The common room is quite picturesque, you know__

Unlike the other houses, Slytherin’s common room is situated deep in the dungeons of Hogwarts, surrounded by the school’s Great Lake. Its décor includes a crackling fireplace, carved chairs and greenish lamps – which actually sounds quite homey. And dungeons, smungeons. What’s not to love about a nice, Gothic feng shui?

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The Slytherin Common Room with Draco from the Chamber of Secrets 

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__One of the greatest wizards ever known was a Slytherin__

Slytherin’s repute is always going to be ever so slightly tarnished by the fact that pesky Lord Voldemort was a staunch house member who embodied every Slytherin stereotype going. But not much is said of the fact that one of the most famous wizards of all time, Merlin, was also from the house. So beloved and great was Merlin, that to this day, wizards are awarded The Order of Merlin to celebrate an outstanding achievement. Proof that even Gregory Goyle may one day turn into a great inspiration. Okay, maybe not.


__Snakes are cool__

And while we’re defending things, let’s also hear it for snakes – the Slytherin emblem. We can understand that sometimes serpents have some poisonous tendencies that also relate to a few of Slytherin’s alumni, and yes, sometimes snakes can be murderous Basilisks or even secret Horcruxes, but don’t hold that against them. Snakes are some of nature’s most resourceful creatures, and if life weighs down on them, they shed their skin and start anew. Some Slytherins, including a certain Draco Malfoy, have been known to do this too.

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Harry opening the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets 

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__Slytherins are born winners__ 

When Harry first joined Hogwarts, Slytherins reigned supreme. They had ‘flattened’ Gryffindor on the Quidditch pitch and were on course to win the House Cup for the seventh time in a row before Harry, Ron and Hermione put an end to that. Now, if Slytherins were so terrible, where did all those house points come from? And since when was being good at sport a crime? Perhaps everyone who has a go at Slytherin is just a bad loser.


__And finally: who doesn’t look good in green?__

Let’s be honest. If we had to pick between a glorious emerald dress robe and a ghastly yellow one, we’d pick the former every time. (Sorry, Hufflepuff.)

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Draco on his broom beofre quidditch match 

7 ways Hufflepuff are way better than you realise

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Tonks in the Ministry of Magic from the Order of the Phoenix.

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## Hufflepuff has produced many talented wizards, from Triwizard champions…

Hufflepuff Triwizard champion Cedric Diggory showed great promise, before dying a tragic and unexpected death. 

He was a bit of a Hogwarts heartthrob; girls swooned in his wake, he was both Captain and Seeker of his Quidditch team, a diligent prefect to boot. He even helped Harry solve the riddle of the second task, so he had a strong sense of fair play and sportsmanship.

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An Illustration of Cedric's dress robes for the Yule Ball 

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## … to talented Magizoologists

Newt Scamander, renowned Magizoologist and author of *Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them*, also hailed from Hufflepuff. 

After working in the Ministry of Magic, the keen magical creature expert travelled the world to write one of the most famous books in wizarding history. Boy, what an under-achiever.

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## Their common room seems to be a genuine joy

The Hufflepuff house colour is yellow, so a few hours inside their common room will surely inspire calm in any visitors. It’s built rather like a badger’s sett, of course, with honey-coloured wood tables and a welcoming portrait of Helga Hufflepuff over the mantelpiece. 

It’s sadly the only common room Harry never got to take a peek inside himself.

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## Hufflepuff has produced the least amount of Dark wizards

Although Hufflepuff is not exactly known for its glorious victories in the Hogwarts House Cup, it gets points for not producing that many evil wizards, Death Eaters, and Lord Voldemort-types. 
J.K. Rowling has previously said that nearly all the Hufflepuffs stay to fight during the Battle of Hogwarts. ‘They didn’t want to show off, they weren’t being reckless, that’s the essence of Hufflepuff.’

In fact, the most evil deed we can remember a Hufflepuff ever doing was Ernie Macmillan wearing a ‘Potter Stinks’ badge. Ouch!

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## They have a way with plants

With Herbology teacher Pomona Sprout as Head of House, you can bet your bottom Sickle that many Hufflepuffs are fervent gardeners. The common room is also packed with colourful flowers and plants, which must help when it comes to studying Herbology. 

Get placed in this house, and your green thumb is practically assured. Just don’t become obsessed with ‘world’s biggest Mandrake’ competitions; that path can only lead to darkness.

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Pomona Sprout in her greenhouse from the Chamber of Secrets

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## They aren’t always conventional

The great witch Nymphadora Tonks was also a Hufflepuff, despite not really exuding the house’s ‘just’ and ‘patient’ traits. 

As well as being a talented Auror and Metamorphmagus, Tonks was a fierce member of the Order of the Phoenix, usually found shouting loudly at people daring to use her unusual first name. She was also a lover of vibrant hair colours.

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Tonks with pink hair and her wand from the Order of the Pheonix 

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## Hufflepuff espouses the best message of any Hogwarts house 

Thanks to the kindness and acceptance of Hogwarts founder Helga Hufflepuff, this house is famous for accepting everyone.

Compared to Salazar Slytherin’s pure-bloods-only ethos, Helga’s house is a breath of fresh air. And for this wonderful reason, Hufflepuff should be applauded.

Famous Ravenclaws through the ages

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> ‘Wit beyond measure,  
> Is man’s greatest treasure.’  
> *House motto, etched on Rowena Ravenclaw’s diadem*

__Rowena Ravenclaw__  
‘Fair Ravenclaw, from glen’ was one of the four founders of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, known for her outstanding intelligence and creativity. Ravenclaw was the owner of a beautiful diadem that bestowed wisdom on the wearer, but it was lost in her lifetime.  

__Luna Lovegood__  
Eternal believer in Blibbering Humdingers and Crumple-Horned Snorkacks, this enigmatic Ravenclaw is [one of the best friends anyone could wish for](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/the-kindness-of-luna-lovegood). She thinks outside the box, a trait that does her house proud. 

__Garrick Ollivander__  
An exceptionally talented Ravenclaw wizard, [Ollivander](/writing-by-jk-rowling/mr-ollivander "Mr Ollivander by J.K. Rowling") is widely regarded as the finest wandmaker the world has ever seen. His success lies in his ability to marry the right wand wood with the right core, and help match the wands to their ideal owners.

[(Remember to discover your own wand right here.) ](https://my.wizardingworld.com/wand)

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__Filius Flitwick__  
Head of Ravenclaw house and Hogwarts Charms master, Filius Flitwick taught Hogwarts students the importance of enunciating their spells correctly – although Hermione helped. Exceedingly accomplished at Charms, Professor Flitwick was reportedly also a duelling champion in his youth. 

__Millicent Bagnold__  
Popular [Minister for Magic](/writing-by-jk-rowling/ministers-for-magic "Ministers for Magic by J.K. Rowling") and predecessor of Cornelius Fudge, Bagnold was in office when Voldemort tried and failed to kill Harry Potter as a child. Following Harry’s survival, she allowed the widespread celebrations among the wizarding community, running into trouble with the International Confederation of Wizards for breaching the International Statute of Secrecy. She famously responded: ‘I assert our inalienable right to party.’

__Gilderoy Lockhart__  
Though perhaps not the most shining example his house has to offer, Gilderoy Lockhart was of above-average intelligence and did achieve dizzying heights of fame in the wizarding world. However, vain and prone to baseless bragging, Lockhart’s chief achievement was showing his students how not to behave.

[You can read more about his childhood here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/gilderoy-lockhart)

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Queues spiral around the shop to meet Lockhart at his book signing in Flourish and Blotts. 

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__Ignatia Wildsmith__  
A thirteenth-century witch and celebrated inventor of [Floo powder](/writing-by-jk-rowling/floo-powder "Floo Powder by J.K. Rowling"). The mixture is a closely guarded secret but the price has remained at two Sickles a scoop for a hundred years.  

__House Ghost: The Grey Lady__  
The ghost of Ravenclaw tower is called the Grey Lady – a beautiful but haughty young woman with waist-length hair, decked in a cloak. Not much of a talker, the Grey Lady’s identity is shrouded in mystery...

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Guests dancing at Nearly Headless Nick's deathday party 

5 reasons Gryffindors need to calm down a bit

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Hats fly in the air when Gryffindor win the House Cup 

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Snape pushes Harry and Ron's heads down in the Goblet of Fire.

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Being in Gryffindor is brilliant, of course, but it isn’t all about winning things and looking fantastic in a lion jumper. Take heed of the times Gryffindors got a bit over-excited, and a few general Hogwarts house watch-outs.

__Harry Potter keeps losing you house points__ 

Gryffindor is perhaps the most well-known Hogwarts house in part due to its famous alumni. Albus Dumbledore, Remus Lupin and a certain bespectacled chap we forget the name of, to name but a few.

Like every celebrity party, some of the guests have a tendency to exhibit diva-ish behaviour from time to time. Harry Potter’s evasion of school rules often ends up with The Boy Who Lived becoming more like The Boy Who Drops House Points Like It’s Going Out of Style. 

Whether by sneaking around the school after hours, or topping up the perpetual disdain of Professional-House-Point-Subtractor Severus Snape, good luck winning the House Cup while Harry’s a student. 

__You have the strictest ever head of house__ 

Gryffindor’s head of house is one tough witch. Minerva McGonagall is a force to be reckoned with, and unlike certain other heads of houses, (hello, Professor Snape) she isn’t exactly indulgent when it comes to rewarding her students. Gryffindors have to work really hard to earn her approval. 

__You’re expected to be brave all the time__ 

The Sorting Hat says it best itself: ‘You might belong in Gryffindor, where dwell the brave at heart, their daring nerve and chivalry set Gryffindors apart.’ No pressure, then. 

It certainly is a compliment to be described as chivalrous – and definitely a good note to put on your CV. However, students at Hogwarts have to deal with a lot of dangerous stuff, and in Gryffindor there is a bit of an expectation to save the day. Sure, you can probably put a glass over a spider without flinching, but could you do the same so easily with Lord Voldemort?

__You’re always going to be targeted more than the other houses__ 

It’s bad enough you’re known as ‘the brave ones’, but there’s also the added pressure that the very-often-targeted Harry Potter is essentially Gryffindor’s poster boy. 

If it’s not Sirius Black slicing his way through the common room portrait to get to his godson, it’s Lord Voldemort trying to kill him (again). While Hufflepuffs have a nice evening in, Gryffindors probably spent most of the Harry Potter books wondering what on earth is going to happen next.

__The Fat Lady is not the greatest security guard__

It ain’t over until the Fat Lady sings. But for Gryffindor students, it ain’t over until the Fat Lady wakes up and actually lets you into your common room]. Gryffindor’s capricious portrait subject likes to party, which is bad news when students are trying to get to bed after a hard day Transfiguring teapots into tortoises.  

If she’s not off out drinking wine in a different portrait, she’ll sometimes just pretend you’ve got the wrong password for a laugh. Or she’ll just be asleep. Oh well. Apart from that, Gryffindor life is pretty great!

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The Great Hall when Gryffindor win the House Cup 

Famous Slytherins through the ages

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An illustration of Slughorn in his pyjamas.

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> ‘Or perhaps in Slytherin  
> You’ll make your real friends,  
> Those cunning folk use any means  
> To achieve their ends.’  
> *The Sorting Hat, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

__Salazar Slytherin__  
One of the four founders of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Slytherin prized resourcefulness and ambition in his students. He believed that the school should only teach [pure-blood](/writing-by-jk-rowling/pure-blood "Pure-Blood by J.K. Rowling") witches and wizards. His ability to speak Parseltongue is why the Slytherin emblem is a serpent. 

__Merlin__  
Merlin himself was sorted into Slytherin when he was at Hogwarts, and the young wizard went on to become one of the most famous wizards in history. The [Order of Merlin](/writing-by-jk-rowling/order-of-merlin "Order of Merlin by J.K. Rowling"), named to commemorate him, has been awarded since the fifteenth century. Legend has it that the First Order of Merlin’s green ribbon reflects his Hogwarts house. 

__Severus Snape__  
As [Potions](/writing-by-jk-rowling/potions "Potions by J.K. Rowling") master at Hogwarts, Severus Snape held his students to almost impossibly high standards and wasn’t one to suffer fools gladly. As Head of Slytherin house, he clashed with some of Gryffindor’s more… active students like Harry Potter. Still waters run deep though, and underneath the sneer lies a complicated man.

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__Phineas Nigellus Black__  
Sirius Black’s great-great grandfather, Phineas Nigellus Black was the least popular of all Hogwarts headmasters. Possibly because he hated being a teacher and seemingly young people in general. Even after his death Phineas went on to advise future headmasters, albeit from his lofty position on their [office wall](/writing-by-jk-rowling/hogwarts-portraits "Hogwarts Portraits by J.K. Rowling").

__Tom Riddle__  
The orphaned Tom Riddle found a home at Hogwarts and also a Dark purpose. A direct descendent of Salazar Slytherin, Riddle shared his forebear’s attitude on restricting magical learning to pure-bloods – despite having a Muggle father himself. As a teenager, he unlocked the [Chamber of Secrets](/writing-by-jk-rowling/chamber-of-secrets "Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling"), leading to the death of a Muggle-born girl, and even learned Dark magic to protect himself from death.

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TomRiddle PM B6C20M1 DumbledoreHarryPensieveHepzibahSmithSlytherinsLocket Moment

Harry and Dumbledore watch Tom Riddle inspect Slytherin's locket in a memory from the Half-Blood Prince. 

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