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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

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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

Debate club: Professor Trelawney or Firenze. Who was the better Divination teacher?

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## Trelawney was the superior teacher 
It is indeed true that [Professor Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) was not everyone’s cup of tea (leaves?) at Hogwarts. [Professor McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) certainly had some *thoughts*. But to err is human, and who can blame Sybill for making a few embellishments when it came to the divine art of Divination? 

Look at it from her point of view: her great-great-grandmother, Cassandra Trelawney, was a famously celebrated Seer, with a natural flair for Divination and a legendarily brilliant ‘Inner Eye’. That’s a tough act to follow. Poor Sybill would always be in the shadow of her ancestor. Who wouldn’t over-exaggerate their skills to try and live up to such great expectations? And you know what they say: fake it ‘til you make it! 

So that is exactly what Sybill did! She leaned into the entire Divination aesthetic (the jewellery, the glasses, the spangled shawls!) and played her part. If she was going to meet the measure of the great Cassandra Trelawney – she was going to need to set the scene. No wonder her classroom was full of pouffes and lamps draped in red scarves – creating an atmosphere is crucial for something like Divination! Why blame the woman for crafting the perfect, dreamy vibe? We’d probably be up for making a few predictions too if we were inhaling all that incense. 

Sure, as Divination teacher at Hogwarts, Professor Trelawney didn’t get everything right, and probably did bend a few truths in order to seem more impressive to her students. But any great visionary knows you need to gain an audience’s trust. A magician putting on a show needs to pull a few rabbits out of a few hats to get you on-side with their bigger illusions. It doesn’t matter what’s real and what’s not, as long as you *believe*.

So Trelawney guessed that the famously clumsy [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) would drop a teacup. And vague, open-to-interpretation phrases such as “the thing you’ve been dreading” are indeed a cheap trick to shock a young, impressionable teenager. But did it instil a confidence in her student that she was the real deal? It did! And as for the obsession with predicting [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) was going to die? You’ve got to admit she had good odds – this was the one pupil in her class who had Lord Voldemort constantly trying to murder him.

Then there’s the fact that Trelawney sometimes did actually get it right! She was the one who predicted [Lord Voldemort’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) downfall in the first place! *And* his return! On the topic of Lord Voldemort, she was pretty spot on. Yes, yes, she was in some sort of strange fugue state and never actually remembered these (extremely crucial) prophecies, but that’s still an Inner Eye, if you ask us! It was still enough for [Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) to keep her at Hogwarts. 

Sometimes in life, we are not gifted with the natural abilities we often crave – but with the right amount of dedication – we can practice, and learn, and keep on trying – just like Trelawney did. She knew all the techniques, she had all the right books, and she knew all the trippy Divination terminology required to freak out a bunch of students. When Dolores Umbridge callously sacked her, the entire affair was so devastating for Trelawney that she was driven to drink. Because she had put *everything* into her profession! Whether she was innately gifted or just had a couple of flukes is by-the-by. Here was a teacher who truly believed she was good at this and therefore could encourage others, also without ‘the Sight’, to still embrace the subject and give it their best shot. Firenze was a centaur with natural Divination gifts – boring! We’re picking the person who worked really, really hard to get to where they were. That’s relatable! And we want a teacher we can relate to. Pass the teacups.


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## Firenze was the superior teacher
There is no debate here. [Firenze](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/firenze) was by far the better Divination teacher – and we don’t need a crystal ball to know that you are going to agree with us. How could Trelawney be superior when she was (for the most part) a total fraud? 

By all means, if you think a Divination teacher should be made up of smoke and mirrors with a dash of amateur dramatics and a trade in cheap parlour tricks, then back Trelawney. However, we think the better teacher is one who *actually* understands the imprecise nature of Divination and has the proper respect for a subject so open to interpretation – like Firenze did. 

As a [centaur](/fact-file/creatures/centaur), a large chunk of his life was dedicated to Astronomy, watching the movements of the planets and divining what that meant for the world. Not only did he have years of experience, but he didn’t try to pretend that made him an infallible expert. He was open about the fact that centaurs, let alone humans, could make mistakes when interpreting something so nebulous. That is one reason why we think he was a good teacher. Rather than getting his students to take knowledge at face value, he wanted them to think critically and understand that nothing is fool proof – a valuable lesson indeed. 

Firenze also made lessons an exciting experience. Would you rather sit in a dimly lit, stuffy classroom packed with tables, chintz chairs with an overpowering waft of incense in the air, like Trelawney’s digs? Or would you prefer to learn in a room that has been transformed into a twilight woodland paradise, with a canopy of stars twinkling above your head? Again, we don’t need to be Seers to know how you’ll respond. 

The Hogwarts students seemed to favour him too. Even die-hard Trelawney fans [Lavender Brown](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lavender-brown) and [Parvati Patil](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/parvati-patil) (who hung onto *every* word and prediction that she made) couldn’t hide their disappointment when they discovered that their teacher for their sixth year would be Trelawney and not the mysterious centaur. 

We also think that Firenze’s conduct as a teacher was more… appropriate. He didn’t insult a student by calling them ‘mundane’, resulting in them leaving the class forever. Neither did he keep predicting the gruesome death of another. He also managed to be engaging enough that none of them felt the need to nod off in his lesson… which can’t be said for Trelawney. He never stooped to insulting fellow teachers even though Trelawney referred to him as ‘Dobbin’. Oh, and he was never fired. Yes, it might have been the hideous [Umbridge](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/dolores-umbridge) behind that one, but even a stopped clock is right twice a day.

Firenze risked a lot to be a teacher at Hogwarts. He was kicked out of his herd and had to leave the only home he had ever known – now *that’s* dedication. He managed to capture the interest of a broad range of students and not just those who were already fans of his subject. He was professional, interesting, and altogether a more engaging teacher. His subject knowledge and understanding of the art of Divination was real and unlike his counterpart, he never felt the need to be fake.

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***
But what do you think? Who was the ultimate Divination teacher?

If you're in the mood for some more wizarding world discussions why don't you have a look at some of our other debate club features?

See who you think had the hardest first year at Hogwarts, [Harry Potter or Ginny Weasley](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/whose-first-year-was-harder-harry-potter-ginny-weasley).

Or decide whether you think Sirius Black was a [role model or reckless rogue](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/sirius-black-role-model-or-bad-influence-the-debate).

The Horace Slughorn wordsearch

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Professor Slughorn with a Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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and the Half-Blood Prince

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Five potions that would be useful to have over the festive season

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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and the Order of the Phoenix

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## Pepperup Potion – for the inevitable cold
Feeling sneezy with a nose leakier than a faulty cauldron bottom? Well, it’s no surprise really when the weather is as miserable and gloomy as this (if you live in the UK, especially) and a brand-new bug lurks around every corner.

Yet, there’s no need to suffer or let it spoil your Christmas Day – not when you could have a healthy dose of [Pepperup Potion](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/pepperup-potion). Yes, it might make you smoke at the ears. And yes, if you happen to have red hair like the [Weasleys](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-weasleys) your head might appear to be on fire. But it’ll be worth it, trust us. Especially as it works instantly – finally a cure for the common cold! 

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## Felix Felicis – make sure your Christmas day goes without a hitch
Christmas brings its own… unique set of challenges. There are multiple moving parts from buying everybody the perfect Christmas present to preparing a fabulous festive feast to ensuring that nobody gets in yet *another* row with that one capricious uncle. (Remember, it could be worse: it could be [Uncle Vernon](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/vernon-dursley).)

Sometimes circumstances just seem to conspire against you. Despite having planned for months – sometimes things can still fall apart. The turkey’s not defrosted enough. You’ve just smashed another wine glass. You’re behind on wrapping presents and you can’t find the scissors *anywhere*. This is when you could do with a bottle of [Felix Felicis](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/felix-felicis), also known as ‘liquid luck’. Just take a swig of this potion and prepare to have a Christmas that runs smoother than the voice of Celestina Warbeck. Every present will go down a storm, the dinner will be the best you’ve ever had, and that troublesome uncle will be nothing but a witty delight: bliss.

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## Draught of Peace – for all the socialising at this time of year
The festive period, for many, is the time for visiting our nearest and dearest, but honestly, this endeavour can take its toll. The endless small talk and catching up can be rather overwhelming for those who are on the introverted side. But what’s the solution? You don’t want to hide away for the entirety of Christmas, and you haven’t got the time to fully recharge between constant back-to-back social events. You could try a Babbling Beverage, which makes the drinker more verbose than normal.

Or if you just want a bit of calm, try the [Draught of Peace](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/the-draught-of-peace). This useful concoction will soothe your nerves, calm the agitation and ensure that you are totally zen for the busy season. Though, one slight warning. If you are too heavy-handed with some of the ingredients, you may end up a tad too relaxed… and by that we mean in a heavy and sometimes irreversible sleep. Slightly more extreme than that post-turkey languor. 

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Harry and Ron left out at the Yule Ball in Goblet of Fire 

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## Veritaserum – find out who stole the last roast potato
Roast potatoes are the backbone of Christmas. They alone have the power to elevate a Christmas dinner from drab to fab. Yet if someone were to steal the last one? Scandal! Outrage! Just not the done thing! That’s where a vial of [Veritaserum](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/veritaserum) would come in handy. You could slip it into your suspect’s drink and get them to admit to their heinous crime without the need for an intervention. That wouldn’t be the only festive use for this handy potion. Why not find out who had you for Secret Santa? Or use it to uncover the juiciest family secrets whilst everyone is gathered together. Or just put a few drops in your dad’s cuppa and find out whether he really did like that new pair of socks you got him for Christmas… The possibilities are endless.


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## Forgetfulness Potion – well, to forget
Did you divulge a home truth during a tipsy Christmas dinner you’d rather everyone forget? No problem! Just get everyone in the family to take a sip of [Forgetfulness Potion](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/forgetfulness-potion). Fancy getting double the amount of presents? Sneak some of this in mum’s coffee, and she’ll forget that she already gave you your goodies! Did your significant other accidentally find their presents you got them? Douse them with this pronto and they’ll be back in blissful ignorance.  This potion could be the multi-purpose solution for so many Yuletide irks. Just remember to make some good memories as well as erasing some!


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The Lord Voldemort crossword

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The Yule Ball dates wordsearch

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

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and the Goblet of Fire

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Watch: The 12 Days of Wizarding Christmas

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Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

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and the Philosopher's Stone 

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The Great Hall decorated for Christmas. There is a title that reads: 'Watch: 12 Days of Harry Potter'

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Christmas in the wizarding world is a special time of year. So, we thought – why not create a new wizarding carol? You may have heard of ‘God Rest Ye, Merry [Hippogriffs](/fact-file/creatures/hippogriff)’ but we guarantee you haven’t heard *this* version of the 12 Days of Christmas. 

From dancing [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) to dribbling [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) enjoy this festive song – you might even fancy singing along…

12 days of Harry Potter

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If this wizarding rendition of a Christmas classic has left you feeling all festive, have a look at our [Christmas collection](https://www.wizardingworld.com/christmas) packed with wizarding Yuletide fun. 

Number Magic #15

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Harry and Ron next to each other at their desk in a lesson. Both are facing forward and listening.

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How are your maths skills? Find out as you apply mathematics to magic in our latest puzzle.

Play away...

<iframe width="100%" height="1050" allowtransparency="true" style="background: #FFFFFF" src="https://bridgecard.wizardingworld.com/numbermagic/20231117/0015/" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Want even more puzzles? [You can play our crosswords and wordsearches in our puzzles collection. ](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/potter-puzzles)

The Harry's first Christmas at Hogwarts crossword

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The worst presents wordsearch

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Petunia and Vernon Dursley sitting close to Dudley in their living room. Dudley looks queasy after his encounter with the Dementors.

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