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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

Challenge yourself with our Albus Dumbledore crossword 

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

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and the Goblet of Fire

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And yes, as you've probably guessed, today's puzzle is all themed around our favourite Hogwarts headmaster, Albus Dumbledore.

<iframe width="550" height="700" allowtransparency="true" style="background: #FFFFFF" src="
https://bridgecard.wizardingworld.com/crossword/20210701/00064/" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

*If you're enjoying our puzzles, look out for more in our [Potter Puzzles hub](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/potter-puzzles).*

See how much you know about the Hogwarts houses with the House Cup Challenge

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Mary Grandpre Hogwarts map

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Good luck! 

Download the House Cup Challenge[ here. ](https://assets.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/oGehuyi5lLrqLIBisiX1K/553253e1e303f8619700b42d68da44f6/Scholastic_HPHouseCupChallenge.pdf)

![scholastic-house-cup-challenge](//images.contentful.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/qfANidhyPAXjiOij6h8iM/34f6d20beb34edfdf02e071036e67c93/Scholastic_HPHouseCupChallenge.jpg)

No cheating, but here are the answers once you're done.

***

1. GRYFFINDOR 
2. RAVENCLAW 
3. HUFFLEPUFF 
4. SLYTHERIN 
5. HUFFLEPUFF 
6. GRYFFINDOR 
7. SLYTHERIN 
8. RAVENCLAW 
9. RAVENCLAW 
10. GRYFFINDOR 

Why did Voldemort need the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone so much?

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The idea of [a Philosopher’s Stone](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/the-philosophers-stone) has been around for a very long time. In fact, it was once believed to exist and was thought to have been created by the real Nicolas Flamel. The Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone of the Harry Potter story is similar to the one of legend. Both can change metal into gold, both produce the Elixir of Life (which makes you immortal) and both were said to be created by Flamel.

It was the Elixir of Life that drove Voldemort’s desire for the Stone. At that moment in time, he was in a state between life and death. He had no physical form and only had one when sharing the body of another – like he did with Professor Quirrell. Voldemort had been existing as ‘Mere shadow and vapour’ (as he put it) since the night he murdered Lily and James Potter and had attempted to kill Harry.

When Lily Potter sacrificed her life to save her son, the love she demonstrated protected Harry. So, when Voldemort turned his wand on him, instead of Harry dying, it broke Voldemort apart (and this was when Harry ended up getting his famous lightning bolt scar). It was also this love and protection that meant Quirrell was unable to touch Harry. It would be agony for someone like Quirrell, who was full of hatred and was sharing a soul with Voldemort, to touch someone who had been marked by something so good.

Voldemort’s desire to beat death and become immortal was also why he and Quirrell ended up slaying innocent unicorns. Drinking the blood of a unicorn would keep someone alive – even if they were an inch from death. However, it is considered an act of evil to kill something so pure. As a result, from the moment the blood touched someone’s lips, they would be condemned to live a cursed life.

Yet, the unicorn blood did restore some of Voldemort’s strength. If he had also been able to get his hands on the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone, this combination would have been enough for him to create a body of his own and he would no longer need to share. While Voldemort was thwarted by three eleven-year-olds, he did not die at the end of the book because something that isn’t fully alive cannot be killed.

Overall, Voldemort was desperate to get his hands on the Stone to restore his body, his power and to try to find a way to beat death. While he was unsuccessful this time, you can be sure that this wasn’t the last time he hunted for a way to extend his life...

Explore more themes around the ending of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone* [here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/week-five-facing-fears-with-friends)

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

Introducing week five: Facing fears with friends

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This week, we're looking at chapters 14-17 of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone*, where Harry's first Hogwarts adventure is nearly at an end. But first, he must roam the Forbidden Forest, and go beyond a mysterious trapdoor with Ron and Hermione... Get ready for the mysteries of the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone to finally be revealed. 

So! Expect things to be a bit spookier in our final week. Learn how to play our chapter challenges if you haven't seen them before (one for every chapter, naturally) and even [build your own Hogwarts house points jar](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/make-your-own-house-points-jar?fssff) so you can collect house points as you go along. Our next three challenges are ready for you here.

[Chapter Fourteen: Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-fourteen-norbert-the-norwegian-ridgeback) 
[Chapter Fifteen: The Forbidden Forest](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-fifteen-the-forbidden-forest) 
[Chapter Sixteen: Through the Trapdoor](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-sixteen-through-the-trapdoor) 
[Chapter Seventeen: The Man With Two Faces](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-seventeen-the-man-two-faces) 

In this week's audiobook extract (as read by Stephen Fry) the trio face a series of unusual obstacles in the underbelly of Hogwarts. In this particular moment, it's Ron's time to shine, thanks to his excellent chess knowledge. 

Listen to our [fifth and final audio clip here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/philosophers-stone-extract-week-five)

As ever, explore our collection page for week five to find new activities, puzzles, reading guides and print-outs from Harry Potter publishers Bloomsbury and Scholastic. 

As it's the final week, our craft videos are decidedly more epic. You can [build a whole Hogwarts castle](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/create-your-very-own-hogwarts-castle) with bits and bobs around your house! Or, you can [design a gift bag based](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/watch-our-guide-on-how-to-make-wizarding-world-gift-bags) on your favourite character.

As for quizzes, this week we'll [test you on the Forbidden Forest](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/first-year-forbidden-forest-quiz) and [ask you how much you remember about the whole book](https://www.wizardingworld.com/quiz/first-year-philosophers-stone-quiz) - now that you've finished it! 

__And that's it! Thank you so much for joining us over these past five weeks for Harry Potter Reading Magic. We hope there are loads of you out there who enjoyed reading Harry's first adventure for the first time. And if you missed it? Oh, not to worry. Step back with us and start from the beginning!__ 

[Week One](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/week-one-the-magic-begins) 
[Week Two](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/week-two-discovering-the-wizarding-world) 
[Week Three](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/week-three-welcome-to-hogwarts) 
[Week Four](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/week-four-friendship-fun-family)

Play the Things that Must Not Be Named word game

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Have a go at Scholastic's challenging word game - and remember to stay away from any forbidden words...

[Download your game sheet here](https://hpread.scholastic.com/activities/October/HPRC_Activity_3_Oct.pdf).

![thingsmustnotbenamedgame](//images.contentful.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7F7flOr6fmTNgnvf2npIpz/7215caed683852c76ad53eb4c6dbbc3c/HPRM-game-sheet.jpg)

__For more [Harry Potter Reading Magic](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/starting-harry-potter), join us back at the hub.__

__Illustration by MinaLima © 2020 Scholastic Inc., from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (MinaLima Edition)__

20 magical facts about Harry Potter and the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone 

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How many spells are namechecked in the first Harry Potter book? What is J.K. Rowling's favourite chapter? What does Voldemort's name mean?

Find out all that - and more - in this enchanting infographic from Bloomsbury, as created especially once the first book turned 20 years old back in 2017.

[Take a look.](https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/discover/harry-potter/harry-potter-fun-stuff/20-fun-facts-about-harry-potter/)

Illustration by Jim Kay © Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Colour in the Hogwarts house crests

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We encourage you to colour in these Hogwarts house crests anyway you like - express yourself! But if you want to learn more about the Hogwarts houses, and the colours that represent them, [try our little guide here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/hogwarts-house-meanings)

For now, grab your pencils, crayons, pens, paints, or whatever you're using - and become an artist! 

[Download your template here.](https://assets.ctfassets.net/usf1vwtuqyxm/6U9f66H9nmqcJtJgJaSTSm/7b7456337e34ddfead2aabeab61ec8fe/scholastic-colour-house-crests.pdf)

![HPRM-scholastic-colour-in-hogwarts-crests-1](//images.contentful.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/74AdSe22gsxBAlDpaH7DyB/ceff398d7c89263987bff2b19b153237/house-crests-gryff.jpg)

![hogwarts-crests-2](//images.contentful.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6gyGwTMedsR70MJMFRzTSY/64f84f2fd31bc4eebf18e683045bb267/house-crests-2-serpent.jpg)

__For more crafting, quizzes, puzzles and beyond... join us for some [Harry Potter Reading Magic](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/starting-harry-potter), where we celebrate every detail of the first Harry Potter book.__

__Illustration by Mary GrandPré © Scholastic__

Introducing week four: Friendship, fun and family

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At Hogwarts, Harry discovers a new family in the friends he makes - and in __chapters 10-13__, which we're looking at this week, he discovers different meanings of the word 'family' - such as becoming best friends with Hermione - and getting a glimpse of the family he never knew.

So! Learn how to play our chapter challenges if you haven't seen them before (one for every chapter, naturally) and even [build your own Hogwarts house points jar](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/make-your-own-house-points-jar?fssff) so you can collect house points as you go along. Our next three challenges are ready for you here.

[Chapter Ten: Hallowe'en](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-ten-halloween) 
[Chapter Eleven: Quidditch](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-eleven-quidditch) 
[Chapter Twelve: The Mirror of Erised](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-twelve-the-mirror-of-erised) 
[Chapter Thirteen: Nicolas Flamel](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-philosophers-stone-chapter-challenge-thirteen-nicolas-flamel) 

In this week's audiobook extract (as read by Stephen Fry) listen to the emotional moment Harry discovers his family inside the Mirror of Erised.

Listen to our [fourth audio clip here.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/philosophers-stone-extract-week-four)

As ever, explore our collection page for week three to find new activities, puzzles, reading guides and print-outs from Harry Potter publishers Bloomsbury and Scholastic. 

Learn how to [make broomstick bookmarks](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/craft-broomstick-bookmarks), [invent your own Quidditch-inspired sports](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/invent-your-own-sport), and pretend it's [Hallowe'en already with some spooky craft ideas.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/harry-potter-inspired-halloween-at-home)

We'll also be telling you about ghosts in the wizarding world, challenging you with a first year Quiddich quiz *and* inviting you to colour-in your own Hogwarts crests. Lots to do!

__Join us for our final week of Harry Potter Reading Magic soon - when we'll explore Chapters 14-17. And if you missed our third week - don't worry, there's [always time to step back.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/week-three-welcome-to-hogwarts)__

How do ghosts exist in the wizarding world?

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__Illustration by Jim Kay © Bloomsbury__

[Ghosts](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/ghosts) are the imprints of witches and wizards who have died and left a part of themselves behind. Only those who are magical can return as ghosts (meaning Muggles can’t become one). However, even though all witches and wizards have the ability to come back as a ghost, those who are smart, don’t. 

It is said that those who do return have unfinished business of some sort. There are lots of reasons for this such as regret, fear or guilt. Some ghosts are those with a very strong attachment to the material world who refuse to move on. 

[Ghosts](https://www.wizardingworld.com/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ghost) are transparent, three-dimensional and can pass through solid objects (including people) without causing any damage. Though they do cause disturbances in fire, water and air. If you are in the presence of a ghost the temperature will drop, and if there is more than one ghost around, the temperature drops even further. If you are unlucky enough to have one pass through you, it would feel like someone had emptied a bucket of freezing water over you! They also have the ability to turn flames blue. 

While it may seem tempting to remain on earth forever, ghosts are just shadows of their former living selves. They can’t experience much of the world. They can no longer touch anything, eat anything and they won’t be able to learn anything new. A ghost’s level of knowledge and talent remains the same as when they died. Not being able to move on means that ghosts are often not the best company. They will not let go of any grudges or resentments – just ask [Nearly Headless Nick](https://www.wizardingworld.com/fact-file/characters-and-pets/nearly-headless-nick) about the fact he’s only nearly headless!  

As well as not being able to come back as a ghost, Muggles can’t seem to see them. Witches and wizards are much more sensitive to paranormal activity which is why they can see and interact with ghosts. However, that is not to say Muggles are completely oblivious, they might feel that a haunted place is cold or feel creeped out by being there.   

Overall, being a ghost sounds like a pretty rubbish deal to us. To be a ghost is to be stuck forever as a shell of yourself – which we can do without. 

And how does being a ghost differ to being a portrait, you ask? [Let's unpack that next.](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/how-do-magical-portraits-actually-work)

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