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

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

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

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

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

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

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

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

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

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

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

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## The importance of keeping things in perspective

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

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

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

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

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

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Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

## Be proud of who you are

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

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

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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

## There is always hope

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

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

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Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

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

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

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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

## An excellent reminder

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

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

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Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

## Do what is right, not what is easy

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

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

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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

## Protect what is important

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

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

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Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

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

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

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Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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

## Boundaries are good

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

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

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Features - Wizarding World

Every tea leaves symbol from Harry’s Divination classes – and if they came into effect  

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*WARNING: Seeing as this is an article about looking into the beyond, you may just encounter some spoilers along the way.* 

Hermione called the subject “woolly” while the likes of Lavender and Parvati swore by it. Harry and Ron had more of a lackadaisical approach to the lesson. Whichever way you slice it; [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) wasn’t everyone’s... cup of tea. 

But during their tea leaves-reading sessions in *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*, equipped with a copy of *Unfogging the Future*, Harry and Ron discovered some interesting suggestions of their future in the form of ‘some soggy brown stuff’, to use Harry’s words. 

While Ron and Harry analysed their tea leaves one way, [Professor Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) conveniently re-interpreted some of their findings with the most depressing outcomes possible – so you can certainly take this practice with a pinch of salt. (But don’t be adding it to your tea.)   

Whether you endorse Professor Trelawney’s Divination methods or not, here’s a quick reminder of what the pair discovered during their foray – just in case you fancy having a quick look next time you’re enjoying a cuppa yourself. 


Swill these around the cup three times with the left hand, then turn the cup upside-down on its saucer; wait for the last of the tea to drain away, then give your cup to your partner to read.

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## The cross: trials and suffering  
The first symbol that Harry identified with his Divination partner Ron was a ‘wonky cross’, which apparently means ‘trials and suffering’. Alas, being friends with [Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) means that ‘trials and suffering’ are part and parcel of the relationship. Ron would indeed be put through his paces in many adventures to come – and we’re not just talking about his mum’s corned beef sandwiches. 

## The sun: great happiness  
Thankfully, Harry also spotted a sun symbol for [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) shortly afterwards. The sun means ‘great happiness’ according to their textbook. A bit vague, sure, but maybe *Unfogging the Future* author Cassandra Vablatsky threw in a cheery one to offset many of the more pessimistic symbols. 

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and the Prisoner of Azkaban

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## The acorn: a windfall, unexpected gold  

It makes sense that an acorn, the nut of oak trees, would represent such a fruitful fortune – with *Unfogging the Future* decreeing an acorn meant a windfall. 

Of course, Harry’s [Gringotts](/fact-file/locations/gringotts) vault wasn’t exactly modest, but he would indeed acquire even more gold in only the next book, due to technically winning the [Triwizard Tournament](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament).  

Happily for all of us, Harry gave the Galleons to Ron’s brothers, Fred & George, to kickstart their positively nutty joke shop business.  

## The falcon: a deadly enemy  

Sometimes Divination truly did penetrate the depths of the deep beyond... on other occasions, it didn’t half state the obvious.  

Upon finding a falcon in Harry’s teacup, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) called Trelawney out on such rudimentary fortune-telling. Of course, as the setting for this scene was *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*, it could also have referred to the looming [Peter Pettigrew](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/peter-pettigrew).

‘The falcon ... my dear, you have a deadly enemy.’ 

‘But everyone knows that,’ said Hermione in a loud whisper. 

Professor Trelawney stared at her. 

‘Well, they do,’ said Hermione. ‘Everybody knows about Harry 

and You-Know-Who.’  

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## The club: an attack  
Perhaps another basic assessment from Professor Trelawney was identifying a club symbol in Harry’s teacup, signifying an attack was on the horizon. But she wasn’t wrong. In the crescendo of *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*, Harry, Ron and Hermione would indeed find themselves in a shocking showdown between Peter Pettigrew, [Sirius Black](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sirius-black), [Severus Snape](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/severus-snape), a werewolf-changing [Remus Lupin](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/remus-lupin), and later, an onslaught of Dementors. Just another day in the office for a young Harry Potter. 

Also worth mentioning that Ron initially thought this symbol was a ‘bowler hat’, which he joked may mean that Harry would become Minister of Magic in a cheeky reference to [Cornelius Fudge’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cornelius-fudge) preferred choice of headwear. But he wasn’t far off. Harry didn’t get the top job...  but in *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*, we did find him working at the Ministry, while their best friend Hermione *did* get the gig.

## The skull: danger in your path   
We imagine at this point, you’re starting to get the picture. But of course, we would soon learn in the following book, *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*, that the skull symbol would be a significant omen in Harry’s story – Lord Voldemort’s [Dark Mark](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-dark-mark).

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The Grim made of tea leaves in divination 

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## The Grim: you all know this one 

And finally, the big black dog was the thing that really sent Professor Trelawney into a tailspin. ‘The omen of death’, as she relished explaining to the class, was yet another of Harry’s ill-fated tea leaves. But thankfully, in the case of Harry, a big black dog also just so happened to be the Animagus form of his lovely dogfather – sorry godfather, Sirius Black. So at least it wasn’t all bad.  

*** 

Much to consider when you next pop the kettle on.

The Dursley crossword

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Gilderoy Lockhart’s life lessons

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Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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and the Chamber of Secrets

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While it would be great to have the power of [Legilimency](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/legilimency) and see the inside of [Gilderoy Lockhart’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/gilderoy-lockhart) mind, unfortunately we don’t. Instead, we’ve had a think about what life lessons would be important to him and we guess it would go something like this…

## It’s what’s on the outside that counts
Has somebody told you that you are enough? You are perfect the way you are? Personality is worth more than looks? Forget all that! Nobody cares about the content of your character, they’re too busy judging the contents of your wardrobe. It’s all about first impressions people! Your hair needs to be perfectly coiffed – like Lockhart’s luscious locks. Your robes need to come in array of dazzling colours from forget-me-not blue to turquoise. And don’t forget the accessories! Remember how fabulous Lockhart looked with his turquoise hat with gold trim? Nobody is going care if you are the most boring person on the planet if you can dazzle them with your appearance. There’s a reason Lockhart won *Witch Weekly’s* Most-Charming-Smile Award five time in a row.


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## Fake it until you make it
People might say there’s nothing you can’t do if you put your mind to it and they would be *half* right. Really, there is nothing you can’t get people to *believe* you can do if you put your mind to it. It is all about confidence. If you act like you know what you’re doing, then who needs to know differently? Need a rocket scientist or a brain surgeon? Just make up some scientific sounding words and bluff your way through.  You never know, you might pick up some of those skills along the way. It’s what Lockhart did. Despite his lack of experience in battling Dark forces or his dearth of teaching skills he *still* ended up as a [Defence Against the Dark Arts](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/defence-against-the-dark-arts) teacher at the prestigious [Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts). He fixed a smile to his face, pretended he knew exactly what he was doing and didn’t let a few simple mishaps – like escaped [Cornish Pixies](/fact-file/creatures/cornish-pixie) or disappearing arm bones bring him down. 

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## It’s not about what you know… it’s about who knows you
It is all well and good being smart (even Lockhart was a [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) of above average intelligence) but in the grand scheme of things? It doesn’t really matter at all. It isn’t about being the cleverest or the brainiest it is about being the *most famous*. And while that does take some strategy and planning, nobody will be starstruck by your ability to memorise boring facts, but they will faint at your feet if they see your face on the cover of books, magazines, billboards and TV. Get out there, get recognise and eventually, like Lockhart, you’ll have to carry around a little stack of signed photos just for your swathes of fans. Imagine how *powerful* that would make you feel.

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## Work smarter and not harder
Gilderoy Lockhart might have been known for his globetrotting adventures where he battled banshee and vanquished vampires – he did write *multiple* bestsellers after all. Yet things were not quite as they seemed. Lockhart wasn’t some multi-talented wizarding whiz and who would want to be? That just sounds draining. Life is all about working smarter and not harder. Pick one skill, become excellent at it and it will see you through your life. Jack of all trades are so passé. Lockhart happened to be particularly nifty at [Memory Charms](/fact-file/spells/the-memory-charm). All he had to do, was meet those adventurous wizards, get them to tell him their story, wipe their memories and then write a book saying *he* was the one who had gone on an epic quest. It’s genius really. Lockhart could get the reputation he craved, and he never had to put himself in any danger or uncomfortable situation. What a guy. 


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## You are more important that anyone else
The world doesn’t revolve around the sun, it revolves around *you*. You are the main character in your story, and you should act like it. From the moment Lockhart was born into a family where he was the only sibling with magical ability, he knew he was special. His witch mother liked to always remind him of that fact – he was her favourite. Everyone’s attention should always be on you and if they’re not, you should do something dramatic to make sure they are. While at Hogwarts, Lockhart created a huge, illuminated projection of his own face, which he would send skywards – that’s the energy we are talking about.

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Harry replies to Lockhart's fanmail during detention.

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## If all else fails, there’s always hair products
Well, Lockhart said it was his goal to rid the world of evil and develop a line of hair-care potions. You’ve got to admire that hustle. 

The Seer wordsearch

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The importance of snakes in the wizarding world

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Harry Potter looking at the door to the Chamber of Secrets which is covered in carved snakes

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## They were the symbol of Slytherin house
First, let’s start with the obvious connection, one of the four Hogwarts houses were represented by a serpent – [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin). Founded by [Salazar Slytherin](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/salazar-slytherin), this house prided itself on its ambition and cunning. Interestingly, if we circle back to the Lunar New Year and the Chinese zodiac, those who are born in the Year of the Snake are supposedly shrewd, wily and curious – which fits quite nicely with the Slytherin identity. 


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## Plus, Ilvermorny had strong ties to serpents too
Yes! Snakes weren’t only a staple of Hogwarts, they also played an important role in the wizarding school across the pond, [Ilvermorny](/fact-file/locations/ilvermorny). Hidden in Massachusetts in the USA, this school had more the one tie to our slithering friends. Firstly, one of their houses is named after the wizarding creature, the Horned Serpent, and is supposed to represent the mind. It was chosen because it was founder Isolt Sayre’s favourite magical creature. Apparently, Isolt could communicate with the Horned Serpent, and it offered her shavings from its horn which became the core of the first ever American-made wand.

Did we mention that Isolt was a descendant of Salazar Slytherin? That goes a long way to explain why she had such an affinity for serpents and her curious ability to communicate with them.

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## Some witches and wizards talk to snakes
Speaking of communicating with snakes, there is a whole language that enables certain witches and wizards to talk to them, [Parseltongue](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/parseltongue). If you can’t speak it, the sound of it is quite unpleasant, as it just sounds like a series of snake-like hisses. 

It is rare to find a Parselmouth (someone with this ability) and most are direct descendants of Salazar himself. Harry Potter was one glaring exception rule – his ability was tied to his connection to Voldemort. This was also not a language embraced by the wizarding community because many believed it to have strong associations to the [Dark Arts](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dark-arts). They regarded those who could speak it with great serious suspicion. 


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## They had ties to Dark magic
Out of all the animals that have become totems or symbols in the wizarding world, the snake is arguably the one most often associated with Dark magic. Most notably, it was often tied to Voldemort. The [Dark Mark](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/the-dark-mark) (his symbol) prominently featured a snake emerging from the mouth of a skull. Plus, there was his pet snake, [Nagini](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/nagini), who devoured more than her fair share of Voldemort’s victims.  Beyond that, there was the [Basilisk](/fact-file/creatures/basilisk) in the [Chamber of Secrets](/fact-file/locations/the-chamber-of-secrets), Salazar Slytherin whose house was known for turning out Dark witches and wizards and not forgetting the suspicion around those who could talk to them. If any animal was in need of some good PR in the wizarding world, it was snakes. 

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## One snake was a Horcrux
There was one serpent that never left Voldemort’s side, Nagini. Having once been human, she was a [Maledictus](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/maledictus) – condemned by a blood curse to eventually turn into an animal forever. In her case, that was a giant snake. Once a witch who lived in America in the 1920s, she eventually became Voldemort’s snake and quite possibly his closest companion. In fact, Voldemort even showed affection towards her (unprecedented really) and regarded her so highly that he concealed part of his soul in her making her a [Horcrux](/fact-file/objects/horcrux). From that moment on, she rarely left his side. 

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Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

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## Hogwarts was terrorised by a giant snake
Otherwise known as the Basilisk or the ‘King of Serpents’, this giant snake had the ability to kill you with just one look. Curiously, to hatch a Basilisk, a chicken egg had to be hatched beneath a toad. Hatching such creatures was forbidden, but Salazar Slytherin had one tucked away in the Chamber of Secrets deep in the bowels of Hogwarts. This particular serpent could only be controlled by the heir of Slytherin and used the castle plumbing to cause all sorts of terror throughout the school. It was simply *Petrifying*.


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## One of our first glimpses of Harry’s magic involved a snake
Harry might not have been a Dark wizard or a Slytherin, but serpents seemed to slither into his life quite frequently. The very first time we saw him do magic, it involved a zoo, [Dudley’s ](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/dudley-dursley)disastrous birthday trip, some vanishing glass and a grateful Boa Constrictor from Brazil. Harry may not have meant to free the snake from its enclosure, but it was rather grateful. With a quick ‘Thanksss, amigo’ it slithered off into the sunset with the dream of heading home to Brazil. We like to imagine it made it and is now living a chilled life where it can spend its days basking in the sunshine totally free.  


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The wizarding wardrobe crossword

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Watch: Ten minutes of sublime Severus Snape moments

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Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

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and the Goblet of Fire

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Severus Snape was a rather slippery sort but like the trifle Harry had four helpings of, he had layers. Not entirely a hero but not entirely a villain, his wonderful complexity was brought to life by Alan Rickman – his delivery of ‘Turn to page 394’ will forever be iconic. Actually, Snape had *so* many moments that could be called iconic. See for yourself with ten full minutes of Snape being sensational. 

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Which moment was your favourite? No matter if it was his… unusual methods when it came to getting Harry and Ron to focus on their homework, his perfect deadpan delivery when Umbridge asked him a few questions or the moment that he revealed who his heart belonged to, Snape's moments were memorable… *always*. 


The Advanced Potion Making wordsearch

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The Snakes crossword

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