* Manchester: While on a delayed train journey from Manchester to London in 1990, Rowling first got the idea of Harry Potter. This is often cited as the starting point for the series.
* Portugal: Rowling moved to Portugal in 1991, where she continued developing the story and began writing the first book.
* Edinburgh: Rowling returned to Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1993 and continued working on the series. She would often write in cafes like The Elephant House, which is now known as a Harry Potter landmark.
* Various locations: Rowling continued to write in various locations while traveling and raising her family.
It's important to note that the Harry Potter series was a long and gradual process. It evolved over years and through countless drafts and revisions. While Manchester is often considered the birthplace of the idea, Rowling's creative process was influenced by many different places and experiences.