From Edinburgh: Glenfinnan, Glencoe, and Highlands Day Trip
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Have you ever wondered if the Hogwarts Express actually exists? The answer is yes, and it can be found in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands! Its real name is The Jacobite, a historic steam train that has operated on the West Highland Line in Scotland since 1984, delivering a magical experience to all travellers, whether they’re Harry Potter fans or not.
This iconic steam train has become world-famous thanks to the Harry Potter saga, where it appears in numerous memorable scenes. In particular, it’s impossible to forget the sequence where the train crosses the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, a moment made especially famous in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” when Harry and Ron fly over it in the flying Ford Anglia.
The Jacobite is not simply a tourist attraction linked to the world of Harry Potter, but represents one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world. The 84-mile (approximately 140-kilometre) route passes through some of the most stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, from Fort William to the port of Mallaig, offering breathtaking views of lochs, mountains and the Atlantic coast.
So, whether you’re a fan of the saga featuring the bespectacled wizard or not, a train enthusiast or simply keen to visit the Scottish Highlands, this train journey is absolutely worth including in your Scottish itinerary.
The magical journey begins at Fort William station, a picturesque town in the south-western Highlands of Scotland. The station is easily recognisable thanks to the presence of the iconic steam train waiting expectantly for its passengers.
Upon arrival at the station, you can’t help but notice the vibrant atmosphere charged with anticipation, with Harry Potter fans from all over the world preparing for an unforgettable experience.
The vast majority of passengers take the train as a round-trip scenic journey from Fort William to Mallaig and back, but it is possible to take the train as a one-way journey from Fort William to Mallaig or vice versa. In fact, many organised tours from larger cities, such as Edinburgh or Glasgow, take guests on a one-way journey.
However, West Coast Railways does not offer one-way tickets on its website, so you will need to purchase a full-price return ticket even if you only intend to travel one way.
Alternatively, consider joining an organised tour that includes a one-way journey on the train and allows you to continue the tour by coach.
The round-trip journey on The Jacobite takes approximately 6 hours in total, covering a route of around 84 miles (140 kilometres) between Fort William and Mallaig. The time is divided into approximately 2 hours per leg and just under 2 hours at Mallaig.
The journey also includes a brief stop at Glenfinnan station, where passengers can visit the small railway museum.
At Mallaig, the picturesque fishing village at the end of the line, you’ll have enough time to explore the village, enjoy traditional fish and chips and visit Harry Potter-themed shops before your return journey.
The train operates two daily services during its operating season (April to October).
To book a journey on The Jacobite, you have three options, each with its own pros and cons.
In standard class, you’ll be seated around a table for four in a restored vintage carriage.
The downside is that the seats are not particularly comfortable or particularly scenic. Additionally, you cannot enjoy a table tea or coffee service, but as there is a buffet car open and available to all passengers, this shouldn’t be a major issue.
Finally, the tables are in groups of four, so if you’re travelling in a smaller group, you’ll almost certainly be seated next to strangers.
Whilst this can be a great way to meet other people, inevitably someone will sit by the window and someone else along the aisle, and if you want to take photos along the route it could be more difficult.
The vintage first class carriages have tables for four on one side of the aisle and tables for two on the other. This is our preferred option for several reasons.
Firstly, in addition to tables for four, it also offers tables for two, and if you’re a couple this may well be preferable. Secondly, the seats are significantly more comfortable and better looking than the other options.
And it offers an experience that no other class provides, namely the option to purchase as an extra the table tea service, accompanied by Scottish shortbread biscuits, scones and mini sandwiches! You can also purchase other extras, such as champagne, flowers, chocolate or a whisky tasting.
The disadvantage of travelling in first class is that it’s obviously more expensive than a standard ticket, but also than a private compartment if you’re travelling as fewer than four people.
For true Harry Potter enthusiasts, there’s also the option to book an entire compartment, an exclusive experience that includes themed decorations and details that evoke the magical world! The compartments are exactly as you’ve seen them in the films: private cabins for up to six people in a vintage carriage.
However, these compartments are only available on the morning service.
The most striking advantage is that you’ll experience it exactly as the wizards heading to Hogwarts would! Furthermore, regardless of whether you’re travelling alone or in a group, you’re guaranteed to have the entire compartment completely to yourself.
The biggest drawback of the compartment carriage is obviously the price, particularly if you’re travelling as fewer than four people.
Also bear in mind that on the Fort William–Mallaig leg, seats on the left side of the train offer a much better view of the lochs, the Atlantic coast and the Glenfinnan Viaduct compared to the right side of the train.
Whilst passengers in standard or first class carriages are switched sides between the outbound and return journeys, with private compartment tickets this is not possible, as there is only one compartment carriage and they are all on the same side.
The best place to sit on the Jacobite Express is the left side when heading to Mallaig, and the right side when returning to Fort William. From this side, you’ll have spectacular views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, sheep farms in the Scottish Highlands and the Atlantic coast.
In any case, if you’re doing a round trip, note that both standard and first class passengers are switched sides, so you’ll be sure that at least one of the two legs will be from the right side.
Advance booking is absolutely essential, especially for the summer season when tickets sell out months in advance. Tickets, especially for compartments and first class, literally fly off the shelves, so we recommend booking 6 months ahead to be sure.
Bookings can be made directly on The Jacobite’s official website, where you’ll find an intuitive booking system that allows you to choose your date, class and desired seats. Approximately one week before departure, West Coast Railways will send you an e-ticket via email, which you’ll need to show to the staff member on the train.
It’s advisable to arrive at Fort William station at least 30-45 minutes before departure. Upon arrival, you’ll find staff in hi-vis jackets who will guide you to the check-in point. Here, by showing your booking confirmation, you’ll receive a paper ticket with your assigned carriage and seat number, handwritten in perfect retro style.
If you didn’t manage to get tickets in time and you’re already in the area, still try presenting yourself at the railway station about 45 minutes before the train’s departure to check if they still have tickets available due to cancellations. Alternatively, join an organised tour that already includes the train journey.
The journey passes through many spectacular locations: Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the entire United Kingdom, the Morar loch and river and Loch Nevis, the deepest salt water loch in all of Europe.
You’ll also pass several Harry Potter film locations, such as Loch Shiel, used as the Black Lake, the tiny island of Eilean Na Moine at Loch Eilt, where Dumbledore was buried, and of course the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, which appeared in both Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
The Jacobite also stops at Glenfinnan railway station for approximately 15 minutes, where there is a small museum about the viaduct, the town of Glenfinnan and the railway line, as well as a Quidditch broomstick for taking photos.
The problem is that, as you might imagine, the museum gets absolutely overrun in the few minutes available, so the experience might not be the best. If you’re driving, however, you can certainly spend much more time here.
The small town of Mallaig has a beautiful harbour and a handful of restaurants where you can eat and souvenir shops with plenty of Harry Potter merchandise (Haggard Alley is a must-visit!).
Alternatively, you could take part in a wildlife tour with Western Isles Cruises, which is scheduled specifically to depart when the train passengers arrive and get you back in time for departure. The waters around Mallaig are excellent for spotting dolphins, seals and even whales.
The iconic viaduct on which the train passes is the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, which lies along the scenic Road to the Isles (A830), the panoramic road that connects Fort William to Mallaig. For enthusiasts who want to capture the train’s passage, there are three main viewing points, each with its own unique characteristics.
The Glenfinnan Station Museum offers easy and convenient access from the station car park and is perfect for those who prefer a short walk. The Glenfinnan Monument provides a spectacular view, although the nearby car park is often very busy, especially during peak season. For the more adventurous, the Hill Path is the best choice, offering the most spectacular view of the viaduct and surrounding landscape.
To make the most of this experience, we recommend parking at the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre, where parking costs around 5 pounds. From here, you can follow the “Viaduct Viewpoint” trail, a scenic walk of around 20-30 minutes that will take you to the best viewing point. Given the popularity of this photo spot, it’s essential to arrive at least an hour before the train passes to ensure you get a good position. The path can be challenging in places, so it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the changeable Scottish weather.
The train arriving from Fort William passes over the viaduct between 10:45 and 11:00 and between 13:20 and 13:40, whilst the one from Mallaig passes between 14:35 and 14:50 and finally between 18:25 and 18:40.
The best spot for photography is on the hill west of the viaduct.
Here are some helpful tips if you’re not planning to board the train for the full journey but simply want to capture the spectacular sight of The Jacobite steam train crossing the viaduct.
Exploring the Scottish Highlands with a rental car offers unparalleled flexibility and the chance to create a bespoke itinerary. However, some planning is required, particularly if you want to see the train pass over Glenfinnan Viaduct. Parking at Glenfinnan can become quite challenging on busy days. We recommend arriving in the area at least an hour and a half before the train’s scheduled passage, not only to secure a parking space but also to reach the best vantage point at a leisurely pace.
Scottish weather is notoriously unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket. Comfortable, sturdy walking boots are essential, as the scenic paths can become slippery after rain. Pack some snacks and water too, as you may have to wait a while for the train to pass.
For those preferring a more relaxed experience without worrying about timings and logistics, organised coach tours are an excellent alternative. These tours, departing from Edinburgh as well as cities like Inverness and Glasgow, offer the advantage of being fully planned and managed by local experts. Your guides will not only lead you to the best photo spots but also enrich your visit with stories about local history and fascinating details connected to the Harry Potter saga.
Organised tours often include other Highlands attractions in their itineraries, allowing you to make the most of your time. You won’t need to worry about driving on Scottish roads or finding a car park, and can focus entirely on enjoying the experience. Many tours include additional photo stops at scenic locations along the route and may incorporate visits to places such as Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness.
Departing from Edinburgh or Glasgow, covering the distance to Fort William and completing a train journey all in one day isn’t feasible. If you’re keen to experience this and don’t have a rental car, your only option is to join a multi-day organised tour. Here are some of the most popular options.
If you’re wondering whether the Jacobite Express is truly the Hogwarts Express used in the Harry Potter films, the answer is… yes and no.
In the 2000s, West Coast Railways, the company operating the train, provided Warner Brothers Studio with a 1937 Jacobite steam locomotive, some carriages from the 1920s and access to their railway line for filming the Harry Potter movies.
Following completion of filming, Warner Brothers kept the steam engine, which can now be visited during the Warner Brothers Studio tour in London.
So whilst the steam locomotive pulling the Jacobite Express today isn’t precisely the same carriage that transported Harry, Hermione and Ron to Hogwarts, you will nonetheless travel on a train that is exactly the same style and model as the one used in the films. Moreover, Warner Brothers actually returned most of the carriages used in the films to West Coast Railways, and these are still in operation today on the Jacobite Express!
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