Whether you're a devoted Harry Potter fan or not, a journey aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, nicknamed the Hogwarts Express, deserves your attention during your adventure in Scotland. The route taken by this locomotive became iconic when portions of it were featured in the cinematic adaptation of the saga. Most notably, the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct. The landscapes the train traverses mirror those depicted in the films, offering a picturesque railway experience evoking the magical atmosphere of the saga.

A highly sought-after tourist attraction, this railway has also earned numerous accolades, including being named "the most scenic railway line in the world." It will reveal to you the beauty of the Highlands, including Loch Morar (Scotland's deepest freshwater loch), Loch Nevis (Europe's deepest sea loch), the River Morar (the shortest river in Great Britain), and more.

A Glimpse of History

The railway's history dates back to 1895, when the West Highland Railway company decided to extend the West Highland Line from Fort William to Mallaig. Due to the route's considerable distance and the region's undulating landscape, the project required the construction of numerous significant structures, such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which stands at 30 metres and features 21 arches spanning a total length of 380 metres.

Despite these challenges, the section was finally completed in 1901. However, it saw little success due to modest cargo volumes (notably fish), contrary to the company's expectations. The rise of automobiles and buses in the 1920s further compounded the situation.

Steam locomotives gave way to diesel trains in 1967. Yet in 1984, the company revived steam train service to attract leisure travellers. This revival proved remarkably successful, propelling the train toward ever-growing popularity.

Following the privatisation of British Rail in 1995, the line came under the management of West Coast Railways and was renamed The Jacobite. Given its popularity, a second daily steam train was added in 2011.

Where to Board the Hogwarts Express?

To travel aboard the Hogwarts Express, head to Fort William railway station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Once in Mallaig, the locomotive rests for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before returning to Fort William. If you plan a round trip, your excursion will occupy approximately 6 hours of your day.

When to Travel Aboard the Hogwarts Express?

The train operates daily from late March to October. Two daily services run from May to September: one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Fares

A standard return ticket costs £57 for adults and £33 for children. First-class return tickets are £89 and £63 respectively. You can also book a seat at a table; these tickets cost £199. Private cabin travel is also available, accommodating up to 6 passengers, though you should expect to pay £385.

The Hogwarts Express Route?

Fort William

As mentioned above, Fort William is the journey's departure point. It is the largest town in the Highlands, situated at the southern extremity of the Great Glen and at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Great Britain.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

After Fort William, you'll reach the renowned Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland's longest concrete railway bridge. It crosses the River Finnan and spans Loch Shiel, overlooking a Jacobite monument. The latter rises to 18 metres and was constructed in memory of those who devoted themselves to the Jacobite cause.

The locomotive may pause briefly on the bridge to allow passengers to savour magnificent views or capture photographs. This typically happens when weather permits. Depending on conditions, the train may also stop at Glenfinnan itself, where you'll find a museum at the village station.

Arisaig

The next stop is Arisaig, situated on the shores of Loch nan Ceall. You may disembark here if you wish. The village offers excursions to the small islands in the region. Note as well that it hosts the local Highland Games annually on the last Wednesday of July, held at Traigh Farm.

Mallaig

Mallaig is the final stop. A wealth of shops, restaurants, and bars await you. Moreover, as you wander through the village, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary atmosphere that pervades it.

Mallaig's establishment dates to the 1840s, when Lord Lovat undertook to divide coastal farmland to encourage his tenants to settle and establish a fishing port. Today, it thrives as a vibrant locality. Its ferry terminal operates services to Skye and the small islands beyond.