Ride The Harry Potter Train In Scotland | Jacobite Steam Train

The world-famous train is a bucket list adventure for all the family. Especially if you’re all fans of the beloved films.

It’s literally the real-life Hogwarts Express with its black and red carriages, steam chugging and a sense of childhood nostalgia.

Did you know it’s been running since 1984?! The full line pans out 164 miles. From Glasgow to Mallaig, chugging past Loch Lomond and Rannoch Moor, all the way to Fort William Station. It’s now run by West Coast Railways.

Whether you know it as the Jacobite Train or the Harry Potter Steam Train – it’s a magical way to explore the Scottish Highlands.

Well, that’s because it starred in the beloved Harry Potter film series. The train journey started from Platform 9¾ quarters in Kings Cross, over the iconic Harry Potter bridge, Glenfinnan Viaduct, right to Hogsmeade Station.

If you’re an avid fan, you’ll know the best film to see the iconic train is Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. With Harry and Ron carelessly trying to drive Arther Weasley’s Ford Anglia. With a stunning pan of the beautiful bridge and the elegant train chugging along – it’s a film scene we all remember.

The ‘Harry Potter Train’ departs from Fort William at 10:15 and arrives in Mallaig at 12:15.

The rail journey can last up to 2 hours and 10 minutes, stopping off at Glenfinnan along the way and Arisaig (on request).

Why not take the morning service and discover the stunning scenery as you travel along the famous train bridge, past the deepest freshwater loch, Loch Morar and beautiful villages? River Morar is also next to Loch Nevis, the deepest seawater loch in Europe!

If that’s not impressive for nature lovers – I don’t know what is!

Top tip: If you’re looking for the best views, it’s recommended to sit on the left-hand side on your way to Mallaig and the right-hand side on the way back!

It’s said that the highlight of the entire journey is witnessing the beauty of Glenfinnan Monument and Loch Shiel. Which you’ll discover as the train chugs along the Glenfinnan viaduct.

Fort William is known to be the largest town in the Scottish Highlands and it’s right by Ben Nevis! The destination is Mallaig, a bustling village that has its own port and ferry. You’ll find all sorts here, from bars and restaurants to shops, quaint cafes and a lovely village to stroll around.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is super tall – 30m to be exact! If the situation permits, the Jacobite may even stop along the viaduct so you have the opportunity to snap some pictures of the incredible views.

This is a scenic train journey in all aspects!

This train unfortunately doesn’t run all year round. But from Spring to Autumn there are 2 daily services.

The morning train service runs between 3rd April – 27th October and the afternoon service runs from 1st May to 29th September.

Make sure you don’t miss out!