If you're as big a fan of Harry Potter as I am, then the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a key stop on a road trip through the Highlands.
In this article, I'll explain where, when, and how to see the Hogwarts Express - known in the Muggle world as The Jacobite Steam Train.
An iconic filming location
Yes, you probably know this, but Scotland is a real movie star!
Romantic castles, spectacular landscapes, weather on point - perfect for international productions. Coming from the film industry, I could talk about this for hours, but let's get back to our trains!
This viaduct became popular after the Harry Potter films, when the Hogwarts Express passes over it. You can witness, in real life, the film scene since the Jacobite Steam Train stops in the middle of the viaduct.
The famous "Choo choo" steam that delights both young and old. Whether you're a Harry Potter fan or a train enthusiast of any era, it's a show not to be missed!
How to get there?
Well... Forget about theFord Anglia 105E of Arthur Weasley!
I'll give you our itinerary, starting from the Glencoe valley:
- We followed the A82, which runs through the entire Glencoe valley towards Fort William.
- Once you arrive in Fort William, continue on the A830, known as the Road to the Isles.
- The A830 runs along Loch Eil and then the coast, leading directly to Glenfinnan.
The parking lots fill up very quickly:
- Unsurprisingly, the official parking lots were full in the early hours.
- I admit, we got lucky: the Stage House B&B offered parking for £10.
The schedule for the Jacobite Steam Train
The Jacobite Steam Train usually runs from mid-April to the end of October, typically with two round trips per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.
It's best to check the schedule before heading there, via this link:
https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite/timetables
- Service: departure from Fort William at 10:15 AM, passing the viaduct in the right direction around 10:45 AM (30 minutes after departure), arrival in Mallaig at 12:26 PM, departure from Mallaig at 2:10 PM, passing the viaduct around 3:15 PM, arrival in Fort William at 4:03 PM.
- Afternoon: departure from Fort William at 12:50 PM, passing the viaduct in the right direction around 1:20 PM, arrival in Mallaig at 3:06 PM, departure from Mallaig at 5:00 PM, passing the viaduct around 6:05 PM, arrival in Fort William at 6:52 PM.
If, like me, you want to see the train arrive in the "right direction" - that is, the locomotive facing you - you need to come when it arrives from Fort William.
Reaching the viewpoint
We were in a rush so... I admit I didn't enjoy the walk.
We arrived 30 minutes before the train's departure from Fort William - which is enough time to reach the viewpoint.
But seeing other visitors running up the hill to reach the spot put a lot of pressure on me. After that, a tip: take your time (especially if you have some to spare).
The path starts from Glenfinnan Railway Station. Take the stairs that run along the right side of the dining car. The walk isn't long (15 minutes).
Psssst. Team Gryffondor ici 🦁 - et Serdaigle, côté Maxime 🦅
T'es de quelle maison ?
