The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland's Most Iconic Train Journey
Its been too long since I posted my last Harry Potter related blog about Edinburgh’s Elephant House Cafe. So now I want to share with you fellow witches and wizards Scotland’s most iconic train journey and the real life Hogwarts Express, the Jacobite Steam Train. Made famous by the Harry Potter movies it is now a must-see attraction for visitors to Scotland. Whether you are dreaming of stepping into the shoes of Harry Potter and boarding the train or want to witness it crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, this guide is for you. We will provide all the essential information from the history to how to book Jacobite Steam Train tickets, the best spots to watch it, and tips for an unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on a magical journey!
Jacobite Steam Train, Glenfinnan Viaduct
The History of the Jacobite Steam Train
The West Highland Railway Line from Fort William to Mallaig is a 42 mile stretch which opened in 1901 and played a pivotal role in bringing the highlands economy back to life after the devastating impacts of the Highland Clearances in the late 1700s and 1800s. More specifically, it helped to improve the trade and transport for the local fishing industry. As the best fishing territory lay between the Isle of Lewis/Harris and the mainland. The body of water is also known as the Minch. In just ten years, Mallaig evolved from a small community of crofter-fishermen into a bustling fishing hub, landing tonnes of herring that were quickly transported south via the newly constructed railway.
So as you can tell the route wasn’t always used as a passenger service. Until the Jacobite steam train entered the fray as a tourist train in 1984 and burst onto the scene as “The World’s Greatest Railway Journey”. Now this incredible spectacle hosts thousands of curious travellers every year. With those that miss out on the fast-selling tickets having to make do with the regular ScotRail carriage.
Jacobite Steam Train Departing Fort William
Why is it called the Jacobite Steam Train?
The Jacobite Steam train gets its name in memory of the Jacobite rising of 1745. The railway line passes the bonnie banks of Loch Shiel where Prince Charles Edward Stuart raised his standard which is commemorated by the Glenfinnan Monument today.
Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument
How did the Jacobite Steam Train play a part in Harry Potter?
All history aside, the question that everyone’s been asking is. Was the Jacobite steam train actually used in Harry Potter? Well the answer is yes, West Coast Railways who operate the steam train, sanctioned the use of the train and the carriages for the ‘Hogwarts Express’. Although, the locomotive that was actually used to pull the carriages in the movies no longer takes passengers but actually sits on display in the Warner Bros Studio in London. Right now, we have to make do with riding the two sister Steam trains that are very similar in appearance but just as cool!
So if you do want to board the Jacobite train and see the filming locations then listen up carefully! First of all, when booking yourself a Jacobite Steam Train ticket you need to be ahead of the game there are no time turners with this one. The seats are sold out around 4-6 months in advance so make sure to head onto the website and grab your tickets. Or if they are sold out, tour operators hosting group tours like us may have spots available. If this is you, you can fill out our contact form if you are interested! The service runs twice a day between April and October. Departing from Fort William and heading to Mallaig on Scotland’s west coast. Once in Mallaig you can either spend around 90 minutes exploring before taking the return journey to Fort William or you can continue your Scotland journey by taking a boat over to the Isle of Skye. I personally love stopping by Bloom and Graze for a wee lunch break!
The majority of passengers go standard class but if you are booking as a group you may find it worth your while to book a first class compartment to replicate the iconic scene where Harry, Ron and Hermione meet for the first time.
Jacobite Steam Train Arriving in Mallaig
Harry Potter Filming Locations on the Railway Line and When to Visit
Whether you have tickets to board the train or you want to visit the filming locations yourself here’s a detailed guide of what to see and when to be there.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct sits right next to Loch Shiel both of which are used as iconic filming locations in the Harry Potter series. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, in particular, played a big role in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” where Ron and Harry are flying over the railway line in the magic Ford Anglia, narrowly avoiding a collision with the train whilst Harry clings on for dear life as he hangs out of the car door. As well as featuring in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” where the Hogwarts Express comes to a standstill on the viaduct as the dementors unexpectedly enter the carriage to search for Sirius Black, causing Harry to faint.
The best way to view the Glenfinnan Viaduct on the train is to get seats on the left hand side especially if you are only making the one way journey. For all those travelling there by car make sure to reach the Glenfinnan Car Park early ensuring plenty of time before the train arrives as it can get VERY busy and there is around a 600m walk to the viewpoint. I have published the train schedule in the next section so that you can plan your trip effectively.
Loch Shiel
Loch Shiel, although less known, actually played a part in all eight movies, frequently appearing as the backdrop for scenes involving the Hogwarts Express. However, it is more commonly known in the Harry Potter universe as the Black Lake. A great way to visualise this is during the Triwizard Tournament in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” where Harry uses the Gillyweed to swim underwater. Or you may recognise the loch with Hogwarts CGI-ed into the surroundings. This is best viewed from the viewpoint behind the visitor centre which is a significantly shorter walk.
Walking to the Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint
Dumbledore’s Grave (Eilean Na Moine)
The tiny island of Eilean na Moine on Loch Eilt is another significant filming location. The stunning, rugged landscapes add a real touch of magic and mystery to the series. It is most famously known as the final resting place of Albus Dumbledore in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.” In the next movie, this is where Lord Voldemort comes to steal the Elder Wand as he prepares for the Battle of Hogwarts. You can also catch a glimpse of it in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.” Following Buckbeak’s sentencing to death, Hagrid is shown at the loch, looking depressed and skimming stones into the loch when Harry, Hermione, and Ron come to comfort him.
While much of the focus on Loch Eilt is on the western section at Eilean na Moine, the wider loch is also used as a subtle backdrop in scenes throughout the movies. If you plan to visit this location, note that there is no marked car park – just space for 3 cars to pull over on the side of the road. Once you start the short walk to view the island, you will need hiking boots, as the area can get boggy! However, if you time your visit right, you might even catch the Jacobite steam train passing by, as shown in the photo below!
Dumbledore’s Resting Place
Train Schedule
If you plan to catch the Harry Potter steam train at the Glenfinnan Viaduct or Eilean Na Moine. You can find the approximate 2024 times below.
Steam Train Schedule
Thank you very much for taking the time to read our blog! I hope you have found it helpful and entertaining. J K Rowling said she always imagined Hogwarts being in the heart of the Highlands. So we love that Scotland has played a large part in the Harry Potter series and this goes far beyond the Jacobite Steam Train too!
If you do have any questions or comments about your visit to Scotland or would like to be involved in a Harry Potter or Highlands tour with a fellow Potterhead then do reach out by filling in our contact form. Remember its key to plan early if you want to snap up your Jacobite Steam Train tickets in advance to secure your spot on this magical adventure.
Putting this blog together was a joy, as Harry Potter and the magic of the Scottish landscapes hold a special place in my heart.
See you at the next one!
1 comment
This was fantastic. Loved reading about Loch Eilean and reliving my favorite Harry Potter moments
– thanks Rob!!
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