For what time did you order sunshine?
This was one of the trickier questions put to the attendant on The Jacobite steam train, also known as the Harry Potter Train (or Hogwarts Express). By way of a response, she merely smiled and continued her journey through the train carriage, her trolley groaning with Harry Potter souvenirs.
A sunny day on the Harry Potter Train in Scotland cannot be guaranteed. But one thing that you can be sure of is that this iconic rail journey between Fort William and Mallaig will defy all superlatives.
Here’s all you need to know about planning a trip on The Jacobite steam train and what to expect.
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What Is the Harry Potter Train?
The Harry Potter Train is a steam train that operates on the scenic route between Fort William and Mallaig in Scotland’s West Highlands. Its official name is The Jacobite.
For you train buffs out there, a vintage steam locomotive hauls British Rail Mark I carriages from the 1960s.
The 41-mile section of the West Highland Line travelled by The Jacobite steam train is considered to be one of the great railway journeys of the world, taking in lochs, mountains and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. In recent years, its popularity has soared due to its appearance in the Harry Potter movies.
What You Can Expect on the Harry Potter Train in Scotland
Settling into your comfortable vintage train carriage, the train chugs out of Fort William, crossing the Caledonian Canal to the cheery waves of onlookers. To the right is Neptune’s Staircase, a dramatic flight of eight locks on the canal. Built between 1803 and 1822 by Thomas Telford it is the longest staircase lock flight in Scotland.
The Harry Potter Train continues its journey west along the shores of Loch Eil.
Forested valleys ablaze with purple rhododendrons herald the train’s approach to the superstar of the Fort William to Mallaig route: The Glenfinnan Viaduct. Crane your neck for an unforgettable view of the Jacobite Train puffing across the viaduct’s graceful curve against the majestic Scottish highlands backdrop.
This dramatic 21-arch railway viaduct soaring over River Finnan will be familiar to all you Muggles out there.
Also known as the Harry Potter Bridge, this is where filming of the second and third Harry Potter books, Harry Potter and the Chambers of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban took place. Remember the scene with Arthur Weasley’s Ford Anglia swooping around the Hogwarts Express?
But long before it was used as a filming location, the Glenfinnan Viaduct was an icon in its own right. Opened in 1901, it was the first structure in Britain to be built with mass concrete, earning its designer, Robert McAlpine, the nickname “Concrete Bob”.
Rumour has it a horse fell into one of the viaduct’s piers during its construction. However, subsequent investigations found a horse’s remains in the nearby Loch nan Uamh viaduct.
Although the train stops for a short while at Glenfinnan Station, you can’t disembark to enjoy the small museum or dining car there.
Clickety-clack clickety-clack. The Harry Potter Train makes its way uphill, vast plumes of steam enveloping the landscape.
Passing small waterfalls tumbling down the hillside and carpets of bluebells and ferns, the train now follows Loch Eilt’s southern shore.
This freshwater loch, peppered with small wooded islands, wouldn’t look out of place in Japanese painting. For Harry Potter fans, this has been used as a location in many of the movies (one of the tiny islands was Dumbledore’s resting place).
The next landmark also has a movie connection. Polnish Chapel, built to serve the now deserted townships of Ardnish and Polnish, was featured in the classic Scottish film Local Hero.
Passing a lovely sea loch, Loch nan Uamh, the Harry Potter Train makes a brief stop at Arisaig to allow another train to pass. Arisaig is Britain’s most westerly railway station and boasts a striking old signal box.
The Jacobite steam train is now approaching its final destination.
To your left is a sea loch and beyond that the islands of Rum, Eigg and Muck and the white sand beaches of Skye. Finally, the seagulls squawk their welcome as you reach Mallaig.
What to Do in Mallaig
The Harry Potter Train stops in Mallaig for 1 hour 45 minutes before the return journey to Fort William. So what can you do in Mallaig during this short stop?
I say manage your expectations.
Mallaig is a gateway to Skye and the Small Isles, rather than a destination in its own right. There is a handful of cafes, restaurants, hotels and gift shops (including one that sells Harry Potter merchandise) but that’s about it.
If the weather is favourable, the best option is to take a wildlife harbour cruise. These one-hour cruises, operated by Western Isles Cruises, guarantee to have you back in time for your return train journey.
Their departures from Mallaig Harbour – 12:45, 14:30 and 15:30 (17:00 on Saturdays), April to October – are timed to coincide with the arrival of The Jacobite steam train. In 2024, these cruises cost £18 for an adult.
Sadly, the day that I was in Mallaig, horizontal rain greeted the train and I hightailed it to a warm hotel lobby for a hot drink.
Harry Potter Train in Scotland: Practical Information
The journey between Fort William and Mallaig on The Jacobite train takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. The return journey is slightly faster.
The Harry Potter Train operates between April and October only. From April to September, there are two Jacobite services per day, morning and afternoon. In October, this drops to a morning service only.
A standard train runs between Fort William and Mallaig twice a day; the journey takes around 80 minutes.
In addition to a buffet carriage, there is a trolley service selling hot and cold drinks and light snacks.
If you’re travelling in First Class you can add afternoon tea to your booking for a supplement.
Buying Tickets for the Jacobite Express
In 2024, a day return in Standard Class costs £65; First Class costs £98. These costs are subject to a booking fee.
Note that a day return is the only ticket type sold for The Jacobite. If you wish to travel on different days, you will need to buy two return tickets; one for your first journey and one for your return journey.
Equally, single tickets are not available on The Jacobite.
Sadly, the Harry Potter Train is not included in European train passes (e.g. Interrail or Eurail).
As this is a hugely popular train journey, it is essential to book in advance to avoid disappointment. When I went to book, a good two months ahead of my intended dates of travel, availability was limited and all of the First Class seats had been snapped up.
That said, there may be a limited number of seats available each day on a first come first served basis from the guard (cash only). But would you want to leave this to chance?
Book your seat on The Jacobite via West Coast Railways here. Alternatively, book your ticket over the telephone on 0333 996 6720 between the hours of 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday-Friday.
What are the differences between Standard Class and First Class on the Jacobite Train?
First Class carriages on The Jacobite are more spacious and feature traditional table lamps and upholstered seats. Complimentary tea or coffee is also included.
First Class Compartment Carriages are also available on the morning journeys. These vintage carriages seat six passengers per compartment and have a door that leads onto a corridor that runs the full length of the carriage.
Which is the best side to sit on The Jacobite?
As seat allocation is automatic you cannot select your seat. However, if there is more than one passenger on the booking, the automated system will allocate seats together.
Whilst there are sensational views from both sides of the train, those show-stopping views of the Harry Potter bridge will be to the left as you travel from Fort William to Mallaig.
But don’t fret about on which side of the train you are seated. The clever seat allocation system forces everyone to switch seats at Mallaig so you will be sitting on the opposite side of the carriage for the return journey.
Tours That Feature a Ride on The Jacobite Steam Train
It’s also possible to take a trip on the Harry Potter Train by booking a day trip or multi-day tour. This can be extremely useful if your chosen departure dates are sold out or you want to bundle the experience with more of Scotland’s attractions.
Here are a few excursions from Edinburgh that I have found through GetYourGuide, which offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour date.
- Highlands day tour with Hogwarts Express | Book here
- 3-Day Isle of Skye & Jacobite Steam Train Highland tour | Book here
Solo Travel in Scotland
Scotland is not only one of Europe’s best places to travel alone but is also one of the best solo travel destinations in the world.
From its lush rolling hills and mirror-like lakes to its blindingly white beaches, Scotland is home to some of the most striking and diverse landscapes to be found anywhere. It’s a walker’s and photographer’s paradise.
Scotland is relatively safe, the locals are very friendly and speak English. There is a wide variety of accommodation, from a thriving hostel scene and cosy bed & breakfasts to boutique and castle hotels.
It’s easy to get around. Whilst driving is the easiest way to explore Scotland, this is not for the faint-hearted. Some roads in the Highlands and Islands are single lanes punctuated with passing places that you can pull into if necessary.
I travelled in Scotland without a car and managed just fine using buses, trains and day tours.
Scotland’s major towns and cities are linked by train and bus (Scottish Citylink runs long-distance express coach services).
I also joined day trips with the local Rabbie’s Tours who were excellent. Group sizes are small and the knowledge and humour of their drivers/guides are first-rate.
Why You Should Ride the Harry Potter Train in Scotland
I’m a massive rail enthusiast and have been lucky to take some of the world’s greatest train journeys, including Switzerland’s Glacier Express, Norway’s Flam Railway and, closer to home, the Settle – Carlisle Railway. The Jacobite can hold its head high amongst all of these.
Yes; you could take a cheaper, standard train between Fort William and Mallaig. But this would be a mistake.
Much of the enjoyment of Scotland’s Harry Potter Train is derived from its slower pace, allowing the country’s spectacular landscape to reveal itself to you, and the hiss of the steam engine and the toot of the whistle. This is an experience to be savoured, not rushed.
- Best Things to Do in Fort William & Beyond: 3-Day Itinerary (Without a Car)
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- 10 Best Day Trips from Inverness Without a Car
- 15 Easy Day Trips from Edinburgh by Train or Bus
- 14 Amazing Things to Do in Oban, Scotland in Two Days
- 7 Best Things to Do in Inveraray, Scotland
- 8 Best Things to Do in Tobermory, Mull
About Bridget
Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.
Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.
To get in touch, email her at hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.