Jacobite Steam Train: Crossing Scotland All The Way To Hogwarts
Everybody, who has seen the Harry Potter movies remembers the legendary Hogwarts train, that leaves from Platform 9 ¾. Although its real name is the Jacobite Steam Train, the Scotland route is known as the Hogwarts train. The beautiful film scenery, though, is real.
The train route goes from Fort William to Mallaig, crossing the West Coast of Scotland. The most significant area of 84 mile journey is the Glenfinnan viaduct, which has 21 arches. This is a well known spot from the “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” movie. Because it was filmed during winter, it created a surreal scenery.
Yet, another beautiful place is the Loch Shiel lake, which is right between the two mountains crossed by the route. The Jacobite Steam Train route, also includes a special monument dedicated to Prince Charles at the Glenfinnman station. However, it is the interior of the train, that creates an incredible experience for passengers.
Each compartment looks just as it did during the filming of the Harry Potter sequel. From old fashioned walls and comfortable seats to carriages and vintage doors, everything sends people to another world. Also, the train runs by the power of the steam, which improves the experience and creates the legendary white smoke often seen in the Harry Potter movies.
Apart from becoming a “star” owing to one of the most popular sequels in history, the Jacobite Steam Train has an impressive history of its own. The train started running in 1901 and it has been crossing the West Coast of Scotland ever since, twice a day.
Even though, the journey only lasts for one and a half hour, it is definitely worth it. Scotland’s outstanding scenery, mountains, lakes and the well known Glenfinnan viaduct, make this trip unforgettable.
Address: Ben Nevis, Fort William, Scotland
Julia Wimmerlin
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Jacobite Steam Train — departure at Fort William railway station, Scotland
- Coordinates
- 56.82056, -5.10531
- Access
- Same-day return on the booked train only; no one-way tickets. First class requires at least two passengers
- Admission
- 2026 standard return: adult £76, age 16 and under £43; first class adult £116, child £76. Minimum £3.75 booking fee
- Time needed
- About 6 hours including the Mallaig stop: morning 5h 48m, afternoon 6h 02m
- Best season
- 2026 operation: morning train June 1–October 23; afternoon June 10–September 25, daily within these dates
- Opening hours
- 2026 departures from Fort William: 10:15 (returns 16:03) and 12:50 (returns 18:52), within each service’s operating season
- Location checked
- 2026-09-23
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-17
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