What It's Like to Ride the Harry Potter Train in Scotland
Oct 14, 2025
If you’re wondering what it’s like to ride Scotland’s Harry Potter train, here’s a glimpse into the journey, scenery, and a little magic along the way.
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the magical world of Harry Potter, riding the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland is about as close as Muggles can get to the real thing. Often nicknamed the “Harry Potter Train” by fans of the wizarding world, this journey promises jaw-dropping scenery, iconic moments, and a sprinkle of enchantment. Here’s what it’s like to climb aboard and experience the magic first-hand.
All Aboard the Jacobite – Scotland's Harry Potter Train
If you join one of our Jacobite Steam Train tours, your adventure begins in either Fort William or Mallaig, depending on the direction of the tour route. For Potterheads, it’s impossible not to feel a thrill walking along the train station platform, like stepping into the end scene of the first Harry Potter movie, where Harry waves at Hagrid from the Hogwarts Express as he returns to the Dursleys.
The train itself is a classic steam engine that’s as much a star as the landscapes it traverses. As the whistle blows, you’re instantly transported to another era. There’s something undeniably charming about the puff of steam billowing through the Highland air, a scene that feels straight out of a storybook.
The train itself is a classic steam engine that’s as much a star as the landscapes it traverses. As the whistle blows, you’re instantly transported to another era. There’s something undeniably charming about the puff of steam billowing through the Highland air, a scene that feels straight out of a storybook.
Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct
For many, crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct is the highlight of the journey. Even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan, you’ve likely seen this sweeping railway bridge in countless postcards and calendars – and yes, in that unforgettable scene from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The 21-arched viaduct curves through the Scottish Highlands, offering a panoramic view of Loch Shiel and the surrounding hills.
As the train crosses the viaduct, you’ll find yourself instinctively reaching for your camera. Our tip: don’t spend the entire crossing glued to your screen. Take a moment to soak in the view with your own two eyes. It’s a heart-stopping sight, and the kind of experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
While the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a top highlight, the rest of the route is equally spellbinding. The train rolls through the rugged West Highlands, passing by lochs, mountains, and villages. If you’re lucky to book a seat by the window, you’ll have a front-row ticket to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes.
The Harry Potter Train Carriages
A question we often hear is whether the carriages are the originals from the movies. The answer is yes – the train operators, West Coast Railways, provide both the steam engine and the vintage carriages that appeared in the films, but only one type of carriage was used for the interior shots in the movies.
There are three types of carriage experiences on the Jacobite Steam Train:
Standard Class Carriage
This is the most affordable option and the one offered on all our Jacobite Steam Train tours. You’ll travel in a refurbished vintage coach with tables for four, enjoying the journey in comfort while taking in the stunning scenery. While these carriages weren’t used for the movie interiors, they still capture the charm and character of a classic steam train experience.
First Class Open Carriages
The First Class Carriages are traditionally furnished and offer private tables for two and four. Plus, you’ll receive a complimentary tea or coffee!
Compartment Carriages
Also called the ‘HP’ Compartment Carriage, this part of the train was originally used for the interior setting of the Hogwarts Express. The ticket price is substantially higher than the other classes and offers a private compartment for up to six passengers.
Tips for Your Harry Potter Train Ride in Scotland
To make the most of your wizarding time in Scotland, here are a few tips:
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Book Early: Tickets for the Jacobite Steam Train sell out quickly, especially during the summer months. The good news is, when booking one of our tours, you’re more likely to get your hands on tickets.
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Choose Your Seat Wisely: Opt for a window seat on the left-hand side of the train (when facing the direction of travel from Fort William). This gives you the best views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
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Bring a Touch of Wizarding Flair: Don’t be shy about donning your Gryffindor scarf or waving a wand. You’ll be in good company with other fans on board.
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Stay for the Day: While the round-trip journey is a joy, consider staying overnight in Mallaig to explore the town and surrounding area at a more relaxed pace.
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Keep Your Eyes Peeled: Wildlife enthusiasts might spot deer, golden eagles, or even seals along the route.
Why It’s More Than Just a Train Ride
The Jacobite Steam Train is often the highlight – the scenery is striking, and crossing the viaduct is a memorable moment. But the train is just one part of the journey. If you join us on our coach tours, our guides tell the stories and history behind the places you pass – Jacobites, clans, battles, and local life. The two-hour ride on the Harry Potter train is then the cherry on top!
Because your guide lives in Scotland, you also hear personal anecdotes and insights you wouldn’t get from a standard sightseeing tour. It’s not just a case of getting on a bus, hopping off at a viewpoint, and getting back on again. The combination of train, coach, and a local guide makes the trip a more rounded experience.
Ready for Hogwarts?
If the idea of riding the Harry Potter train has you ready to pack your bags, now’s the time to start planning your trip. Remember that for those short on time, our 1-day Harry Potter train tour from Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness include a two-hour ride aboard the Jacobite Steam Train.
Time to dust off your wizarding robes and get ready for a journey you’ll never forget!
The “Harry Potter Train” is the Jacobite Steam Train, a real-life heritage steam service that runs through the Scottish Highlands between Fort William and Mallaig. It gained worldwide fame for appearing as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.
The Jacobite Steam Train runs from Fort William to Mallaig and back. The journey takes you through some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, past lochs, mountains, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
The full return journey lasts around 2 hours each way (4 hours total), with a short break in Mallaig where you can stretch your legs, grab a bite, or explore the harbour. On our guided tours of the Scottish Highlands, you'll ride the train for 2 hours before you'll be picked up by your guide to continue your journey or return to the city by coach.
Yes, if you reserve directly with the operators of the Jacobite, you can book a seat in the HP Compartment Carriage, the same style used for filming the Hogwarts Express scenes. These private six-seater compartments are the most expensive option and tend to sell out quickly. On our tours, you’ll travel in Standard Class, which offers a vintage steam train experience and incredible Highland views – including the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct crossing.
There are three main options:
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Standard Class – refurbished vintage carriages with tables for four. This is the seating class we use on our Jacobite Steam Train tours.
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First Class – larger seats, tables for two or four, and complimentary tea or coffee.
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HP Compartment – the actual movie-style compartments for up to six passengers.
The train typically runs April to October, and summer months sell out fast. For fewer crowds, try travelling in spring or early autumn when the landscapes are lush and peaceful.
Prices vary depending on the class and season. Standard Class is the most affordable, while HP Compartments are premium and book up early. It’s best to check current rates directly with the operator or our Jacobite Steam Train tickets page.
Yes, you can visit the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre or nearby viewpoints to watch the train cross the viaduct. It’s one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks.
Not at all. While Potter fans will love the movie connection, the journey itself is famous for its Highland scenery, heritage steam experience, and nostalgic charm. It’s one of the world’s most beautiful train rides.
While the train isn’t a theme park attraction, the friendly staff are always happy to share stories about the train’s history and filming connections, and you’ll definitely spot plenty of passengers wearing Hogwarts scarves!