Home / Scotland / Destinations / The Jacobite Steam Train (Aka The Hogwarts Express)
The Jacobite steam train is a rejuvenated locomotive service which runs an 84-mile round trip connecting the highland town of Fort William to the costal town of Mallaig. The route, which is the western end of the West Highland Line, takes visitors through some of the most beautiful terrain in Scotland – including the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.
The route is widely regarded as the most scenic train journey in Scotland and the combination of the beautiful views and the experience of travelling on a steam train along the entire route has earned this experience one of the best train journeys in the world.
A main feature of the Harry Potter film franchise, a great number of Potter fans make the pilgrimage to see the famous bridge alone, but to ride the Jacobite steam train over it might be as close to real magic as any of us will get!
The line originally open in 1901 but was reimagined in 1984 as a draw from tourism to the area. The Jacobite steam train, while not the exact train used in the Harry Potter films, brings a touch of nostalgia and wonder to an already magnificent journey through the Scottish highlands.
Guests can choose to complete a round-trip, or, use the service as a memorable section on a journey to the glorious Isle of Skye. Ferries from Mallaig harbour run multiple times per day throughout the year and make for a more impressive arrival on the island.
Whether they are fans of the Harry Potter franchise or not, visitors enjoy the many beautiful vistas that the train courses through and the train itself makes for a fantastic subject for the keen photographers out there.




























