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The Jacobite Steam Train

Jump aboard the Jacobite Steam Train and immerse yourself in breath-taking Highland scenery. While experiencing one of the world’s greatest train journeys. The railway line curves over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, now immortalised in Harry Potter films as the route to Hogwarts.

You’ll travel through the heart of Scotland’s wild west coast and get up close to majestic mountains and sparkling lochs. At the head of Loch Shiel you’ll then capture the iconic vista of the Glenfinnan Monument. This is the historic location where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745. It was a passionate but ill-fated attempt to restore the exiled Stuarts to the Great Britain and Ireland throne. The monument, crowned with a lone piper, stands in silent tribute to the clansmen who died fighting the Jacobite cause.

This tour is only available as a private tour for 2022.

You may wish to add to your tour and take a return journey on the Jacobite Steam Train. This would mean taking a 2 day tour with an overnight stay before returning to the lowlands. Alternatively, you could choose to personalise the stops on route to the train instead. The choice is yours.

You can find out more by filling in the Private Tour form.

Private & Exclusive tours for families & friends

In the current climate of social distancing and bubbles, now more than ever may be the time to consider a private tour of Scotland for your family and friends.

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1 Day Jacobite Steam Train & Scottish Highlands

Enjoy a day of stunning scenery and fresh Highland air, as we travel all the way around Loch Ness and along the idyllic West Coast. Watch the Jacobite Steam Train cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct before you hop aboard and experience it for yourself.

Depart Edinburgh by bus and journey north, passing the magnificent Forth Bridge, the Kingdom of Fife, and Perth. Admire the Glenfinnan Viaduct on a stunning drive up the West Coast. Next, you’ll travel across its iconic arches from Mallaig on the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Hogwarts Express. After experiencing one of the world’s most beautiful railway lines, head to Glen Coe. See the dramatic landscapes used as the backdrop for some much-loved scenes in the Harry Potter films. Continue through the vast wilderness of Rannoch Moor, listening to tales from Scotland’s past. Jump back on the bus to return to Edinburgh, arriving back at the city in the late evening.

*Our tours are conducted in English, by our Guides, however foreign language translations are available in German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French and Mandarin.

From £180 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

May — October

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• +44 (0131) 5583738
• View tour details
• [email protected]

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• Small coach
• Medium Group (17-30)
• Film and TV

Tour prices

From £180 Per Adult £177 Per Child £177 Concession

Prices are subject to change depending on season

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Highland explorer tours.

Scotland's landscape is stunningly beautiful with a magnificent history and culture that deserves to be told by the Scottish experts, our Guides. They will bring this heritage to life while ensuring you get to explore our nation's most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are planning a day trip or a longer visit, our range of tours will give you an unforgettable insight into our country and its people, leaving memories that will last a lifetime.

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A guide to Scotland’s Jacobite steam train: The real Hogwarts Express

Posted on Last updated: December 1, 2023

Take a trip on board the Jacobite steam train as it travels on the scenic West Highland Line from Fort William to Mallaig in Scotland – the real-life version of the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter films.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

I can never resist a scenic train ride, and the Jacobite steam train through the Scottish Highlands is one of the best. This 84-mile round trip travels along the West Highland Line from Fort William to Mallaig. And it’s a journey packed with old-fashioned charm, from the vintage carriages to the sound of the whistle and smell of the steam engine.

It’s a relaxed way to travel as you soak up views of lochs, mountains and waterfalls and chug across the spectacular Glenfinnan Viaduct – one of the most iconic locations from the Harry Potter films, where the Jacobite starred as the Hogwarts Express . So if you’re planning a trip on board the Jacobite steam train, here’s everything you need to know.

What is the Jacobite steam train?

The Jacobite is a steam train which operates on the scenic route between Fort William and Mallaig in the Scottish Highlands . It gets its name from the Jacobites, a group who fought to get the Stuarts back on the British throne in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The Jacobite steam train runs along a stretch of the West Highland Line, which was voted one of the great railway journeys of the world – and they’re not wrong. The full line runs for 164 miles from Glasgow to Mallaig, past Loch Lomond and the desolate Rannoch Moor on its way to Fort William. But it gets even more scenic from there.

The stretch of line from Fort William to Mallaig opened in 1901 and steam trains ran on the route until 1967 when they were replaced by diesel trains. But they were brought back in the 1980s, and have been run under various different names since then – the most recent being the Jacobite… or some of you might know it better as the Hogwarts Express .

The Jacobite starred in the Harry Potter films, transporting Harry and his fellow students from Platform 9¾ at London’s King’s Cross to Hogsmeade Station. You get a particularly good view of the train in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets when Harry and Ron fly over it in a stolen Ford Anglia as it travels over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

The Jacobite provided the steam engine and the carriages used in the film, and the same carriages are still in use on trips today. Though the locomotive which pulled the Hogwarts Express is now on display in the Warner Bros Studios in London.

There’s a gift shop selling Harry Potter merchandise on board the train and we spotted a few people in Hogwarts scarves. But you don’t need to be a Harry Potter fan to enjoy the Jacobite. There’s a mix of train enthusiasts, Potter addicts and people just wanting to admire the scenery, with a mix of ages and nationalities from all over the world.

Where does the Jacobite steam train leave from and go to?

The Jacobite starts from Fort William and runs to Mallaig, a journey of 42 miles. It stops off in Glenfinnan along the way, and will also stop at Arisaig if you ask the guard.

If you’re travelling by car, Fort William is 108 miles (2 hours 40 minutes’ drive) from Glasgow , 148 miles (3 hours 20 minutes) from Edinburgh or 66 miles (1 hour 50 minutes) from Inverness . You can park your car at the An Aird Car and Coach Park, which is just behind the Morrison’s supermarket next to the train station.

You can also get to Fort William by train – it’s around 3.5 hours from Glasgow, on a slow but scenic route travelling along the rest of the West Highland Line. If you’re coming from Edinburgh you’ll need to get to Glasgow first and change trains there.

Fort William is also on the route of the Caledonian Sleeper , which runs overnight from London to Scotland. It’s a great way to travel to Scotland, with a mix of seats and cabins with shared bathrooms or en-suites – and even some cabins with double beds. There’s a dining car on board and you wake up in time for breakfast with a Highland view.

The Highland Sleeper departs from London Euston at 9.15pm (8.59pm on Sundays) and is scheduled to get to Fort William at 9.57am. But it’s quite often delayed, so it’s safest to book an afternoon trip on the Jacobite in case you’re running late.

How often does the Jacobite run?

The Jacobite doesn’t run year-round, but has one or two services a day from spring until autumn. The morning service runs between 28 March and 25 October 2024, and there’s also an additional afternoon service from 6 May until 27 September.

How long is the Jacobite steam train ride?

The round trip on the Jacobite steam train takes around six hours in total. The outward journey from Fort William to Mallaig takes 2 hours 10 minutes, with a short stop at Glenfinnan included. Then you have 1 hour 45 minutes to look around Mallaig before heading back to Fort Wiliam, which is slightly quicker at just under 2 hours.

The morning Jacobite trip leaves Fort William at 10.15 and arrives into Mallaig at 12.26. Then it returns at 14.10, getting back into Fort William at 16.03.

The afternoon service leaves Fort William at 12.50 and arrives into Mallaig at 15.06. Then it returns at 17.00, getting back into Fort William at 18.52.

You’re advised to get to the station in Fort William at least 20 minutes before the departure time so you can find your seats. But it’s also a good chance to get some photos of the train on the platform, with the steam billowing out as they fire up the engine.

What are the classes of travel on the Jacobite steam train?

The Jacobite steam train uses vintage British Railways Mark I and Mark II train carriages which were in service between the 1950s and the 1970s, and there’s a choice of First Class and Standard Class seats. Standard Class has basic seats with two tables of four on each side of the aisle. It’s the no-frills option but is still pretty comfortable.

If you want a bit more luxury, First Class carriages are more spacious, with tables for four on one side of the aisle and tables of two on the other side – so for an extra cost you don’t have to share a table. You get bigger, upholstered, armchair-style seats with more leg room, fancier wood panelling, tartan table lamps and matching curtains.

On the morning trip there’s also a special First Class carriage with compartments connected by a long corridor if you want the proper Harry Potter experience. Each compartment seats six and you need to book the whole thing, so there are only a few available.

There are toilets at the end of the carriages. And if you’re travelling with a dog you can bring it along with you, with one ‘medium-sized family dog’ (not sure how exactly they define that!) allowed in Standard Class only, which must stay on a lead.

Can you get food on the train?

There’s a buffet car on the train where you can buy hot and cold drinks as well as basic snacks like crisps and chocolate. First Class passengers (unless you’re in the compartments) get a cup of tea or coffee included on each leg of the journey and can also pre-order an afternoon tea box filled with sandwiches, scones and cakes.

Otherwise you can bring your own snacks or picnic, but the journey’s not all that long so we just waited until we got to Mallaig which has a selection of pubs and cafés (see below for suggestions) where you can get lunch or tea and cake. And if the sun’s shining there’s just enough time to grab an ice cream from the kiosk at Glenfinnan station.

How do you get the best seat?

You can’t choose your seat so it’s pot luck as to where you’ll end up, but you are allocated seats together if there are two or more of you. You usually have to share a table, but you can pay extra in First Class to have a private table for two.

Seats are marked B and F – backwards and forwards – but they don’t necessarily correspond to the direction the train actually goes in. The locomotive moves to the other end of the train when you get to Mallaig rather than the train turning around. So you get to go in both directions, and change seats for the return so you get views from both sides.

The windows can be a bit grubby for taking photos, especially after it’s rained – we gave the outside of our window a wipe down with a tissue before we set off. There is small section at the top which opens so you can take photos through it, though they do let a bit of soot and steam in if you’re near the engine, especially going through tunnels.

The windows in the vestibules at the end of each carriage open wider – just don’t stick your head or your camera out of the window as there are tunnels and trees close to the line!

The Jacobite steaming across the Glenfinnan Viaduct is the journey’s most famous photo opportunity. The conductor announces when you’re approaching the viaduct on both the outward and return journey – it’s around 35 minutes from Fort William if you want to get into position early and bag one of the coveted spots by the window.

For the best view of the Glenfinnan Viaduct you need to be on the left-hand side of the train on the outbound journey or the right-hand side on the way back (though the locomotive is on backwards for the return journey so it doesn’t look quite as good), and ideally in a carriage near to the back of train so you can see it curving around.

The train slows down as you go over the viaduct so you get time to take photos – and wave to all the people gathered on the hillside around the viaduct to take photos of the train passing (see below for details if you want to join them).

What can you see along the way?

For a fairly short journey, this stretch of the West Highland Line packs in a lot of scenic views. Just after leaving Fort William you pass the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle and cross over the Caledonian Canal past Neptune’s Staircase – a series of eight interconnected locks which was built by Scottish engineer Thomas Telford in the 19th century.

The route then runs along the shores of Loch Eil, with views back to Fort William and Ben Nevis. Then you cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which has 21 arches and stretches for 380 metres above the River Finnan. Look out for the Glenfinnan Monument on the edge of Loch Sheil, which is dedicated to those who died fighting for the Jacobite cause.

After a stop off at Glenfinnan, where you can make a quick visit to the café or West Highland Railway Museum, it’s on past Loch Eilt. One of the small islands dotting the loch is another Harry Potter location – Eilean Na Moine where Dumbledore is buried.

The train passes the Church of Our Lady of the Braes, which was used for another film Local Hero (1983), before travelling on through Arisaig, the most westerly railway station in Britain. Then the last stretch towards Mallaig has views out over to the Small Isles of Rum, Eigg and Muck, as well as the south of the Isle of Skye .

What is there to do in Mallaig?

At the end of the line is the small port town of Mallaig. You have 1 hour 45 minutes there (or a bonus extra 10 minutes on afternoon trips), though there’s not a huge amount to see.

You can go wildlife spotting on a boat trip with Western Isles Cruises. Their tours only last an hour and are timed to fit in with the train timetable. They sail out to Green Island on the Knoydart Peninsula, looking out for seals, porpoises, dolphins and whales.

Or you can just take a walk around the harbour, watching the fishermen mending their nets and the ferries coming and going. Keep your eye out for the resident seals – we spotted one basking on the rocks just outside the harbour. There’s also a 1.75-mile circular walk which takes you around the harbour and up into the hills behind the town.

Mallaig has a few shops to browse, including the Haggard Alley shop which sells Harry Potter merchandise. And if you’re hungry there’s good seafood at the Chlachain Inn or Steam Inn, fish and chips from Jaffy’s Shop or pizzas and pastries from The Bakehouse.

How much does the Jacobite steam train cost?

An adult return ticket costs £65 in Standard Class and £98 in First Class in 2024 (or it’s £36/£64 for children under 16 – under threes don’t need a ticket). You can also book a private table for two for £210 or a compartment for up to six people for £398.

There are no discounts for Railcards or InterRail/Eurail passes. And you can’t buy single tickets or return on a different day, so if you wanted to travel one way (if you were planning to take the ferry to Skye from Mallaig), you still have to pay for a return trip.

There’s also a minimum booking of two passengers in First Class, so if you’re a solo traveller you can only travel in Standard Class.

If you don’t fancy splashing out on the Jacobite, you can also take a regular train along the Fort William to Mallaig stretch of the West Highland Line instead. The standard ScotRail sprinter trains aren’t quite as atmospheric as the Jacobite and you don’t get so long to soak up the views, but you do still get to see the same scenery.

The regular trains run three–four times a day, take around 90 minutes and cost from £8.20 one way (and you can use Railcards and passes). They also run year-round, so are a good option if you’re visiting in winter when the Jacobite isn’t running.

How do I book the Jacobite steam train?

You can buy tickets for the Jacobite online at their website or by phone on 0333 996 6720. You’ll be sent a booking confirmation after you’ve booked and then get your tickets and seat numbers sent to you by email a few days before you travel.

If you want to travel in First Class then book as early as you can as these tickets sell out quickly (we booked three months in advance for August and could only get standard tickets) – especially in the compartments as there are only a few of them.

Can you buy tickets for the Jacobite on the day? You can sometimes pick up last-minute tickets on the day if there’s availability. They’re sold by the guard on the platform at Fort William and you can only pay cash. Get there early if you want to pick one up, but the Jacobite is popular so I wouldn’t chance it if it’s something you really want to do.

Another option is to book a tour which includes the trip on the Jacobite. You can take day trips from Inverness *, Edinburgh * and Glasgow .* Or there’s a three-day tour * which also includes visits to Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and Glencoe.

Where can you see the Jacobite crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct?

The one thing you do miss onboard the Jacobite is the best view of it going over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. But you can easily do both in one day if you’re travelling between May and September when there are two train services each day.

If you’re travelling by car, you can park at the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Monument Car Park (PH37 4LT). Or you can take a regular ScotRail train or the no 500 bus from Fort William to Glenfinnan. The train crosses the viaduct around 11.00 and 15.15 for the morning service and 13.25 and 18.00 (15.15 and 19.45 on Saturdays) for the afternoon service.

But get there early if you want to bag a prime position as it gets very busy. The main viewpoint is on the hill above the viaduct – you follow the road under the viaduct and then make your way up the hill to the left so you can see the viaduct as it curves around. But you can also get a different view of the train from below the viaduct.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Fort William?*

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Holly Ferris

Monday 4th of December 2023

Hello Looking into a trip in May 2024. on the 3 day tour- Is there time allotted to visit the West Highland Museum? Holly

Lucy Dodsworth

Thursday 7th of December 2023

Hi Holly, afraid I don't actually run the tour – you would need to get in touch with Highland Explorer Tours. Thanks

Scotland Tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London

The jacobite steam train will start operating from 16 april 2024., tours departing from 15 april 2024 onwards will include the train journey. .

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Edinburgh, Skye and Jacobite Steam Train Experience - 5 day tour

Edinburgh, Skye and Jacobite Steam Train 5 day/4 night

Speed to Edinburgh by express train, then see the city sights by hop-on, hop-off tour and visit the mighty castle. The next day enjoy more time in Edinburgh before taking a scenic train journey through the beautiful Scottish Highlands. Based in Inverness, enjoy a full-day excursion to the scenic Isle of Skye and fairytale Eilean Donan castle. Undoubtedly the highlight is a memorable trip on the West Highland Railway Line aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, the real Hogwarts Express. Return directly to London by high-speed train.   

Express Train  - enjoy a comfortable journey with reserved seats between London and Edinburgh

Edinburgh - get the best views and visit mighty Edinburgh Castle on a hop-on, hop-off tour

Inverness - unwind with a relaxing three-night stay in the Highland Capital

Isle of Skye - see the weird landscapes of Trotternish, visit the delightful port town of Portree and marvel at the towering Cuillin mountain range   

Jacobite Steam Train - all aboard for a scenic trip on the real Hogwarts Express

Movie locations  - Harry Potter, Highlander and Fast and Furious

Hotel accommodation included

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Full Tour Itinerary

Select Day:

Day 1 - London - Edinburgh - Discovering Edinburgh

The whistle blows, and your  express train  glides out of Kings Cross Station in the heart of London, bound for Edinburgh. As you speed northwards to the Scottish Capital, you’ll travel through the Viking City of York,  Durham , famed for its magnificent Cathedral and bustling Newcastle, which straddles the River Tyne. 

During the journey, enjoy free WiFi and access to the onboard buffet, where tasty food and drink can be purchased. It will typically take under 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach Edinburgh. 

On arrival in Edinburgh, it’s a short walk to your city centre hotel, and after you’ve checked in, Scotland’s Capital City is waiting to be discovered. 

Join an open-top bus tour to see many of Edinburgh’s most famous attractions, including the historic  Grassmarket , where many gruesome tales are told. Travel along the wide streets of the Georgian New Town to see grand squares before heading into the medieval Old Town; both these areas have been designated  UNESCO World Heritage Sites . 

Hop off to explore mighty Edinburgh Castle and see the Scottish Crown Jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland , and the ancient Stone of Destiny. 

When ready, hop aboard the next tour bus to continue your sightseeing adventure. 

The remainder of the day is at leisure. 

Overnight: Motel One, Edinburgh (or similar)

Day 2 - Edinburgh - The Highland Line - Inverness

Edinburgh is the World’s first UNESCO City of Literature, so after breakfast, why not head out to discover some of its literary connections?

Enjoy a coffee in the café where JK Rowling penned her first Harry Potter novel or visit the historic Greyfriars Kirkyard , where the names on the gravestones gave her the inspiration for the names of her characters. 

At lunchtime, make for the railway station to join the ScotRail Inter7City train bound for Inverness. Get ready for a beautiful journey as the Highland mainline is considered one of the most scenic in Scotland.

Travel from Edinburgh northwards towards Stirling, with its grand castle standing guard over the city. Next, travel through Gleneagles station, which serves the famous golfing resort , then across Strathearn to Perth. 

“Highland Perthshire” boasts a landscape of towering trees and fast-flowing rivers. After calling at historic Dunkeld and Birnham station, we follow the Rivers Tay and Tummel to arrive at Pitlochry , a pleasant Victorian resort town. 

The train will make the ascent through Glen Garry, where there are fine views of the Grampian Mountains, and if you are lucky, a deer herd can often be seen grazing on the heather. Soon we reach the highest point on the British rail network at Druimuachdar Summit. 

After leaving lonely Dalwhinnie, the train enters the scenic Spey Valley, where the towering summits of the Cairngorm mountain range provide an impressive backdrop. 

On arrival in  Inverness , it’s a short walk to your hotel. Tonight why not seek out some traditional folk music played in a local pub?

Overnight: Premier Inn Inverness City Centre, Inverness (or similar) (3 nights)

Day 3 - Isle of Skye Excursion

Today head for the picturesque Isle of Skye. Leaving Inverness behind, you’ll drive through beautiful Glen Carron, stopping to view the panorama of Loch Carron and the mountains of Applecross.

After crossing “over the sea to Skye”, the magnificent mountain scenery of the Cuillin Hills is our first treat. These soaring peaks dominate the island, first the gentle Red Cuillins, then the jagged and daunting Black Cuillins. There is a photo stop where the alp-like views are at their most impressive.

The delightful town of Portree is the island's largest settlement. During our time here, why not take a stroll down to the harbour? The scene of the pastel-painted houses that overlook the bay makes for a brilliant selfie.

After lunch, we head for the Trotternish Peninsula to see the weird landscapes, including the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing. We stop at Kilt Rock, where the basalt columns are said to resemble the pleats in a kilt. From the viewing platform, watch as the Mealt waterfall plummets 60m into the sea below.    

Back on the mainland, we stop at picturesque Eilean Donan Castle . There is the chance to take photographs of this fairytale castle that featured in many films, including Highlander and The World Is Not Enough.

Enjoy a scenic drive through Glen Shiel, enjoying stunning views of the Five Sisters mountain range. Our return to Inverness will take us along the banks of Loch Ness. We’ll arrive in Inverness city centre around 19:30 hrs. 

Day 4 - Jacobite Steam Train Excursion

It’s an exciting day ahead as you look forward to a memorable journey aboard the Jacobite Steam Train , the real Hogwarts Express.

From Inverness tour through the Great Glen and make our way towards Fort William. Head towards Mallaig along the famous “ Road to the Isles ”, one of Scotland’s most famous routes.

Enjoy beautiful views over Loch Eil before stopping to view the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous in the Harry Potter movies. You’ll cross the 21 arches of this magnificent viaduct later – by train.

Glenfinnan is also renowned for its connections to Bonnie Prince Charlie, who landed in this part of Scotland in August 1745 to raise his standard at the start of the ill-fated Jacobite Uprising . The haunting monument you can see was built to commemorate the Highlanders who lost their lives fighting for the cause.

Look out for the stunning beaches at Arisaig and hear the sad tale of the Highland Clearances that took place here before reaching the end of the road at Mallaig. This popular fishing port is just the perfect location for a freshly-landed seafood lunch.

At the station, join the train and take your seats. Departure time comes, and as the train puffs its way out of the station, an unforgettable journey along the famous West Highland Railway begins.

The steam-hauled train will pass Scotland’s shortest river, deepest loch and highest mountain along the 42-mile trip. Have your camera at the ready for a souvenir photo as the train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, just like the Hogwarts Express!

On arrival in Fort William, reboard your coach for a scenic drive back to Inverness.

Day 5 - Inverness - Edinburgh - London

This morning enjoy an early breakfast before heading to Inverness Railway Station, where the Highland Chieftain express train is waiting.

From Inverness, catch a glimpse or two of the Moray Firth before the tracks turn southwards, and you head for the stunning beauty of the Cairngorms National Park . The range of peaks that we will see includes Ben Macdui, Britain’s second-highest mountain.

After passing through Dalwhinnie, with its famous distillery , there are beautiful vistas to enjoy as the train descends through the Grampian Mountains.

As we arrive in Blair Atholl, look out for whitewashed Blair Castle , the seat of the Duke of Atholl. He is the only person in the UK who is allowed his own private army, The Atholl Highlanders.

From Perth, travel through gentle scenery to reach the ancient city of Stirling with its impressive monument to the great Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace .

The train will follow the same route as your northbound journey from Edinburgh and is scheduled to arrive at London’s Kings Cross Station by late afternoon (subject to change).

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i expect on this freestyle train tour.

This carefully planned semi-independent tour will stretch your holiday time to the max without making you feeling rushed. A unique combination of travel by train, comfortable accommodation and quality sightseeing will give you extra time to explore Scotland in greater detail.

All the documentation you need, including your rail tickets, will be emailed to you. Just show them on your smart device as you go, if required. Any questions or if you need your documents early - just email or call us. We’re here to help.

On tour, you’ll travel independently by train to and from London. We’ll make sure you have a reserved seat, and we’ll send you a comprehensive itinerary so you know what’s happening at any time during your tour, as well as helpful city guides for you to download to your smart device.

Accommodation in Edinburgh and Inverness is provided in comfortable 3-star hotels that are just a short walk from the railway station and conveniently located for sightseeing and the tour departure points.

A tasty buffet breakfast is provided daily (except day one).

The sightseeing tours included in this package are led by an experienced driver/guide who will provide an entertaining and informative commentary in English.

What type of room should I choose?

Selecting the right sleeping arrangements can be a little bit confusing, so here is a description of what you can expect from the hotel accommodation offered as part of your tour:

Single room - this is a room for one person sleeping in a single bed. 

Twin room - this is a room for two people sleeping in two separate beds.

Double room - this is a room for two people sharing one large bed. 

Family room - this is a room for three people sleeping in one large bed (2 people) and one single bed (1 person).

Please note that a family room  is normally a standard double or twin room with either a sofa bed or a rollaway bed.

All room types, other than twin rooms, are subject to availability. 

What is the journey on the Jacobite Steam Train like?

Described as one of the great railway journeys of the world this memorable trip will take you past a list of impressive extremes.

Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig; passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar and the shortest river in Britain, River Morar, finally arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis!

The train will cross the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct (a location made famous in the Harry Potter films) which overlooks Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. The train may pause on the viaduct, time permitting, to allow you to take in the magnificent view.

Standard class tickets are included in the cost of the tour. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to upgrade these tickets to First Class.

How will I find my hotel?

This Freestyle Train Tour has been very carefully planned. Your hotel has been selected not just for its comfort but also for its location close to the railway station as well as your sightseeing requirements.

Concise directions on how to reach your hotel will be given in your customised tour itinerary. 

What meals are included?

A full Scottish breakfast is included from day 2 onwards. This hearty meal can consist of fruit juice; a choice of cereal; bakery basket; cooked items such as eggs, bacon, sausage, mushrooms, tomato and, maybe, a taste of haggis! plus tea or coffee.

Vegetarian and vegan options are always available.

Lunch and dinner are not included in the price.

During the touring day there will be a stop where you can enjoy lunch in a local pub or restaurant.

View all Frequently Asked Questions...

Accommodation

• 4 nights hotel accommodation
• Location: Edinburgh (1) and Inverness (3)
• Scottish/Continental breakfast (4)

Visits, Admissions and Experiences

• Hop-on, Hop-off tour of Edinburgh
• Admission to Edinburgh Castle
• Full day excursion to the Isle of Skye with a local driver/guide
• Full day excursion to Mallaig and the Road to the Isles with a local driver/guide
• One-way Jacobite Steam Train trip with reserved seats on the West Highland Railway Line

  Tour Essentials

• Standard class train tickets from London to Edinburgh, Edinburgh to Inverness and Inverness to London
• Seat reservations on all train journeys where available
• Customised tour itinerary & Official Edinburgh and Inverness guides
• Service charges and taxes
• Admission charges unless stated above
• Meals, snacks or items of a personal nature
• Gratuity to your driver/guide

Departure information

From Kings Cross Railway Station Euston Road London N1 9AL

Check-in: 06:30 hrs Tour Departs: 07:00 hrs Tour Returns: 15:49 hrs

Child details

Child discount applies to children aged 5 to 15 years inclusive.

We’re sorry but children aged under 5 years cannot travel on this tour.

Photo-ID may be requested to confirm discount entitlement. 

Price Notes

IMPORTANT: Once booked this tour cannot be changed or cancelled

Accommodation The price of this tour includes hotel accommodation with en-suite bathroom.

Train Times The times shown above are for guidance only. The train times for your journey will be shown on your tickets and itinerary.

Documentation Tour documentation, including service vouchers and tickets, is electronic. A smart device with an IOS or Android operating system is required.

Admission Prices To give you maximum flexibility, admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour (except Edinburgh Castle). 

FAQs Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.

Product code   RT 02960

Blogs and Guides - discover insider tips and ideas

Customer Reviews Overall Rating:

Had a great time. Communication was excellent. Only wish it had been longer :-)

The day excursion from Inverness to Loch Ness then on to the Jacobite steam train was absolutely extraordinary! The views of scenery from the train were absolutely breathtaking. The flow of our itinerary was flawless and everything was coordinated to perfection!

My son and I had a two part vacation. The first week was to Scotland, booked through Scottish Tours, chosen by my wife. I took control of the second week, just wanting to "wing it" in and around London. The pre-planned Scottish Tours experience was far-and-away the better choice. Scottish Tours chose the perfect hotel rooms with the best views, which is something I could not have chosen picking blindly from a hotel booking service. The day trip bus tours were much more informative and entertaining with live tour guides rather than the pre-programmed self guided audio tours. We saw more of Scotland, in a shorter time, with far less stress than our experience trying to do London on our own. Two take-aways from our experience: 1) Use Scottish Tours- You won't regret it. 2) Listen to your wife. She IS always right.

3 day tour from £ 595.00

5 day tour from £ 1030.00

6 day tour from £ 1125.00

A 1 day Jacobite Steam Train tour from Edinburgh

By Discover More UK

Published: 16 February 2022

Last updated: 21 april 2022.

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It’s a Scotland bucket list activity, especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan, so fortunately it’s possible to do a 1 day Jacobite steam train tour from Edinburgh to ride the famous steam train!

Following an 84-mile route, the Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William to Mallaig on the Scottish coast.  The train runs daily but only between early April and the end of October. Tickets to ride the Jacobite train can sell out fast as do spots on the Jacobite steam train tours from Edinburgh.

Fortunately, the Jacobite train tours from Edinburgh have a certain number of tickets pre-allocated to them each season, so this means that you’re more likely to find a ticket via the Jacobite train tours for your specific dates – especially if you’re booking more last minute.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

A brief history of the Jacobite Steam Train and the Glenfinnan Viaduct

The Jacobite steam train has been in operation since 1984. It is currently operated by West Coast Railways but has had several operators over the years.

The 84 mile route runs from Fort William, beside the tallest mountain in Scotland – Ben Nevis. It then travels to Mallaig on the coast, taking in stunning scenery, lochs, rivers and mountains with stops at the following villages along the way: Glenfinnan, Lochailort, Arisaig, Morar and Mallaig being the final destination.

Interestingly, Arisaig is also Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station. 

The train and the route itself are also often called The Hogwarts Express, thanks to the use of the train and the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the world-famous Harry Potter movies.

You cross Glenfinnan Viaduct in the early part of your journey, as you reach the first stop of Glenfinnan from Fort William.

The Viaduct is Victorian and was built between 1897 and 1901. It sits at the top of Loch Shiel – another filming location used in the Harry Potter movies.

A Jacobite steam train day tour from Edinburgh

There are a limited number of Jacobite train day tours from Edinburgh, particularly ones that are at an affordable price. But this Jacobite train tour day trip from Edinburgh provides excellent value for money. 

The tour includes a friendly and knowledgeable local tour guide who even manages to make the long coach journey entertaining! The tour includes:

• Return tickets for the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William
• Transport for the whole day by luxury coach which has toilets on board
• Packed breakfast
• Stops in Glencoe to see the magnificent Highlands on the way
• Stop at Pitlochry on the return
• Knowledgeable tour guide on the coach and the train with you

The best part of this tour (apart from riding the famous steam train of course!) is the local guide who is particularly entertaining and has so much knowledge about the history of Scotland, the Highlands but also Harry Potter filming locations and James Bond too!

Book the tour here.

How long is the Jacobite train tour from Edinburgh?

To reach the Jacobite train from Edinburgh, the drive is approximately 3.5 hours from Edinburgh to Fort William, so it’s not short.

Your day starts at the meeting location in Edinburgh at 6am and you return to Edinburgh around 8pm, depending on traffic conditions.

Breakfast is included but taking snacks is definitely a good idea too for the journey out to the Jacobite steam train from Edinburgh.

You’ll be able to stop for lunch in Mallaig before boarding the train for the return journey to Fort William, followed by the bus journey back to Edinburgh.

Stopping at Mallaig

The train journey takes around 2 hours each direction so you are on the train for about 4-4.5 hours of the day, so Mallaig is essential for stretching your legs before the return journey!

Mallaig is a beautiful port town on Scotland’s west coast and it’s just a shame you can’t stay for longer there.

With just one and a half hours between the train arriving and your departure, it’s just enough time to grab some tasty fish and chips, enjoy a stroll around the harbour and through the town itself before heading back to the station for your return journey.

Is this just a Harry Potter themed tour?

No not at all!

Obviously there are a lot of Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland and the movies are the reason most people know of the steam train and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, but it’s not a Harry Potter themed tour – you can enjoy it whether you’re a Harry Potter fan or not!

If you are looking for a Harry Potter train tour from Edinburgh then this is a good option as you’ll also see the filming locations like Loch Shiel used in the Chamber of Secrets and Rannoch Moor where scenes from the Prisoner of Azkaban were filmed. But the franchise definitely isn’t a big focus from the tour guides.

However, as stated above, the tour guides are local guides with a vast knowledge of Scotland’s history and the local area, not Harry Potter specialists, so the tour is great for everyone.

Riding the Jacobite Steam Train

Your tickets included on this tour are for the standard class ticket, so it’s important to note that the interior of the standard class isn’t anything special – you’re there for the scenery and the experience, not the interior of the train!

The luxury compartments and First Class tickets start from £79.50 and can be booked here .

The best side to sit on the train (if you’re able to!) is on the left side as you face the direction of travel. This allows you to see the curve of the Viaduct ahead of you as you round the hills and onto the Viaduct section of rail.

Also note that the train doesn’t ‘turn around’ for the return journey, only the locomotive moves to the front of the carriages. So you will be sitting on the same side on the return journey if you’re in the same allocated seats.

Alternative Jacobite Steam Train day trips

If you’d prefer to see different attractions on route or you’re starting from a different city or location, check out these alternative tour options:

• An alternative Harry Potter train tour from Edinburgh – this does the same journey in reverse
• Jacobite Steam Train Tour from Inverness
• Jacobite Steam Train Tour from Glasgow – they recently stopping running the Glasgow tour that includes the train ticket, this tour is similar but only includes seeing the stream train and famous viewpoint, NOT riding the train itself
• Jacobite Steam Train, Isle of Skye and Highlands 3 day tour – if you want more bang for your buck, check out this 3-day tour which includes the train ride, the Isle of Skye and more, departing from Edinburgh

Summary:  1 day Jacobite Steam Train tour from Edinburgh

Jacobite steam train day trips from Edinburgh are a great and affordable way to see this iconic Scotland attraction, experience the steam train journey and be able to do so in a short space of time to maximise your trip to Scotland.

It’s also a great option for an Edinburgh Harry Potter train tour for fans of the wizarding world but without overdoing it too much! Think of it like a happy medium if you and your party are a mixture of Harry Potter fans and non-fans!

A day tour is the ideal option especially if you are wanting to experience more of the Scottish Highlands but don’t have a vehicle to use yourself. It also takes the hassle out of having to drive and having to book train tickets, car rentals etc separately.

Book the Edinburgh Jacobite Train Tour here.

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Riding the Hogwart’s Express: A Detailed Guide for What to Expect

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If you are a Harry Potter fan, riding the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland (also known as the Hogwart’s Express) is such an amazing experience! It is considered one of the top 10 train rides in the world. Even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fan, it is worth it. It is a gorgeous – and magical – train ride.

How to Ride the Train

I love Harry Potter, so this was a bucket list experience. There are two options for experiencing the train: either by riding the train, or going to the Viaduct and watching the train pass by. I decided to ride the train because it was easier than trying to drive there by myself.

The company I decided to book with was Highland Explorers. They were the only group that I could find that offered a 2 day tour with a Jacobite Steam Train ride

If you want to watch the train pass over the Viaduct, there are other tours that will take you to see the train pass by. Unfortunately I could only find tours that would offer this during a 3 day trip, and I only had 2 days to spare! I also spent some time in Edinburgh – read about what to do here.

Riding the Jacobite Steam Train with a Guided Tour Group

Riding the train with a tour group was one of my favourite activities that I did during Scotland! The guide was hilarious, I met other travelers, and we had seats at the VERY back of the train (this is where the best seats are on the train)! We also got to explore the Scottish Highlands, which is some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen.

What I liked about traveling with a group was that I had other people’s company to enjoy while we traveled through beautiful scenery. We had traveled as a group the day before, so we had already gotten to know each other. It felt like going on a train ride with family!

Even if you go completely alone or are shy, don’t worry. You can just admire the scenery. Honestly, half the time I wasn’t even in my seat!

What to expect during the train ride

Before you board the train, you will have time to get to the front to take pictures of the train. Our guide took pictures for us, and everyone was polite and let everyone else take turns taking pictures.

The train has different classes and sections to sit in. We sat in normal coach, so I can’t comment on what the experience in first class is like. I personally didn’t feel like I missed out, and had a fabulous time. In our section, there was a trolley that came around where we could buy drinks and snacks.

The train ride is 2 hours one way, and will take you to a little seaside town called Mallaig. You will have 2 hours there, which gives you enough time to eat and wander around. More on Mallaig later on in the post! Then, you take the exact same 2 hour route back.

Best place to sit while riding on the Jacobite Steam Train

Our tour group had seats at the very back of the train, which is the best place to be! On the way back from Mallaig, they move the engine from the front of the train to the back. So on your way back from Mallaig, you will suddenly be sitting in the front! It was fun to get both experiences.

The best place to sit while traveling to Mallaig is on the left hand side. On your way back from Mallaig, the best place to sit is on the right hand side.

If you don’t have a seat on the best side, don’t worry! Our group leader told us in advance to switch sides on our way back from Mallaig so that we could experience both sides of the train. There is also a window at the back of the carriage (near the toilets) that open all of the way, so you can look out of the window there too (which is what I did)!

If you don’t have a good seat on the train

If you don’t have prime seating, don’t worry! There is a spot at back of the carriage (near the toilet), where you can open the window all the way and stick your head out. This was my favourite place to be for the majority of the train ride!! If you go there early enough, you will have a chance to get your photo of the Viaduct there.

I probably don’t need to tell you this, but just in case: stick your head out of the window WHEN IT’S SAFE! Don’t stick your head out the window when there are trees or rocks around because you could get seriously hurt. Only do it when there is wide open scenery and nothing will hit you.

Crossing the Viaduct

The moment we have all been waiting for – what it is like riding the Jacobite Steam Train when you cross the Viaduct? Honestly, it’s chaos. It’s like the Hunger Games. Ok, so I’m exaggerating a little bit – but it certainly gets more hectic compared to the rest of the ride!

Before you get to the viaduct , an announcement will be made to let you know the Viaduct is coming up.

The first time we went over the Viaduct

On our way to Mallaig, I had a seat on the left hand side. Prime viewing location! However, the windows that you sit in front of only have a tiny little section that will actually open. You can look out your window and see the Viaduct, but the windows are a bit smudgy and not the best for taking pictures.

How did I get my photo?

For some reason, even though I had a seat on the left hand side, I went to the back of the carriage to the window that opened all the way. Maybe I did this because it was my favourite place to look at the scenery? Who knows!

Our guide said that the train would slow down so we could have turns getting a photo. There was someone already standing there (from our group) and she would NOT move out of the way and let others have a turn. There were quite a lot of people around her waiting for a turn. I kind of had to be a bit rude and stick my camera out in front of her and quickly take a couple of shots. Then I moved out of the way to let others have a turn.

The train does slow down, but the moment went by so fast that I didn’t really get the time to truly appreciate it.

Learn from my mistake

If I could go back in time, I would have stayed in my seat to get a picture from that teeny tiny window that opened. I had a prime viewing seat, so I could have stood up and taken the picture easily. Then, I could have sat down and admired the view from my somewhat smudgy window (but with an unobstructed view!).

I still got the photo, but learn from my mistake: if you have a window on the best side of the train, don’t leave it while you’re crossing the Viaduct!

What to do if you don’t get that iconic Viaduct photo

If you aren’t in a good seat, then the best place to go is at the window that goes all the way down (near the toilets). That’s where I went. BUT if you don’t get to that window early, you won’t be able to see out of it because it will get crowded!

But don’t worry! If you didn’t get a photo of the Viaduct on the way to Mallaig, you will have another chance on the way back! On the way back, the ideal side to be sitting on for pictures of the Viaduct is on the right hand side.

On our way back from Mallaig, our group switched sides on the train so I was sitting on the left hand side on the way back. This was ok with me, since I had gotten my prized photo already.

Unfortunately, a few people did not get a photo on the way to Mallaig, so I decided to hang back and let others try and get a photo.

If you don’t get your photo at all , there are other bridges that the train goes over which are photogenic as well. It’s also not as hectic either, so you will have plenty of opportunities to take lots of lovely photos out of the window.

Also, I read that a lot of people will walk to the back of the train during the train ride. This isn’t entirely accurate because you can’t walk the entire length of the train during your journey. I tried to do this to find an empty window, but I was only able to walk through a couple of carriages before I came across a locked door.

What to do during the 2 Hour Break in Mallaig

Mallaig is a small seaside village, which is quite charming to walk around. Mallaig is quite small so it is easy to walk around, eat and window shop within the 2 hours.

The best thing to do when you first arrive is to find somewhere to eat. Our guide recommended we eat at The Chalachain Inn for the fastest service. It was good food, and not very busy.

After food, there is a Harry Potter shop worth checking out. It gets busy, but we were finished eating before most people so the shop was quite empty!

Is the Riding the Jacobite Steam Train Worth it?

The million dollar question is if riding the Jacobite Steam Train is worth it. That is up to you to decide! There were lots of people in our group who weren’t Harry Potter fans that enjoyed the train ride. I mean, it is one of the top 10 train rides in the world. It’s very scenic and a great way to see the countryside. I really enjoyed myself.

If you are going on the train solely for the Viaduct, then it might not be worth it. Going over the Viaduct is a very small part of the train ride. It can be hard to get that photo!

Another option is seeing the train cross the Viaduct . I personally think it would be quite spectacular to see the train cross the Viaduct!

While we were crossing the Viaduct, I could see lots of people outside taking pictures of the train. It was cool to think that we were actually INSIDE of the train, on our way to Hogwarts (well, Mallaig).

One of my favourite memories of the train is sticking my head out of the window. Only when it was safe to, of course! Meeting and traveling with the other people in my group – especially as a solo traveler – was a great experience too!

Hopefully my experience riding the Jacobite Steam Train helps you decide whether you want to ride it or not! Overall, it’s a very scenic and beautiful ride, even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fan. Yes, it did get pretty hectic while we crossed the Viaduct, but it was still really fun and worth it! Since I went with a tour group, it was fun to experience the train ride with them. I was able to visit the Scottish Highlands too, which you must do if you are traveling to Scotland!

Have you been on the Jacobite Steam Train, or watched the train go by at the Viaduct? If so, let me know what your experience was like, and what you would recommend!

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9 thoughts on “Riding the Hogwart’s Express: A Detailed Guide for What to Expect”

Ahhhh I wish I would have done this when I was in Scotland! I was just there to hike the West Highland Way and didn’t research doing anything additional because I wanted to focus on the hike and not spend too much money, but I met so many other people that had plans to continue on after Fort William, either by taking the Harry Potter train and then a ferry to the Isle of Skye, or hiking additional days to Inverness. Made me jealous I didn’t extend my time there, the train looks so beautiful. I love that they have the chocolate frogs and everything haha, how disappointing it would be if they just gave out regular snacks.

Why is it called the Jacobite train? Does it have something to do with the Rebellion?

Omg. I would LOVE to do this train ride. I am a huge Harry Potter fan and am actually planning a trip back to Scotland this summer! The Jacobite Steam train is now going on my list!!

I did the hike to the viaduct because I didn’t have time to do the train ride, and watching the train come around the mountain and cross the viaduct just like in the movies was a highlight of my trip!! I’d love to go back and ride the train though too to have both experiences. It sounds like so much fun, even if a bit chaotic!

This would be so cool! I went to the viaduct but the Jacobite wasn’t running as it was in March.

This is definitely on my bucket list! I’d love to visit Scotland soon and this will be on my itinerary 🙂

Omg!! That’s my dream!! I’m trying to do this since I moved to the UK and haven’t had the chance yet!! Hope to ride it one day!!

My hands down bucket list trip! Thanks for all the great info, you make it seem like an easy trip to take. I love the photos going over the viaduct… and I’m dying to check out Mallaig. Saved & pinned your post for my Hogwarts trip!!

AH, this sounds so amazing! I love Harry Potter! That bridge reminds me so much of the nine arch bridge in Sri Lanka, how incredible.

This is awesome! What an experience! We’ve only hiked to Glenfinnan viaduct so we could take photos of the passing train, which was amazing in itself. I might save riding the train until I can take my mum there sometime in the future!

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Isle of Skye & The Highlands

3 Day Tour Departing From Edinburgh

4.5 254 reviews

Price from $745.00 USD

• No Change Fee
• Flexible Payment
• Peace of Mind

Tour Details

Itinerary & departure, optional experiences.

• 2 - 8 Day Tours
• 3 Day Tour Isle of Skye the Highlands

Accommodation Included

Discover the Highlands and the magical Isle of Skye with its outstanding natural beauty, Viking history, and ancient myths and legends. This is a journey packed with many of Scotland’s most iconic sights and scenery, as well as the chance to travel one of the great train journeys of the world on the Jacobite Steam Train.

Isle of Skye

Jacobite steam train (hogwarts express), eilean donan castle, glenfinnan viaduct, old man of storr, dundreggan rewilding centre, lealt falls, dunvegan castle, dunkeld cathedral, views of ben nevis, commando memorial, forth bridges, rannoch moor.

Tour Highlights

Skye is Scotland’s most popular isle, and you’ll quickly understand why. Skye exudes magic from every mountain, waterfall and rainbow, while its unique geology and beguiling mythology are unlike anywhere else in Scotland. Skye is an ancient and truly enchanting island.

The Jacobite Steam Train shot to worldwide fame as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The route between Fort William and Mallaig on the West Highland Line has been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world.

This jaw-dropping landscape is the most atmospheric and evocative place in Scotland. Glen Coe translates as the ‘weeping glen’, and the name reflects the sad history of the area, as well as the many waterfalls which cascade from misty peaks.

Loch Ness is the most well-known loch in Scotland, thanks to tales of the Loch Ness Monster. Glaciers carved the deep cavity of the loch, which holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales.

Eilean Donan Castle is perfectly formed and instantly recognisable. A charming stone bridge leads out to the island, which is surrounded by three lochs and a backdrop of mountains. The castle is one of the most photographed sights in Scotland.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is known to many as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ after featuring in two of the famous films. The iconic bridge has twenty-one arches which curve around the dramatic Highland landscape, with views over the stunning Loch Shiel.

The Old Man of Storr is a striking pinnacle of rock, perched high upon Skye’s otherworldly landscape. This geological wonder is one of the island’s most iconic sights - it looks even more impressive on a misty day.

Kilt Rock is a breath-taking sight on Skye’s dramatic coastline. Marvel at the magic of Mealt Falls, as it cascades down the striking cliff face - which is said to be shaped by a mythical giant’s kilt.

Did you know that today, only 1% of Scotland's native forests remain? At Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, you'll learn about Trees for Life's inspiring mission to rewild the Scottish Highlands. You'll not only meet lively experts who talk you through the secrets of the forest, but also witness their rewilding success during a scenic woodland walk. (© Ashley Coombes)

Sligachan is a tiny settlement in a breath-taking location. The views are truly stunning, from the beautiful old bridge and enchanting river, to the dramatic backdrop of red and black Cuillin mountains.

Lealt Falls runs through a deep gorge, past the ruins of an old diatomite mine, and out to the sea. Soak up scenic views of the waterfall and rocky shoreline from the elevated viewing platforms.

Portree is Skye’s central hub and most populated town, with numerous shops and places to eat. The main square is a hive of activity, while the quaint harbour with its brightly coloured facades is lifted straight from a postcard.

Dunvegan Castle is the seat of Clan Macleod, who have lived in the castle for over 800 years. Soak up the stunning loch side scenery, and discover fascinating treasures inside, including the Fairy Flag and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s waistcoat.

Dunkeld Cathedral is a beautiful, partly ruined structure, which sits in a peaceful location overlooking the River Tay. Look out for the cursed effigy of the ‘Wolf of Badenoch’ inside, and read about the cathedral’s history spanning hundreds of years.

Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest peak. This majestic mountain rises up from the landscape at 1345 meters above sea level. On a clear day the summit can be seen from the area around Fort William.

The Commando Memorial pays tribute to the elite Commando unit who bravely fought in World War II. The statue looks out across the stunning Nevis Range, and the area where the Commandos trained with live ammunition.

The Firth of Forth has a trio of iconic bridges. The 1890 Forth Bridge is a masterpiece in engineering, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Forth Road Bridge opened in 1964, followed by the striking Queensferry Crossing in 2017.

The Rannoch Moor in the Scottish Highlands is a vast and rugged expanse of wilderness characterised by its sweeping moorland, lochs, and rocky landscapes. A true dive into Scotland's untamed natural beauty!

Passionate Local Guide

Two-Night Stay at Bed & Breakfast Accommodation

Complimentary Breakfast on Day 2 and 3

Visit at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre

Ferry Crossing from the Isle of Skye to the Mainland

Accommodation

Deluxe bed & breakfast 'the skye inn'.

Located in the heart of the beautiful town of Portree, The Skye Inn offers the warmest of Highland welcomes, ensuring a relaxed and personal atmosphere - making you feel right at home! Enjoy an optional fine dinner in the evenings or cosy up at the bar in the Grand Room. During colder weather, a crackling open fire adds to the relaxing atmosphere to wind down after a busy day of exploring. Please note that accommodation can be subject to change.

Accessibility and Facilities

For more information, see our Accessibility Statement .

Tripadvisor Rating

From over 530+ customer reviews

Gaurav 03/05/2024

We had an amazing 3 day tour of Isle of Skye from Edinburgh. Our guide, driver, entertainer, the all in one .. Dusty.. provided an amazing experience right from the point we boarded the bus. The tour covered almost all the attractions en route to Isle of Skye, stay in Portree, Jacobite train experience. A big shout out to Dusty for providing us 3 amazing days on our vacation. Thanks

Sara 29/04/2024

We had such an amazing experience exploring Scotland. Our guide, Laurie, was absolutely amazing. She was knowledgeable, friendly, funny, and made everything so much fun. Highly recommend this tour and hopefully you get lucky enough to experience Scotland with Laurie as your guide!!

Ben 26/04/2024

In my opinion this tour is one of the best ways to see the isle of Skye! Absolutely incredible scenery, lovely accommodation and historic attractions. Big thanks to the best driver and tour guide on earth, Charlie! By entertaining us with her many fascinating facts and hilarious humour she almost single handedly made our tour a 5 star experience. If you're looking for a fun and fascinating guide to the highlands, this is your tour!

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Explore Isle of Skye with @highextours

Tag or mention us on Instagram for a chance to be featured on our channels, website, and in our brochure.

It's all about the journey... 💛​⁠ ⁠ 📸 captured by @ijemsmohd, thanks for sharing your adventures!​⁠

"Epic tour today of The Isle of Skye in Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Absolutely breathtaking!!! Thanks to our fantastic guide Sophie from @highextours for showing us around!"⁠

📸 Thanks to our Driver Guide @highlandexplorerpaul for this stunning shot of Kilt Rock!⁠ ⁠

📸 by our wonderful Driver Guide @highlandexplorerpaul on tour

Highland adventures never fail to treat us with their signature rainbows 🌈😍⁠

📷 by @tubugames having a great time on the #JacobiteSteamTrain with us!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Your 3-Day Isle of Skye tour departs from the city centre in Edinburgh. For more details on your pick-up location, please visit our Departure Info page.

Yes, two nights bed & breakfast or guesthouse accommodation is included in the tour price.

The 2-hour ride on the Jacobite Steam Train and Dunvegan Castle entry are optional experiences and are not included in your tour. You can add them to your trip at the time of booking.

All essential information about the Jacobite Steam Train on our tours can be found here.

Accommodation is carefully selected by our experienced team ensuring a hearty Scottish welcome. While the specific bed & breakfast or guesthouse may vary, you can be confident your stay will be comfortable. Find more info on our Accommodation page.

Your accommodation comes with a freshly made breakfast each morning. However, lunch, dinner, and snacks are not included in the tour. Scotland boasts numerous outstanding restaurants and cafes that we highly recommend you try out. This gives you the freedom to explore Scottish local cuisine at your leisure, catering to your preferences and dietary needs.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are consciously curated travel activities offered on our tours. They are selected with careful consideration for their positive environmental or social impact on Scotland's communities and travellers.

  Your tour includes the following MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences:

Visit to Dundreggan Rewilding Centre

Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, managed by the local charity Trees for Life, is dedicated to restoring Scotland’s Caledonian Forest, an ancient woodland habitat that has dwindled to less than 1% of its original extent. During your visit, you'll delve into the importance of the Caledonian Forest, learn about rewilding efforts, and embark on a scenic woodland walk to witness firsthand the success of rewilding initiatives.

This tour runs from April until October. If you're planning to travel between November and March, check out our Winter Tours , specifically designed for the winter season.

Absolutely! Joining us solo is a fantastic way to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. You'll typically find a mix of couples, friends, and fellow solo adventurers on our tours. Please note that single room availability is limited.

Yes! You can check out our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures , which offers multi-share hostel dorm accommodation (mixed gender) for those seeking a more economical choice. Please note, you must be at least 18 years old to join a tour with HAGGiS Adventures.

While our coaches don't offer onboard toilets, rest assured that our itineraries include regular comfort stops, allowing frequent access to restroom facilities.

Our guides are unable to assist with wheelchairs or provide physical assistance during boarding or disembarking from the coach. Passengers should be capable of boarding and disembarking independently using the access stairs or with the help of a traveling companion. Foldable wheelchairs can be stored in our onboard luggage storage during travel.

Please note that some stops on our tours may involve rough terrain or only be accessible by steps.

It's important to be aware that your accommodation may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users. More info can be found on our Accessibility page.

Yes! Our routes include stops where you can grab a snack or recharge with a drink. Occasionally, we pause at shops offering local souvenirs as well. For precise details about timing and stops, don't hesitate to inquire with your guide.

Although our tours follow a structured plan with key stops, part of the excitement comes from unexpected surprises! We refrain from providing additional details beyond what's outlined here, as factors like weather, traffic, and the preferences of our driver guides may lead to slight deviations. Trust that your journey through Scotland will be unlike any other!

If you need to cancel your tour, you will need to inform us in writing by sending an email to [email protected]. You can find our cancellation and refunds policy in section 3 in our Terms and Conditions .

Feel free to visit our general Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common queries, or reach out to us directly via our Contact Us page.

Isle of Skye & The Highlands Itinerary & Map

Edinburgh to Portree

Leaving the capital in the morning, we travel past the stunning Stirling Castle sitting dramatically atop a steep rock. After a wee stop in the quaint Highland village of Callander we venture into the wild landscapes of Rannoch Moor, a peaty moorland often recalled as the last remaining wilderness in Britain. Feast your eyes upon one of the most beloved landmarks in the Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe, characterised by rugged, towering mountains surrounding the glen. Next, we head to Fort William, where we get the chance to embark on a magical 2-hour ride on the Jacobite Steam Train*. By the time you cross the striking arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct you will understand why the Jacobite Steam Train is often referred to as the world’s greatest rail journey. Our afternoon continues with a scenic ferry ride* to the famous Isle of Skye, where myths and legends of ancient faerie folk await! Our home for the next two nights is the island’s colourful capital town Portree, with free time to explore its picturesque harbour in the evening. (Overnight: Portree) *During April and October, the route goes in reverse, with the Jacobite Steam Train and the ferry ride to Isle of Skye taking place on day 3.

We spend the day exploring the dramatic Isle of Skye with its amazing scenery, myths and legends. Hear tales of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the mainland against the backdrop of the jagged Cuillin Mountains. Highlights include the mysterious rock formation of the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock with its cascading waterfall. In the afternoon you have time to explore Dunvegan Castle, stronghold and ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for the past 800 years. (Overnight: Portree)

Portree to Edinburgh

We bid farewell to the Isle of Skye as we depart the island via the Skye Bridge. On our way east, castle enthusiasts will fall in love with Eilean Donan Castle, arguably one of Scotland’s most romantic photo spots. Our journey leads us to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, nestled within the heart of the Highlands. Here, we delve into the admirable work of Trees for Life, a charity committed to the revival of Scotland's ancient Caledonian Pine Forest. It’s time to go monster spotting! Our destination is Loch Ness, where we take a break and attempt to catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie while enjoying the shores of Fort Augustus. Next, we make a stop at the Commando Memorial, offering stunning views of Ben Nevis, the tallest peak in Britain. Heading further north, we explore the charming village of Dunkeld and its historic cathedral on the banks of the River Tay. As we journey back to Edinburgh, we're treated to one final awe-inspiring sight: the historic Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We arrive in the capital in the early evening.

3 Day Tour Itinerary & Map

Day Highlights

Departure Point

60 High Street, EH1 1TB, Edinburgh

We depart from our blue corner shop at 60 High Street, centrally located on the Royal Mile in the Old Town of Edinburgh. A useful landmark to find us is the Radisson Blu Hotel, situated just one street above.

Not sure how to get here? Find more info on our Departure Info page.

Departure & Return Time

Check-In Closes: 7:30 AM

Departs: 7:45 AM

Returns: 6:00 PM

Please Note

In April & October this tour returns at 8:00 PM. We are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals. Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.

Tours Dates & Prices

Choose a departure date, number of people and accommodation option.

Jacobite Steam Train

Reserve at the time of booking.

Follow the footsteps of Harry Potter and enjoy a magical ride on the Jacobite Steam Train aka the ‘Hogwarts Express’. The steam train between Fort William and Mallaig is said to be the most beautiful rail journey in the world. The steam train crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and sweeps along the west coast, offering magnificent views of distant isles and white sand beaches.

Dunvegan Castle Entry

A visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without learning the fascinating history and clan legend of Dunvegan Castle. Built during 13th and 14th centuries, this Hebridean stronghold is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. Tickets are subject to availability.

• The Jacobite
• The Dalesman
• Scarborough Spa Express
• Lune Rivers Trust

2024 Season - At present we do not have any seats available to book. We are monitoring this on a daily basis and will update this page should we have any availability.

Please stay tuned for updates on our  news page regarding when bookings will fully reopen.

Things to do

During the spring and summer months, Lochaber is transformed into a busy tourist hub. Don't miss out on all the great food, attractions and places of natural beauty.

Below is a selection of sponsored advertisements, placed by the advertiser. West Coast Railways do not accept any responsibility for the service provided by or the accuracy of the advertisements placed.

Western Isles Cruises

One Hour Wildlife Cruise.  Specifically timed sailings to coincide with the Steam Train stopover.  Guaranteed to return in plenty of time for the train. Two minutes walk from the station.  Enjoy a drink in our licensed bar. Toilets on board.  Adults £15, 5-13 years £7.50, under 5’s free.  

The Silly Goose Restaurant at the Lime Tree Hotel

Experience exquisite dining at Fort William's premier French restaurant infused with a Scottish flair. Drawing inspiration from esteemed culinary traditions, our skilled chefs, the esteemed husband-and-wife team of David and Kylie Hickman, craft vibrant and innovative dishes using only the finest locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in a culinary journey that promises to leave a lasting impression on your palate. 

Epic United Kingdom Train Adventures

T here’s something undeniably charming about train travel that brings out one’s sense of adventure. As the train gently rocks over the tracks, scenes of lush countryside, coastline, hills, and historic towns unfold outside your window. The United Kingdom is made for these moments of wanderlust and discovery. Its extensive rail network transports travelers to bucket-list-worthy destinations across England, Scotland, and Wales. Forget hastily ticked boxes; this is slow travel at its finest to let you soak up the magic. 

Embarking on one of the iconic rail routes across Britain offers you a flexible and comfortable mode to explore its treasures. From the Jacobite Steam Train’s 84-mile sojourn past Scottish lochs to the North Wales Coastline’s postcard-perfect views of beaches and villages, there are epic journeys to uncover. Learn about the drama of the landscapes you’ll see and the history of the rails you’ll ride as you clickety-clack over viaducts and through the heart of national parks. Lean into those window views. Savor a cup of tea. Chat with your fellow passengers and locals. See where this UK train trip takes you.   

The Charm Of UK Railways  

The beauty of train travel in the UK owes much to the diversity of its landscapes and destinations. As your train meanders through the country, scenes shift from vivid green hills dotted with sheep to craggy coastal cliffs to quaint villages and towns. Even the shortest routes promise discoveries and photo opportunities around each bend. 

Adding to the allure is the rich railway history that echoes at grand stations in London, Edinburgh, and beyond. Generations of travelers have hopped on iconic lines like the West Highland Line and Settle-Carlisle Railway. The Jacobite Steam Train, a historic locomotive, furthers the old-world ambiance with its vintage style. Yet contemporary comforts and flexibility aren’t forgotten either. Rail ticketing sites like Split My Fare or a similar reputable one make snagging affordable. Now, embrace getting lost in each of these destinations thanks to an extensive rail network that can efficiently whisk you around this compact yet endlessly enchanting island. 

The Jacobite Steam Train (Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland)

All aboard for an authentic taste of retro rail travel on the Jacobite Steam Train. This historical locomotive transports you on an 84-mile journey along one of Scotland’s most dramatically beautiful lines – the West Highland Railway from Fort William to Mallaig. Romantic countryside, mysterious lochs, and the striking Scottish coast unfurl outside your window on this unforgettable trip into nostalgia. 

As its pistons churn and whistle blows, the Jacobite Steam Train conjures images of early 20th-century travel. This antiquated train has starred as the Hogwarts Express in numerous Harry Potter films, adding to its mythical allure. The train, packed with railway enthusiasts and Potterheads, passes verdant valleys and across the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct overlooking lovely Loch Shiel. Look out too for the remote “Hogwarts” railway station stop used for filming. 

The endpoint at Mallaig is a lively harbor town where you can sample fresh seafood before catching the return steam train or ferry along the turbulent Road to the Isles. Between the locomotive’s billowing smoke and distinct scenery, the Jacobite’s mix of retro magic and Celtic wilderness cast a memorable spell. 

The Caledonian Sleeper (Various routes in Scotland)  

For comfortable overnight rail travel through the Scottish Highlands, step aboard the Caledonian Sleeper. These handsome trainsets whisk you to northern destinations like Inverness, Aberdeen, and Fort William while you sleep in your berth. Wake up to epic window vistas without losing rest or precious time sightseeing. 

Caledonian Sleeper affords you private sleeping compartments with cozy single beds or double bunks, depending on room type. En suite showers and toiletries add a touch of luxury, while the classic decor channels Agatha Christie-style glamour. Drift off as the Sleeper rolls its way past lochs, mountains, and the UK’s longest-rippling loch, Loch Awe. 

Routes typically depart around midnight from London’s Euston Station. Relax in the lounge car with a nightcap before retiring to your cabin. Wake up to a hot breakfast and mountain views as the train reaches destinations like foodie hub Inverness or the gateway to the Isle of Skye at Fort William/Mallaig. Disembark refreshed and ready to explore after your scenic overnight journey courtesy of Caledonian Sleeper trains. 

The West Highland Line (Glasgow to Mallaig, Scotland)  

The West Highland Line is considered one of the world’s most epic railway routes, transporting travelers on a 156-mile journey through the majestic Scottish Highlands. As the train winds its way from Glasgow up to the remote fishing town of Mallaig on Scotland’s dramatic west coast, it passes by tranquil lochs, towering mountains, gorgeous beaches, and abundant wildlife. Throughout its winding path, the West Highland Line allows passengers to experience ever-changing vistas of the region’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Leaving behind Glasgow’s urban bustle, the West Highland Line soon steers you into the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Look out for Ben Lomond’s peak rising majestically as you curve along sparkling Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest lake. The train then heads north via Crianlarich into Rannoch Moor’s wild, wind-swept expanse dotted with Highland cattle. Your journey concludes amid salty sea air as fishing boats bob in Mallaig harbor and ferries stand ready to continue westward to Skye. 

The North Wales Coast Line (Crewe to Holyhead, Wales)  

Hugging the Irish Sea, the North Wales Coast Line offers a scenic train voyage along one of Britain’s most stunning shorelines. The 130-mile route connects English towns and cities to the port town of Holyhead, where ferries continue the journey onward to Ireland. 

Leaving behind the English countryside around Crewe, the railway soon enters Wales, offering sweeping views of mudflats and coastal marshes. As the train threads through seaside resort towns like Llandudno Junction, the Great Orme peninsula juts out majestically into the ocean ahead. Further along, foaming surf crashes against the base of towering limestone cliffs, creating postcard-perfect vistas. 

One highlight is bouncing along the coast above picture-perfect sandy beaches backing snow-capped Snowdonia peaks. Historic castle towns like Conwy, Harlech, and Caernarfon slide by, allowing glimpses of imposing medieval fortifications. The line threads across the Menai Strait on the epic Britannia Bridge before reaching the journey’s end at Holyhead with its blend of small-town charm and Irish Sea ferry activity. 

 Passing over the rugged backbone of northern England, the 72-mile Settle-Carlisle railway is considered one of the UK’s most stunning historic rail routes. Opening in 1876 to connect Yorkshire with Scotland, this railway transports travelers through the dramatic Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines landscapes today. 

Your journey begins in the quaint market town of Settle, nestled in the Ribble Valley. Soon, the train starts its challenging climb into the Pennine hills, snaking through green valleys and across ancient stone viaducts. Marvel at the 24 lofty arches of Ribblehead Viaduct towering above rough highland terrain grazed by sheep. 

Further highlights are stopping at remote “request stop” stations like Dent, England’s highest mainline station perched at 1,150 feet. As the train winds its way northwest through Northumberland National Park, the historic city of Carlisle emerges with its imposing 12th-century castle that once guarded the English-Scottish border. 

With its postcard-perfect countryside and heritage appeal, the Settle-Carlisle railway promises a quintessential train trip into the heart of rural England. 

Practical Tips For Epic Train Adventures

Going aboard an iconic UK train journey is an incredible way to experience the history, landscape, and culture of Britain. But a bit of planning goes a long way to ensure your rail adventures run smoothly. Follow these practical tips when booking your epic ride on the rails: 

• The extensive rail network connecting England, Scotland, and Wales can get confusing, especially for first-timers. Doing some research ahead of time helps guarantee you catch suitable trains between destinations. 
• Get oriented with train route maps and plan your itinerary. Knowing essentials like departure stations, connections, and arrival times avoids headaches. 
• Check train company websites for current schedules and book tickets early, even if non-refundable. Snagging cheap fares often requires booking 12 weeks or more prior to travel. 
• Consider purchasing Brit Rail passes, which allow flexible travel on consecutive or non-consecutive days, making hopping on and off trains a breeze. 
• Download the National Rail app and sign up for updates from train operators to stay current with schedules or delay notices. 

With stunning landscapes whooshing by your window, you’ll want to capture incredible photos without reflections and glare spoiling the shot. 

• Choose a window seat facing the direction of travel for the best angle on that perfect click as the train rounds a bend. 
• Carry polarized sunglasses to cut window glare and a microfiber cloth to wipe away smudges. 
• Experiment with camera settings like priority mode and manual focus to adjust for motion. 

If you prepare using these essential rail tips ahead of time, you’ll be able to sit back, relax, and have confidence that your UK train trip adventure will unfold smoothly with beautiful, picture-perfect views along the way.

Final Thoughts  

As the train whistle fades into the distance, you disembark refreshed, enlightened, and awakened after an epic rail journey across Britain. From the rugged romance of Scottish lochs to storybook English villages and Welsh coastal vistas, the landscapes and legends of the UK have unfolded outside your window. The rhythm of the rails still echoes as you reminisce with fellow passengers about picture-perfect moments now etched into memory. 

Next time, you might venture on an overnight passage through the Highlands or link between harbor towns and historic castles. Wherever the rails guide you, epic adventures across England, Scotland, and Wales chug just over the horizon.

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