Jacobite Steam Train
The Harry Potter Train, the Greatest Railway Journey in the World: The Jacobite Steam Train goes by many names and is renowned world-over for its incredibly scenic route through the Scottish Highlands. Travelers board the train in Fort William and weave through the remote landscape, connecting charming towns and small villages toward the coastline and the train's terminus, Mallaig. While the scenery has transformed over the years, passengers have enjoyed the beauty of this route for over 120 years.
As travelers board the train in Fort William, they can look up at the British Isles' tallest mountain, Ben Nevis. The course is filled with tight curves, and the mighty steam engines climb steep gradients with ease. Passengers are delighted to hear the "clickety-clack" sound of the rails as the train proceeds through the stunning landscape, as the Jacobite Steam Train is built with jointed tracks rather than more modern welded tracks. Mountains and lush glens make for incredible views, as do the numerous gleaming lochs. The route's pinnacle comes as the Jacobite Steam Train crosses the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the "Harry Potter" films. If time allows, the train makes a brief pause on the viaduct so guests can soak in the fantastic vistas below, including sights of Loch Shiel.
Traveling at a pace of no more than 50 miles per hour, the iconic Jacobite Steam Train presents the Scottish Highlands' immense beauty seven days a week from April until October. Travelers may select from two departures daily. Six hours of incredible scenery and nostalgic rail experiences lie ahead on the Jacobite Steam Train.