Glenfinnan Viaduct: My Harry Potter Steam Train Adventure
Leaving Skye behind, I had one mission in mind: see the famous “Harry Potter train” cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The drive from Skye took exactly two hours, and I had calculated perfectly to arrive at 10:35am, just ten minutes before the steam train was due to pass at 10:45am. Excitement bubbled inside me. But then… disaster struck.
The car park entrance was blocked. No one could get in. My heart sank. I drove around desperately, hunting for a space. In the end, only my husband stayed with the car while the kids and I scrambled out to catch a glimpse of the bridge. It was chaotic, but worth it.
Seeing the signboard with “Glenfinnan Viaduct” written on it lifted my spirits—we were almost there. Nestled in the Scottish Highlands, this bridge isn’t just a railway viaduct; it’s a piece of cinematic history. The 21-arch concrete structure, spanning 381 metres and standing 30 metres high, was constructed between 1897 and 1901. Designed by Simpson & Wilson and built by Robert McAlpine, known affectionately as ‘Concrete Bob’, it was an engineering marvel of its time and even featured in the 1899 American Engineering Journal.
Why all the fuss over a train bridge? The Glenfinnan Viaduct became world-famous thanks to Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and subsequent films, where the Hogwarts Express crosses the viaduct in sweeping, magical shots. Today, the Jacobite Steam Train replicates this iconic journey, offering passengers a chance to experience a bit of movie magic in real life.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Parking: The Glenfinnan Visitor Centre charges £3.50, but spaces fill up fast during train times. Arrive at least one hour early if you want a guaranteed spot.
- Train Times: Typically, the steam train crosses at 10:45am and 3:20pm. Check the official West Coast Railways website for the most up-to-date schedule.
- Best Viewing Spot: Avoid the crowded viewing point and hike up the hill for a fantastic vantage point and better photos.
My Personal Experience
Despite the parking chaos, I managed to get the kids out and up to the hill. The anticipation was palpable as we waited. When the train finally appeared, the sight was magical. People were cheering, clapping, and taking photos—it really felt like stepping into the Harry Potter films. I even managed to snap a few shots of Rio and Chloe enjoying the moment, running around like mad in the crisp Highland air.
The area around the viaduct is also a delight: shallow streams for kids to paddle in, grassy fields for running around, and walking trails for all levels. Even with the parking headache, the place is worth a full-day visit. Watching the Jacobite Steam Train glide across those 21 elegant arches with Loch Shiel in the background was unforgettable.
Jacobite Steam Train Info
The train runs daily from Fort William to Mallaig, with round-trip fares ranging from £60–105 per adult depending on class, and £39 per child. While it’s a splurge, it’s an unforgettable experience. For those who prefer a budget option, there are other steam trains across the UK worth exploring—but for many, just seeing the train from the viaduct is magical enough.
Despite my husband missing out due to the car park chaos, this moment—standing on the hill, camera ready, children by my side, watching a piece of cinematic and engineering history unfold—made it one of the most memorable highlights of our Scottish Highlands adventure.
Tip: Always check train times before you go and arrive early for parking. Your magical experience depends on it!