Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Day Tour from Inverness
Overview
Available languages
12 hours
Mobile ticket
Enjoy a full-day of stunning scenery and fresh Highland air, as we travel all the way around Loch Ness and along the idyllic West Coast. Our journey reveals ancient ruins, a poignant war memorial, beautiful beaches and gorgeous Scottish wilderness – with untamed mountains never far from sight. Embark on the the Jacobite Steam Train for a magical 2-hour ride along beautiful coastal scenery and over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Made famous by the Harry Potter films, and voted one of the world’s most scenic railways, this is a trip you’ll never forget!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train service may be subject to alterations and cancellations at short notice, outwith our control
It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, 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.
From 1st April 2025 the 7:30 am tour will return at 7:30 pm.
It is not possible to upgrade your Standard steam train ticket to a First Class ticket
Children under 5 years old, including infants who do not require a seat, are not permitted to travel. We are unable to accommodate any child under the age of 5.
If downloading an audio guide, remember to bring your headset.
The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures.
The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local English Speaking Guide
Jacobite Steam Train one-way ticket (Fort William to Mallaig)
Please note that the itinerary will be reversed on dates when the tour starts at 9:30am.
Lunch
Restroom on board
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Gratuities
What To Expect
Urquhart Castle
We depart Inverness and begin our journey along the world-famous Loch Ness, stopping for photos above the ruins of Urquhart Castle.
Commando Monument
We continue west, and visit the Commando Memorial which overlooks the Nevis Range; home to the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.
Options
9:30am Departure
Departs Inverness at 9:30am.
7:30am Departure
Departs Inverness at 7:30am.
Reviews
1,529 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Hogwarts Train Jorney and 13 Hrs trip
Jeetendra B,
Aug 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00Long 13 hrs trip with regular breaks to have Cofee or buy local stuff. Our Guide, Torquil was fantastic....Quite funny and friendly guide. Very knowledgeable. The train trip is overhyped, nothing great.
A tour not to be missed
Angela O,
Aug 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00A long day but Tabby our tour guide and Donny our driver made it very enjoyable. They were knowledgeable and entertaining . We enjoyed learning about the history, the stop at Loch Ness is fab and the train ride was exciting, we would recommend.
A great, well organised...
John D,
Aug 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00A great, well organised tour. Plenty of time at each of the stops, commentary along the way was superb. Thanks Emily (great driving and great commentary at start of trip) and Tabie (great commentary once microphone issue was sorted). Loved the bonus stop to watch afternoon train go over Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Hogwarts blast to the past
Don B,
Aug 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00This is well worth your time. Beautiful scenery along the way. The train ride is wonderful and the guide was great.
Underwhelming
Rachel T,
Aug 12, 2025
- Viator
3.00This tour was a bit underwhelming for me. The main reason we booked it was for the train ride as we were unable to get train only tickets. The tour was very long 12 hours of essentially tons of bus riding, mediocre lunch in a over crowded tourist trap town, then finally the train ride and then More bus. Our guide Emily was not even Scottish, albeit a friendly woman. So I felt she was missing the fun quirks and first-hand knowledge a native would have. She had a nice Playlist and was an excellent driver who stopped right away if a passenger wasn't well. Overall I feel like this was not worth the price paid but my son was happy to do the Harry Potter train and that's what was most important at the end of the day.
Related Experiences
Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd