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
1,774 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Breathtaking Views
edsartori,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was great: A quick way to explore a bit of the region. Gorgeous landscapes, a fun and friendly guide Donny and the perfect road trip playlist to singalong :)
The famous Harry Potter train
Neelam C,
Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a wonderful time on the tour. The highlight of the tour was the one-way Harry Potter train It was raining but we enjoyed the scenery and were able to see the bridge. Our tour guide Donnie was very good. He showed us much more than we were expecting. He gave enough time and attention to every single person in that bus. Driving and giving commentary same time 👍 amazing!
An excellent day out exploring the Western Highlands
Wendy M,
Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This is a long day, with a lot of ground covered. However, it is well paced and the Jacobite steam train ride in the middle of the day is a definite highlight and a comfortable ride. Ian was a great guide who was very knowledgable about the area and had many stories and local lore to add. He gave us plenty of time to explore various areas we visited, and adapted when one location was full and we couldn't park as planned. I highly recommend a fresh fish lunch in Mailag.
Excellent tour including Harry Potter train ride in Scotland highlands
C165GHtoddb,
Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Iain was an excellent tour guide. Learned so much about Scotland and its history. Amazing sites and taken to and from seamlessly. Would recommend for anyone who loves Harry Potter as you get to ride the train and as good way to see so much of the Highlands.
Great Experience
James M,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00The tour guide gives you so much information and stories about the different areas in Scotland. She stops regularly for photo opportunities and for longer breaks. Bring lunch for the train and sit on the left side. It was a great way to see Scotland. Highly recommend
Great tour, great landscapes and lots of Harry Potter
H4708KIluc aa,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed the tour. Karen was great the entire time, explaining everything so well and making the trip so interesting, The landescapes and the experience was amacing. Definitely the best tour i've done so far.
Fun time.
suemH3089KK,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Karen was an amazing guide. Lots of really fun facts we learned along the way. The train section was a definite highlight. Great trip. Thanks Karen.
Amazing!
Farah Ain A,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Karen is AMAZING. Shares with us all that's interesting and made us feel safe with her driving throughout. The sunset at Dores beach has gotta be the best surprise for me. Thank God for the amazing weather too!
Jacobite Steam train tour
Sydmarm,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Long day! Felt a little rushed but a great sight seeing activity! The train ride was a great experience and very scenic. Karen was great and made the trip fantastic!
Great tour
C3728KRnurula,
Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Places that we were bringing in ught to was very beautiful. Karen was helpful in helping to take photos for the group. She is also friendly and try to engahe in conversations with the group.
From £200.00
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Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd