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
1,453 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
NOT a Hogwarts Express!!
Daryl P,
Jul 21, 2025
- Viator
1.00This tour should not be listed as a Hogwarts Express tour. Save your money and buy the Jacobite Tour at less than half the price. 2 hour train ride and you get about 2 minutes of Harry Potter info. They stop a few times between stations but NOT for any pictures of Harry Potter related areas. Save your money, buy the Jacobite and get the same 2 minutes of HP for less than half the money!!!!!!
Great Overview
Teddleton N,
Jul 21, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great way to get a big picture of the highland region. We had a tremendous guide who was a wonderful and incredibly/patient driver (Tor). Took opportunities to visit some great little villages that probably would have been passed up otherwise
Great company and tour guide/driver but train ride was lacking.
Erin J,
Jul 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00I rate Highland Express and our driver, Torquil, a solid 5. Dumble’Torq’ knew he would have Potterheads and provided info and HP music along the journey. The train ride definitely has room for improvement. Hot and stuffy which I was prepared for but provided next to no information during the ride. We did stop before the viaduct which was nice, but if it’s advertised as “The Hogwarts Express” I would think they would at least identify which island is THE island (iykyk).
Train ride cancelled. Can’t recommend because we didn’t experience it
Marcel H,
Jul 12, 2025
- Viator
2.00Bus driver Iain was awesome very good with everything he deserves top five stars. Not his fault, We were already on the train when it got cancelled. Train hadn’t left yet. Bridge issues. The main reason we booked the trip was for the train trip. Disappointed.
We travelled in the day...
Ella N,
Jul 12, 2025
- Viator
2.00We travelled in the day that may be the hottest day in Scotland. The air conditioning is not good enough in such a bring sunny day. And our steam train was cancelled due to a bridge problem.. But the tour guide/ driver is very informative and friendly.
Related Experiences
Operated by Highland Explorer Tours Ltd