The 2026 Guide to the Hogwarts Express Experience
For many, the dream of receiving a Hogwarts acceptance letter remains a childhood fantasy. However, in the rugged Scottish Highlands, you can board the very train that brought the wizarding world to life. Known in the Muggle world as the Jacobite Steam Train, this service is the closest real-world experience to riding the Hogwarts Express.
Described as the greatest railway journey in the world, this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive extremes. Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig; passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar and the shortest river in Britain, River Morar, finally arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis!
See: Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
The train stops en route to Mallaig at the village of Glenfinnan. Beyond Glenfinnan are the beautiful villages of Lochailort, Arisaig, Morar and Mallaig. You may alight at Arisaig by request to the guard. From here, on a clear summer’s day, you can see the “Small Isles” of Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and the southern tip of Skye. The train continues on from here passing Morar and the silvery beaches used in the films “Highlander” and “Local Hero”.
The Real-Life Hogwarts Express
The Jacobite Steam Train operates on the West Highland Line, an 84-mile round trip between Fort William and Mallaig. This isn’t just a themed ride; West Coast Railways, the operator, actually provided the vintage Mark I carriages and steam locomotives used in the Harry Potter film franchise.
Perhaps more magical than all of the above combined, taking a ride on the Hogwarts Express is a dream come true for fans. The Jacobite Train is as real as can be and embark on your own journey across the Glenfinnan Viaduct twice a day.
To ride the real Hogwarts Express from London, go to the London Euston train station and board a train to Fort William (might we recommend a night train via the Caledonian Sleeper?). The Jacobite steam train — aka the Hogwarts Express used in the movies — departs from Fort William train station in Scotland.
As you travel through the Highlands, several key filming locations will appear outside your window. The most famous sight on the journey is the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The train crosses this 21-arch bridge roughly 30–45 minutes after leaving Fort William.
Another sight to behold is Loch Shiel which served as the “Black Lake” surrounding Hogwarts, and can be viewed as the train crosses the viaduct. During the journey you will also pass Eilean na Moine, the small, tree-covered island that served as Albus Dumbledore’s final resting place.
2026 Seasonal Schedule
- Morning Service: Daily from Monday, April 7 to Friday, October 24, 2026.
- Afternoon Service: Daily during the peak summer season, from Monday, May 5 to Friday, September 26, 2026.
Booking Your Ticket
Securing a seat requires planning, as tickets often sell out months in advance.
- Standard Class (£69): Offers a classic nostalgic feel in vintage open-plan carriages.
- First Class (£105): Includes more spacious seating and the option to add afternoon tea or champagne for a luxury experience.
- Private Compartments (£425): The ultimate experience for groups (up to six), mirroring the private sliding-door cabins seen in the films.
You can also expect some magical treats during the journey:
- Treat Trolley: The on-board trolley doesn’t just sell standard snacks; you can often find Harry Potter themed treats like Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans.
- Souvenirs: A special Harry Potter gift trolley usually moves through the carriages, offering wands and house scarves.
Official bookings can be made directly through West Coast Railways or from the following tours:
