Hogwarts Express and Scenic Highlands Tour

From£200
12 hours
Aviemore, United Kingdom

About this activity

Experience a magical journey on the Hogwarts Express through Scotland's stunning Highlands, visiting iconic Harry Potter filming locations and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights

  • Ride the Hogwarts Express train
  • Explore the Scottish Highlands
  • Visit Harry Potter filming locations
  • See the Glenfinnan Viaduct
  • Discover the beauty of Loch Shiel

Full description

Step into the wizarding world with a round-trip ride on the Hogwarts Express, traversing Scotland's picturesque Highlands. Along the way, you'll visit iconic Harry Potter filming locations, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel. This 12-hour adventure offers a unique blend of cinematic history and natural beauty, making it a must-do for fans and nature enthusiasts alike.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip train ride on the Hogwarts Express
  • Guided tour of the Scottish Highlands
  • Visit to iconic filming locations from Harry Potter
  • Meals and beverages during the tour

Itinerary

1

We depart Inverness and begin our journey along the world-famous Loch Ness, stopping for photos above the ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NO
2

We continue west, and visit the Commando Memorial which overlooks the Nevis Range; home to the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Now is your chance to board the Jacobite Steam Train in Fort William, one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the world. The train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct where a monument to Bonnie Prince Charlie’s campaign now stands. The train ride is approximately 2.5 hrs and will take you to Mallaig where your guide will meet you.

Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Enjoy your lunch stop in the fishing village of Mallaig. We would suggest sampling some of the local seafood!

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

The beautiful scenery continues into the evening with a stop in Fort Augustus to see the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness up close.

Duration: 45 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Enjoy some unspoiled views on the less travelled road on the south side of Loch Ness.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Before we head back to Inverness, we visit Dores Beach on the banks of Loch Ness.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is wheelchair accessible; please inform the operator in advance if assistance is required.
  • Stroller accessibility is available; however, please note that some areas may have uneven terrain.
  • Service animals are allowed; please notify the operator ahead of time to ensure appropriate accommodations.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historic sites.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as conditions can change rapidly in the Highlands.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • 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.

Traveler reviews

4.7
1,798 reviews
5
1,548
4
125
3
64
2
31
1
30

Beautiful scenery and food

Fantastic scenic tour with The Rock.. of Scotland Craig.. lovely day with good stories and bad jokes from our friendly guide thank you.. I love Scotland!

danilX3825OJMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Inverness to Mallaig trek experience

We had a great trip with Craig! He gave great commentary and we enjoyed getting to stop and see different viewpoints and towns in the Highlands! Also loved the Scottish music playlist!

D7677KOahMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Hogwarts and the Highlands

Wonderful day with Iain! He was very interesting. Knew his history.

802rosaliesMay 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Highlands on a High note

Iain was amazing!!! And has awesome stories!

G5672FMaimeesMay 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Wonderful Highland Tour from Inverness

If you are looking for a train to be part of the tour, that didn't happen due to a last-minute change from the railroad operators. HOWEVER, our tour guide, Louise, was fantastic and safely drove us around the Highlands to visit some beautiful places, and we saw everything that we would have seen on the train (which I have experienced before). She was a beast at handling the bus on those "wiggly-squiggly" roads (as she described them), and I was happy to take a break from driving on the left side of the road and let her navigate us. As a native Scot, she told us many wonderful tales of Highland traditions along the way. She even quoted poetry! I always felt safe while she was driving, and she was professional and lots of fun.

Julie_KMay 19, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

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.