How to Get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William (A Complete Guide for 2026)
This post may contain affiliate / compensated links. As an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. For full information, please see my disclaimer here. Thank you!
If you’re researching how to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William, you probably know all about this famous Scottish landmark already.
In this guide, I’ll break down all the routes you can take to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct (with or without a car!), the ideal times to visit, photography tips and why Fort William is the best base for your trip.
In case you didn’t know what’s so special about Glenfinnan Viaduct, it’s a railway viaduct that sits at the top of Loch Shiel. Opened in 1901, its concrete curves cut a striking image against the surrounding scenery of the West Highlands.
The viaduct was made more famous still by the Jacobite steam train that runs across it.
Harry Potter fans will know it as the Hogwarts Express and the viaduct even had a cameo in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Yes, it was THAT scene with the flying car.
Film franchises aside, read on to find out everything you need to know about how to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Where is Glenfinnan Viaduct?
Glenfinnan Viaduct stands at the top of Loch Shiel in the West Highlands of Scotland. To the east lies Fort William and in the west is Arisaig and the Hebrides across the sea.
The closest village is Glenfinnan (technically, it’s a hamlet), which has a train station. It’s one of my favourite places to visit in Scotland without a car, so scroll down to the bottom if you’re looking for things to do and where to stay here!
The biggest town close to Glenfinnan Viaduct is Fort William. Dubbed ‘the Outdoor Capital of the UK,’ Fort William sits at the base of Ben Nevis and is a great jumping-off point from which to explore the West Highlands.
Thanks to its position on the West Highland Line, Fort William is well served by the ScotRail train from Glasgow and the Caledonian Sleeper from London.
From Fort William, it’s about 30 minutes to Glenfinnan, which is why I recommend starting here when you visit the viaduct.
Wondering how Glenfinnan fits into an itinerary? Read my guide to Scotland’s West Coast.
How to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William
Your route to Glenfinnan Viaduct depends on your answer to the questions below:
- Do you want to SEE the Jacobite steam train go over Glenfinnan Viaduct? OR
- Do you want to be ON the Jacobite steam train that goes over Glenfinnan Viaduct?
If your answer was 1, keep reading as I’ll explain all the different ways you can get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William, Edinburgh, Inverness and Glasgow.
If your answer was 2, read my full review of the Jacobite steam train which includes photography tips, train prices and what to expect. Basically, everything you need to know to make the most out of your experience!
How to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William by train
The train is by far the easiest way to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William – although admittedly, I’m biased as I don’t drive so I always use public transport in Scotland!
There are two trains you can take. The first option is the Jacobite steam train (aka the Hogwarts Express or Harry Potter train). It’s an iconic train journey which runs twice a day from Fort William to the fishing town of Mallaig from April to October.
It’s a lovely experience with beautiful scenic views along the West Highland Line but it doesn’t stop at any point during the 1 hour and 30-40 minute journey. That means you can’t get off at Glenfinnan to see the viaduct.
You can see the Jacobite cross the viaduct but only FROM the train. If it’s running on time, it slows right down and it’s still pretty cool I think!
To get off at Glenfinnan and admire the viaduct in all its glory, you’ll need to get the ScotRail train from Fort William station which follows the same route as the Jacobite but just with stops.
It’s just over 30 minutes to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William by train. From the station, it’s a 30-minute walk along the hilltops via the Glenfinnan Trail. It’s a beautiful walk with dramatic sweeping views of the glen below until you arrive at the viewpoint.
The trail is easy to follow but it’s a little rocky and uneven in places so I recommend taking some care if you’re in a rush.
The ScotRail train runs about four times a day. I paid a very reasonable £9.10 for a return ticket. You can book them with Trainline or directly with ScotRail.
Here’s a quick Fort William to Glenfinnan train timetable. Double check at the time of booking as they could be subject to change!
From Fort William: | From Glenfinnan: |
08:15 | 11:01 |
12:12 | 16:54 |
16:19 | 19:04 |
22:12 | N/A |
As you can see, there aren’t as many return journeys so make sure you don’t miss that 19:00 train. On Sundays, the earliest return train from Glenfinnan to Fort William is at 16:54!
To see the Jacobite train’s outbound morning service from Fort William, I took the 8:15 ScotRail train from Fort William to Glenfinnan. I got there just before 9 am. I walked 30 minutes to the viaduct viewpoint and had just over an hour to wait.
People were already waiting when I arrived, and it got even busier while I was there. It was worth it though as I was pleased with my photos.
Important note: If you’re travelling by train in the Highlands, you’ll notice they aren’t that regular. I ended up staying in Glenfinnan the whole day as I wasn’t able to get the return train at 11:01.
The earliest I could return after that was 16:54. This was fine for me but if you prefer to be more fast-paced, you might want to use Glenfinnan as a stop-off on your way to Mallaig or the Isle of Skye.
How to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William by bus
It’s possible to get a direct bus from Fort William to Glenfinnan. The 500 route runs every two hours from Fort William to Mallaig, stopping at Glefinnan along the way. You can also catch the 502.
Departing from Fort William Bus Station, the bus runs parallel to the railway and takes about half an hour.
The fare is about £5.10 for an adult return. Check the map for the most up-to-date bus times. I find the Shiel Buses timetable very confusing!
How to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William by car
If you’re driving, the route is pretty simple. Just follow the A830 road for 16.9 miles and then take a left at Glenfinnan Pier Road. It can take between 25-35 minutes one way.
The route runs parallel to Loch Eil and the railway so you really can’t miss it!
The trickiest part about driving is finding somewhere to park when you get there. It’s a popular spot so the closest car parks require you to pay and the ones further away will be busy.
There’s a small public car park (enough for three or four cars) on a layby close to Glenfinnan Station Museum. It’s not always accessible though.
There are four other car parks close to Glenfinnan Visitor Centre but expect to pay around £6 flat rate for however long you plan to stay.
I would take the train given the choice – personally ;).
The best tours to Glenfinnan Viaduct
Since I don’t drive, I always make the most of small group tours when I can. They are a handy done-for-you part of the itinerary so you don’t have to do any planning.
Glenfinnan Viaduct can easily be done in a day trip so you don’t have to start from Fort William if you don’t want to or don’t have the time.
Whether you’re starting from Edinburgh, Inverness or Glasgow, there’s a small group tour to Glenfinnan Viaduct for you!
As you can probably imagine, these tours sell out fast, particularly in the summer when the Jacobite train runs. I recommend checking the schedule and then choosing a tour with the best time slot for you. Book well in advance so you’re not disappointed.
The Jacobite steam train is operated by West Coast Railways and therefore not affiliated with any of the small group tour companies below.
If your heart is set on seeing the Jacobite train cross over the viaduct, you would be much better off starting from Fort William and making your own way there as it’s not guaranteed on a tour.
From Edinburgh
If you’re wondering how to get to Glenfinnan Viaduct from Edinburgh, this day tour makes it so easy. It also explores some of the top attractions in Scotland’s West Highlands.
Revel in the majesty of Glencoe (where James Bond’s Skyfall was filmed). After that, stop for a break at the foot of Ben Nevis and see where Harry Potter was filmed at Loch Shiel.
Of course, you’ll also stop at Glenfinnan Viaduct and see the Glenfinnan Monument. The Jacobite steam train is not included in this tour. It’s not 100% clear whether the train crossing coincides with your visit though.
From Glasgow
This popular Glasgow to Glenfinnan Viaduct tour takes you to Glencoe, Fort William, Mallaig, Loch Shiel and Glenfinnan Viaduct.
The tour does highlight that it coincides with the Jacobite steam train crossing with your Glefinnan arrival (from May to September at least). You also get a bonus stop at Loch Lomond!
From Inverness
This Inverness to Glenfinnan Viaduct day tour is very popular. The one big difference is that you ride the Jacobite train one way over Glenfinnan (at least from May to September).
On the way back, you then get to see the viewpoint – although whether or not you see the train again is unclear. Other stops on this tour include Urquhart Castle, Fort William, Mallaig, Commando Memorial, Fort Augustus and Loch Ness.
If you’re visiting Inverness, make sure you check out my three-day itinerary which includes Culloden Battlefield and Loch Ness.
From Fort William
I haven’t found a tour to recommend that starts from Fort William.
You don’t really need one though even if you don’t drive. Just hop on the ScotRail train from Fort William station and get off at Glenfinnan. Then follow the crowd. Easy!
When to see the train on Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Jacobite steam train only runs from late March to October. In March and October, the train runs once a day and from May to September, it runs twice a day.
During this time, it operates seven days a week with a slightly amended timetable on Sundays.
This schedule is something to keep in mind if you’re desperate to see the Jacobite cross Glenfinnan. If not, you can visit Glenfinnan Viaduct at any time of the year, weather permitting.
Again, check with West Coast Railways for the most up-to-date info about the Jacobite’s schedule.
Glenfinnan Viaduct train times
The below times are subject to change depending on the time of year, but it’s roughly:
Morning service: 10:45
Afternoon service: 15:00
To be in with the best chance, get to Glenfinnan Viaduct early and ask the staff at the Visitor Centre what time the Jacobite is expected. You’ll then need to park yourself in a good spot and wait. The earlier the better!
How to photograph Glenfinnan Viaduct
If the Jacobite steam train is running on time, it will go slowly over the viaduct so you have a few minutes to get a good photo and video.
Set up your camera as soon as you arrive so you can find an angle you’re happy with without too much pressure.
Aim for the outbound train from Fort William to Mallaig if you want to get a shot of the train facing you. Return trains to Fort William will be facing away from you if you’re at the main viewpoint on the left.
If you’re at the viewpoint on the right, you’ll have the train facing you but the engine is inverted so it doesn’t look as good in my opinion. I’ll talk more about which viewpoints to go to later.
If your trip doesn’t coincide with the Jacobite train, you have a lot more flexibility and fewer crowds the deal with.
Autumn is also a spectacular time to visit as the surrounding hills are burnt orange. For more photography tips, read my Jacobite steam train guide.
Editor’s tip: What about drones? Flying drones here is not permitted. It’s most likely for safety reasons to stop tourists from flying them too close to the train. Ignore all signs that require you to pay £10 if you fly a drone. The landowner has put it up but it’s not legally enforceable!
How to get to the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint
There are two main Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoints to choose from. One on a small hill near the Visitor Centre which is fine but quite far away. You have a great view of Glenfinnan Monument on the other side though.
The best viaduct viewpoint is along the Glenfinnan Trail. Here are two ways to get there:
Arriving by train
1. At Glenfinnan Station, walk off the platform directly towards the Glenfinnan Dining Car. You’ll see steps leading up to a decking. Go up them to find a signposted trail to your right.
2. Follow the path through woodland and over a miniature train track. Continue through a cement tunnel and a wooden gate.
3. The narrow but well-trodden path leads up the hill and you’ll start to see sweeping views of Glenfinnan below and Loch Shiel in the distance.
4. Continue along the path which is uneven in places and includes some boardwalks. Eventually, it will start to slope down and you will see some train tracks running parallel. That’s the line the Jacobite train follows. You can also see Glenfinnan Monument in the distance.
5. Walk a little further and Glenfinnan Viaduct will start to appear and you’ll have a lovely view looking down on it. Walk through the gate and you’ve made it to the viewpoint. All that’s left to do is find a good spot for your camera.
Important note: If you’re at Glenfinnan in time to see the train coming back from Mallaig, it will be facing away from you if you go to this viewpoint.
If you want it facing you, continue along the path, go through the gate under the viaduct and follow the path down to the crossroads.
Take the path opposite which crosses a bridge. You’ll see a hut on your left. Pass it and follow the trail up the hill until you reach a small plateau with fantastic views of the viaduct. Don’t worry, it’s easy to find and you will have other people with you!
Arriving by car
1. From the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre car park, you’ll be able to glimpse the top of the viaduct. Park, pay and follow the wide gravel track through a painted orange archway.
2. Cross the wooden bridge and you’ll come to a flat, grassy area with three paths snaking off in the direction of the viaduct which you will see more clearly now. You can follow either one of these as long as you’re walking the the direction of the viaduct. The path along the river is nice.
3. Eventually, you’ll come to a crossroads. Take the left up a slope towards the viaduct arches. It’s signposted so you can’t miss it. You’ll have a great close-up view of the viaduct here.
4. Walk under the arches and go through the gate. You’ll see the trail lead up a slope towards the left. Anywhere here or around the trail will give you a good view.
From a photography standpoint, the best view looks down onto the whole curve of the viaduct. If you continue along the trail, you’ll get there.
Important note: Again, if you’re seeing the train return from Mallaig in the afternoon, you might want to be at the viewpoint on the opposite hill to get the train facing you.
Both viewpoints get busy so expect crowds. If you want a good viewing spot, I recommend getting in position at least an hour before!
Things to do at Glenfinnan
You’ve arrived! Now what? Don’t just take a photo of the Glenfinnan Viaduct and then leave. This small but beautiful place has a huge history and incredible scenery.
You’ll definitely want to spend some time here. Check out some of the best things to do in Glenfinnan.
Visit the Glenfinnan Monument
Glenfinnan has a huge significance in Scottish history. On the shores of Loch Shiel, Bonnie Prince Charlie (Prince Charles Edward Stuart) raised his standard and launched the 1745 Jacobite Rising against Britain’s King George II.
The Jacobites subsequently lost the rebellion at the Battle of Culloden and the Highland Clan culture was put to an end.
70 years later, the Glenfinnan Monument was erected to commemorate all the Highlanders who lost their lives during the rebellion.
At the top, you can spot a statue of the Lone Highlander keeping vigil over Loch Shiel. It’s free to go and have a look.
Explore Loch Shiel
Loch Shiel is a freshwater lake and the fourth-longest loch in Scotland. It was a backdrop in most of the Harry Potter films as it was used (among other lakes) as the Great Lake.
Other Harry Potter lakes of interest nearby include Loch Eilt where you’ll recognise the small island which housed (*SPOILERS*) Dumbledore’s tomb.
Walk to Glenfinnan Viaduct
If you’re keen to get to know the area, do the Glenfinnan Viaduct trail.
This lovely Glenfinnan Viaduct walk takes just one-to-two hours to complete and you’ll get to see Loch Shiel and the viaduct from several different angles. The trail ends at Glenfinnan Monument.
Check out AllTrails if you want to expand on the hike or explore more of the area.
Read more about my favourite day hikes in Scotland!
Pop to the cafe
The National Trust Visitor Centre has a cafe that’s open from spring to autumn. Grab some hot food, drinks and takeaways after a busy day enjoying Glenfinnan Viaduct.
The cafe wasn’t open when I was there but there was a small outdoor coffee kiosk which sold drinks and sandwiches.
You’ll find free toilets in the visitor centre alongside a shop and a small free exhibition about Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rising.
Where to go next after Glenfinnan?
So, what’s next after Glenfinnan? Here are some ideas:
Mallaig
The end of the West Highland Line is Mallaig (where the Jacobite train terminates too). You could jump on the ScotRail train to Mallaig after your Glenfinnan visit although there isn’t a whole lot to do there.
The small fishing town on the west coast of Scotland has some nice cafes and seafood restaurants but it’s not worth spending the whole day there.
Instead, you could use it as a jumping-off point from which to explore the Inner and Outer Hebrides.
The two main ferry routes here will take you to Skye and South Uist.
This brings us to…
Isle of Skye
After Glenfinnan, head to Mallaig and from there take the ferry to Armadale, Skye. Then drive or get a bus to Portree, the island’s main town.
Skye is one of the most popular places to visit in Scotland due to its breathtaking landscapes.
Unmissable landmarks include the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, Fairy Pools, Fairy Glen, the Trotternish Peninsula and Dunvegan Castle.
Read my full two-day itinerary for the Isle of Skye including what to do and where to stay.
Fort William
Once you’ve ticked it off, you could go from Glenfinnan Viaduct to Fort William and explore the West Highlands including Glencoe and Ben Nevis.
Check out my recommended day trips from Fort William for more inspiration.
Where to stay for your trip to Glenfinnan
I would personally stay in Fort William as it’s easy to get to and you have far more options than Mallaig or somewhere remote like Glenfinnan and Arisaig.
Here are some great options in Fort William:
On a budget
Fort William Backpackers – affordable, cosy and well-rated. I stayed here and the bed was so comfy.
Mid-range
MacLean Guest House – clean and close to the train station
Luxury
Inverlochy Castle Hotel – a five-star castle with a great afternoon tea (if it’s a little off budget, you can just stop by for tea and cake ;))
Something unique
Westwind Pod – a sustainable-minded, cosy glamping pod
Close by
Tirindish House – this B&B is in Spean Bridge (the next stop on the train). I stayed here and I loved my comfy room!
Final thoughts on Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William
Thousands of people visit Glenfinnan Viaduct every year so it’s pretty accessible whether you drive or use public transport. Visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct from Fort William is the easiest way.
Would I say it was worth a visit? Yes. Glenfinnan is more than the famous Jacobite train (although it’s pretty cool too!).
The viaduct itself is an incredible piece of engineering, the location is spectacular and the historical significance is fascinating.
If at all possible, I recommend visiting at the very start or end of the Jacobite train season as the summer months get busy.
I went in September and while there were still a lot of people around, it was easy to escape the crowds.
