Jacobite Steam Train Review: What It’s Really Like (+ Photography Tips!)

Scotland’s Jacobite steam train is a railway journey of superlatives. Hailed as the greatest railway journey in the world, it passes by Britain’s tallest mountain range and the deepest freshwater body in the British Isles, with views of the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct along the way. 

It’s rare to find a more picturesque train ride!

Many people ride the Jacobite train, as it’s also known as the Harry Potter Train or Hogwarts Express, and there are plenty of filming locations from the franchise en route. But you don’t have to be a fan of the wizard to enjoy it. 

In this Jacobite steam train review, I share everything you need to know about riding and photographing the train – and crucially, whether or not it’s worth the hype.

It’s packed with tips based on my own experience on board as well as up-to-date ticket prices and timetables, what to see from the window and how to photograph Glenfinnan Viaduct.

What is the Jacobite steam train?

The Jacobite steam train is owned and operated by West Coast Railways. Officially called the Jacobite, it’s named after the local connections to the Jacobite political movement in the 17th and 18th centuries.

It also goes by the Harry Potter train, and you may already recognise parts of the railway route from the film franchise. Some of the carriages on the Jacobite made up part of the Hogwarts Express, but the actual Hogwarts Express engine is at Warner Bros. Studios near London.

Running from Fort William to Mallaig on the west coast, it follows one of the most scenic railways in Scotland, and it’s a romantic way to experience the West Highlands. You can listen to the sound of the 1930s vintage steam engines chugging along while spectacular Highland scenery slips past your window.

As the train departs Fort William, it skirts around Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct before reaching Loch Morar, the deepest freshwater body in the British Isles.

Editor’s tip: The Jacobite steam train can get booked up months in advance, particularly during the summer! I recommend booking it early to avoid disappointment. 

Jacobite steam train review: what to expect

So, what’s it actually like on the Jacobite steam train? Your booking includes a return journey as there are no single tickets. However, I rode it one way in September on the return journey from Mallaig to Fort William. I used it as a mode of transport, travelling from Skye to Fort William and then onwards to Spean Bridge for the night. 

This was fine, but the only downside is that you only get a chance to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct once rather than twice. So, I was a little apprehensive about getting on the train and finding a good spot.  

Boarding the train

Mallaig station is small (as is Fort William), so you can just walk onto the platform without showing your ticket. You get your tickets via email, and the conductor checks them later on when you’ve boarded the train. I recommend printing yours off.

It’s recommended that you get there a minimum of 20 minutes before departure, but we got there half an hour before to take photos of the outside (you can take better photos of the front of the train at Fort William with the steam billowing around it). 

Your tickets include designated seats, so you can’t just sit anywhere. Normally, this works out pretty well as it means you get to see the view from both sides of the train on a return journey.

We found our seats in Standard Class – right at the front of the train. It’s not quite like riding in style in the beautiful vintage First Class, but we were on a bit of a budget. Standard Class was fine, nothing too swanky, but comfortable.

The seats were arranged in groups of four with a table and a rack to store luggage above your head. The upholstery was a little faded, but the seat was well-sprung and very wide. It was much more generously sized than modern train seats, except for perhaps the Caledonian Sleeper!

The windows were also huge. All the better to take in the view. You can slide the top part open, but if you’re sitting near the front, you may end up with a little soot blowing through. I was travelling on an overcast day, but I still had good visibility through the window.

If it’s a rainy day, your window may be fogged up, as some people have mentioned in their Jacobite steam train reviews. It’s worth bearing in mind.

We soon realised that our seats were on the wrong side to see Glenfinnan, so my partner disappeared down to the rear of the train with a camera in tow, so he could bag a good spot in time. I was left with the bags, my book and an eye on the map so I could see what was coming up.  

Read More: Caledonian Sleeper Review: Is This Train Worth The Hype?

The journey

My book lay abandoned on the table as I gawped at the scenery instead. The train pulled out of Mallaig and chugged south down the coast. On the right-hand side, we passed the Silver Sands of Morar and had a view of the Small Isles across the sea. On the left was Loch Morar, then we left the coast with views of rugged mountains and silvery lochs to feast our eyes upon.

Looking back, I wish I could have relaxed more, but I was so antsy about missing Glenfinnan Viaduct that the first half of the journey was a blur. If I could give you one tip, it would be to do this train as a return so you can see Glenfinnan when it’s on your side, then relax and enjoy the views for the rest of the experience.

Arriving at Glenfinnan

Soon enough, Glenfinnan was approaching, so I jumped up to claim my spot on the right side of the train in the vestibule area by the doors at the end of the carriage. I had to stand firm as plenty of people were trying to do the same. I did end up sharing my window with another woman, though. 

As we approached the viaduct, the train slowed down, and the driver told us where to look. I felt a bit like royalty seeing the people at Glenfinnan waiting and waving as we slowly passed by!

We all craned our necks to get a good view, and a lot of people stuck their cameras and phones out of the window (very risky!) to get a better shot. It was impossible to get a photo of the curve of the train without the odd camera, head or selfie stick in the way.

The final leg to Fort William

After Glenfinnan, I was able to return to my seat. My partner also returned (slightly sooty), and we sat back and relaxed for the rest of the journey. I tried to spot Ben Nevis as we arrived at Fort William, but it was hiding behind a cloud.

Riding the Jacobite train was an amazing experience despite the mad dash for Glenfinnan. If I had a bigger budget, I would have opted for the high tea in First Class for the full experience (more on classes and tickets later). 

Read More: The Perfect 10-Day Scotland Itinerary by Train with Epic Views

Which side of the train should you sit on for Glenfinnan?

Okay, probably the most important question – which side should you sit on if you want to take a photo of the train curving around Glenfinnan Viaduct? 

Short answer: You want to sit on the left-hand side when departing from Fort William and the right-hand side when returning from Mallaig. I repeat that’s LEFT there and RIGHT back. The same goes if you want the best views too.

To see a proper curve, you’ll also want to be at the very front of the train or at the very back. If you’re at the front, watch out for the soot. If you phone them to book your tickets, you might be able to request where you sit; otherwise, tickets are randomly allocated. 

Editor’s tip: If your seat is on the wrong side for Glenfinnan, don’t worry! It happened to me, too. Go and park yourself by a window at the end of the carriage, ideally at the front or back of the train. I recommend getting to a spot as early as possible and being prepared to wait there until Glenfinnan. As the train nears the famous site, lots of people will be milling about looking for a similar spot! 

Other photo spots to look out for on the Jacobite: 

• The big and obvious one is the Glenfinnan Viaduct! It’s roughly halfway through the train journey, and don’t worry, you can’t miss it as the train slows down for pictures. 
• As you come to Glenfinnan, look out for the beautiful Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument, a tall tower that commemorates the lives lost during the Jacobite Rebellion. 
• Depending on visibility, you’ll be able to see Ben Nevis as you arrive at Fort William. 
• Just after Glenfinnan (or just before if you’re returning from Mallaig), you’ll pass by Loch Eilt where you can see Eilean Na Moine island – the island where *SPOILER ALERT* Dumbledore is buried in the Harry Potter films. It’s on the opposite side of Loch Shiel. 
• As you travel along the coast to Mallaig, see if you can spot the Isles of Eigg and Rùm, then later the bottom of Skye in the distance! 

Top tips for riding the Jacobite steam train

• If you aren’t too bothered about the Jacobite steam train trip itself but want to see the views, get the ScotRail train. It follows exactly the same route at a fraction of the price.
• You can bring your own food and drink on the train. There’s also a buffet car to buy refreshments. High tea is available to pre-order in the First Class and Second Class carriages.
• If your window is open, be prepared for some soot and steam. 
• Scotland is no stranger to wet weather… If your window is misted up, wipe it and wipe the outside too, if you can, before you set off for a better chance at seeing the views.
• And on that note, pack a rain jacket for your excursions outside! Read my complete Scotland packing list.
• You can take photos and videos from the window, but just make sure you hold on tight. 
• And if you’re travelling with your furry friend, you’ll be pleased to know that well-behaved medium-sized dogs are allowed in Standard Class!

How long does the train take? 

The journey takes about one hour and 30-40 minutes each way, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery passing your window. If you choose to do the return journey, then you have about two hours to spend in Mallaig. 

Jacobite steam train times 

Morning: Departs Fort William at 10:15 and arrives in Mallaig at 12:25 | Departs Mallaig at 14:10 and arrives in Fort William at 16:03

Afternoon: Departs Fort William at 12:50 and arrives in Mallaig at 15:06 | Departs Mallaig at 17:00 and arrives in Fort William at 18:52

Note: the train only runs for half the year – from April through to October. The afternoon service runs from May to September!

Jacobite steam train ticket prices and seating 

There are three carriage types to choose from on the train. These are: 

First Class Open Carriage: This carriage has been beautifully furnished with traditional upholstered seats and table lamps. You can choose between private tables of two or four. You’ll also get complimentary tea and coffee. Plus, optional high tea is available for pre-order at about £29.50 per person. These need to be ordered at least seven working days in advance.

First Class Compartment Carriage: Known as the Harry Potter compartment carriage, the vintage-style compartments seat up to six passengers. The price is per compartment. Complimentary refreshments aren’t included. This carriage is only available during the morning service on select models.

Standard Class Carriage: Fairly basic but still comfortable, the seating is four per table. No complimentary refreshments are included, but you can make use of the buffet or pre-order high tea.

Ticket fare prices look like this: 

Quick reminder: All train fares include a return journey in the price. You can ride the train one way, but there’s no one-way fare. Book tickets here.

The best Jacobite steam train tours 

You can easily ride the Jacobite steam train as part of a self-guided trip. But if you’re short on time, don’t want the hassle of getting to it yourself or want to do it as part of a wider Scotland west coast itinerary, I recommend doing a small group tour.

Here are the best Jacobite steam train tours you can do: 

• Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Highlands Day Tour – departing from Edinburgh, this day trip with Timberbush includes watching the Jacobite cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct. You’ll also get to see beautiful Glen Coe, Cairngorms and Pitlochry. It doesn’t include the train ride.
• 2-Day Highlands Tour with Hogwarts Express – if you want to incorporate the Jacobite steam train into a longer Scottish Highlands experience, this two-day tour from Edinburgh includes the Cairngorms, Culloden Moor, a ride on the steam train and a visit to Glen Coe. 
• From Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Highlands Tour– this Hairy Coo tour departing from Edinburgh takes you to Glenfinnan, where you can see the train going across the viaduct. It doesn’t include the steam train ride. 

Editor’s tip: I recommend booking these tours in advance as they sell out quickly! All tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. 

Where does the Jacobite steam train go?

The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William to the seaside town of Mallaig on the west coast of Scotland. It’s a gorgeous 84-mile journey with breathtaking views all the way, particularly when you cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

One thing to note: although the Jacobite passes stations on the journey, you won’t be able to get off at any of them, as it only stops at Mallaig – sometimes Arisaig upon request. To get off, you’ll need to ride the ScotRail train (more on that later!). 

A quick note on Mallaig 

Mallaig is a fishing town on the west coast of Scotland. It’s well-known for its fabulous fresh seafood. However, as lovely as it is, there’s not a whole lot else there, so I advise managing your expectations. 

If you feel like stretching your legs, there are a few nice walks in the hills behind the town. The Tea Garden restaurant is also a good place for a bite to eat. 

Alternatively, Mallaig is a link to the Isle of Skye. You could use the Jacobite steam train as a transport link as part of your train itinerary, rather than an attraction, by riding it to Mallaig and then catching the CalMac ferry to Armadale, Skye. Or vice versa.

This means you’ll ride the steam train one way like I did, rather than out and back. Just make sure you check the ferry timetable carefully so that the timings match up.

Read More: Isle of Skye 2 Day Itinerary: Amazing Things To Do

What about Glenfinnan Viewpoint? 

The Jacobite steam train is, without a doubt, a beautiful railway journey with spectacular views. However, there’s one thing you do miss when riding it, and that’s the best view of the train going over the viaduct. After all, it would require you to be in two places at once!  

So, what if you want to see the Hogwarts Express go over Glenfinnan Viaduct in all its Harry Potter glory? For that, you’ll need to go to Glenfinnan Viewpoint, located on the hill above the viaduct. 

Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint is a 30-minute walk from Glenfinnan train station, but you’ll need to be on the ScotRail train to get off, not the Jacobite. That train runs three times a day (twice on Sundays!). 

You can also drive and park near the lookout, but parking isn’t free, and spaces are limited. Fair warning, the viewpoint gets very busy as everyone wants to get that same photo. Try to get there about 45 minutes to an hour early if you can to secure a spot you like. 

Don’t miss the chance to look at the Glenfinnan Monument, Loch Shiel, the visitor centre and other cool attractions in Glenfinnan while you’re there.

Read More: Scotland West Coast Itinerary: The Best of the West Coast in 7 Days

When to see the Jacobite train go over Glenfinnan

The Jacobite goes over the Glenfinnan Viaduct at approximately: 

Morning service (April to October)

• Morning: 10:45 (outbound)
• Afternoon: 15:15 (return)

Afternoon service (May to September)

• Afternoon: 13:20 (outbound)
• Evening: 18:05 (return)

The train crosses the viaduct about 30 minutes after departing Fort William and about an hour after departing Mallaig on the return journey.

In theory, you can squeeze in both riding and viewing the train if you’re prepared to do some to-ing and fro-ing.

Itinerary A

You could get the ScotRail train from Fort William to Glenfinnan, which takes about 34 minutes. Depending on the time you have, you could admire the views over Loch Shiel before getting into place for the Jacobite. 

Then you would hop straight on the next ScotRail train to Mallaig and be just in time for the morning service heading back to Fort William. Or give yourself a breather and catch the afternoon train back (only from May to September!). 

Itinerary B 

Alternatively, you could spread them both out over two days. On the first day, you could catch the ScotRail service to Glenfinnan and spend the day there. 

You have two or four opportunities to see the Jacobite train go over the viaduct then, depending on the time of year. You can also have a look at the Glenfinnan Monument and take a cruise on Loch Shiel. 

From there, go back to Fort William (or onwards to Mallaig), then ride the Jacobite train one way or both ways! 

Want to know how to get to Glenfinnan from Fort William? I’ve written a guide featuring all the best transport options, photography tips, where to stay, what to do at Glenfinnan and more.

Editor’s tip: Check the timetable here to make sure the trains line up.