Jacobite Steam Train Tours [2024] in Highland, Scotland

The Jacobite Steam Train journey in the Scottish Highland was one of the best tours I embarked on during my visit to Inverness. Riding the Jacobite Steam Train was not just about seeing the landscapes that inspired J.K. Rowling, but about rekindling the sense of wonder that first captivated me as I shared the magical world of Harry Potter with my children, watching their eyes light up with each spellbinding moment on screen.

Seated comfortably, the lush scenery of the West Highland Line unfolded like a moving painting, the natural beauty that had inspired so many stories. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the moment we approached the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct – a sight so deeply ingrained in the collective imagination of Harry Potter fans. As the train curved along the viaduct, I half-expected to see the Hogwarts Express reflected in the waters below, carrying students to a new term of magical education.

The sense of nostalgia was overwhelming, not just for the fictional memories of Harry Potter but for the real history and culture embedded in the Highlands. Each hill and glen whispered tales of the past, with the steam train serving as a bridge connecting those tales to the present. This journey was more than an item ticked off my list.

Now that you’ve landed on this page, you’re likely eager to embark on a similar journey. The Jacobite Steam Train operates a seasonal service each year and this year’s schedule is published. Drawing from my own enchanting experiences, I’m here to guide you to the best Jacobite steam train tours available this year. Having navigated the options firsthand, I can offer valuable insights and tips to ensure your adventure is timeless also.

Let’s take a look.

Timeless Travel Steps is supported by our readers. If you purchase through an affiliate link on my site, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Please read our Disclosure for further information.

Ride the Jacobite Steam Train

When you visit the Scottish Highland, there are some activities which you simply must experience! One of the best experiences awaits those who go on the Jacobite steam train tours.

Embark on a very special journey aboard the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, along the West Highland Line, where the rugged west coast, and the enchanting landscapes of the Scottish Highlands unfold like pages from a storybook.

This spellbinding experience, often hailed as one of the greatest railway journeys in the world, whisks you away on a day tour that transcends time, from Fort William to the charming fishing port of Mallaig.

For fans of the Harry Potter films, the real Hogwarts Express comes to life as the train chugs over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, a site where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s storied past intersects with cinematic magic.

The Jacobite Steam Train tours offer more than just a ride; it’s a full immersion into the heart of Scottish heritage and natural beauty, one that is well worth experiencing.

The Very Best Options in Day Excursions and Multi-Day Trips: What to Expect

There are several escorted tour options from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness for the current year but my focus in this post are excursions from Edinburgh and Inverness. These can be either a day tour or multi-day tours.

If you want to see more of the Scottish Highlands, the multi-day excursions are great value for money. These include overnight stays at one of the prettiest villages in the Scottish Highlands and all transport, including the added expertise of a driver.

However, if you only have one day in the Highlands, I recommend the day excursions from either Inverness or Edinburgh as I’ve undertaken these tours and find these are reliable in their offerings.

Whichever of the tour options recommended here you select, these escorted tours include other destinations also which makes it really worthwhile. These may include stops at Caledonian Canal, Fort Augustus, Loch Ness, Falls of Foyers, Glen Coe, the pretty village of Portree and the famed Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye along with other places en route.

Set your sights upon the Jacobite Steam Train as it crosses the iconic arches on the Glenfinnan Viaduct, before taking the stunning “Road to the Isles.” Take the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood in the fishing town of Mallaig, at your own expense.

You’ll definitely view Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom, near Fort William when embarking on the steam train journey. The celebrated Cuillin Mountains in Skye is an unmissable sight if you opt for the multi-day trip.

Whether day excursions or multi-day trips, all escorted tours mentioned here include your train tickets aboard the Jacobite Steam Train. Where this is an optional activity, I will mention this also.

Note that the Jacobite Steam Train runs a seasonal schedule, from end of March to end of October (morning service) and beginning of May to end of September (afternoon service). If you select the tours mentioned here out of these months, you’ll not have the opportunity to experience the remarkable journey.

As for the Jacobite Steam Train ride itself, choose from first-class service or standard seating when selecting your tours or request your preference with the tour operators. You could also hire a whole compartment if you’re travelling in a group.

The Jacobite Steam Train Tours from either Edinburgh or Inverness which I have carefully selected have received highly favourable reviews which means that they are reliable and in good standing. I share a link to each of the tours where you can check its reviews and explore further.

Jacobite Steam Train Tours from Edinburgh

I have three of the very best tours from Edinburgh to the Highlands which includes the price of the Jacobite Steam train ticket. It is a good idea to opt for a tour that includes this so you won’t have any last minute unexpected disappointments such as price increase or unavailability. The Jacobite Steam Train tours are very popular among tourists, so it will be worth booking your excursion as far ahead as you can, soon as you know your travel plans.

Day Trip to the Scottish Highland + Jacobite Steam Train Ride from Edinburgh

A day-trip from Edinburgh to the Highlands is a full-on itinerary and can take up to 13 hours for a return journey. Though, it entails a long day, this day trip is highly suitable for travellers with a short window on their Scotland itinerary.

It is well worth opting for this day trip from Edinburgh to the Highland if you don’t have much time or if you have dedicated just one day to explore the Highlands. With this day trip from Edinburgh to the Highland, you get to see and experience the key areas such as Pitlochry, Loch Ness, Glen Coe, Glenfinnan, and Mallaig along with the Jacobite Steam Train ride, giving you a wide perspective of the renowned Scottish Highlands in just one day.

Multi-Day Trips from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highland + Jacobite Steam Train Ride

If you have more than a day, then I’d suggest the two days to the Highland to be a perfect option to experience the best of the Highlands. This gives you the opportunity to explore at a more relaxed pace.

Multi-day trips of anything between two to four days is an excellent way to immerse in the natural beauty and culture of the Highlands. With added time and flexibility, you’ll undoubtedly experience more of the secret gems of the Highland of Scotland such as Fort Augustus and the Isle of Skye.

The Isle of Skye offers so much in natural beauty with Quiraing, Storr and the Kilt Rocks. I have visited all of these places and I can’t recommend enough on a visit to the misty Isle of Skye filled with legends and breathtaking vista.

Multi-day trips come with overnight stays in some of the prettiest villages in the Highland with options for a budget, and mid-range properties. You can also opt out and book your own accommodations if you prefer to do so.

Below is a summary of escorted excursions for you to consider. Remember to book really well in advance for these trips.

Jacobite Steam Train Tours from Inverness

From the heart of Inverness, often heralded as the “Capital of the Highlands,” you are bestowed with the unique opportunity to embark on either day-long tours or immersive multi-day journeys that include the enchanting ride aboard the Jacobite Steam Train.

The true charm of these excursions begins almost immediately as you find yourself enveloped in the Highlands’ breathtaking natural beauty, an experience that starts right at the doorstep of this pivotal gateway to Scotland’s most iconic road trips, like the famed North Coast 500.

I’ve narrowed it down to two choices; one being a day-trip and the other being a 3-day trip which includes exploring the Isle of Skye. Both excursions include a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train.

Day Trip to the Scottish Highland + Jacobite Steam Train Ride from Inverness

This day trip offers plenty of photo opportunities. You’ll make a photo-stop at Urquhart Castle (ruins) and Commando Memorial before heading to Fort William where you’ll embark on your timeless journey aboard the Jacobite Steam Train to Mallaig. You’ll have time to view and photograph the Glenfinnan Viaduct before making your return journey where a stop at Fort Augustus is on the itinerary. The final stop on the Jacobite Steam Train tours day trip from Inverness is at Dores Beach where you’ll watch a mesmerising sunset.

PRO TIP: On your journey to Mallaig from Fort William, sit on the left-hand side of the train in the direction of the train. In this way, you get a better view of the lochs as you pass them, and an incredible view of the ‘curve’ of the Glenfinnan Viaduct. If you want to see most of the ‘curve’ sit towards the back of the train and choose a seat that aligns by a window bay.

3-Day Trip to the Highlands + Jacobite Steam Train Ride from Inverness

A three day excursion to the Highlands from Inverness is a remarkable opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty, culture, and Scottish food along with a wee dram.

As with any of the tours mentioned here, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for photographing the immense natural beauty that surrounds you wherever you go on this journey. You’ll see the ruins of Urquhart Castle, and visit the Commando Memorial before heading to Fort William to join your Jacobite Steam Train ride to Mallaig. In Mallaig, you’ll have time for lunch and to explore this pretty village.

After lunch, take the ferry to Skye where you’ll stay at Portree for two nights.

Skye is a remarkable island to explore. You’ll be exploring the Sligachan Bridge, admire the spectacular Cuillin Mountains and learn about the incredible bravery of Collie and MacKenzie, two explorers who pioneered climbing the Cuillin.

Experiencing Skye’s breathtaking landscape is one for the bucket list, for sure. You’ll drive through the Trotternish Peninsula, explore the Quiraing and Storr, along with the legendary Old Man of Storr and the amazing Kilt Rock and Mealt Waterfall.

Below, you’ll find a summary of these two excursions and to book your experience. Remember to book well in advance as these are sell-out experiences.

Is there a Dress Code for the Jacobite Train?

While I enjoyed the camaraderie among passengers, aboard the Jacobite Steam Train tours which I undertook, where some even doned on a Hogwarts robe, there is no specific dress code requirement for the train. However, it’s wise to consider the weather on the day and dress appropriately with a good pair of walking shoes so you are comfortable.

Can you Bring Your Own Food on the Jacobite Steam Train?

Depending on the class of service you opt for, the first class usually comes with complimentary beverages and a light snack.

First Class passengers may receive complimentary tea or coffee and can pre-order an afternoon tea box​​​​.

For the standard class travellers, no beverages or snacks are included but the train offers a buffet car for purchasing snacks and drinks. If you prefer, you can purchase your own drinks and snacks and take this with you on the train. There are several shops next to the stations either at Fort William or Mallaig where you can stock up for your journey.

Where is the Best Place to Sit on the Jacobite Steam Train?

For the best views on the Jacobite Steam Train, I recommend that you get a seat by the window on the left side of the train when traveling from Fort William to Mallaig. This position offers the best photo opportunities, especially when crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The train briefly pauses on the viaduct, allowing passengers to take photos. However, on the return journey from Mallaig to Fort William, the train does not stop on the viaduct, so it’s important to be quick with your camera​​.

On the return journey from Mallaig to Fort William on the Jacobite Steam Train, it’s generally recommended to sit on the right side for scenic views.

What is the Journey Time from Fort William to Mallaig and the Return Journey from Mallaig to Fort William?

The journey from Fort William to Mallaig on the Jacobite Steam Train takes just over 2 hours. The return journey from Mallaig back to Fort William is slightly shorter, mainly because the train does not stop at Glenfinnan station on the way back as it does on the outbound trip.

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Ride on the Jacobite Steam Train

The Jacobite Steam Train is extremely popular and can get booked up months in advance, especially during the summer season. To avoid disappointment, it’s recommended to book your tickets early​​​​.

To ensure a spot on the Jacobite Steam Train, especially during the summer peak season, it’s wise to secure your tickets well in advance, as soon as you know your travel plans. Aim to book at least 6 months prior if your trip falls in the summer, or at the very least, three months ahead to avoid disappointment due to high demand.

Travel Class Options

There are different classes of service available, including Standard and First Class. First Class offers more amenities, such as complimentary refreshments and more luxurious seating. If you’re looking for the “proper Harry Potter experience,” there are special First Class compartments that need to be booked as a whole and are limited in number​​​​.

Mallaig Exploration

The train’s destination, Mallaig, is a small but bustling port town with dining options and a ferry service to nearby islands. You’ll have around two hours to explore, so consider booking a table for lunch in advance to make the most of your time ​ ​. Read this Complete Guide to Mallaig and Best Things to Do.

Other Considerations

Remember to bring cash if you’d like to purchase anything from the trolley service onboard, as it’s cash-only. Also, the train makes a brief stop at Glenfinnan Station, where you can stretch your legs and visit a small museum​​.

FAQs

… as the deliberate escapist and a mindful wanderer…

Is the Jacobite Steam Train Tours Worth It?

From my experience, the Jacobite Steam Train tour was absolutely worth it. Hailed as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, I was completely captivated travelling through the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Crossing the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct felt like stepping into a postcard.

The nostalgic charm of steam travel combined with the stunning scenery made the journey unforgettable. It’s a unique way to witness the beauty of Scotland and feel connected to its history and culture. For anyone considering this adventure, I’d say it’s a must-do experience that offers more than just a train ride.

I, Georgina getting aboard the Jacobite Steam Train.

Happy and Safe Travels, Wherever Travel Takes You.