Visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct: How, Where & When + Viewing Tips
Are you planning to visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct to see the Jacobite Steam Train cross the iconic Harry Potter Bridge?
The Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands is a true marvel of Victorian engineering with a rich history and a touch of Harry Potter magic! The spectacular views across the valley are a perfect backdrop for the bridge, which is a photographer’s dream for capturing the Jacobite Steam Train.
We’ve visited the Glenfinnan Viaduct several times during family road trips to Scotland’s west coast. The local area offers plenty of adventure, with hiking, climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking all within easy reach.
Read on if you’re looking for the best viaduct viewpoints and want to know when to visit to see the famous Jacobite Steam train.
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Planning A Trip To Glenfinnan Viaduct
Top Family Accommodation near Glenfinnan Viaduct The Armoury
Most popular day trips to Glenfinnan from Edinburgh, Inverness & Glasgow
Book a seat on the Jacobite Steam Train with West Coast Railways
What Is The Glenfinnan Viaduct?
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a world-famous railway bridge in the Scottish Highlands near the village of Glenfinnan.
Built by Victorian Engineers and completed in 1901, it spans 380 meters and reaches a height of 30 meters. It was built to transport material to and from the coast and is still Scotland’s longest concrete railway bridge.
Set amongst picturesque Highland scenery, the Viaduct offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and Loch Shiel.
Why Is Gelnfinnan Viaduct popular?
The Glenfinnan Viaduct attracts thousands of visitors every year. Many of them hoped to see the Jacobite Steam Train that was featured in the Harry Potter movies as the Hogwarts Express. If you’ve seen the movies, the bridge and train are instantly recognisable, and tourist numbers have rocketed since the film was released in 2005.
Despite its prominence, some visitors are not just there for the bridge.
Glenfinnan is a popular destination for those interested in Scottish history, and in 1744, it played host to a large gathering of Jacobites. Seeking to restore their King to the throne, they are reputed to have raised the Royal standard before marching north and losing to the government forces at the Battle of Culloden.
Whatever your reasons for visiting, the area is a photographer’s dream, and our kids loved the mix of people who were there to enjoy the views and friendly atmosphere.
Where Is Glenfinnan Viaduct?
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is located in the Scottish Highlands, near the village of Glenfinnan, 18 miles west of Fort William.
The bridge spans the River Finnan Valley in the picturesque Lochaber region. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument.
The viaduct is part of the West Highland Line connecting Fort William to Mallaig on the West Coast.
Best Time to Visit Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct can be visited at any time of the year, with the landscape changing dramatically across the seasons.
We’ve found that the best time to visit with kids is in late spring (May) through to early autumn (September). The weather is more pleasant during this period, with fewer crowds and longer daylight hours than in winter.
Peak Summer in Scotland is between July and August and generally brings perfect conditions for families to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. However, the great weather comes with higher prices and more crowds, especially during the holidays.
You don’t need to be a Harry Potter fan to appreciate seeing the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Viaduct. The train runs between April and October, with daily crossings, providing an opportunity for a magical sighting of the Hogwarts Express.
Arrive early morning or late afternoon to ensure you get a parking space. If you specifically want to see the train, check online for a current timetable (Approximately 10:45, 13:15, 15:10 & 19:25 during April-October).
How to Get to Glenfinnan Viaduct
Visitors can access the viaduct by car, train, or bus. The Glenfinnan Visitor Centre provides information, amenities, and the best vantage points for viewing this iconic railway bridge.
By Train
If you or your kids would like a more adventurous experience, why not take a train? The West Highland Line from Fort William to Mallaig (book here) passes over the viaduct, offering a fun valley journey for families. Glenfinnan Station is just a short walk to view the viaduct and Glenfinnan Monument on the bank of Loch Shiel.
By Bus
Buses from Fort William to Mallaig also stop at Glenfinnan. However, this is the least convenient way to access Glenfinnan viaduct, as the 500 bus service does not stop near the viewpoints.
By Car
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Glenfinnan Viaduct. It’s a scenic 13-mile drive from Fort William on the A830, the Road to the Isles. The route is well-signposted, making it easy to navigate as part of your Scottish road trip.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Parking
Located on the A830, the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre car park offers easy access to viewing the Viaduct. Parking here is convenient for all, and the visitor centre has plenty of amenities, including a shop, cafe and toilets.
During peak tourist seasons, the car park frequently closes from May to August due to limited parking spaces. There is limited parking options, so arriving up to an hour earlier than a train crossing the bridge is advisable, especially if you plan to see the Jacobite Steam Train.
From the car park, it’s a short, scenic walk to the viaduct viewpoint.
Glenfinnan Visitor Centre parking charges help maintain the area.
In 2024, parking charges are £4 off-peak, £5 peak for a car and £8 off-peak, £10 peak for a motorhome, payable by cash or card.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Steam Train Times
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is renowned for the iconic Jacobite Steam Train crossing. This Hogwarts Express train runs part-time from Fort William to Mallaig. The morning train crosses the viaduct daily from April to October, while the afternoon train runs from May to September.
The Jacobite Steam Train passing times for the Glenfinnan viaduct
The morning train (April – October) passes over the viaduct at approximately 10:45, returning over the viaduct at approximately 15:10.
The afternoon train (May – September) passes the viaduct at approximately 13:15 and returns over it at approximately 19:25.
For optimal viewing of the Harry Potter train, arrive at the viaduct’s viewpoint 15-30 minutes before the train is expected to cross. Check the Jacobite Steam Train schedule to ensure the service runs, as it is notorious for cancellations!
Glenfinnan Viaduct And Jacobite Steam Train Viewpoints
To witness the Jacobite Steam Train, you must visit the viaduct between April and October, as it does not run in winter. Standard ScotRail trains also travel this route year-round, but they do not offer such photographic captures as the Jacobite.
Two viewpoint routes lead from the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre. The well-marked trail provides a safe and enjoyable short trek to the viewpoints.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoints: Path One
Viaduct viewpoints, such as on the map below, allow families to see the viaduct and the approaching Harry Potter Steam Train and follow the Viaduct Trail to Glenfinnan Station.
The Steam Train slows as it travels over the bridge, making photographing it easier.
There are several viewpoints from which to witness the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the viaduct.
The most popular is the Viaduct viewpoint. Cross under the bridge and head up the hill to watch the steam train pass over the curved bridge as in the Harry Potter movie. We also like the Glen Road viewpoint, where you are closer to the train and view it from underneath.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint: Path Two
To access an alternative viewpoint to see the Harry Potter train returning from Hogwarts, take path two up the hill behind the Visitor Centre. This viewpoint gives you views of the valley, including Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glenfinnan Monument, and Loch Shiel.
This viewpoint is ideal to visit for the Jacobite Steam Train heading east back to Fort William in the afternoon.
Booking A Ticket To Ride The Jacobite Steam Train
You can book tickets to ride on the Jacobite Steam Train for a unique journey through the Scottish Highlands from Fort William and Mallaig. You will cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct like Harry Potter did on the Hogwarts Express.
Book Online at the official West Coast Railways for standard or first-class tickets. Note: tickets often sell out months in advance. First Come cancellation may come available prior to departure.
Family Tips For Visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct
Here are some tips to make the most of your family visit to Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland.
- Pack a Picnic: Enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of the Highlands, and challenge the kids to spot a soaring eagle or otters.
- Dress for the Weather: The Scottish weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared with a waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes.
- Arrive early to view the steam train: Parking is limited, and there is a short trek to navigate to the viaduct viewpoints for the Harry Potter Steam Train crossing.
- Engage the Kids: Bring a pair of binoculars for the kids to watch for the steam train and spot wildlife.
- Keep an eye on your kids: The popular viewpoints for the bridge can get very busy. We suggest viewing from the Glen Road Viewpoint under the bridge for a young family instead of on the hill.
- Book Hogwarts Express tickets early: If your kids would love to travel by the Harry Potter Train, ensure you book tickets well in advance as they sell out.
Things To Do While Visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct
Visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct is remarkable, and the area offers many other family-friendly things to do to fill a day or two.
1. Watch the Jacobite Steam Train
One of our family’s highlights when visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct was witnessing the Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Viaduct. We arrived 10 minutes before the train’s estimated arrival time and waved as it slowly puffed across the bridge!
2. Take A Train Ride Over Glenfinnan Viaduct
A journey across the viaduct by steam train or ScotRail can be a perfect adventure for kids and adults. Choose whether to travel by first class for some added magic.
*** Last-minute cancellation tickets may be available from the Fort William train station before departure. ***
3. Explore Glenfinnan Visitor Centre
The Glenfinnan Visitor Centre provides informative exhibits about the Viaduct’s history, the West Highland Line, and the Jacobite Rising of 1745. The centre also has a café, gift shop, and restroom facilities, making it a convenient stop.
4. Visit the Glenfinnan Monument
The Glenfinnan Monument is a memorial of the Jacobite Rising led by Bonnie Prince Charlie. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of the monument, where you are presented with panoramic views of Loch Shiel and the Munros.
5. Hiking and Walking Trails
The area around Glenfinnan Viaduct offers several hiking and walking trails suitable for families. The most popular is the 2.5-mile Glenfinnan viaduct trail, from the visitor centre to the official viewing point for the viaduct and on to the train station. We also enjoyed a walk along the shores of Loch Shiel, which offers stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting and stone skimming.
6. Boat Tours on Loch Shiel
Take a boat tour of Loch Shiel to explore its tranquil waters and surrounding landscapes. You’ll indulge in the local history and spot wildlife with a knowledgeable guide
7. Glenfinnan Dining Car & Station Museum
Enjoy some local Scottish cuisine in Glenfinnan Dining Car restaurant and learn about the history of the West Highland Line in the station museum.
8. Neptune’s Staircase
A short drive from Glenfinnan Viaduct is a series of locks on the Caledonian Canal. Park up and enjoy the engineering as you go for a family walk.
Places To Go From Glenfinnan Viaduct
If you are on a family road trip through Scotland, you could drive deeper into the Scottish Highlands, travel the West Highland Way, head around the North Coast 500 or visit the Isle of Skye. Within the Glenfinnan area, make sure you visit the following:
✨Fort William and climb Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.
✨Glencoe, for its hiking trails and stunning scenery, such as the Three Sisters, which has been featured in many movies.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Scotland FAQ’s
Many visitors stop only to visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which can be done in as little as 30 minutes. The main highlights of Glenfinnan can be covered in a morning or afternoon, including lunch at the Glenfinnan Dining Car. However, there are hikes, boat trips and wildlife spotting if you have 2-3 days in Glenfinnan.
Visiting the viaduct is free all year round. However, a small fee is charged to help maintain the facilities if you park your car at the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre.
The morning Steam Train is scheduled to run seven days a week from late March until late October 2024, while the afternoon service operates from May to September. Due to ongoing disputes, the 2024 Jacobite Steam Train service is expected to be disrupted.
Yes, the Jacobite Steam Train crosses Glenfinnan Viaduct daily between April and October. You can see the Harry Potter train from one of the viewpoints or take a trip on it for yourself!
Final Thoughts: Visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct
Glenfinnan is one of our favourite Highland beauty spots and it never fails to instil a sense of history, adventure and fantasy. Take your time, take plenty of pictures and consider taking a trip across the bridge for the ultimate view across the glen.
