2-Day Jacobite Experience including the Hogwarts Express from Edinburgh

If you’re dreaming of exploring the Scottish Highlands with a blend of history, stunning scenery, and a touch of magic, this 2-day tour could be just what you’re after. It promises a mix of iconic sights like Loch Ness, historic battlefields, and a steam train ride that’s famous worldwide thanks to Harry Potter fans. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a popular choice, often booked about two months in advance, and is highly-rated by travelers who’ve taken it.

What really shines about this experience is the combination of heritage and adventure. You get to walk through ancient sites like Clava Cairns and Culloden Battlefield, catching glimpses of Scotland’s turbulent past. Then, there’s the thrill of riding the Jacobite Steam Train, better known as the Hogwarts Express, which is a definite highlight for many (if it’s running; see the note below). Plus, the scenic drive through Cairngorm National Park and stops at Loch Ness and Mallaig make this trip feel like a true Scottish adventure.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite packed. The itinerary is full, and some travelers have mentioned long bus days, especially in bad weather. Also, there was a notable mention of the steam train being diesel-powered due to rail restrictions, which might disappoint purists expecting the classic steam experience. Still, the overall value seems high, especially given the variety of sights and the comfort of the transportation.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love history, scenery, and a touch of pop culture, plus those who don’t mind long days on the move. It’s a well-rounded experience for anyone wanting to see a broad slice of Scotland in just two days, especially if you’re keen on the Harry Potter connection or iconic Highland landscapes.

Key Points

• Heritage and scenery collide in this 2-day trip through the Scottish Highlands.
• The Jacobite Steam Train ride is a major highlight, especially for Harry Potter fans.
• Comfortable transport in a luxury or midi coach makes long days manageable.
• Overnight stay options include B&B or hotel, with breakfast included.
• The tour covers iconic sites like Loch Ness, Culloden, and Glencoe.
• Group size is capped at 32, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Heritage, History, and Highland Beauty

Your Scottish adventure starts in Edinburgh at 9:00 a.m., and the first stop is Pitlochry. This charming town on the River Tummel is a perfect intro, with its cozy atmosphere and a visit to one of Scotland’s smallest distilleries. You’ll get about half an hour here — enough for a quick snack or just to stretch your legs.

Next, the tour takes you to the Clava Cairns, an ancient burial site that dates back around 500 years. It’s a site that’s gained fame partly through the Outlander series, so if you’re a fan, you’ll appreciate the historical vibe here. It’s a brief stop, but the atmospheric stone circles and ancient graves give it a real sense of connection to Scotland’s past.

A poignant moment comes at the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last Jacobite rebellion’s final stand. You’ll have about an hour to walk the grounds, and this stop is particularly meaningful for anyone interested in Scottish history. Many reviewers have expressed how powerful it is to walk through the fields where clansmen fought and see the memorials.

From there, you’ll head to Loch Ness, probably the most famous loch in the world. Here, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise across the lake, with views of Urquhart Castle’s ruins perched on the shoreline. This stop lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery, explore the castle, and perhaps spot Nessie if luck’s on your side.

Day 2: The Steam Train, Mallaig, and Glencoe

The second day begins with a hearty breakfast before heading to Fort William. This is where the magic happens: you’ll board the Jacobite Steam Train, a journey lauded as one of the world’s greatest train rides. The train tracks wind past the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and along Loch Shiel, making it a picture-perfect experience. Many reviews highlight how special this ride is — with some travelers saying it was the highlight of their trip.

It’s important to note that, due to rail restrictions, the train might not always be steam-powered. One review mentioned that, because of weather and safety concerns, the train was diesel instead of steam during their trip. While this might be disappointing if you’re a train purist, the experience still offers breathtaking views, which many travelers found worth the journey.

Upon arriving in Mallaig, you’ll have about 30 minutes for lunch and to explore the fishing town. If you’re into seafood, this is a great spot to get a taste of fresh catches. The Mallaig Heritage Centre offers insight into the area’s past, adding a cultural layer to your visit.

In the afternoon, the tour takes you back south through Glen Coe, one of Scotland’s most iconic and dramatic landscapes. The valley’s rugged beauty and historical associations — like the betrayal of the MacDonalds — make it a compelling stop. It’s also been featured in Harry Potter films, adding a touch of cinematic magic.

The tour concludes back in Edinburgh around 8:00 p.m., wrapping up an action-packed two days.

What We Loved About This Tour

The guides seem to be a standout feature. Multiple reviews praised guides like Ian, John S., and Stephen for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. This makes a big difference when you’re bouncing between historical sites and scenic stops, ensuring you learn a lot without feeling overwhelmed.

The variety of sights is another strong point. From battlefield sites to lochs, castles, and a train ride that’s become part of film history, it really offers a broad experience. Especially if you’re tight on time but still want a taste of Scotland’s highlights, this tour packs it all in.

And let’s not forget the scenery. The Highland landscapes are stunning, and the views from the train, in particular, are unforgettable. Many reviewers mention how emotional and beautiful the scenery was, often describing the trip as a “magical” experience.

A Few Caveats

One significant consideration is the weather, which can be unpredictable in Scotland. Some reviews mentioned wet and windy conditions, impacting activities like the Loch Ness cruise and train windows. If the weather’s bad, some parts of the experience may be less enjoyable, especially the scenic train ride.

Another point is the long travel days. The tour involves quite a bit of time on the bus, sometimes up to four hours in a day, which can be tiring. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, this may feel intense.

Lastly, the train experience might not always match expectations. While many rave about the train ride, a few reviews pointed out that due to operational restrictions, the train may not run steam-powered all the time.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $487 per person, the trip offers a lot for the price. The inclusion of accommodations, breakfast, and a train ride makes it a convenient way to see a lot of Scotland in just two days. Compared to self-organized trips, the guided aspect and transportation logistics save you time and effort, which many travelers find valuable.

While it’s possibly more expensive than some day trips, the multi-stop itinerary and the overnight stay in a comfortable B&B or hotel add to its value. Many reviews suggest that the experience is worth the cost, especially for those wanting an all-in package with knowledgeable guides.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a history buff, a Harry Potter fan, or simply love Scotland’s natural beauty, this trip offers a well-rounded introduction. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured, guided experience that hits the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

It’s also suited to those who don’t mind a bit of travel time and long days, as the itinerary is tightly packed. If your main goal is to get a taste of the Highlands with a bit of everything — from lochs to castles to train rides — then this tour is a solid choice.

However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace, or if weather risks are a concern, you might want to consider whether the full schedule suits your style. Also, for train enthusiasts who want the pure steam experience, be aware that operational restrictions might limit the authenticity of the steam train.

FAQ

Is the train ride on the Hogwarts Express?
The train ride is advertised as the Jacobite Steam Train, known as the Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter films. However, due to safety restrictions, the train might be diesel-powered instead of steam during your trip.

What accommodation options are available?
You can choose between B&B or hotel accommodations for your overnight stay in Fort Augustus, with breakfast included. The tour offers options for single or shared rooms, but children must share with adults.

Are meals included in the tour?
Breakfast is included, but food and drinks outside of breakfast are not. You’ll have opportunities for lunch on Day 2 in Mallaig, but you’ll need to cover your meals.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 32 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and manageable.

How long are the bus days?
Expect long travel days, with up to four hours in the coach on Day 2, and multiple stops along the way. The journey is designed to maximize sightseeing, but it can be tiring.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that may be subject to partial or no refunds, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Jacobite Experience from Edinburgh offers a lively, comprehensive snapshot of the Scottish Highlands, blending history, scenery, and pop culture into one package. The guides’ knowledge and the variety of stops make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to see iconic sites without the hassle of organizing transport and accommodations themselves.

While the weather and long days are considerations, many travelers report that the sights and the overall vibe make it worthwhile. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want a full, guided adventure and aren’t afraid of a packed schedule. If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and historically enriching trip, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Whether you’re a Harry Potter fan or just in love with Scotland’s landscapes, this tour makes it easy to tick many boxes in just two days. Just pack your sense of adventure — and maybe a raincoat — and you’ll be set for a memorable journey!