Glasgow: Scottish Highlands & The Hogwarts Express Day Tour

Discovering the Scottish Highlands & The Hogwarts Express: A Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of a day trip that combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of Harry Potter magic, then the Glasgow: Scottish Highlands & The Hogwarts Express Day Tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, we’ve gone through all the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we really like about this tour is how it intertwines iconic sights like Glen Coe and Loch Lomond with the thrill of riding the Jacobite Steam Train — the actual Hogwarts Express from the movies. The scenic stops along the way, especially the views of the Arrochar Alps, seem to make it a visually rich experience. Plus, the guide’s role in sharing stories and history sounds like a real advantage.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the length of the day. At around 13 hours, it’s a pretty full itinerary, so if you’re not used to long bus days, it might feel a bit tiring. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 or for wheelchair users, which is worth considering if you’re traveling with young kids or mobility concerns.

This experience seems perfect for those who want a blend of natural beauty, Scottish culture, and a sprinkle of Harry Potter nostalgia. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, historic towns, and a bit of train adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The tour offers multiple opportunities to see iconic landscapes like Glen Coe, Loch Lomond, and Loch Awe.
• Hogwarts Express Ride: The 2-hour Jacobite Steam Train journey across the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a major highlight.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking local guide enhances the trip with stories and context.
• Full Day Adventure: Expect a packed schedule lasting roughly 13 hours, so good walking shoes and weather gear are essential.
• Family-Friendly? Not particularly — it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days and no mobility restrictions.
• Value: The price reflects a comprehensive day out, with included transport, the steam train ride, and guided commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point and Early Scenery

The tour kicks off at Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow. From there, you’ll hop onto a coach for a scenic ride through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes. The first stop is at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where the views of tranquil waters and rolling hills set the tone. It’s a solid way to ease into the day, giving everyone a chance to stretch and snap some photos.

Crossing the Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe

Next, the coach traverses the rugged Rannoch Moor, a vast, open landscape that feels almost otherworldly. The stops here, especially at Glen Coe, are brief but worth it for the striking mountain vistas. We’ve seen travelers comment on how the scenery here is dramatic and unforgettable, with one reviewer mentioning, “It was great to see Glen Coe’s peaks up close.”

Fort William and the Jacobite Steam Train

The highlight for many is the ride on the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig. This two-hour journey is considered the real star of the day. It’s not just a train ride — it’s a chance to see Scotland’s rugged coast and mountains in motion. Crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, with its sweeping arches, is a moment many people look forward to, especially Harry Potter fans.

One traveler described it as, “The train was awesome and Scott’s stories and history lessons were engaging.” The guide’s commentary seems to add a lot of value, transforming a scenic train ride into an informative experience.

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Lunch in Mallaig and Coastal Views

Once in Mallaig, you get about an hour and a half to explore and enjoy a meal. The town is known for its seafood, and many visitors say sampling fresh fish here is a real treat. It’s a relaxed break where you can soak in the seaside vibe and perhaps get some more photos.

Exploring Loch Awe and Inveraray

The journey continues along the coast, passing by Kilchurn Castle, which sits dramatically on Loch Awe. Then, the tour takes you to Inveraray, a charming town situated by Loch Fyne. Here, you’ll have another short stop to explore the town’s shops and sights, adding a touch of Scottish history and character to your day.

Final Scenic Highlights and Return

As the day winds down, you’ll pass the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint, offering stunning views of the Arrochar Alps. The coach then returns to Glasgow, with the trip wrapping up after roughly 13 hours.

Practical Aspects You Should Know

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable coach for the entire day, making travel between stops efficient and relaxing. Expect a relatively large group, which works well for a sightseeing day but might limit personal space during the long coach rides.

Price and Value

The cost includes all coach travel, the 2-hour steam train ride, and an expert guide. It does not include food, drinks, or hotel pickups, so you’ll need to plan those separately. Given the comprehensive itinerary and the inclusion of the iconic train experience, many find it offers good value.

Timing and Duration

Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability. The tour lasts about 13 hours, making it a long day but one packed with highlights. Be prepared for early mornings and full schedules, especially if you want to make the most of every stop.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around historic towns and scenic stops. Weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, so packing a raincoat or umbrella is wise. Don’t forget your camera — the scenery and the train crossing the viaduct are photo ops you won’t want to miss.

What People Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the scenery and the storytelling aspect of the guide. One mentioned, “We really enjoyed the ride on the steam train, the commentary from the steward, and of course the scenery,” which sums up the general sentiment. Another described the experience as “great,” highlighting how memorable it was.

However, some reviews hint that it might be a long day for those less used to extended bus travel. It’s not the best choice if you prefer a relaxed pace or have mobility issues, as the tour isn’t suitable for young children or wheelchair users.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for scenery lovers, Harry Potter fans, and history buffs who want a full day immersed in Scotland’s natural beauty and cultural charm. It’s perfect for those comfortable with long days and eager to see a range of sights without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

If you’re traveling with children under 5 or need accessibility accommodations, you might want to explore other options. But for most adults and older teens, this tour offers a satisfying taste of the Highlands with a sprinkle of magic.

FAQs

Is the Jacobite Steam Train included in the price?
Yes, the 2-hour ride on the Jacobite Steam Train is included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Also, bring your headset if you’re using the audio guide.

Does the tour include food?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but you’ll have time in Mallaig to enjoy local seafood.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 13 hours, starting from Glasgow and returning in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What is the group size?
It’s a coach tour with a sizable group, which is good for socializing but might limit personal space.

Will I have free time during the stops?
Yes, each stop offers time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change depending on weather and travel conditions, but the scenery is often still impressive even in rain.

All in all, the Glasgow: Scottish Highlands & The Hogwarts Express Day Tour offers a packed, scenic, and fun day for those eager to experience Scotland’s beauty and a bit of Harry Potter magic. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy guided trips, stunning vistas, and the thrill of a historic train journey. If you’re prepared for a full day on the move, it promises a memorable adventure through some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: