Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh

If you’re a Harry Potter fan dreaming of experiencing the famous Hogwarts Express or someone eager to explore the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, this tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day of scenic beauty, film locations, and a nostalgic train ride—all from the comfort of Edinburgh.

What we particularly like about this experience is how well it combines the magic of Harry Potter with the breathtaking scenery of the Highlands. The opportunity to ride the Jacobite Steam Train (which doubles as the Hogwarts Express) is a big highlight, and the well-placed stops give you a taste of local culture and natural wonders.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that while the tour is packed with iconic sights, it’s quite a long day—around 13.5 hours—and involves a fair amount of travel. If you’re not a fan of bus journeys or tight schedules, this might feel a bit rushed.

It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of film-inspired experiences, scenic drives, and don’t mind spending most of the day on a bus. Whether you’re a Potterhead or just someone who appreciates scenic landscapes, this tour offers enough to make it worthwhile.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and famous film locations in the Highlands
• The Jacobite Steam Train experience, a must for Harry Potter fans
• Comfortable transportation with a guided day trip from Edinburgh
• Well-placed stops for photos, snacks, and exploration
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories and facts
• Long day, so be prepared for a full schedule and travel time

What’s Included and What’s Not

On this tour, you’ll be riding in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drive more comfortable, and you’ll get a ticket for the Jacobite Steam Train (from Mallaig to Fort William). The guide, who’s fluent in English, is there to help you soak in the sights and tell you stories along the way.

That said, food and drinks aren’t included, so bring some snacks or plan to buy something at stops. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point at 60 High Street in Edinburgh.

The tour is designed for most travelers, but children under 5 aren’t able to participate, likely due to the length and nature of the train ride. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early—it’s a full day, and punctuality counts.

The Itinerary: A Day Full of Highlights

1. Departure from Edinburgh

The adventure kicks off at 7:15 am from central Edinburgh, starting with a drive over the iconic Forth Bridge. This impressive structure is a great way to start your day, offering a taste of Scotland’s engineering marvels.

2. Pitlochry Stop: Charming Highland Village

Your first break is in Pitlochry, a picture-perfect Highland town. Here, you can grab a coffee and pastry from one of the local cafes, and enjoy a quick stroll through the quaint streets. It’s a nice, relaxed way to stretch your legs after the initial drive. Many reviews praise this stop for its charming atmosphere.

3. Glenfinnan Viewpoint and Loch Shiel

Next, you’ll visit Glenfinnan—famous for its viaduct and Loch Shiel—both instantly recognizable from Harry Potter movies. The stop here is a highlight for fans wanting to see the filming locations or just marvel at the scenery. Note that viewing the viaduct from the bus is possible but depends on availability, so it’s not always guaranteed.

4. Mallaig and the Start of the Steam Train Ride

Arriving in Mallaig, you’ll have about an hour to explore this fishing village, known for its fresh seafood and lively harbor. Many travelers enjoy sampling local fish and chips here—an authentic treat—and it’s a perfect prelude to the train journey.

5. Riding the Jacobite Steam Train

The core of this experience is the steam train journey through dramatic landscapes, including forests, lochs, and mountains. The train ride lasts around 1 hour 50 minutes, offering spectacular views that many describe as unforgettable.

While the train’s interior isn’t the actual Hogwarts Express from the movies, the experience is still quite magical. You can expect plenty of photo opportunities, and many reviews mention how the views and the nostalgic train atmosphere are worth the trip.

Pro tip: Some travelers note the train could be a bit vintage—seats may be duct-taped and windows foggy if the weather isn’t clear—so don’t expect the polished interior of a modern train. Still, the journey’s scenic value is what makes it special.

6. Scenic Stops and Glencoe

On your way back to Edinburgh, you’ll stop briefly at Glencoe—famous not only for its haunting beauty but also as a filming location in the Harry Potter series. Many reviews describe the landscape as dramatic and awe-inspiring, perfect for photos and just taking in the wildness of Scotland.

7. Return to Edinburgh

Expect to arrive back in Edinburgh late in the evening, around dinner time. The journey is long, but the variety of stops and highlights make it feel like a full day of exploration rather than just transit.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

From reviews, it’s clear that guides make a big difference. Many travelers praise guides like Tiegen and Cara for their knowledge and fun personalities, which help pass the long hours comfortably. One reviewer mentioned, “Tiegan our tour guide/driver is very knowledgeable and entertaining,” highlighting how a good guide can turn a long day into something memorable.

The scenery consistently gets high praise. As one reviewer puts it, “The steam engine train ride was great! We really enjoyed seeing the different Lochs, mountains, and Glens.” Many mention the views of Loch Shiel, Ben Nevis, and Glencoe as stunning, even if the weather can sometimes be foggy or rainy.

Potter fans particularly enjoy the stops at Glenfinnan, where the famous viaduct is just as impressive in person. However, some reviews point out that the train itself may not meet all Harry Potter fans’ expectations. One disappointed reviewer said, “The train car itself was from the 1980s and falling apart,” and felt it was more of a regular train ride than the magical experience they anticipated.

In contrast, many travelers highlight the value of this tour for its scenic beauty and storytelling. One wrote, “Every part of it was memorable! The Highlands were stunning. I felt like I was finally home,” reflecting how the landscapes make the experience worthwhile even if the train isn’t exactly the Hogwarts Express.

The Price and Value

At around $262 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day packed with sights, a scenic train ride, and expert guides. The trip’s length and the number of stops justify the cost for many, especially considering the inclusion of the train ticket and guided commentary.

However, it’s important to remember that food isn’t included, so plan for snacks or meals on your own. The tour’s value lies in the scenic stops, the train experience, and the storytelling—more than just a transport service.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for Harry Potter fans who want to see iconic filming locations and enjoy a scenic train ride. It also suits travelers eager to explore the Highlands but prefer the convenience of a guided day trip from Edinburgh.

Those who appreciate storytelling, beautiful landscapes, and don’t mind a full day of travel will find plenty to love here. It’s not a tour for those looking for a luxurious or highly polished interior train experience or for travelers with very tight schedules.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a day that combines the magic of Harry Potter with Scotland’s rugged natural beauty, this tour has a lot to offer. The guides are generally praised for their knowledge and personalities, and the scenery doesn’t disappoint. The steam train ride, even if vintage, provides a nostalgic, film-inspired experience that many travelers cherish.

That said, temper expectations around the train’s modernity and Harry Potter theming—it’s more about the scenery and the experience of riding a historic steam engine than a fully immersive Potter adventure.

For those who want a well-organized, scenic, and nostalgic trip into the Highlands, this tour represents good value and a memorable day out. Just be prepared for a long day on the road and some variable weather.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 5 can participate, but younger kids are not permitted, likely due to the length of the day and the train ride.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
No, you need to meet at the designated Edinburgh meeting point. It’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing—Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, and the scenic stops are perfect for photos.

Is the train ride like the Hogwarts Express?
Not exactly. The train itself isn’t the authentic Hogwarts Express from the films; it’s a historic steam train that offers a similar scenic experience.

Can I see the Harry Potter filming sites in more detail?
The tour stops at Glenfinnan and Glencoe, which are key filming locations, but the focus is on scenic views and the train ride.

How long is the train journey?
About 1 hour 50 minutes, offering plenty of opportunity for photos and enjoying the scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact visibility and comfort, especially on the train. The scenery is still impressive, but fog or rain might limit views.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This isn’t specified, so check with the provider ahead of booking for any accessibility needs.

All in all, this tour offers a good balance of scenery, film history, and a historic train experience—perfect for a day of Scottish adventure, especially if you’re a Potter fan or landscape lover.