From Edinburgh: Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour

Planning a day trip that combines stunning scenery, a touch of Harry Potter magic, and expert storytelling? We’ve got you covered with this detailed review of the Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour from Edinburgh. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the experiences shared by travelers paint a clear picture of what to expect—and what to watch out for.

Two aspects we genuinely appreciate are the opportunity to ride the Jacobite Steam Train, often called the Hogwarts Express, and the insightful guides who bring the scenery to life with stories. These elements turn an already gorgeous landscape into a captivating journey. On the flip side, a point to consider is that it’s primarily a bus tour with a train segment, which means long hours on the road. Still, if you’re craving a comprehensive taste of the Highlands in a single day, this trip could be just right.

This tour suits travelers who love picturesque landscapes, film-inspired sights, and enjoy hearing stories from passionate guides. It’s especially appealing if you’re short on time but want a rich Highland experience, combining the thrill of a steam train ride with cultural insights.

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: You’ll see iconic sights like Glen Coe and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, making for perfect photo ops.
• Train Ride: The Jacobite Steam Train offers a magical journey that Harry Potter fans will love.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their storytelling and local knowledge, enriching the experience.
• Long Day: Expect around 13 hours, so comfortable footwear and patience are key.
• Price and Value: At about $254 per person, it’s a fair price considering the train ride and guided tour, but it’s a full day.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for ages 5 and up, although mobility restrictions apply.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Getting Started from Edinburgh

The adventure kicks off at Highland Explorer Tours, where you meet about 15 minutes before departure. The tour involves a comfortable bus journey through some of Scotland’s most captivating landscapes. From the start, you’ll pass landmarks like the Forth Bridge and the scenic Kingdom of Fife, setting the tone for a day filled with visual treats.

Traveling from Edinburgh to the Highlands is smooth, with the bus providing a cozy space to relax and enjoy the scenery. Many reviews praise the well-organized nature of the trip and the knowledgeable guides who keep the journey lively with stories and facts. One reviewer mentions, “Connor is just not a guide but an excellent storyteller and an artist,” highlighting the engaging nature of the commentary.

The Drive through the Highlands

As you head north, expect to witness sweeping views of mountains, lakes, and rugged wilderness. Your guide will share stories about Scottish history and legends, making this not just a sightseeing trip but an educational one. Highlights include crossing the famous Forth Bridge and passing through Perth and the Kingdom of Fife.

One traveler appreciated the genuine care shown when the tour company helped a stranded passenger, emphasizing the tour provider’s commitment to customer well-being. This level of care adds a comforting touch to the long day.

Glen Coe and Rannoch Moor

The stop at Glen Coe is often the most photographed part of the trip. The dramatic valleys and mountain peaks, seen in movies and photos alike, are breathtaking. A reviewer mentions, “The landscapes are beautiful,” with Rannoch Moor offering an expansive view of wilderness that feels almost untouched.

This part of the journey highlights Scotland’s wild beauty, perfect for travelers who love landscape photography or just a good dose of nature’s raw power. It’s also an opportunity to stretch your legs and take some memorable shots.

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The Glenfinnan Viaduct

Next up is the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you’ll view driving along the West Highland Line. Many travelers find this sight particularly exciting, especially Harry Potter fans, as it’s featured in the films. If weather permits and traffic allows, the coach will stop for a quick look, giving you a chance to snap some photos.

One review notes, “The views of the viaduct are stunning,” underscoring how iconic this spot is. The scenery here makes it easy to see why this location has become a must-see.

The Steam Train Experience

The highlight for many is the Jacobite Steam Train ride, from Mallaig to Fort William. Traveling across that famous viaduct on a real steam train feels like stepping into a storybook. The train’s vintage charm and the scenic route through mountains and lochs create a memorable experience.

While some reviews mention the train’s interior isn’t perfectly maintained, most agree that the views compensate for it. “The train ride was cool,” says one traveler, “and I love HP, but honestly the highlights were mostly due to having an awesome guide.”

The train segment is one-way, from Mallaig to Fort William, and is included in the tour price. It’s a significant part of the experience, especially for Harry Potter enthusiasts, as it replicates the journey of the famous wizard’s train.

Returning via the Highlands

After the train ride, the group boards the bus again to head back south. The route back often includes stops for snacks, rest breaks, and a chance to reflect on what you’ve seen.

Some travelers, like one reviewer commenting on the long day, suggest splitting this experience into two days if possible. Nonetheless, most agree that the scenery, stories, and train ride make the long hours worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on the Tour

The trip wraps up back at the meeting point in Edinburgh, usually in the late evening. The overall experience is highly rated, with many reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides, the stunning landscapes, and the well-organized itinerary.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives combined with history and storytelling, this tour is a winner. Harry Potter fans will obviously enjoy the train ride and film locations, but even those less interested in the wizarding world will find the landscapes breathtaking and the commentary engaging.

It’s ideal for travelers who want a full day of adventure, with comfortable transport and a mix of sightseeing, train travel, and storytelling. However, be prepared for a long day—the schedule is tight, and the journey is quite extensive.

For those with mobility issues or young children under 5, this tour might not be suitable, given the long hours and walking involved. Still, most adults who enjoy scenic landscapes and a touch of film magic will find it a memorable way to see the Highlands.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
No, the meeting point is at Highland Explorer Tours. You’ll need to meet there 15 minutes before departure.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 13 hours, making it a full-day experience packed with sights.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase meals along the way.

Is the train ride round trip?
No, the train ticket is one-way, from Mallaig to Fort William, included in the price. The return is by bus.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can join, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is not suitable for mobility impairments or wheelchair users, but collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated if assistance is provided.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, some cash, and dress appropriately for outdoor stops and variable weather.

Is this an official Harry Potter tour?
No, it’s an unlicensed, non-endorsed tour related to Harry Potter, using locations seen in the movies but not affiliated with the franchise.

Final Words

If you’re after a full-day Highland adventure that combines scenic vistas, storytelling, and a touch of magic, this tour offers a lot for its price. The combination of a vintage steam train, breathtaking landscapes, and the expertise of guides makes for an immersive experience that many travelers find memorable.

However, just keep in mind the long hours, the variable weather, and the fact that it’s primarily a bus tour with a train segment. It’s best suited for those who want a highlight reel of Scotland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of arranging multiple separate tours.

For lovers of stories, landscapes, and the whimsical world of Harry Potter, this trip could very well be a highlight of your Scottish adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: