Jacobite Steam Train, Glenfinnan and The Highlands - 1 day tour
Jacobite Steam Train, Glenfinnan and The Highlands
One day tour
See some of the finest scenery in Europe including the breath-taking beauty of Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe and the Cairngorms National Park. Ride on the real Hogwarts Express, and explore the beautiful fishing village of Mallaig. Later visit delightful Pitlochry. There’s no better way to discover the true beauty of the Highlands!
Glen Coe - experience the stunning scenery of Scotland’s most famous glen
Rannoch Moor – drive through this unforgettably awe-inspiring desolate wilderness
Jacobite Steam Train – travel like Harry Potter on the Hogwarts Express
Glenfinnan Viaduct – enjoy magnificent views as you cross the 21-arched Victorian marvel
Mallaig – explore this beautiful fishing village and treat yourself to fish and chips
Pitlochry – stop off in this beautiful Victorian resort town on the way back to Edinburgh
Forth Bridges - see the three bridges that span the Firth of Forth
Movie locations - Skyfall, Harry Potter & The Queen
Full Tour Itinerary
We’ll leave Edinburgh bright and early and head northwards, passing ancient Stirling, where you’ll get a great view of the magnificent castle and monument to Sir William Wallace, the real Braveheart!
After a break for refreshments, our ascent of the Black Mount will afford beautiful views of Loch Tulla before we reach Rannoch Moor. This barren wilderness extends for some 50 square miles and is one of the most desolate and unspoilt areas in Europe.
Haunting Glen Coe is known as the “Glen of Weeping”. In 1692 40 of the resident MacDonald clan were massacred in cold blood by the Campbells for not forswearing the Jacobite cause. It is said that you can still hear their cries! We’ll make a stop in this awe-inspiring place so that you can marvel at the natural beauty of the glen for yourself.
In Fort William, you’ll board the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train for the greatest railway journey in the world. A highlight of the journey is crossing the magnificent 21-arched Victorian Glenfinnan Viaduct – recreating the scene in the Harry Potter movies where Harry and his friends cross the viaduct on the way to Hogwarts.
The train will stop at Glenfinnan station to give you time to stretch your legs, and, if you wish, visit the West Highland Railway Museum located in the restored station building.
On arrival in the fishing village of Mallaig, you’ll have a chance to explore and perhaps enjoy some fresh, locally caught seafood. On a clear day, you’ll be able to look across to the magical Isle of Skye. After lunch, it’s time to board your coach again for a scenic tour along the Road to the Isles back to Fort William.
We’ll drive through scenic Glen Spean and into the beautiful Cairngorms National Park. After descending through the Grampian Mountains, we’ll make a stop in the delightful Victorian spa-town of Pitlochry.
The last part of our journey will take us towards Perth and through the Kingdom of Fife. As we cross the Firth of Forth you’ll get amazing views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, now a UNESCO heritage site.
It’s a short drive into Edinburgh and, sadly, the end of our incredible Highland adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on this Signature Day Tour?
Travelling on a Signature one-day tour is a great way to discover the best of Scotland from your city centre base of Edinburgh, Glasgow or Inverness.
During your day of discovery we’ll introduce you to many aspects of our country: spectacular scenery, history, folklore, nature and much, much more.
Luxury travel is provided by air-conditioned mini or midi coaches and each tour is led by an experienced driver/guide who will provide a live commentary in English.
There are stops planned at the key sights as well as for meals and comfort breaks.
What is the journey on the Jacobite Steam Train like?
Described as one of the great railway journeys of the world this memorable trip will take you past a list of impressive extremes.
Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig; passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar and the shortest river in Britain, River Morar, finally arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis!
The train will cross the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct (a location made famous in the Harry Potter films) which overlooks Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. The train may pause on the viaduct, time permitting, to allow you to take in the magnificent view.
Standard class tickets are included in the cost of the tour. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to upgrade these tickets to First Class.
Can I upgrade my Jacobite Steam Train journey to First Class?
The tickets allocated for the tour are in standard class. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to reserve specific seats or upgrade tickets to First Class.
Will there be stops for meals and are they included in the price of the tour?
Meals are not included in the tour price, but we will make stops where you can get refreshments and something to eat. If you wish, you can bring a packed lunch or pick up lunch items at a previous stop. Vegetarian food is widely available.
Will there be a tour commentary?
Each tour is led by an experienced driver/guide who will provide an informative and entertaining commentary in English.
You’ll hear tales of the Clans, bloody battles and the famous characters that have shaped the history of Scotland. You will learn too of the landscape that surrounds you and of the nature that makes Scotland so special.
Be ready to have a laugh as well - you’re bound to be told some really corny jokes!
Inclusions
- Single trip on the Jacobite Steam Train
- Small packed breakfast
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- Live commentary in English
- Services of an experienced driver/guide
- Service charges and taxes
Exclusions
- Hotel drop-off
- Lunch
- Gratuity to your driver/guide
Departure information
The Elephant House
21 George IV Bridge
Edinburgh EH1 1EN
Check-in: 05:45 hrs
Tour Departs: 06:00 hrs
Tour Returns: 20:00 hrs
Child details
There are no child, senior or student discounts available on this tour.
We’re really sorry but children aged under 6 years cannot travel on this tour.
Price Notes
This ticket is changeable/refundable up until 3 weeks prior to travel, otherwise a 50% cancellation fee applies.
Admission Prices
To give you maximum flexibility, admission fees are not included in the cost of this tour.
FAQs
Please see the FAQ section for more information on this tour.
Product code
GLS 2585
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Customer Reviews Overall Rating:
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Rating: (5 /5) 11 Aug 2023
Loved the tour. Beautiful scenery Group of 6 travelled had lots of fun. Great old steam engine. .
Carol A from New Waterford, CA
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Rating: (5 /5) 17 Jun 2023
Dougie was an absolutely fantastic guide and made the entire trip worth it. He was very lively and animated as he shared the details around the history of both Scotland and Harry Potter scenes in the Highlands
Afif from Gahanna, US
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Rating: (5 /5) 15 Mar 2018
The Tour was amazing!! The guide was even better, his wealth of knowledge that he shared created an amazing experience. can't wait to get back!
Chad from California,
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