How to Visit (& Photograph) the Glenfinnan Viaduct (2024)
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is an unmissable Scottish icon. And photographing the Harry Potter steam train, or Jacobite, as it crosses the soaring archways of the viaduct is a bucket list moment.
Dominating the Glenfinnan landscape, the 1,000ft long, 100ft high railway bridge elegantly sprawls across the valley floor.
It’s 21 high curving arches are windows to the mountains which peak tantalisingly behind, highlighting the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding this Highland gem.
Scottish Highlands Made Easy | How to explore Glenfinnan, Glencoe + Fort William
Unlock the best kept secrets of Glenfinnan, Glencoe, and the southern Scottish Highlands with my carefully curated Google Map, showcasing 300+ accommodation, eateries, viewpoints, and unique experiences. Plus, a road trip itinerary from either Glasgow or Edinburgh.
More recently, the Glenfinnan Viaduct has been elevated to worldwide fame, thanks to a magical movie franchise - the ‘Harry Potter bridge’ drawing a new group of fans. For the Jacobite steam train which puffs its way over the bridge four times daily, its now best known as the Hogwarts Express.
Whatever reason you wish to visit, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is a must-see on a Scotland road trip.
In this guide to the Glenfinnan Viaduct I’m sharing the best viewpoints, how to photograph the viaduct and steam train, where to eat, and how to best immerse yourself in this wild landscape. So, pack up the car with walking boots and your camera, and escape to Glenfinnan with my guide.
Planning a trip to Glenfinnan?
Here are some of my top places to stay nearby and the best hotels in Glenfinnan:
The Armoury: best holiday cottage in Glenfinnan.
The Princes House Hotel: best small & cosy hotel in Glenfinnan.
The Garrison: best modern hotel in nearby Fort William.
Locheil Villa Guest House: best boutique stay in nearby Fort William.
The Glencoe Inn: best boutique hotel in nearby Glencoe.
And some of the most highly rated Glenfinnan day trips:
From Edinburgh to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe, & Fort William: most popular Glenfinnan Viaduct day trip from Edinburgh.
From Inverness to the Glenfinnan Viaduct: most popular day trip from Inverness.
From Glasgow to the Glenfinnan Viaduct: most popular day trip from Glasgow.
Visiting the Glenfinnan Viaduct: Car Parking
Car parking at Glenfinnan Viaduct
There’s only one car park at Glenfinnan, only a few minutes walk from the Viaduct. It’s both well signposted and easy to access. Find it here on Google Maps.
Be aware: due to the increased popularity of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, car parking can be especially difficult in summer due to the crowds.
In fact, Glenfinnan Viaduct car park frequently closes due to be being full. And in the summer months it can be impossible to stop here. Although a new larger carpark opened a few years ago to cope with demand, arguably it’s still not enough. There is a small amount of overflow parking available by nearby St Finnans Church and some more at a few laybys on the road but these are not guaranteed.
Honestly, I recommend you arrive early in high-season to guarantee a space.
In reality, that means being at Glenfinnan Viaduct around 1.5-hours before the steam train is due to arrive on the Viaduct to guarantee a parking space.
Because you’ll have a few hours to wait for the Jacobite steam train, and you’ll be waiting on an exposed hillside, wrap up warm! You’ll find my top tips on what to wear below.
Park at the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre for £3.50 (car) and £6 (motorhomes). Note you can pay by cash or card.
If you can, visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the early spring and late autumn. The crowds are much less than in summer and parking is much easier.
Getting To the Glenfinnan Viaduct
By car: You’ll find Glenfinnan on the A830 (also known as the Road to the Isles), 13-miles north of Fort William. The easiest way to get to Glenfinnan is undoubtedly by car. Chances are, you’ll be visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct on a much bigger West Highlands road trip, and a car gives you the most freedom. I recommend Discover Cars for the best car hire in Scotland.
By bus: However, there is public transport to Glenfinnan from Fort William, which takes around 30-minutes, however, services are infrequent and only stop at designated places. It’s perfectly doable, but you’ll need to plan your journey properly in advance.
Bus service 500 is run by Shiel (Fort William to Mallaig). You can find the timetable and fares here.
By train: It’s also possible to take a Scotrail train from Fort William to Glenfinnan station (timetable here) but again, there are only a handful of services each day. However, it is a good option if you don’t have a car, or don’t want to worry about parking.
From Glenfinnan station its a short and easy walk to the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour
An alternative option to driving, you can book a tour and take a highly rated day trip from Edinburgh to the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Not only will this save you a headache with parking, you’ll visit and learn about major sights on your journey here, like breathtaking Glencoe.
There’s also this option from Inverness or this tour from Glasgow.
What times does the Steam train Cross The Glenfinnan Viaduct?
If you want to photograph the Jacobite steam train - aka The Hogwarts Express - then you’ll need to be organised.
The steam train runs daily from March to October and passes over the Glenfinnan Viaduct either twice or four times every day (depending on the time of year you visit).
From May till September it runs four times daily. And at the start & end of the season, only twice.
It goes from Glenfinnan to Mallaig and back again in the morning, then again in the afternoon. That means, from May till September, you have four opportunities to photograph the steam train.
The best time to photograph the Harry Potter steam train is as it passes west-bound over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is around 10.45am and 3pm. This will give you the best view of the steam train on the bridge, from the hillside.
Plus, I’ve included the best places to photograph the Jacobite steam train below.
My absolute top tip is be at the Glenfinnan Viaduct and parked up early to give yourself time to walk into the viewpoints.
You’ll also want time to be your chosen spot at the viewpoint, camera in hand, and ready to capture the steam train when it starts to cross the bridge.
What Dates does the Harry Potter Steam Train Run in 2024?
As mentioned the Jacobite, or Harry Potter, steam train runs from March till October.
In 2024, the Jacobite steam train times are:
The morning service runs from Thursday 28th March to Friday 25th October 2024 (seven days per week).
The afternoon service runs from Monday 6th May to Friday 27th September 2024 (seven days per week).
If you want to take a ride on the Jacobite this year, then buy your ticket here.
Finally, I recommend checking for service updates ahead of your trip.
the best time to visit the visit Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel are stunning at any time of the year, whether covered in a blanket of snow or under summer’s blue sky and wispy clouds. Even on the moodiest of days, the Glenfinnan landscape is utterly magical.
Personally, my favourite time of year to visit Glenfinnan is September time and its one of the best places to experience autumn in Scotland. The bustling crowds of summer have faded, and the misty mountains are cloaked in lush golds and oranges.
But if you want to photograph the Jacobite steam train then you’ll want to visit between March and October, on the dates mentioned above.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Map
Double click below to zoom in and see the spots pictured in this guide, including the best photography spots you don’t want to miss!
The best Glenfinnan Viaduct (& Harry Potter Steam Train) viewpoints
Unfortunately you can’t see the Glenfinnan Viaduct from the road. But there are two incredible viewpoints to photograph the bridge and steam train from.
Park up, grab your camera, and follow the the signposted route in - there’s a path and it’s only a short walk to the Viaduct itself.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint 1
For The Viaduct and Harry Potter Steam Train
This is easily one of the most popular viewpoints in Scotland - and for good reason.
The views over the Glenfinnan Viaduct are simply incredible. Avid photographers should head up the small hill, where you’ll find the best place to photograph the Jacobite steam train. From here, its possible to capture the length of the viaduct with the valley beneath and the mountains behind. Plus, the higher up the hill you’re willing to, the more magnificent the view of the curving viaduct. Even without the steam train, the surroundings from this Glenfinnan viewpoint are utterly beautiful.
To get to this Glenfinnan viewpoint, walk the short path from the Glenfinnan car park.
You’ll see a signpost for 'Viaduct Trail & Viewpoints' . Then at the foot of the archways is a slate sign pointing left, up the hill. Remember, be sure to wear boots or shoes with a good grip - it can be muddy higher up the hill.
I’ve covered how to photograph the Jacobite steam train from viewpoint 1 below.
Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint 2
For the Viaduct, Loch Shiel and The Monument
For views over Loch Shiel to one side, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct to the other, head up the hill behind the visitor centre. Although the viaduct is further away, and you definitely won’t get a close up of the steam train, you can see the entire bridge sweeping across the glen.
I’d recommend visiting this Glenfinnan viewpoint after you’ve photographed the steam train at viewpoint 1.
From here, look back down towards the shimmering waters of Loch Shiel, guarded by the rather haunting Glenfinnan Monument. It is breathtaking and in general a less crowded spot than other Glenfinnan viewpoints. Again, park at the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre; the Loch Shiel viewpoint is just behind, up a small hill.
How to photograph the Glenfinnan Viaduct (And the Harry Potter steam train)
The best way to photograph the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the steam train is absolutely from viewpoint 1.
This is where the famous Instagram shots of the ‘Hogwarts Express’ are taken from - and because of that, this vantage point can be jam packed with people.
My advice is to get there early, pick your spot, and settle in. Again, visiting in the less busy shoulder seasons of spring and autumn will help you avoid the crowds (and avoid having other people in your photos). But be prepared for crowds.
If getting the perfect train shot is important to you, you’ll want to scope out the hillside in advance of the train passing over. Then be sure to have your camera at the ready. As the steam train takes only moments to pass, you need to be organised.
Thankfully, the Jacobite steam train usually slows down or stops in the centre of the Viaduct to give everyone a chance to get that incredible steam train photo!
Tips
Be prepared for the hillside viewpoints at Glenfinnan to be muddy and wet. This area isn’t developed, it’s wild land, and the hillside is steep in parts and frequently slippery. That means you’ll be sitting or standing on a grassy, exposed hillside whilst you wait for the train - so dress appropriately for the weather and wear boots if you have them.
Lastly, at time of writing (2024) flying drones over the Glenfinnan Viaduct is restricted to commercial videography only and requires permission in advance from the Glenfinnan Estate. You can contact the estate on 07799 114 891.
What to wear At The Glenfinnan Viaduct?
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for a trip to Glenfinnan Viaduct.
It’s guaranteed you’ll be doing a lot of walking and whilst there’s a path all the way into the Viaduct, getting to the Steam Train viewpoints involves a short but steep walk up a hillside that’s frequently wet and muddy.
I’d also recommend a warm jacket, cosy layer and waterproof, especially if you’re waiting to see the steam train.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoints are completely open to the elements, the Scottish weather is notoriously unpredictable, plus the train can be delayed - which means a potentially cold wait on an exposed hill! So, be prepared to wrap up warm.
Booking a trip on the Jacobite Steam Train
How to book the Harry Potter Express
If you’d like to take a trip on the Jacobite steam train, aka the Harry Potter train, then find out more and book your tickets here.
You’ll want to book tickets for the Jacobite steam train months in advance, because seats usually sell-out early in the year!
Other things to do at The Glenfinnan Viaduct
Other than photograph the steam train, there are other things to do at the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Some are a quick visit, like the monument, whilst others take more time, like a boat trip on Loch Shiel. Depending on how much time you have available, here are some other great things to do at the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Visit the Glenfinnan Monument: Most people who come to Glenfinnan understandably come for the Viaduct. Yet you should also explore the Glenfinnan Monument overlooking over Loch Shiel. The lone Highlander stands guard over the shores of Loch Shiel in tribute to the Jacobite uprising. Framed by spectacular Highland scenery, this spot is strikingly beautiful.
To visit the Glenfinnan Monument, park in the visitor centre car park and cross over the road. The Monument is only a short walk from there and the path can be easily seen.
Walk the Glenfinnan Viaduct Trail: There are plenty of hikes around Glenfinnan, but the Viaduct Trail makes for a beautiful short walk across the stunning, open hillside. The trail is clear and easy to follow; you can enjoy the 2.5 miles of circular trail in around an hour, depending on how often you stop for photographs; the views over the viaduct and Loch Shiel are well worth the wander.
I’d recommend hiking boots; the terrain is steep in parts and often muddy after rainfall.
Start from the Glenfinnan Viaduct car park, return to the road and walk the short distance towards the viaduct. Follow the tarmac road up the glen to the foot of the viaduct where you’ll see a sign on the left. Head up the hill to the viewpoint and start to climb higher, following the path back to the start. You can also find the full route here.
Hike the Glenfinnan Munros: The Glenfinnan Munro’s are exactly the right distance from the Viaduct for a night under the stars. The circular route to the peaks of Sgurr Thuilm and Sgurr nan Coireachan takes around 12 hours, so it can be done in one long day – but adventurous souls can wild camp and wake up to see the sun rising over Knoydart and Loch Arkaig. This hike is a remote one, so only attempt it if you’re an experienced walker.
Go eagle spotting: Loch Shiel is home to golden and white-tailed eagles and is so remote that the easiest way to experience the loch is from the water. From Glenfinnan, enjoy a Highland Cruise tour around Loch Shiel for a full or half day. Full details and ferry times are here.
Walk Loch Shiel: If you’re looking for a long but low-level walk and remote wilderness, then walk along the banks of Loch Shiel, all the way to Polloch. It’s a remote and stunning walk that takes around 5 - 6 hours. Highland Cruises can pick you up for the return journey and its a beautiful way to experience the lesser-visited side of Glenfinnan.
I’d recommend comfortable but study boots. If you’re walking the entire trail then also pack a waterproof and layers; this is a remote area and you don’t want to get caught out.
Visit Glenfinnan Church: The church at Glenfinnan - St Mary and St Finnan's Catholic Church - is a beautiful building and one of the most historic sites in the Glenfinnan area. Also sitting high over Loch Shiel, you’ll get the most incredible views over the water and hills. Recently renovated, it is possible to visit and tour this little gem but remember it’s an active place of worship and there may be services or events.
Lunch at the Glenfinnan Dining Car: If you love tea and scones, the Glenfinnan Dining Car is a must. This converted train carriage, filled with vintage décor, is the perfect place to recover after a walk. It has a seasonal menu featuring fuss-free food, delicious sandwiches and homemade cakes along with pots of tea and great coffee.
You’ll find the café just a few hundred meters up the road, after the viaduct car park. Look out for a signpost on the left as you start to the head up the hill. There’s a small car park, or you can follow the viaduct trail over the hill for a longer walk.
Where to Visit Nearby
There are many destinations in the West Highlands that allow for a day trip to Glenfinnan and the popular town Fort William is probably the most popular place to stay nearby. But the Glenfinnan Viaduct is best included as a stop on either a West Coast of Scotland road trip or a Scottish Highlands road trip (coming soon).
So, if you’re looking to properly explore this area, then also visit nearby Glencoe, Fort William, and Arisaig.
How many days to visit Glenfinnan
If you have one day
If you’re passing through and only have a day (or less) to explore Glenfinnan, the you’ll easily see the highlights in a long morning or afternoon. Photograph the Glenfinnan Viaduct, visit the Glenfinnan Monument, discover Glenfinnan Church, walk the Glenfinnan trail, and then have a delicious lunch in the incredible Glenfinnan steam train café.
If you have a weekend
Alternatively, spend a weekend exploring the wider Glenfinnan area. There’s more to experience here than just the Viaduct, especially for outdoor lovers. Hike the Glenfinnan Munros, take a boat trip on Loch Shiel, or walk the length of its banks to for a taste of the remote wilderness. In that case, 2 to 3 days is the perfect amount of time at Glenfinnan.
If you want to see some, or all, of the walks and boat trips, then I recommend an least an overnight stay in the area and you’ll find hotel recommendations below.
Posts on this site may contain affiliate links that help support my business in creating content. If you purchase using one of these links, I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.
If you’ve found this guide helpful, you can buy me a ‘virtual’ mug of Earl Grey here.
