Step back through centuries of Scottish history as you explore the stunning countryside around Glenfinnan in the Scottish Highlands. Accompanied by an expert local guide you’ll get up close to the world-famous railway viaduct – otherwise known as the Harry Potter Bridge.
You go beyond the bridge to hear tales from the clans that rallied here in support of Bonnie Prince Charlie. You follow in the footsteps of the Jacobite soldiers who marched onwards to take on the mighty British Army. You walk through the countryside where men flocked to build the impressive railway you see today. You follow in the footsteps of thousands of men who built a railway in a remote mountain country against all the odds. You stand where royalty admired the Highland landscape of Glenfinnan and its rich wildlife.
Tour Highlights
- Glenfinnan Viaduct or Harry Potter’s Bridge
- Viaduct Scenic Viewpoint and Hiking Trail
- Glenfinnan Station Museum
- Glenfinnan Memorial and Loch Shiel
- National Trust for Scotland Exhibition
Tour Details
On this walking tour, you get up close to the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct which appears in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets when the Hogwarts Express steams across it for the first time. From underneath you can gaze up at the high pillars and wonder at its clever engineering and the effort that thousands of men put into its construction. A short, but steep walk, takes you up to the viewpoint to look down on the full curve of the viaduct. From this vantage point, you can see if you can spot where Hogwarts was located in some of the Harry Potter movies. See if you can spot where Hogwarts was located
Leaving the crowds behind you can enjoy the scenic grandeur of the Scottish mountains as you explore the Glenfinnan countryside along a delightful hiking path. With some of the finest views of Loch Shiel you can imagine Bonnie Prince Charlie making his lonely way along the loch in a small rowing boat. If you are lucky you might spot some of the local wildlife, including Golden Eagles soaring in the sky above.
The small Edwardian railway station at Glenfinnan is a good place for you to rest awhile and imagine what it was like for those first visitors stepping off their trains as they arrived on holiday. The small volunteer-run railway museum is an excellent place to find out more about the railway line that has been voted the best in the world by Wanderlust travel magazine readers.
You now return to the banks of Loch Shiel to find out why Bonnie Prince Charlie came to Glenfinnan in August 1745 and discover what happened next that changed British history forever. As you walk listen to old legends that tell of hidden gold buried somewhere around Glenfinnan or the horse’s skeleton that went missing.
Your tour comes to an end gazing down the entire length of Loch Shiel. It’s the perfect spot for a photo to remember your visit to Glenfinnan. Before leaving you can spend some time in the visitor centre exhibition. Or, if you are still feeling energetic you can climb the narrow spiral staircase to the top of the Glenfinnan Monument for even more spectacular views.
Tour Times
Check out availability and start times below. Tours last between 1.5 and 2 hours.
Start Point
Outside the National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre at Glenfinnan, PH37 4LT Pay and display car parking.
Suitability
The walk is mainly along easy tracks. However, there are steep sections along uneven, rocky surfaces. The total distance is 2.5miles/4km.
How much?
Adults £10, Children (8-15) £5, Children (7 and under) Free
What’s included
Walking tour with a professional guide
Entry to the National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre
Entry to the Glenfinnan Station Museum
What’s NOT included
Refreshments
Entry to the Glenfinnan Monument