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Bridge · Fort William, Escócia
Glenfinnan Viaduct
The curved railway viaduct of 21 concrete arches, dating from 1901, above lago Shiel, where the Jacobite steam train from the Harry Potter films passes, with the monument to the Jacobites on the lakeshore.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct carries the West Highland Line over the valley of the River Finnan, about 27 km west of Fort William. It was built between 1897 and 1901 by Robert McAlpine, with 21 arches and roughly 380 metres in length, and was one of Britain’s first major concrete works, which earned the builder the nickname Concrete Bob. The curved alignment follows the valley slope, with Loch Shiel and the mountains in the background.
The viaduct became world-famous because of the Harry Potter films, in which the Hogwarts Express crosses it. The train used in the films is the Jacobite, a steam train that usually runs between Fort William and Mallaig from April or May to October, with advance booking. Regular line trains also pass the viaduct all year round.
At the end of the valley, on the shore of Loch Shiel, stands the Glenfinnan Monument, a 1815 tower topped by a highlander statue, marking the spot where Charles Edward Stuart raised his standard in 1745, starting the Jacobite rising that ended at Culloden. The National Trust for Scotland visitor centre, between the viaduct and the loch, tells this story.
A short trail climbs from the visitor centre to a viewpoint on the hillside, from where you can see the entire viaduct. At Jacobite passing times the viewpoint and the car park get very busy.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours, including the viewpoint, the monument and the visitor centre.
Best time
In the Jacobite season, usually from April or May to October, arrive about 1 hour before the train passes to secure a spot at the viewpoint. Outside the season the place is quiet, and regular trains still run.
How to get there
It lies on the A830, about 27 km west of Fort William, a 30-minute drive. The visitor centre car park fills up in summer. By train, both regular services and the Jacobite call at Glenfinnan station, a 15-minute walk from the viaduct.
Tip
Check Jacobite timetables and get to the viewpoint in good time. To see the viaduct together with the loch and the monument, follow the higher path on the hillside, behind the visitor centre.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Glenfinnan Viaduct
Does the Harry Potter train cross the viaduct every day?
The Jacobite typically runs from April or May to October on set schedules. Outside the season only regular trains run. Check timetables in advance.
Where to see the viaduct?
From the viewpoint on the hillside, about a 15-minute walk from the National Trust for Scotland visitor centre.
Can you ride the Jacobite?
Yes, between Fort William and Mallaig, with advance booking, as seats sell out.
What is the Glenfinnan Monument?
The 1815 tower on the shore of Loch Shiel that marks the start of the Jacobite rising of 1745.