Our family road trip through Scotland was full of natural beauty and unforgettable moments, but one stop stood out for its cinematic magic: Glenfinnan Viaduct.
As we made our way from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, we planned a special detour to see the iconic railway bridge made famous by the Harry Potter films—and it was pure magic, especially for our kids.
1. Edinburgh – The City Where Magic Begins
Our journey started in Edinburgh, a city deeply tied to the Harry Potter universe.
We explored:
- The Elephant House Café, where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of the series
- Victoria Street, said to be the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley
- Greyfriars Kirkyard, where names like “McGonagall” and “Tom Riddle” appear on old gravestones
Even if you’re not a hardcore fan, Edinburgh’s literary energy and gothic charm are hard to resist.
2. Driving to Glenfinnan Viaduct
As we left Edinburgh and headed northwest, we entered the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. The drive itself was stunning—but the real highlight came when we reached Glenfinnan.
There’s a visitor center with parking and a short hiking trail that leads to the perfect viewpoint of the viaduct. The trail is easy enough for families with kids, and the anticipation builds with every step.
3. Watching the Hogwarts Express
And then—right on cue—the Jacobite Steam Train appeared in the distance.
Our son shouted, “It’s the Hogwarts train!” while our daughter aimed her phone camera with laser focus. The train slowly curved across the tall stone arches, releasing white clouds of steam into the crisp Highland air. It felt exactly like a scene from The Prisoner of Azkaban.
We waved to the passengers, and many waved back. It was a moment of pure wonder—for our children and for us, too.
4. Don’t Miss the Train – Timetable Info
The steam train doesn’t pass often, so timing is everything if you want to catch it crossing the bridge.
Train Passing Times (2025 Schedule):
- Morning crossing: Around 10:45 AM
- Afternoon crossing: Around 3:15 PM
Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot, especially during summer. You can also check the updated schedule or book tickets to ride the train at West Coast Railways’ official site.
Even if you’re not on board, just watching the train pass is magical.
5. A Family Memory to Treasure
Our stop at Glenfinnan wasn’t just about Harry Potter. It was about:
- Being surrounded by some of the most beautiful nature in Scotland
- Sharing awe and excitement with our kids
- Seeing a story come to life before our eyes
Whether you’re a Potterhead or simply love scenic adventures, Glenfinnan Viaduct is a stop you won’t regret. For us, it turned a drive into a memory—and brought just a little bit of Hogwarts magic into the real world.