Jacobite Steam Train

Jacobite Steam Train

Jacobite Steam Train
4
About
Described as the greatest railway journey in the world, this 84 mile round trip takes 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!
Duration: More than 3 hours
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  • jacka
    Gateshead, United Kingdom119 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A journey through time
    This was a Christmas present from our daughter and son in law who accompanied us along with our granddaughters. This was truly a memorable journey as the sound of the steam train chugging through the mountains and the wonderful views were all brought together by Davey our Stewart on carriage F with his stories of his father driving the train and him and his sister accompanying him sometimes. His knowledge of the area and the history of the line made the journey even more interesting and exciting. A trip well worth doing.
    Visited May 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 14 May 2024
  • Sherpa07819125371
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great trip
    Great trip on the Jacobite today, couldn't fault the customer service. The scenery is stunning, the time for the stop at mallaig is just enough to look around the harbour and shops and get something to eat. The train seems to attract a few odd people - adults dressed in costume from the potter films, all a bit weird to me to see adults wearing capes and brandishing their magic wands, but each to their own I suppose. Don't let this contingency of oddballs put you off doing this trip though, it really is worth doing if you're in the area.
    Visited May 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 15 May 2024
  • Ednamaymorrice
    Aberdeen, United Kingdom83 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    100% Do This trip.
    After all our panic re would it happen would it not because of the issues - it did happen. The most fantastic experience. First Class carriage is comfy and authentic to its time. The staff are brilliant. Chatty , funny, personable and very attentive. We nearly cancelled - that would have been a huge mistake . This was really a great day out and the views are amazing!
    Visited May 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 19 May 2024
  • Steph L
    Swindon, United Kingdom53 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A wonderful trip
    Absolutely loved our trip, we were worried it would be cancelled due to the issues they have had but luckily it went ahead. The train was stunning and the service was impeccable with lots of information given. We sat in first class which was stunning with complementary tea, biscuits and Juice cartons for children. We also had a bottle of champagne pre ordered which was nice- the only negative about the champagne is that it is served with plastic flutes, I understand this is for safety reasons but just felt glass would have been more suited for a first class service. The views were breathtaking and well recommended for any potter fans, the viaduct is stunning. If your booking for 5-6 people ensure you contact the company to request a table table for 4 and a table for 2 opposite, we didn’t read this on the info so we’re sat down the carriage from some of our group which was frustrating when sharing a bottle of champagne. Overall a great experience
    Visited May 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 28 May 2024
  • Dan Phillips
    Bristol, United Kingdom19 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Stunning views, great staff
    Amazing experience, especially if you're a Harry Potter fan as you see some sights from the films and the carriages used in film. Staff were amazing - ensured everyone got on board, friendly and funny. Great vibe in the carriages - we were on the wrong side for the best views of the viaduct on way out but staff encouraged people to let people grab a shot too so worked out perfectly. Even got upgraded to first class carriages for return leg. Stunning views.
    Visited May 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 29 May 2024
  • jules12017
    Derby, United Kingdom6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Friends from Derby Steaming ahead.
    Booked this trip for my wife's birthday with 2 friends. The anticipation & excitement was palpable even for 4 mature individuals. The whole experience was just brilliant. We had booked 1st class with a table for 4 with a cream tea which was just the best quality food in a well presented souvenir box. We were so fortunate that the weather was perfect with blue skies giving views to die for. The train staff were just fantastic with our carriage having the benefit of a very informative person giving us all interesting information throughout the 84 mile round trip. A must do experience for everyone. Regards Jules & Friends from Derby
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled with friends
    Written 25 June 2024
  • Karen H
    Denver, Colorado10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful views and a must for Harry Potter fans
    If you have Harry Potter fans in your group, you’ll love this train trip! You’ll get solid views of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the island on Loch Eilt where Dumbledore’s Grave was set, and the view of Loch Shiel where Hogwarts was placed in many of the films. Many other beautiful views as well. We had first class seats, which were comfortable (you’re on the train for about 4 hours) and offered great views. We sat on the right on the way to Mallaig, and on the left on the way back, so we got both angles. If you’re able to snag a compartment, your Harry Potter experience will be even better!
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 25 June 2024
  • Anon675738
    Cheshire, United Kingdom47 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Relaxing scenic trip
    An enjoyable trip with an easy way of seeing the scenery. We travelled first class which seamed to have a couple of advantages in addition to more comfortable seats Tea/coffee and a biscuit were included in the price but be warned when the trolly arrives staff are interested in selling refreshments, you need to ask if you want the paid for drink. We noted a number of folk paid for drinks later realising they had missed out. Travelling to Mallaig we sat on the side of the carriage that was away from the best scenery, the train slowed for photos. We we're pleased that on the way back our seats were on the more scenic side but the train pelted back at top speed ( little chance for photos) , we were told it always travelled faster on the return. ( don’t know if seats are swapped in standard class) Staff very friendly and helpful especially those managing the carriages Was it a worthwhile trip ? Yes but don’t expect the service this Company provides with its Northern Bell trips but then it costs nowhere near NB cost. We got better photos ( no window distortion or reflection ) when we drove the route the next day.
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 26 June 2024
  • Gill M
    2 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    Good experience could have been better
    The ride on the steam train is very worthwhile. The scenery is great as long as it's good weather. We really enjoyed the experience. The staff were great witch can't be said for West Coast Raiways. We booked in February for the trip in standard class. No problem so we booked accommodation nearby for a week. The highlight of the holiday being the Jacobite steam train. Then you start hearing about bookings being cancelled because of door locks not being fitted. Two weeks before our trip we hear our booking as been cancelled in standard class but wait for it we can upgrade to first class with 10% off. Not sorry for spoiling our special holiday no complementary seats because we booked you on a train that we new might not be running. We did pay the extra over a hundred pounds and went in first class and enjoyed the trip. A full refund was offered as well as the upgrade but we had booked accommodation we couldn't cancel that as well. In first class you get free tea or coffee my granddaughter wanted hot chocolate. Very disappointing having had to pay extra to be upgraded. They charged us three pounds for the privilege. A nice trip but badly managed.
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 30 June 2024
  • 287Loges
    Sydney, Australia570 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Disappointing due to weather
    A great attraction and I travelled from Australia to do it. However we got bad weather the day I went on 5 June. Went 1st class and was in the first seats in first carriage after the steam engine so was not in a good position for a good photo going over the Glenfinnan viaduct between that and the weather. Can’t open windows in the borrowed carriage’s and rain on the glass.. Just my bad luck I guess. But I got to tick it off my bucket list and would recommend the trip to anyone.
    Visited June 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 1 July 2024
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4.0
4.0 of 5 bubbles4,558 reviews
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1,114
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503
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These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
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Vicky R
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2024 • Couples
I purchased tickets for the Jacobite at the start of the year as a surprise for my boyfriend. I was feeling a little apprehensive about this trip following all the negative reviews on here lately.

As a Harry Potter loving couple in our twenties, we had the most amazing day. We were at a first class private table for 2, we received complementary tea/coffee/water/juice and biscuits on the outbound and return journeys. On the way off we were in carriage B, we were seated on the side with the best views of the viaduct. On reaching the viaduct we stopped for a couple of minutes so everyone could snap some pictures. We the. Stopped at the Glenfinnan train station where you can get off for 20 minutes and go for a walk or visit the museum and shop.

The weather was amazing for us so in Mallaig we opted to go on the 1 hour wildlife cruises. The dolphins were out in force, there must have been hundreds of them, it was spectacular. We still then had time for an ice cream and a little walk around Mallaig before boarding for the return journey.

On return we were in carriage A which had the table top lamps like you see in the pictures. We were sat on the opposite side this time so had the best views of Dumbledores grave.

The staff on board were lovely and very informative. The trolley had a variety of items and snacks. We purchased a chocolate frog for £4.99 which is the same price you would pay anywhere else.

Overall, I'd definitely recommend this trip if you're a Harry Potter fan or train enthusiast. I'd also recommend the first class experience!
Written 24 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Noutie M
26 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2023
The steam train was broken down due to "repairs" but in reality, an employee of the Fort William station informed us that in fact, it was more for safety reasons since the train was a victim of its success. required an employee at each door to avoid accidents, the train had to be adapted to new safety standards.
IN SHORT, we took the classic train for a more than reasonable price and we had a magnificent journey. Be careful if you take the train from Glasgow, stand near a window.
Arriving in Fort William, we were able to eat at the Ben Nevis Pub but be careful, places are expensive, so you have to go to the restaurant (right side of the pub) and ask to be added to the waiting list, then go and have a drink. drink on the terrace at the pub on the left side The dishes are good, particularly the plate of smoked fish.
In Mallaig, nothing to see.
Google
Written 2 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

C.Gombert
11 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2024 • Family
Disappointing trip.
We sell you dreams and you don't have them.
we booked first class for a trip in the famous Jacobite steam train of harry potter and we are told that it is only in the morning that we can get on this train.
For the 12:45 one, you pay the same price and you only have the same cars.
The worst part is that you have the flyers in your place with the picture of the steam train
The scenery was pleasant but it makes the trip bitter.
The children were very disappointed and so were we.
We booked the tickets from the opening on December 1, 2023.
Be careful if you want to make this trip
Automatically translated
Written 3 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Trip69875
1 contribution
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2024 • Family
What a total con. I booked this as a special treat for my son and the holiday to Scotland was mainly booked around this. I feel really sorry for all the people that travelled from abroad for this. The small print when booking (which I did months in advance) states that they may have to use a diesel engine when the steam engine breaks down, so you would expect this not to be a regular occurrence or to be informed of it before it happens. Our holiday cottage was situated close to the line in Banavie, and we only saw the steam engine in the mornings, the other trains that we saw were the diesel or regular. We also visited the Glenfinnan viaduct to observe the train in the afternoon. Again this was diesel. I suspect that they only run one steam train in the morning.
The train that we were on was late to set off, and then broke down about 5 minutes into the journey so needed another diesel. The steward advised us that there was no buffet car available on board that day so advised us to get off and go to Morrisons whilst we were waiting! We were about 50 minutes delayed. The train carriage itself is dated and no different to a normal train. There was absolutely nothing different to this train carriage and nothing special was made of it. A person wheeled a trolley through the carriage to sell over priced Harry Potter Merchandise. When we got to Mallaig at 15.20, the vast majority of cafes were closed.The harbour is pretty but very small and little to do.
The public toilets on the platform were open as we arrived but were closed prior to boarding. The train toilet in our section was out of order, but another was working.
To top it off a train steward came and gave me my Steam train souvenir booklet which was all about the magical steam train that we weren't on (even that had cost me an extra £1).
Luckily for us we were driving on our holiday and have been out and had some wonderful days out. I feel so sorry for anyone who had been bussed in especially for this, especially with the looks of the disappointed kids , but at least they got to see some magical scenery.
I just don't know how WCR get away with this. I honestly wish they had been shut down with the fiasco of the doors.
Save yourself the money, get a normal train.
Written 18 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Olga M
5 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2023 • Friends
The train journey was disappointing as our expectations were not met based on the tour description and the price of over 250 euros per person. The Highland Jacobite Steam Train Tour is too "hyped".
There was no Harry Potter class, we sat in the last and worst compartment. There was no stop at the Glennfinnan Viaduct, there was no stop in Mallaig,
And only by chance did we learn from fellow travellers that there was no return journey by train, but that the bus driver had to take us straight back to Edinburgh without a break.
There was nothing about this in the booking documents. Therefore, two fellow travellers followed the train driver's instructions and walked to the village of Mallaig for 2 hours. These fellow travellers were not taken on the return journey by bus.
We booked and paid in Germany through TUI, but did not receive an invoice or a detailed itinerary. We also found no information in the TUI app.
Overall, we spent the day from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. sitting on the bus or train. We are disappointed. It wasn't worth the money.
Google
Written 15 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Go678180
Bearsden, UK41 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2024 • Couples
Enjoyable journey with fabulous views. I read the reviews after booking a first class 2 person table, so was apprehensive about what to expect. Yes, it’s not a luxurious Orient Express style experience. The carriages are old, but well maintained & clean. Seats comfortable - faded old world grandeur is how I’d describe. No lamps on the tables despite the tickets stating there would be, & when I asked the conductor she said only in some carriages (well on none on our train ☹️).
Announcements for when we neared the viaduct & dumbedores grave island. Very strict about no standing or moving at any point, which was good as meant everyone had the opportunity to take photos without people getting in way. You swap carriages on the return journey so everyone sees both sides. The window had condensation between the panes for our return journey making it impossible for the camera to focus, but we got good photos on outward journey anyway.
Had delicious lunch outside in sun at Backpackers tearoom in Mallaig. Recommend u find somewhere for lunch first as queues build up quickly - then explore later.
Train v hot on way home, no air con obviously, staff opened door window but smoke came in when in tunnels.
Yes, this is an expensive way to do this journey - u can do the same trip on Scotrail for about £14 single. But we loved the romance of being pulled by a steam engine, the many crowds who waved from hills, lay-bys & gardens the full length of the route & the general camaraderie & excitement of everyone else on board experiencing this wonderful journey 😍
Written 13 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Simon Atkinson C
2 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2024 • Couples
Travelled to Mallaig from Fort William today on a scheduled Scotrail train - a superb journey through spectacular scenery and across the wonderful Glenfinnan Viaduct. Pulled into Mallaig to find the Jacobite train at the platform preparing to depart. Full up coaches of not particularly happy looking folks sitting in absolutely filthy carriages with windows thick with dirt. Don’t waste your money - take a scheduled service train for a fraction of the price and get actual views out of the window.
Written 23 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Gemma E
35 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2023 • Couples
We booked a return trip from Fort William, this was booked in January and we paid for first class tickets.

The train itself is amazing, had 8 carriages, we were on carriage B outwards and carriage A on return. The carriage was very clean, the seats were really comfortable and we had plenty of space. You are provided with a complimentary tea or coffee on each trip, I think for the price you are paying there should be more provided, such as some bottled water, food.. especially when you pay for first class. We had to pay extra for a guide, I think this should be provided as part of the price. The temperature on the train was ‘sweltering’ it is an old train which I understand but it made the trip quite uncomfortable, there could be some fans added into the ceiling to circulate air.

Whilst the train ride itself is incredible, the 1:45 hours you have to spend in Mallaig, isn’t great. There really isn’t much to do there at all. Highly recommend visiting the seafood restaurant, they have a takeaway option just round the side of the main entrance. The fish and chips are lovely although you do wait a while so I recommend heading there straight from the train. It would be good if there were recommendations provided on the train of things to do during the break before arriving in Mallaig.

I think the experience is overpriced for what you get but I would recommend experiencing it as the views of the highlands are incredible.
Written 10 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

sa1gon
London, UK1,100 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2023 • Couples
If only I had read these reviews before I booked this train, but it was recommended by a friend, who I am beginning to think doesn't like me!

The train has a wonderful looking Steam Locomotive, but the rest of the train is way below expectations.

We booked what we could, which was just short of £120 and it was a total waste of money. I consider our carriage was lucky to be 4th Class. Last time I saw a carriage like this was going to see Father Christmas over 50 years ago, and I don't think it has been cleaned since. I have been on Steam Trains before, but they have not been dirty like this. I guess we were unlucky we went on a very hot day but soot was coming in through the windows constantly and we were asked to close out windows, as the train went through the tunnels. However, our carriage was made up in the main of American Tourists, who refused to shut the windows as they wanted the full experience, which was horrendous for those getting the benefit of them having their windows open wide.

If you are expecting the train to stop or even slow down for a photo of the Harry Potter Bridge, it didn't, so it was mentioned but literally as it passed and if you are sat at the wrong side you won't see it anyway.

There was a drinks/snacks trolley that came through the train but when it came to us, we were in a tunnel, so it was dark and we couldn't see the person or the trolley and it moved through the carriage so quickly I think having customers would have meant it missed it's timetable.

The stop at Glenfidden was OK, but there is a small Museum, a Signal Box and an old train to look at, so 20 minutes feels like a long time.

When we got off at Mallaig, the toilets were closed, there were apparently toilets on the train but no running water to wash your hands. We had to walk a long way to a toilet on the coach car park. Lots of the cafés etc. were closed, so thank god for the Co-op. It took my disabled husband 20 minutes to walk out of the station, as he was in pain and aching from the uncomfortable seats. I didn't fair much better, and be warned the seats are small, I know lots of people who wouldn't be able to get in them.

When we arrived back at Fort William, my husband needed me to get his wheelchair and the staff member from our carriage said she would help him walk along the platform. When I got back he was sitting on a bench on the platform but as soon as I left she did a runner, so much for Customer Service.

If you are thinking of doing this, I would say save your money, it was not worth the time or the money.
Written 11 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Urlauber1887
Luneburg, Germany360 contributions
2.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2024 • Family
Anyone who travels on the Jacobite Steam Train naturally expects the Harry Potter feeling for this price. In short, you can save your money! There is no Harry Potter flair in either 1st or 2nd class. Absolutely nothing reminds you of it! Only the small souvenir carriage that rolls through the carriages (and has a sales compartment) has something to do with Harry Potter. The special carriage with the separate compartments from the film is not currently available to passengers, but it is still running so that you can get a bit of a taste of the film atmosphere. It is extremely annoying that the arrangements made by the train attendants are not correct. One told us that our little daughter was not allowed into the Harry Potter compartment to take a photo. We left disappointed. Another train attendant replied very nicely and friendly that we were of course allowed to take photos in the compartment when the train was standing still. This worked without any problems! The train did not slow down when it passed the island with Dumbledore's grave or communicated this. It is and remains just a train ride to Mallaig. Nothing more! If you want to travel over the viaduct, you can do so for a fraction of the cost with ScotRail. The supposed Hogwarts Express also stands open on an empty platform in Mallaig (the last stop) for over 2 hours. This means that anyone can go there and take photos with the train or the compartment from the film without paying a fortune for this sobering journey. For us, it was absolutely not worth the money! One point because it is the "Hogwarts Express" and one because there was a bit of a film atmosphere. Anyone who charges the price because of its popularity should make more of an effort to deliver something for it.
Google
Written 11 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN (2025) All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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