by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:59 AM ET, Wed November 11, 2026
Great Rail Journeys, formerly known as Vacations By Rail, is offering a new train journey to celebrate the release of HBO’s new Harry Potter series on December 25, with the opportunity to ride the Hogwarts Express, which is called the Jacobite Steam Train for us non-magic users.
The Jacobite Steam Train travels an 84-mile round-trip journey between Fort William and Mallaig in Scotland, crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, which has become an iconic scene in the original Harry Potter movies, and wending around Loch Shiel, a landscape from the films.
“Stepping onto the platform at Fort William, it's like you've gone back to a golden age of travel. Vintage carriages line the tracks, steam billows from the mighty engine, and you can feel the excitement building all around you,” said Gary Crompton, Product Manager at Great Rail Journeys. “Then, you step aboard and are whisked off to Hogwarts through some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. Having experienced the Jacobite several times, it's truly a wonder to behold. Seeing the smiling faces of Harry Potter fans along the way makes you wonder whether magic really does exist.”
Great Rail Journeys is offering this historic experience on several Scotland itineraries beginning next year. Travelers should note that the train operates seasonally from April to October, and experiences may vary with itinerary.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
