Harry Potter in Scotland: Places to visit and our tips

Follow Harry Potter in Scotland, It's about discovering the landscapes that inspired and hosted the saga: the Hogwarts Express viaduct, the Glencoe valleys, and the Edinburgh streets where J.K. Rowling wrote her first novels. Having lived in Edinburgh since 2012, we present the must-see places and our tips for planning this trip.

Harry Potter in Scotland: why this trip?

Scotland holds a special place in the history of the saga. J.K. Rowling was living in Edinburgh when she wrote the first books. Later, several films were shot in the Highlands, whose vast landscapes provided Hogwarts with its wild setting.

This trip appeals to both families and adult fans. Furthermore, it offers the opportunity to discover some of the country's most beautiful sites, even without being a magic enthusiast.

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Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Hogwarts Express

This is undoubtedly the most famous location. In the films, the Hogwarts Express crosses this viaduct with its 21 arches, above a valley that slopes down towards Loch Shiel. It can be seen, in particular, in The Chamber of Secrets, when Harry and Ron chase the train in a flying car.

The real steam train is called the Jacobite. In 2026, it ran between Fort William and Mallaig from June 1st to October 23rd, for approximately £76 return for an adult in standard class, according to West Coast Railways. Tickets sell out quickly: so book as soon as sales open.

Without a ticket, you can also watch the train go by from the viewpoint above the viaduct, a few minutes' walk from the Glenfinnan car park. For other spectacular journeys, see our Most beautiful train routes in Scotland.

Filming locations in the Highlands

Glencoe and Hagrid's Hut

For The Prisoner of Azkaban, The team built Hagrid's hut in the Glencoe valley, near the Clachaig Inn. However, it was dismantled after filming. The surrounding mountains remain among the most beautiful in Scotland.

Loch Shiel and Black Lake

Loch Shiel, at the foot of the Glenfinnan monument, was used for some scenes of the Hogwarts lake. A cruise to see it departs from Glenfinnan during the season.

Loch Eilt and Dumbledore's grave

On the road to Mallaig, Loch Eilt shelters a small wooded island. It notably appears in The Deathly Hallows, where it houses Dumbledore's tomb. The Jacobite runs alongside this loch, and the road offers several stops for photography.

Steall Falls and Glen Nevis

At the end of Glen Nevis, near Fort William, the Steall Falls waterfall appears in The Goblet of Fire, during the dragon trial. A trail of about an hour leads there through a wooded gorge.

Following in JK Rowling's footsteps in Edinburgh

Edinburgh doesn't actually have any major filming locations. However, the city has certainly inspired the saga. Here are the places we recommend:

• Victoria Street, a curved and colourful street often compared to Diagon Alley.
• Greyfriars Kirkyard, a cemetery where the grave of a certain Thomas Riddell can be found.
• George Heriot's School, whose towers are reminiscent of Hogwarts, is visible from the cemetery.
• The Balmoral Hotel, where JK Rowling finished the last volume in 2007.

Find other tours of the capital in our guide to find out more What to do in Edinburgh.

Our tips for a Harry Potter trip to Scotland

• Go between June and September to combine the Jacobite festival with the long summer days.
• Plan at least two nights in Fort William, the best base for Glenfinnan, Glen Nevis and Glencoe.
• Also book accommodation in the Highlands several months in advance during the summer.
• With children, alternate filming locations with outdoor activities, such as a cruise or a short hike.
• Finally, if you are passing through London, add the Harry Potter Studio Tour, near Watford.

For other child-friendly ideas, see also our guide to a family trip to Scotland.

A 7-day itinerary following in the footsteps of the saga

Start with two days in Edinburgh, then head to the Highlands via Glencoe. Next, spend three nights in Fort William to explore Glen Nevis, Jacobite, and Loch Shiel. Finally, visit the Isle of Skye or Loch Ness before returning south.

Fans of other sagas can also extend the journey with the Outlander filming locations, often located on the same road.

Frequently asked questions about Harry Potter in Scotland

Where can I see the Hogwarts Express in Scotland?

At the Glenfinnan viaduct, on the line between Fort William and Mallaig. During the season, the Jacobite passes through in the morning and then returns in the afternoon.

Is Hogwarts Castle in Scotland?

No. The exterior shots for the first two films were mostly filmed at Alnwick Castle in northern England. However, it can easily be combined with Scotland, for example by passing through Hadrian's Wall.

Do you need to book the Jacobite train in advance?

Yes, especially in July and August. Places often sell out several weeks, or even several months, before departure.

How many days should I plan for a Harry Potter trip to Scotland?

A week allows you to see Edinburgh, Glencoe, Fort William, and Glenfinnan without rushing. With ten days, you can also add Skye.

Follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter with Brightside Travel

Our team lives in Scotland and knows each of these places well. We offer, in particular, a 8-day magical family road trip, adaptable to your dates, or a tailor-made trip to Scotland according to your wishes.

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