Fort William & Lochaber
Glenfinnan Viaduct
About
Glenfinnan Viaduct
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is an iconic landmark in the Scottish Highlands. It is renowned for its 21 arches and striking size over the River Finnan. It was completed in 1901 using groundbreaking mass concrete construction by “Concrete Bob” Alpine, and carries the scenic West Highland Line. It is also recognised for “the bridge to Hogwarts” in the Harry Potter films and is a popular tourist destination, particularly in the summer when the Jacobite Steam Train, or the Hogwarts Express passes over. While visitors are not able to walk on the operational railway, there are several viewpoints that provide amazing views of this engineering marvel set against the stunning Highland landscape.
Things to see & do
FAQs
It is. The Hogwarts Express crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Harry Potter films. It carries the West Highland Railway and curves across the glen above Loch Shiel, one of Scotland's most recognisable views.
It was built between 1897 and 1901 for the West Highland Railway extension to Mallaig. At 380 metres long and 30 metres high at its tallest point, it was made from mass concrete, an innovative technique for its day.
You can. From the car park at Glenfinnan, a well-marked path leads to the main viewpoint in around 20 to 30 minutes. The National Trust for Scotland visitor centre at the Glenfinnan Monument is close by.
The Jacobite Steam Train, better known as the 'Hogwarts Express', runs between Fort William and Mallaig from roughly May to October. It crosses the viaduct at around 10:45am westbound and 3:10pm eastbound. Check scotrail.co.uk for current timetables.
Book a private tour and explore
Glenfinnan Viaduct
with a local expert guide.
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