*** Latest Update ***
June 4th 2026
We are delighted to announce tickets are now available to purchase: https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite/steam-train-trip.
Wishing you a wonderful trip!
April 28th 2026
Unfortunately there is no further update from the operator. We have been advised to recommend those looking to purchase tickets to sign up to the operator's newsletter to ensure you are notified as soon as a decision has been reached by clicking here: https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite/steam-train-trip
April 11th 2026
West Coast Railways has applied to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to allow it to bring back its older Mark 1 carriages.
As part of ongoing safety improvements, the company has agreed with the ORR to install Central Door Locking (CDL) systems across all Mark 1 carriages used on the mainline. and work is currently underway to finalise a timeline that meets safety requirements while aiming to begin the 2026 season as soon as possible.
What does this mean for you?
Crucially the operator has acknowledged there will be a delayed start to the 2026 season.
We will continue to update you as more information is made available.
March 12th 2026
We are hearing reports that West Coast Railways has agreed to fit central door locking to its affected carriages. The intent is to have the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) grant a temporary exemption allowing the train service to operate whilst works are arranged. The decision by the ORR can take up to 14 weeks to come through and we are continuing to monitor the situation daily. The service will not operate until this exemption is applied.
March, 7th 2026
The future of the Jacobite Steam Train service, known affectionately as ’The Hogwarts Express’ is in doubt for 2026 as regulators consider an application to extend the operator’s licence remains outstanding.
The service, which attracts around 70,000 visitors a year and crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, is in doubt due to safety concerns that requires the installation of central door locking on the historic carriages.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR), the independent body responsible for regulating Britain’s railways and overseeing safety standards, is still evaluating the application for an exemption by the operator, West Coast Railways.
The operator’s website states; “Sorry for the delay. Bookings for the Jacobite 2026 season will be open sometime in the coming weeks. Please check back for further details.”
We are monitoring whether the Jacobite Steam Train will be running in 2026 daily and will let our guests know what decision is reached as soon as we are informed.
If the route is cancelled for 2026 rest assured that our tours that feature the viaduct, such as our 5-Day Highland Highlights Tour, will continue by road with photo opportunities of the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
You can visit the operator’s site by clicking HERE.
Tell us where you'd like to go, when you're travelling, and how many are in your group. We'll take care of the rest.
