2-Day Jacobite Experience including the Hogwarts Express from Edinburgh

Discover the 2-Day Jacobite Experience Including the Hogwarts Express from Edinburgh

This 2-day heritage tour of the Scottish Highlands offers a captivating mix of history, scenic landscapes, and legendary train rides. Priced at $487.30 per person, it’s a well-loved option, with 95% of travelers recommending it and a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 300 reviews. The tour departs from Edinburgh and features luxury transportation, guided storytelling, and overnight stay options in Fort Augustus.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the chance to ride the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, famously known as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. Alongside the train experience, you’ll visit Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, Dunkeld, Clava Cairns, and enjoy scenic drives through the Cairngorm National Park. Although the tour is well-structured, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can impact certain activities, like the train ride, which may be replaced with a diesel train if needed.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate history, Scottish culture, and beautiful landscapes, and who are comfortable with long days and multiple stops. The small-group format, with a maximum of 34 travelers, helps ensure a more personalized experience. Let’s explore what this adventure offers in detail.

Key Points

• Includes a ride on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, aka the Hogwarts Express, with a 2-hour return journey.
• Visit historic sites like Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns, linked to Jacobite supporters and Scottish legends.
• Enjoy scenic drives through Cairngorm National Park and the Highlands, with stops at Loch Ness and the Urquhart Castle ruins.
• Overnight in Fort Augustus, with hotel or B&B options that include breakfast.
• Tour lasts approximately 2 days, with luxury coach transport and a small group size for a comfortable experience.
• Weather considerations may lead to using diesel trains instead of steam, but the experience remains memorable.

Starting Point and Group Size for a Personalized Experience

The tour begins at 1 Parliament Square, Edinburgh, at 9:00 am, and concludes back at the same spot around 8:00 pm on the second day. The group size is limited to 34 travelers, which enhances the chance to ask questions and enjoy a more intimate setting. The trip is designed for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation at the start location.

First Day Highlights: From Pitlochry to Loch Ness

After gathering in Edinburgh, the journey kicks off with a 30-minute stop in Pitlochry, a charming town on the River Tummel, known for its small distillery. Travelers appreciate the brief break for a snack and the scenic surroundings.

Next, the tour visits Clava Cairns, an ancient burial site dating back around 500 years, featured in the Outlander books. This stop offers a glimpse into Scotland’s prehistoric past with minimal walking required.

From there, the group heads to Culloden Battlefield, where the last major Jacobite uprising was fought. The site offers an immersive walk through the historic battleground, where visitors can stand on the ground where clans fought for their cause. While the battlefield itself is free to explore, the visitor center’s entrance fee is not included.

The day continues with a scenic cruise on Loch Ness. Travelers enjoy breathtaking views and explore the Urquhart Castle ruins, which overlook the loch. The 1 hour 30 minutes spent here provides a chance to capture photos and soak in the mystery surrounding Nessie, Scotland’s legendary monster.

Second Day: From Fort William to Mallaig and Glencoe

The next morning begins with breakfast in Fort William, a town known as the gateway to the Highlands. Here, the highlight is boarding the Jacobite Steam Train in Mallaig. This 4-hour ride is often described as one of the world’s greatest train journeys, with views of Britain’s highest mountain, deepest loch, shortest river, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.

The train ride is famous for its appearance as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. While the steam engine is the preferred experience, weather conditions may require the use of diesel trains for safety, which some reviews mention as a disappointment. Still, the scenery remains spectacular.

In Mallaig, travelers can lunch and visit the Mallaig Heritage Centre to learn about this picturesque fishing port. This stop also offers a chance to sample fresh seafood and enjoy the local atmosphere.

After leaving Mallaig, the tour continues with a drive through Glen Coe, renowned as Scotland’s most famous glen. The scenery is dramatic, with towering cliffs and a poignant history, as it is the site of the MacDonald betrayals. The Glen Coe Visitors Centre provides insights into the area’s history and filming locations, including scenes from a Harry Potter movie.

Accommodation Options and Included Meals

Overnight accommodation in Fort Augustus allows travelers to relax after a full day of sightseeing. The tour includes breakfast each morning, with options to stay in B&Bs or hotels based on availability. The small-group setting enhances comfort and provides a more tailored experience compared to larger tours.

The cost of food and drinks during the trip is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The tour does not include pickup or drop-off from individual accommodations outside the starting point.

Practical Details: Transport, Guides, and Accessibility

Traveling in a luxury and midi coach, the group is kept small with a maximum of 34 people, allowing for easier interaction with the guide. The professional guide shares fascinating stories about Jacobite history, Scottish legends, and local scenery. Many reviews highlight guides like John S, Steven, or Ian as knowledgeable, entertaining, and attentive.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking. It is accessible for service animals and is near public transportation at the meeting point. The maximum luggage weight per person is 15kg, with size restrictions.

Considerations and Potential Limitations

The most common concern among reviews is the weather impact on the train ride. If conditions are poor, the steam train may be substituted with a diesel-powered train, which some visitors find less atmospheric. The long days and multiple stops require good physical stamina and patience. Plus, the lunch in Mallaig can be crowded, with limited restaurant options.

Finally, while the tour is highly rated and praised for guides and scenery, travelers should be prepared for weather variability in the Highlands and dress accordingly.

Final Thoughts on the Jacobite Experience Tour from Edinburgh

The 2-Day Jacobite Experience offers an engaging way to explore Scotland’s historic sites, stunning landscapes, and iconic train routes. The small-group setting and professional guides make it a comfortable and informative journey. The Hogwarts Express ride, combined with visits to Culloden, Loch Ness, and Glen Coe, create a well-rounded overview of Scottish culture and scenery.

This tour is best suited for those with an interest in history, film locations, and scenic drives, who are comfortable with long days and weather variability. The overnight stay in Fort Augustus gives a chance to relax and absorb the atmosphere of the Highlands.

While some reviews mention weather-related changes to the train experience, the scenery and storytelling often compensate. The tour offers good value for money considering the variety of activities, transportation, and accommodation included.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transport by air-conditioned vehicle, professional guide, overnight accommodation with breakfast, and a one-way Jacobite Steam Train ride.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the package. Breakfast is included in the accommodation.

What is the meeting point and start time?
The tour begins at 1 Parliament Square, Edinburgh, at 9:00 am. It ends back at the same location around 8:00 pm on the second day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the date are subject to partial or no refund.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 34 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must share a room with adults; children under 3 years are not accepted. Those traveling alone should consider the Single Room option.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of poor weather conditions, the steam train may be replaced with a diesel train, which some may find less atmospheric but still offers scenic views.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking around historic sites and some uneven terrain, but overall it is suitable for most travelers with good mobility.

How do I know if my accommodation is included?
Your overnight stay is in Fort Augustus, with options for B&B or hotel accommodations. The specific choice depends on availability and booking.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it is suitable for most travelers, provided they are comfortable with long days and climatic changes typical of the Highlands.

This 2-day Jacobite Experience from Edinburgh balances history, scenery, and iconic film locations for an adventure that captures the essence of Scotland.