Iconic 1901 railway viaduct with a curving, 21-arch span, featured in several Harry Potter movies.
It's a steep climb and it was quite busy when we went too so was a bit tight at times on the path. The views are spectacular, the parking is reasonable. We went into the shop, it's quite expensive (most of the Harry Potter merch is cheaper online) but they did have an interesting exhibition on about the history of the area (not HP related!) and some lovely books and souvenirs etc. The staff were kind and helpful too!
Glenfinnan viaduct is an impressive construction that spans over 381 meters and has a height of 30 meters. The best time of the day to visit is, when the train passes by it and makes it look as if it came out of the Harry Potter movies. In my opinion, the best view is on the hills behind it. In order to get a good viewing seat and have plenty of time to get there (as it needs at least 15-20mins walking to go up the hill), get to the parking area one hour before the scheduled time of the train during summer.
We ended up spending 3 or 4 hours, walking across to route over the top and back and then waiting for the Harry Potter train. Some tips, bring sturdy walking boots if you want to go on the walk especially if it's been raining recently and look at the expected train times board in the main carpark so you know when to be ready for the big moment.
We were lucky enough to have snagged spots aboard the train that traveled across the bridge and it did not disappoint. It was wonderful seeing the bridge from aboard the train. But it was almost as fun witnessing the sheer number of people who had traveled to the surrounding area, just to witness the train travel across the bridge.
Amazing spot to view the viaduct and the jacobite steam train pass ! Lots of parking although I do advise getting there early for whatever time you choose to see the train as it can fill up. Posted times train passes viaduct at below.
Make sure to get there early to grab a good spot to watch the train. Everything was beautiful early June. Just prepare for rain and midges. The museum has done a wonderful just with the path. Loved the hike.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Toilets
Hello! I'm your AI guide for Glenfinnan Viaduct. I can help you with information about this attraction, including its history, best times to visit, and tips for your visit. What would you like to know?
Discover hotels in Glenfinnan PH37 4LT
Searching for hotels...
It's a steep climb and it was quite busy when we went too so was a bit tight at times on the path. The views are spectacular, the parking is reasonable. We went into the shop, it's quite expensive (most of the Harry Potter merch is cheaper online) but they did have an interesting exhibition on about the history of the area (not HP related!) and some lovely books and souvenirs etc. The staff were kind and helpful too!
Glenfinnan viaduct is an impressive construction that spans over 381 meters and has a height of 30 meters. The best time of the day to visit is, when the train passes by it and makes it look as if it came out of the Harry Potter movies. In my opinion, the best view is on the hills behind it. In order to get a good viewing seat and have plenty of time to get there (as it needs at least 15-20mins walking to go up the hill), get to the parking area one hour before the scheduled time of the train during summer.
We ended up spending 3 or 4 hours, walking across to route over the top and back and then waiting for the Harry Potter train. Some tips, bring sturdy walking boots if you want to go on the walk especially if it's been raining recently and look at the expected train times board in the main carpark so you know when to be ready for the big moment.
We were lucky enough to have snagged spots aboard the train that traveled across the bridge and it did not disappoint. It was wonderful seeing the bridge from aboard the train. But it was almost as fun witnessing the sheer number of people who had traveled to the surrounding area, just to witness the train travel across the bridge.
Amazing spot to view the viaduct and the jacobite steam train pass ! Lots of parking although I do advise getting there early for whatever time you choose to see the train as it can fill up. Posted times train passes viaduct at below.
Make sure to get there early to grab a good spot to watch the train. Everything was beautiful early June. Just prepare for rain and midges. The museum has done a wonderful just with the path. Loved the hike.
