Is The Jacobite Steam Train Running in 2026?

So, is the Jacobite Steam Train operating in 2026? Well, there is EXCELLENT news – after a delayed start, the train commenced operation on 01 June 2026.

Initially, the train operated on a reduced timetable, with one return service operating daily. From 10 June 2026, the full timetable will be in place, 7 days a week!

Jacobite Steam Train Timetable

From 10 June, the full timetable will operate, with morning and afternoon services. The dates of operation for 2026 have been confirmed as:

Morning Service
Daily from 1 June to 23 October 2026

Afternoon Service
Daily from 10 June to 25 September 2026

Tickets are now on sale

Reservations for members of the public are available on the West Coast Railways website. As always, demand is expected to be very high. So early booking is highly recommended.

The good news for anyone wanting to experience this magical journey is that Scottish Tours offers many tours that include a one-way trip on the Jacobite Steam Train.

Route of the Jacobite Steam Train

First, let’s look at the route and why it is so special. The Jacobite Steam Train runs along part of the West Highland Line in Scotland, covering the 84-mile round trip between Fort William and Mallaig.

The rail journey, famous as one of the World’s greatest, offers breathtaking views of lochs, mountains and golden sands.

The Jacobite Steam Train route begins in Fort William, a town in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak. As the train departs, passengers are treated to views of Loch Eil and the striking scenery of the Scottish Highlands.

The journey then continues to Glenfinnan, where the train pauses to allow passengers to admire the view and take photographs of the famous viaduct. The train then winds its way through pretty villages, forests, and along the coastline, eventually arriving in the fishing port of Mallaig.

Journey’s end - Mallaig

Journey’s end is the historic fishing port of Mallaig. When the railway arrived, the fortunes of the town changed dramatically as the fishing catches could swiftly be transported to markets in the south. This was at the height of the Herring fishing boom, which employed up to 10,000 boats across Scotland at its peak.

Today, the town is an important ferry port, and the catch is mainly prawns, scallops, and whitefish.

Glenfinnan Viaduct  

For train enthusiasts and Potterheads alike, the highlight of the journey is crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This sweeping structure of 21 arches carries the tracks over the River Finnan at a height of 100 ft (30m). The viaduct was completed in 1898, and the line opened for service on 01 April 1901.

Hogwarts Express

In the world of Harry Potter, the Hogwarts Express is the magical train that transports students from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station in London all the way to Hogsmeade Station.

This gleaming scarlet steam engine is an iconic element in the story, representing the gateway between the everyday world and the magical one at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

In the real world, West Coast Railways provided the gleaming black steam engine and scarlet-coloured carriages to Warner Bros for the filming of “The Philosopher’s Stone” and others in this magical film series.

Jacobite Steam Train Tours

If you would like to ride the Jacobite Steam Train, why not join a tour that features a one-way trip on the real Hogwarts Express.

Here is a list of tours that feature the train journey:

Tours from Edinburgh

One Day Tours

Jacobite Steam Train Experience
Jacobite Steam Train, Glenfinnan and The Highlands

Two Day Tour

The Jacobite Highlander

Four Day Tour

Jacobite Steam Train, Skye and the Highlands Small Group Tour
Isle of Skye, Jacobite Steam Train and Whisky Tour

Eight Day Tour

Skye, Orkney and the North Coast 500 Small Group Tour

Tours from Inverness

Jacobite Steam Train Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Jacobite Steam Train operating in 2026?

Yes, the operation of the train started on 01 June 2026

How often does the Jacobite Steam Train operate?

From 10 June, the train will be operating two return journeys per day.

What is the Jacobite Steam Train Timetable?

Morning Service
01 June to 23 October 2026

Afternoon Service
10 June to 25 September 2026

Where can I buy a ticket?

Tickets will be available for purchase on the West Coast Railways website.

Where can I get information on Jacobite Steam Train Tours?

Scottish Tours has a wide selection of tours that include a journey on the Jacobite Steam Train. There are itineraries from one to eight days in length.

Does the Jacobite Steam Train cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct?

Yes, the train will cross the viaduct on both outbound and return journeys?

Explore Scotland with Scottish Tours

A ride on the Jacobite Steam Train is just one of the experiences you can enjoy when you travel with Scottish Tours.

Check out our comprehensive selection and book your next Scotland Tour today.