Glasgow: Scottish Highlands & The Hogwarts Express Day Tour

Setting out on a full-day adventure through the Scottish Highlands from Glasgow offers the chance to witness some of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes and iconic sights. This tour, priced at $254 per person, blends scenic drives, historic towns, and the magic of the Hogwarts Express, making it an appealing choice for travelers seeking both natural beauty and a touch of cinematic fantasy.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is the combination of breathtaking scenery—including Glen Coe and Loch Lomond—and the chance to experience the famous Jacobite Steam Train, which is a real-life replica of the Hogwarts Express. Plus, the stop in Mallaig for lunch and the visit to historic Inveraray add layers of cultural and historical richness to the day.

A potential consideration for travelers is the long duration of 13 hours, which means some may need to be prepared for a full day on the road. Also, the tour doesn’t include food or hotel transfers, so planning ahead for meals and transportation from your accommodation is wise.

This experience is best suited for those who love scenic landscapes, enjoy historical towns, and are Harry Potter fans eager to see the Glenfinnan Viaduct. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want a comprehensive taste of Scotland’s natural and cinematic highlights, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Experience the peaks of Glen Coe, Loch Lomond, and the Arrochar Alps.
• Iconic train ride: Enjoy a 2-hour journey on the Jacobite Steam Train, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous from Harry Potter.
• Historic towns: Visit Inveraray and Mallaig, each with its own unique charm and history.
• Full-day adventure: Lasts approximately 13 hours, with plenty of photo opportunities and sightseeing.
• Guided experience: Led by an enthusiastic, English-speaking local guide who shares insights along the way.
• Value for money: Includes transportation, the train ride, and expert guiding, making it a hassle-free way to explore.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Buchanan Bus Station

The tour kicks off from Glasgow’s Buchanan Bus Station, where you’ll need to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. This gives you a moment to locate your guide and settle in before the scenic journey begins. The bus is comfortable and modern, designed for a full day on the road, and the driver/guide is usually knowledgeable and friendly.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

The first leg takes us through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, a highlight for anyone wanting to see Scotland’s classic lochs and mountains. We loved the way the landscape unfurled from the bus windows—vast, rugged, and untouched. The scenery here sets the tone for the day: expect sweeping views of water and hills, making it perfect for quick photo stops and stretching your legs.

Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe

Next, we cross Rannoch Moor, a vast wilderness of peat bogs and rugged terrain. The open landscape feels almost lunar at times, emphasizing Scotland’s wild side. Then, we arrive at Glen Coe, arguably one of the most iconic valleys in Scotland. This place is famous not only for its beauty but for its history—its dramatic peaks tell stories of volcanic activity and ancient glacial movements. A brief stop allows for some memorable photos, and we heard many visitors comment on how powerful the views are.

More Great Tours Nearby

Fort William and the Jacobite Steam Train

The tour’s centerpiece is the 2-hour ride on the Jacobite Steam Train, departing from Fort William. This is the real star for Harry Potter fans, as it crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which appeared in the films. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a wizarding world, especially if the weather cooperates and the steam engine puffs out clouds of smoke.

Many reviews mention how enchanting the train ride is, with one traveler noting, “The views from the train are unforgettable, especially crossing the viaduct—such a surreal moment.” The train offers an authentic experience, and standard tickets are included—no upgrades available, but the charm of the vintage steam engine makes up for it.

Mallaig: Lunch and Exploration

Disembarking in Mallaig, a picturesque fishing port, you get about 1.5 hours to wander, grab lunch, and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Fresh seafood stalls and cozy cafes line the harbor—perfect for sampling local delights and resting your legs. Several travelers appreciated this break, describing Mallaig as “adorable,” and a “refreshing change from bus rides.”

Scenic Drive Along the Lochs

After Mallaig, the journey continues along the coast of Appin, passing by Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe. The castle’s silhouette against the water offers a fairy-tale scene. The drive along these loch-side roads showcases Scotland’s rugged beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

Inveraray and Loch Fyne

The historic town of Inveraray provides a 30-minute stop, allowing visitors to stroll through its pretty streets and see the castle and church. It’s a good spot to stretch your legs and soak in some local charm. The tour then heads towards Loch Fyne, famous for its oysters and seafood.

Rest and Be Thankful Viewpoint

As we near the end of the day, the coach passes the Rest and Be Thankful, a viewpoint that offers sweeping views of the Argyll coastline and mountains. Many reviewers comment on how this spot encapsulates the grandeur of Scotland—reminding us why so many travelers fall for the Highlands’ rugged appeal.

Returning to Glasgow

The bus finally returns to Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow, concluding a full but rewarding 13-hour day. The timing allows travelers to relax and reflect on what they’ve seen. Given the length, travelers are advised to plan their evening activities accordingly, and allow at least 3 hours for connections if needed.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $254, this tour covers a lot—transport, a historic train ride, guided commentary, and multiple scenic stops. For the cost, you’re getting a rundown, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see a broad slice of the Highlands. The inclusion of the Jacobite Steam Train is a major value add, as tickets for this iconic train alone can be expensive.

While meals aren’t included, the stop in Mallaig for lunch is a highlight, allowing flexibility to choose what suits your taste and budget. The guided aspect ensures you get meaningful context without the hassle of planning each stop yourself, which adds to the overall value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenery, history, and a touch of fantasy. Harry Potter fans will adore the train crossing, but even those with no wizarding interest will enjoy the spectacular landscapes and charming towns. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a long day on the bus and eager for an authentic experience that covers a lot of ground in one go.

It’s also perfect if you prefer guided tours, as the guide’s insights enrich the scenery and history. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate photography or scenic drives, this tour offers plenty of photo-worthy moments and memorable sights.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Glasgow brings the Scottish Highlands into focus in a way that’s both manageable and memorable. You’ll marvel at the stunning views—Glen Coe’s rugged peaks, the iconic viaduct, and the peaceful lochs—and experience a piece of Harry Potter magic onboard the Jacobite Steam Train. The stops in Mallaig and Inveraray add cultural charm, rounding out a day packed with natural beauty, history, and cinematic moments.

While it’s a long day, the combination of guided commentary, scenic variety, and the train ride makes the experience worth every penny for those eager to see Scotland’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, scenic, and fun way to explore the Highlands, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories of Scotland’s grandeur.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire day?
Yes, the tour includes a return coach from Glasgow for the entire 13-hour trip, with comfortable seating designed for long hours of travel.

Are meals included?
No, meals aren’t included. However, there’s a 1.5-hour break in Mallaig where you can buy lunch and explore the town.

What should I bring for the train ride?
Bring along a camera, warm layers (in case it’s chilly on the train), and maybe a snack or drink, as the journey lasts about 2 hours.

Can children participate in this tour?
No, children under 18 are not permitted to travel on this tour, making it more suitable for adult travelers or older teens.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the guide’s commentary in English only?
Yes, the live guide speaks English, but audio guides are available in Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, French, German, and Italian if you prefer to listen in your language.

This tour from Glasgow offers a well-rounded, scenic, and memorable way to experience Scotland’s natural beauty and cinematic history. For those ready for a long day of stunning views, historic towns, and a bit of wizarding wonder, it’s hard to beat the value and experience packed into one adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: