Jacobite Express
Steam train journey over Glenfinnan Viaduct and through the western Highlands
The Jacobite Express
Britain was a world leader and originator of the first-ever steam locomotive to carry passengers. George Stephenson's Locomotion No. 1 first transported passengers from Stockton to Darlington in 1825. Shortly afterwards in 1830, Stephenson operated the first public inter-city railway, connecting Liverpool and Manchester. Please see George Stephenson's 'advanced' Rocket on display in the Science Museum in London. Britain continued to develop a vast network of railways in the UK, around the Empire and invested in the American railway network.
Now you can enjoy a scenic journey on the Jacobite Express. The 84-mile return trip starts at the base of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain, before heading over the 21 arched Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by scenes in the Harry Potter movie series. The Jacobite Express charges pass rivers, valleys and arriving beside the deepest seawater loch in Europe, the mysterious Loch Nevis. At the end of the line, stop in Mallaig for fish and chips before heading back to Fort William.
You can depart the train and have our driver-guide meet you and continue your trip to the Isle of Skye. Our travel designers will book tickets for the car ferry from Mallaig to be timed so that you can reach your final stop on Skye for afternoon tea time. Please take a look at our suggested private tours of Scotland.
Touring and accommodation
Touring Scotland
The North West of Scotland is arguably the most beautiful; taking the Jacobite Express through this wonderful landscape is the cherry on the cake of any tour of Scotland.
We have produced a series of itineraries that our Tour Designers will modify to match your style of travel. It would be best to start somewhere; for a first-time visit to Scotland, consider an itinerary based on our Classic Tour of Scotland.
Scotland is a truly romantic destination making exploring highlands ideal for a Honeymoon in Scotland. Couples or families with an adventurous spirit may wish to tailor our Scotland Adventure itinerary.
For an itinerary with a focus on sport and culture, choose Whisky, Golf and Culture Tour. Our Tour Designers will craft the experience for your family or group by splitting activities, golf, guided day tours and shopping however it is required.
Accommodation in North West Scotland
Places to stay in the North West of Scotland include restored hunting lodges, Victorian holiday homes and castles.
Inverlochy Castle
Everyone wants to stay in a castle, and why not? It is an experience. Inverlochy Castle Hotel, at the base of Ben Nevis (Britain’s highest mountain), is a short drive from the train station where you take the Jacobite Express. Therefore the hotel is ideal for this particular experience.
The Airds Hotel and Restaurant
Sea-lochs, mountains and farms surround the Airds Hotel. Enjoy the fresh air, a Wildlife Boat Trip and maybe a hike and return to the warmth of the Airds with its three AA rosette food offering. The railway station for the Jacobite Express is 50 minutes away.
Isle of Eriska
Secluded on your little island, relish the on-site activities, such as mountain biking, swimming pool, bowling, and badminton. At The Isle of Eriska Hotel, choose Spa Suites, Hilltop Reserves and main house accommodation. The railway station for the Jacobite Express is 65 minutes away.
Help us make your trip exceptional
Our UK, EU and US office-based staff will listen to what you want to see and experience.
Whether you are a honeymoon couple, a family or a corporate incentive group, our team’s collective resources will be brought together to build the experience that’s right for you.
We will require your arrival and departure dates, details of your personal preferences and places that you would like to visit as well as the events you would like to experience.
We will then prepare a draft itinerary and send it to you by email for your approval. Once agreed, we will send you a Booking Confirmation with Personalised Itinerary and Information Pack via email.
Contact information
From the UK: +44(0)20 8669 3666
FREE from Canada or the USA: 1-888-472-1799
Email: [email protected]