Everything You Need to Know about Taking the Jacobite Steam Train
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The Jacobite steam train is the most famous railway journey in Scotland. It is a return trip from Fort William to Mallaig on the west coast of Scotland.
The smell, sound and the atmosphere of chugging past the beautiful Scottish countryside on a steam train made the price of the tickets worth it to me.
Although I am not into trains I loved the experience. I think it is a must when visiting this part of Scotland.
I had lots of questions before going and to help you plan your trip I have outlined everything you need to know below.
Jacobite Steam Train Map
The Jacobite steam train is on the west coast of Scotland. It runs between Fort William and Mallaig.
You can only buy return tickets starting in Fort William.
Is the Jacobite Express Worth It – The Jacobite Steam Train vs ScotRail?
Both train journeys can be done as day trips including a couple of hours in Mallaig to explore.
I thought it was worth the cost of £65 per person return in Standard Class for the Jacobite steam train. However, it is much more expensive than the standard ScotRail train where tickets cost £17 return.
The amazing landscape is the same if you travel by ScotRail, but for me I would not do this journey for the scenery alone. It is a completely unique experience traveling by steam train.
If the tickets for the steam train are above your budget then book ScotRail tickets and instead go to Glenfinnan to see the steam train cross the viaduct.
How Long Is the Jacobite Steam Train Journey?
The train journey takes 2 hours from Fort William to Mallaig.
How Do I Book Tickets?
The steam train is operated by West Coast Railways. Tickets can be booked online or by calling 0333 996 6720 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. Book tickets direct with West Coast Railways.
Within 2 hours of booking you will receive a booking confirmation by e-mail. The tickets, with seat numbers, are sent (by e-mail) around a week before the date of travel.
You can pay by Paypal and all major credit cards are accepted but all payments are made through the Paypal website.
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Jacobite Steam Train?
Bookings open mid-November the year before. I recommend booking as far in advance as you can.
First class tickets sell out nearly as soon as the bookings open. You have the highest chance of finding available tickets during September or October.
Standard Class tickets are also popular.
Should there be no tickets left when you try to book then check back later. Sometimes people cancel and other times they add extra carriages to the train.
Can I Book a Ticket on the Day?
Reservations are required for the steam train. However, a limited number of tickets are available on the day on a first come first served basis.
Tickets on the day are difficult to get so don’t rely on this option or you are likely to be disappointed.
Come early and ask one of the guard at the steam train at Fort William train station about buying tickets. You can only pay by cash.
How Much Does It Cost to Travel From Fort William to Mallaig?
The cost of a return steam train ticket for 1 adult is:
- Standard Class: £65
- First Class: £98
- Private table for 2: £210
- Compartment (sole use for up to 6 passengers): £398
There is a minimum booking fee of £3.75. There are no discounts on offer.
In First Class there is a minimum booking of 2 seats.
Can I Take the Jacobite Train One Way?
No, you cannot buy a one way ticket, only returns.
What Are the Available Classes?
The seating arrangement varies by class.
There are two classes plus compartments:
Standard Class
All seats are around tables of 4. This means that when booking for less than 4 people you will be sharing a table with other passengers.
The Standard Class carriages are not vintage and don’t look as nice as the First Class carriages, but this is the class you are most likely to be able to book yourself.
No food or drinks are included in the ticket price, but you can buy tea, coffee and light snacks from the buffet car.
First Class
If you are lucky enough to find a ticket, book it! The traditionally furnished and luxurious carriages take you back to the time of steam trains.
Seated around tables for 2 or 4 people the seats are larger and have more legroom than in Standard Class. All tables have lamps.
A complimentary tea or coffee each way is included in the ticket.
Compartments
The Compartments are vintage carriages with a door that you can close.
They are only available on the morning service and seat up to 6 people. Prices are for the total Compartment. In other words, the price is for up to 6 people and the Compartment is for your sole use.
No food or drinks are included in the ticket price but can be purchased from the buffet car.
Can I Reserve a Specific Seat?
No, unfortunately you get allocated a seat and you cannot change it.
If booking for 2 people you will be allocated one window seat and you will be seated together. This applies to both Standard and First Classes.
Which Is the Best Side to Sit on the Jacobite Steam Train?
The left-hand side (direction of travel) is the best side to sit on the Jacobite steam train.
Unfortunately, you can’t pick what side you will be sitting at the time of booking your tickets. If there are available seats on the left when the train starts, take them.
The train reaches the Glenfinnan viaduct (11:00 and 13:25).
The windows in the doors and compartments can be opened and have great views of the train crossing the viaduct.
Can I Change My Ticket?
Yes, you can change the date of the ticket by calling West Coast Railways at least 7 days prior to travel. Changes cost £15.
To change tickets there of course needs to be availability on the train you want to change to.
What Is the Cancellation Policy?
Should you wish to cancel your tickets the refund policy is:
- 14 days or more before the date of travel – full refund minus £20
- 7-13 days before the date of travel – full refund minus £30
- Less than 7 days before the date of travel – no refund
For larger groups (>10 people) check the website since the refund depends on the group size.
What Time Does the Jacobite Train Depart?
The Jacobite steam train operates between Thursday 28th of March and Friday the 25th of October 2024. It runs seven days a week.
From Monday 6th of May to Friday the 27th of September 2024 there are two departures per day. The rest of the year only the morning service shown below operates.
There is no service during the winter.
Tickets are for a specific return train. You cannot mix and match the train journeys.
Should I Take the Morning or the Afternoon Train?
Unless you want to book a Compartment it doesn’t matter which service you get. During the summer the sun doesn’t set until 20.30 or 21.00. It won’t be dark until well after you are back in Fort William.
The reason it matters for Compartments is that they are only available on the morning service.
Where Do You Board the Jacobite Steam Train?
You board the Jacobite steam train at the train station in Fort William.
It then travels to Mallaig and then returns to Fort William. You cannot do a return trip starting in Mallaig.
How Long Before Departure Should You Be at Fort William Train Station?
There is not much to do except for taking photos of the train. However, you don’t want to miss the train so plan to be there at least 30 minutes before departure.
There are plenty of places to park in Fort William but allow at least 20 minutes to find a parking space, buy a ticket and walk to the train station.
This is particularly important for the afternoon train departures because it might take you longer to find a parking space.
Do not park in the supermarket car park, which is right next to the train station, or you risk a parking fine.
Does the Train From Fort William to Mallaig Cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct?
All trains running between Fort William and Mallaig cross the Glenfinnan viaduct.
The Jacobite steam train is more expensive, but it stops at the viaduct for photos. ‘Standard trains’ by ScotRail also cross the viaduct, but they don’t stop.
Is It Best to See the Viaduct From the Train or at Glenfinnan?
If all you are interested in is seeing the viaduct, then visit Glenfinnan. The views of the viaduct are much better from the Glenfinnan viewpoint than from the train itself.
It is a lot of fun to watch the train cross the viaduct. I was surprised how much I enjoyed seeing it.
Should you have one day free in your itinerary I would favour going to Glenfinnan and see the train cross the viaduct.
My husband on the other hand would choose the steam train.
Therefore, it depends on what you want, iconic views of the steam train crossing the viaduct or a steam train experience itself.
To plan your visit to see the train drive over the viaduct at Glenfinnan read my Glenfinnan Viewpoint Guide
What Time Does the Jacobite Steam Train Arrive at Glenfinnan Viaduct?
The train arrives at the viaduct about 30 to 45 minutes after it leaves Fort William, that means that it will be at the viaduct around 11.00 and 13.25.
From Mallaig to Fort William it takes about 50 minutes and the train reaches the viaduct around 15.00 and 17.45.
On the way to Mallaig the train normally stops at the viaduct so everyone can get a good view.
The train does not stop at the viaduct on the return journey.
Does the Jacobite Train Have Toilets?
Yes, there are toilets on the train. However, toilets are closed whilst the train is stationary at the stations.
Can You Eat on the Jacobite Train?
Yes, you can eat on the Jacobite train. You can bring your own food and the buffet car sells hot and cold drinks and light snacks.
Although you have two hours in Mallaig, the restaurants fill up quickly and there are usually queues for tables.
I recommend bringing something with you to eat on the train.
What Are the Best Restaurants in Mallaig?
- The Cabin: This is the best fish and chips I have had. The problem is that it is a small restaurant and you can’t book. It gets very busy when the train arrives. If it is full try the Cornerstore across the road or the Tea Garden next door.
- Bloom & Graze: A cute pink van serving coffee, sandwiches and cakes with outdoor seating. You can order a variety of graze boxes to bring on the train.
- The Bakehouse & Cranoog: There is nowhere to sit down at the bakery but it is perfect for buying something to have onboard the train on your return to Fort William.
Can You Have Afternoon Tea on the Train?
Afternoon tea is available to pre-order for passengers in the First Class open carriages.
People in Standard Class or Compartments cannot order afternoon tea.
However, don’t be too disappointed if you can’t order it. You might imagine it as a nice three tier stand of sandwiches, scones and cakes. That is not the case.
A paper box will be left on your table before you arrive with sandwiches wrapped in cling film, a plain scone and a piece of fruit cake. The tea arrives later and comes in a paper cup.
Sandwiches can be ordered as vegetarian or vegan, but they do not offer a gluten free option.
For £28 per person, I question whether it is worth it.
Is There a Dress Code for the Jacobite Train?
There is no dress code for the Jacobite train.
When arriving on the platform you will see many people wearing their Harry Potter scarfs and robes. Some even bring wands.
Wear something comfortable. I always bring a Gore-Tex jacket and umbrella on any day out in Scotland.
Does the Jacobite Train Make Stops?
Yes, the train makes stops along the route.
In addition to Mallaig the train stops at Glenfinnan and in Arisaig by request.
However, except for Mallaig none of these stops are long enough for you to get off and explore.
Are There Any Guided Tours or Commentary Provided During the Journey?
There is no commentary on board the trains.
There are no audio guides or mobile apps, but a souvenir tour guide is for sale both onboard and online at the West Coast Railways.
The guide is short but has information about the route, the history of the line and Mallaig.
To learn more about the railway line visit the Heritage Museum in Mallaig. It is right next to the train station.
What Are the Best Spots for Photography on Route?
In the direction from Fort William to Mallaig the most picturesque sections are:
- Neptune’s Staircase (right hand-side): Shortly after leaving Fort William you pass Banavie station. Look up to the right for the Neptune’s Staircase, 8 locks that carry boats up or down the 20 metre high difference between the canals and the sea. Come back on a clear day for the locks and the views of Ben Nevis from Corpach Marina.
- Glenfinnan Viaduct (left hand-side): This is the highlight of the journey. Given the curvature of the line the viaduct can only be seen from the left-hand side of the train. Towards the rear of the train you can photograph of both the viaduct and the train as it crosses the bridge. The train crosses the viaduct at around 11.00 and 13.25.
- Loch Eilt (right hand-side): When passing the loch there are many pretty views, but my favourite is of the small island called Eliean Na Moine (shown in the photo above). It is at the end of the loch towards Mallaig. For Harry Potter fans this is also Dumbledor’s grave.
- Silver Sands Beach (left hand-side): Shortly before Morar you can get a peek of the white sands of this beach at low tide. The Mallaig beaches are fantastic. Imagine white sand and fabulous views out to the Small Isles. From the train Return later to see all the beaches along the B8008.
What Is There to Do in Mallaig in 2 Hours?
The top things to do in Mallaig are:
- Wildlife Boat trip: From the marina 1 hour boat trips go to Green Island on the Knoydart peninsula. You are nearly guaranteed to see seals but other wildlife such as whales, basking sharks and porpoises are much more difficult to spot. Departures are scheduled so they work with the train times. There is one departure at 12.45 and one at 15.30 every day from April to October. From June to August there is an additional 14.30 departure. Most of the time you can buy tickets on the spot but to guarantee a space book in advance at the Western Isles Cruises website. Trips cost £18 per person for adults or £9 children aged 5-13. Children below 5 go free.
- Stop at Haggart Alley: For Harry Potter fans this is a must. It is a small shop dedicated to Harry Potter.
- Have coffee at Bloom & Graze: Weather allowing, sit outside by the cute white and pink food truck which is halfway up Davies Brae.
- Walk along the seafront: You can look at the boats in the harbour and walk along the coast all the way out to Mallaigvaig.
- Fishermen and Child Statue: At the end of the pier, to the left of the ferry terminal, is the white statue by Mark Rogers. It shows a man pointing out to sea and holding the hand of a child. It represents the maritime heritage of Mallaig.
- St Patrick’s Church: At the top of Davies Brae, which is called Annies Brae, is a small Roman Catholic church. It is open but there is little to see inside.
Does the Jacobite Train Travel to the Isle of Skye?
No, the steam train does not travel to the Isle of Skye, it runs between Fort William to Mallaig. However, from Mallaig you can get ferries to Skye.
Are Trains Child Friendly?
The trains are particularly popular with older children who are into Harry Potter. Child tickets are valid for children up to 16.
Children younger than 3 do not require a ticket. However, this means that they will not have an allocated seat and need to sit on your lap.
You can bring foldable pushchairs onto the train, but the corridors are not wide enough for buggies.
In terms of storage on the train preference is given to wheelchairs. As a result, there is a small chance you have to store the pushchair at the station.
Is the Steam Train Wheelchair Accessible?
In all honesty the train is best suited for people who can step on and off the train themselves and walk to their seats. You cannot board seated in a wheelchair.
Since the carriages are from the 1950s and 60s they are unfortunately not wide enough to take wheelchairs into the seating area.
The same goes for the narrow doors to the toilets.
However, by calling West Coast Railways to book they will try to seat you close to the doors and facilities.
Fold up wheelchairs can be stored onboard. Motorised wheelchairs cannot be taken onboard.
Another thing to keep in mind for anyone with mobility issues is that many of the platforms are shorter than the train. This might mean that you need to walk through several carriages to get on or off the train.
There is a big step down to some of the stations, others are accessed by a footbridge.
Can I Bring Luggage Aboard the Steam Train?
Maybe. There is storage on the train, but preference is given to wheelchairs.
For the highest chance of being able to store your luggage arrive early and ask one of the guards. Bikes cannot be stored on the train.
As an alternative, both luggage and bikes can be stored at Fort William station.
Are Pets Allowed?
1 small or medium sized dog is allowed in Standard Class per booking. Pets are not allowed in First Class or in the Compartments.
Dogs must be on a lead at all times and are not allowed on the seats.
Special arrangements can be made for registered guide dogs or assistance dogs by calling the booking office. Please note that this does not apply to therapy dogs.
Was Harry Potter Filmed on the Jacobite Train?
Yes, this really is the steam locomotive and train carriages that were used as the Howarth Express in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
First Class and Compartments are similar to the ones seen in the movie. Book either of these classes if you are into Harry Potter.
Final Thoughts
Although I prefer the steam train over the standard ScotRail service I have friends who have done the trip by ScotRail and loved it. The Jacobite steam train can be difficult to book and it quite expensive so the trip is still worth doing by ScotRail. It is still a great day out.
Anyone who is disappointed at not getting tickets for the steam train should go to Glenfinnan to see it cross the viaduct. In my view it is worth both taking the train and watching it cross the viaduct from Glenfinnan. The two experiences are completely different.
LOOKING FOR MORE ON THE AREA AROUND GLENFINNAN?
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