Is the Jacobite Steam Train Running in 2026? Latest Update & Best Alternatives
If you’re planning a trip to Scotland in 2026, chances are you’ve asked the same question thousands of visitors are currently searching online:
Is the Jacobite Steam Train running?
At the moment, the answer is not yet.
The famous Jacobite Steam Train, often called the Hogwarts Express Scotland experience or the Harry Potter train, is currently not operating while ongoing safety and operational issues are resolved. However, there is cautious optimism that services may resume later in 2026.
For travellers planning a Scotland itinerary, here’s the latest update — along with some fantastic alternatives that many visitors actually prefer.
Why Is the Jacobite Steam Train Not Running?
The Jacobite Steam Train has faced several operational challenges over the past few years, mainly relating to carriage door locking systems and modern railway safety requirements.
The operator has now agreed to make changes to the door locking mechanisms — which had been the major obstacle preventing the train from operating. This is seen as a very positive step.
However, as of now:
- No official restart date has been announced for 2026
- There is speculation that only the morning service may return initially
- The afternoon Jacobite service could potentially take longer to resume
- Operations in recent years have been somewhat on-and-off
Because of this uncertainty, many travellers are now looking into alternatives to the Jacobite Steam Train — and honestly, some of them are just as scenic, less crowded, and often better value.
Best Alternatives to the Jacobite Steam Train
1. Take the ScotRail Train to Mallaig
One of the best-kept secrets in Scotland is that the regular ScotRail West Highland Line follows the exact same spectacular route as the Jacobite Steam Train.
That means you still experience:
- The breathtaking Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Loch Shiel views
- Remote Highland scenery
- Dramatic mountains and lochs
- The journey to the fishing port of Mallaig
For many visitors, this is actually the smarter option.
Why choose ScotRail instead?
- Easier ticket availability
- Significantly cheaper
- More reliable schedules
- Large panoramic windows
You still cross the iconic viaduct seen in the Harry Potter films — just on a modern train rather than a steam locomotive.
And honestly? The scenery is what makes this journey special. And the carriages are more comfortable!
If your dream is to experience the famous Harry Potter Scotland landscapes, this route absolutely delivers.
2. Get the Train to Glenfinnan & Walk to the Viaduct
This is arguably the best alternative to the Jacobite train — and increasingly popular with photographers and independent travellers.
Instead of simply crossing the viaduct on the train, take the regular ScotRail service to Glenfinnan Station and explore the area on foot.
Why many people prefer this experience
From Glenfinnan, you can:
- Walk down to the famous viaduct viewpoint
- Watch trains crossing the bridge
- Enjoy panoramic views over Loch Shiel
- Visit the Bonnie Prince Charlie Monument
- Explore beautiful Highland walking trails
- Take incredible photographs
A lot of visitors say this is actually better than being on the train itself because you truly get to appreciate the landscape.
The combination of the viaduct, the loch, and the surrounding mountains creates one of the most iconic views in Scotland.
For photographers, Harry Potter fans, and nature lovers, this is hard to beat.
3. Try the Strathspey Steam Railway Instead
If it’s the actual steam train experience you’re after, then the Strathspey Steam Railway is a fantastic option.
Located in the Cairngorms National Park, this heritage railway offers a classic Highland steam train journey through beautiful scenery — without the uncertainty surrounding the Jacobite.
And there’s another reason it’s become hugely popular recently…
A Famous Traitors Filming Location in Scotland
The Strathspey Steam Railway featured in the hit TV series The Traitors, filmed in Scotland.
For fans of the show, this is one of the best Traitors filming locations to visit.
You can:
- Ride the famous train seen in the series
- Visit filming locations from The Traitors
- Experience the atmosphere of the Scottish Highlands
- Enjoy vintage railway travel
- Feel like you’ve stepped into Hogwarts Express-style scenery
For many visitors, it delivers the exact magical Scottish rail experience they were hoping for.
Perfect for:
- Harry Potter fans
- Train enthusiasts
- Families
- Traitors fans
- Scenic Highland touring
The journey itself is beautiful, relaxing, and far easier to plan around than the uncertain Jacobite schedule.
Should You Wait for the Jacobite Steam Train?
If the Jacobite resumes operations later in 2026, tickets are likely to sell out extremely quickly.
But if you already have a Scotland trip planned, it’s probably wise not to build your entire itinerary around the Jacobite running.
The good news is that Scotland has plenty of incredible alternatives — many of which offer the same stunning Highland scenery with fewer crowds and more flexibility.
Whether you choose:
- The ScotRail West Highland Line
- Glenfinnan Station and Viaduct walk
- The Strathspey Steam Railway
- A wider Highland tour
…you can still experience the landscapes that made the Hogwarts Express Scotland route world famous.
Planning a Scotland Trip?
If you’re looking to include:
- The Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Harry Potter Scotland locations
- Traitors filming locations
- Scenic Highland rail journeys
- Hidden gems beyond the tourist crowds
…we can help you build a personalised Scotland itinerary that works whether or not the Jacobite Steam Train is operating. A private tour tailored to provide you with your perfect Scotland experience.
The Scottish Highlands are spectacular with or without the steam engine.
And sometimes the alternative turns out to be the better adventure.
