The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a renowned feat of Victorian engineering and the longest concrete railway bridge in Scotland. It takes the West Highland Railway over the River Finnan 100ft below, on its journey between Fort William and Mallaig – and is one of the most picturesque train rides in the world. Built in the 1890s by ‘Concrete Bob’ McAlpine, the viaduct’s 21 huge arches were constructed using pioneering technology at the time.
From our viewpoints, you can marvel at the sight and sound of the Jacobite steam train traversing the hillside and crossing the Viaduct. Made famous by the Harry Potter films as the Hogwarts Express, you can witness this moment in spring to autumn, although our local rail service makes this same journey all year round.
Viaduct views
Close-up views
- See it from below – a 15-min flat walk beside the River Finnan from the visitor car parks (suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs).
- See it from above – add a 10-min climb up the hillside path; there are some steps and it may be slippery).
- Meet the train at the platform for a really close-up view of the steam engine and its historic carriages. The station is a 15-min walk on pavement from the visitor car parks.
Short walk with 360° views
- Head to the viewpoint above the visitor centre car park for a breathtaking panorama of the Viaduct, Loch Shiel, Glenfinnan Monument and the mountains. It’s further from the train, but you’ll see the steam engine and carriages puff across the whole hillside from here. It’s a 5-min climb with some steps and benches to rest at.
From Glenfinnan railway station
- Head to the Viaduct from the station on a spectacular hillside path. This takes around 30 mins, with some steps; it may be slippery.
For a chance to see everything
Enjoy all the sights of Glenfinnan on a lovely 4km circular walk using the paths mentioned above. This takes 60–90 minutes; there are some steps, and it may be slippery.
A car-free adventure
For an extra-special, extra-green day out, we thoroughly recommend catching the train from Fort William to visit us at Glenfinnan.
For less than £10 for an adult return, you’ll cross the viaduct yourself before stepping back in time as you alight at Glenfinnan’s historic railway station. The station is also home to a fascinating wee museum.
From here, follow a well-built 1.5-mile path on a spectacular walk across the hillside to the viaduct, then onwards to reach our visitor centre and Monument. This normally takes around 45 minutes. There are stepping stones, boardwalks and loads of wildlife to spot on this family-friendly trail.
As a thank you for leaving your car at home, we offer 2-for-1 tickets to climb the Monument when you arrive with your train ticket.
