Glenfinnan Viaduct

Glenfinnan Viaduct is a railway viaduct in the western Scottish Highlands, crossing the valley of the River Finnan beside the village of Glenfinnan. It carries the West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig and is one of the most photographed railway structures in Britain.

What does the viaduct look like?

The structure is roughly 380 metres long and stands about 30 metres above the valley floor. It consists of 21 semicircular arches, each spanning around 15 metres. The viaduct curves gently along its length, which is why a train crossing it makes such a striking picture against the surrounding hills and the waters of Loch Shiel.

Who built it, and from what?

The Glasgow engineering firm Simpson & Wilson designed it, and Robert McAlpine & Sons carried out the construction. It was raised in the late 19th century from unreinforced mass concrete, a bold choice at the time, and it remains the longest concrete viaduct in Scotland. The whole line from Fort William to Mallaig opened in 1901. The viaduct holds Grade A listed status.

Why is it so famous?

Much of its fame comes from the Jacobite steam train, which crosses it during the tourist season, generally from spring until the end of October. The viaduct also appears in the Harry Potter films as part of the Hogwarts Express route, starting with Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in 2002. Since then it has drawn film fans from around the world.

How to plan a visit

• A footpath leads to the viewpoint from near the Glenfinnan visitor centre; the walk takes a quarter of an hour or so, with a steep final stretch.
• If you want to see the steam train cross, check the current Jacobite timetable and arrive early, as the best spots fill up quickly.
• Bring waterproofs: Highland weather changes fast.
• The Jacobite monument commemorating the events of 1745 stands nearby and combines well with a viaduct visit.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Glenfinnan Viaduct? In the Scottish Highlands, next to the village of Glenfinnan, on the West Highland Line.

How many arches does it have? Twenty-one, each spanning about 15 metres.

Was Harry Potter really filmed here? Yes, the viaduct features in several films about the young wizard, first in Chamber of Secrets.

Can you walk across it? No. It is a working railway, so walking on the tracks is dangerous and not permitted. Use the designated viewpoints instead.

When is the best time to go? During the steam train season if you want to watch a crossing; the structure itself is impressive in any season.