5 Harry Potter Filming Locations in the Scottish Highlands You Can Visit
If you’ve ever watched Harry Potter and wondered where those landscapes are…chances are, you were looking at the Scottish Highlands.
The good news is: they’re all real, and you can visit them. The even better news? With a bit of planning (timing, transport, and knowing what to expect) you can experience them in a way that feels far more immersive than just stopping for a quick photo.
Here’s how to visit some of the most iconic filming locations, with practical tips to help you make the most of each one.
1. Glenfinnan Viaduct (The Hogwarts Express Crossing)
This is the famous railway bridge you see in the films, and yes…it really does look like that in person. The best way to experience it is by timing your visit with the Jacobite steam train (often referred to as the real-life Hogwarts Express).
How to get there:
- Around 30 minutes’ drive from Fort William
- Accessible by car or via train/bus to Glenfinnan village, followed by a short walk
When to visit:
- Train crossings usually happen twice daily (morning and afternoon) between late spring and early autumn. Check current schedules in advance.
- Aim to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before a crossing if you want a good viewpoint.
Tips:
- Walk up to the official viewpoint trail for the classic panoramic view
- Early morning or later in the evening is noticeably quieter
- Weather changes quickly, low clouds can actually make it feel more cinematic
2. Loch Shiel (The Hogwarts Lake)
Right next to the viaduct, this loch forms the backdrop of Hogwarts in several scenes of Harry Potter. It’s vast, calm, and often much quieter than the viaduct viewpoint itself.
How to get there:
- Same access point as Glenfinnan, just walk down towards the shore from the visitor area.
When to visit:
- Early morning for still water and reflections.
- Sunset for softer light and fewer visitors.
Tips:
- Take time to walk along the shoreline rather than stopping at the main viewpoint.
- Bring layers, it can feel significantly cooler by the water.
- If you enjoy photography, this is one of the best spots for wide landscape shots.
3. Glencoe (Hagrid’s Hut & Dramatic Scenery)
Glencoe isn’t just a filming location of Harry Potter, it’s one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. The valley was used for Harry Potter scenes around Hagrid’s hut and other outdoor shots, but what stands out is the scale and atmosphere.
How to get there:
- Located along the A82, about 30 minutes south of Fort William.
- Easily accessible by car; buses run between Glasgow and Fort William with stops nearby.
When to visit:
- Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer tour buses.
- Autumn and winter add a more dramatic, moody feel.
Tips:
- Stop at multiple lay-bys, views change constantly along the drive.
- Consider short walks like the Lost Valley trail if you have time.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, especially in winter.
4. Steall Falls (Triwizard Tournament Scenes)
This waterfall appears in the Triwizard Tournament scenes of Harry Potter and is one of the most impressive in Scotland. Getting there requires a bit of effort, but that’s part of the experience.
How to get there:
- Located in Glen Nevis, about 10–15 minutes’ drive from Fort William.
- Park at the Upper Glen Nevis car park and follow the trail.
When to visit:
- Best after rainfall when the waterfall is at full flow.
- Morning visits tend to be quieter.
Tips:
- Allow 1.5–2 hours for the walk there and back.
- The path is uneven in places, wear proper footwear.
- The final section opens into a wide glen with incredible views beyond the falls.
5. Loch Etive (Deathly Hallows Camping Scene)
This is one of the more remote filming locations, featured in Harry Potter Deathly Hallows Part 1. It’s quiet, expansive, and feels far removed from the more visited spots.
How to get there:
- Access via a single-track road off the A82 near Glencoe.
- Best reached by car; public transport options are very limited.
When to visit:
- Sunrise or sunset for the most atmospheric light.
- Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.
Tips:
- Drive carefully, the road is narrow with passing places.
- There are no facilities, so bring what you need.
- It’s a great spot for a longer pause, especially if you enjoy photography or just being somewhere peaceful.
Planning Your Trip: A Few Practical Notes
- Transport: Renting a car is the easiest way to connect all these locations, especially the more remote ones like Loch Etive.
- Weather: Expect all seasons in one day, pack waterproofs and layers.
- Timing: Visiting early in the morning or later in the day makes a noticeable difference in both light and crowd levels.
- Distances: While these places look close on a map, roads can be slow and winding, allow more time than you think.
So...Is it worth it?
Absolutely but the experience comes down to how you approach it. These places aren’t just Harry Potter film sets; they’re landscapes with their own character, shaped by weather, light, and time of day. Give yourself space to actually take them in, and you’ll start to see why they were chosen in the first place.
Can you visit the Hogwarts Express train in Scotland?
Yes, you can see and even ride the real train used as the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter. The Jacobite steam train runs between Fort William and Mallaig, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. It’s one of the most popular experiences in the Highlands, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during summer.
What is the best way to visit Harry Potter film locations in the Highlands?
The best way to explore these Harry Potter film locations is by car, as many are spread out across remote areas of the Highlands. A slower itinerary works best rather than trying to see everything in one day, focus on a few locations like Glencoe and Glenfinnan Viaduct, and give yourself time to experience the landscapes beyond just taking photos.
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