Glenfinnan: the viaduct and the monument
The Harry Potter viaduct from the hillside above, and the Jacobite monument at the head of Loch Shiel.
- Distance
- 5 km
- Ascent
- 100 m
- Time
- 1.5–2 h
- Grade
- Easy
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 86 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Glenfinnan: the viaduct and the monument is an easy 5 km circular walk with 100 m of ascent, taking 1.5 to 2 hours. It starts at Glenfinnan station (grid reference NM 900 809). The start can be reached by public transport.
Glenfinnan is where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745, marked by the monument at the head of Loch Shiel, and where the West Highland line crosses the glen on a 21-arch concrete viaduct that the Hogwarts Express made famous. From the station, the walk climbs to the viewpoint above the viaduct, then drops to the monument and the loch shore.
The Jacobite steam train crosses the viaduct twice a day in summer; check its times if you want to see it.
Route
-
1
The viaduct
Climb to the viewpoint above the viaduct.
-
2
The monument
Drop to the monument and the loch, and return to the station.
Summit
Questions about this walk
- How long does Glenfinnan: the viaduct and the monument take?
- Most walkers take 1.5–2 hours for the 5 km route, which has 100 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Glenfinnan station (grid reference NM 900 809). National Trust for Scotland car park at the visitor centre (charge); it fills early in summer.
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Trains to Glenfinnan from Fort William and Mallaig. Check times on Traveline Scotland.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded easy. Tracks and paths with a short steep climb.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.
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Walks nearby
All walks near Fort William
Sgùrr Thuilm and Sgùrr nan Coireachan from Glenfinnan
Glenfinnan
22.8 km · 1430 m · 7.5–10.5 h
