We travel down the Great Glen to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, where we will catch a glimpse of the Hogwarts Express steam train! The Glenfinnan Viaduct, of course, doubles as the “Bridge to Hogwarts” in the Harry Potter movies, where the Hogwarts Express (the Jacobite Steam Train) delivers would-be wizards and witches to school for their studies in magic. The Glenfinnan Viaduct has become a well-known film and television location, also featuring in The Ring of Bright Water, Stone of Destiny and Monarch of the Glen. Take in these famous sights on a Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Inverness.

Glenfinnan

Glenfinnan is truly the place of Prince and Potter. Less than a year before the Battle of Culloden, Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie) raised his father’s standard at Glenfinnan, on the banks of Loch Shiel, in August 1745. Nestled here in the stunning scenery and beauty of Glenfinnan, the 1745 Jacobite uprising began, where Charles rallied the West Highland clans that supported his cause. Take a Glenfinnan Viaduct tour from Inverness with Happy Tours and our guides can delve into the history with you.

Glenfinnan Monument

Commando Memorial

We take our time returning back through the Great Glen, so steeped in history, myth, and legend. We visit the Commando Memorial, unveiled in 1952, in remembrance of those who have served in the British Commandos regiment, before and since. Lochaber was initially used as a training ground, selected because of the challenging terrain and environment, after the establishment of this prestigious regiment in 1940. From here, there are spectacular views of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom (providing it’s a clear day)!

Fort Augustus & the Caledonian Canal Locks

At Fort Augustus, wander along the lock gates of the Caledonian Canal, the 19th century feat of engineering built by Scotland’s most prolific civil engineer, Thomas Telford, “the colossus of the roads”. At the mouth of the Canal, admire the view of the entirety of Loch Ness, and marvel in its vastness (keeping an eye out for Nessie, of course)! Travelling back along Loch Ness side, following the route of the Caledonian Canal, we conclude the tour with a fantastic view of the formidable Urquhart Castle.