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Almost every fan who has watched the Harry Potter films has at one time or another imagined himself boarding the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9¾ and going to the magical school. Hogwarts or Platform 9¾ may not exist in real life, but there is definitely a train that can give you the same feeling. This is the reason why this train has become a favorite of tourists and Harry Potter fans from all over the world.

The Jacobite Steam Train running in Scotland is counted among the most beautiful train journeys in the world. This is the train that was featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. Its old steam engine design, route passing through the mountains and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct make it special. This bridge had also appeared many times in films.

Why is Scotland’s Jacobite Steam Train so special?

Running every year between April and October, this train travels a distance of about 84 miles (about 135 kilometers) from Fort William in Scotland to Mellag. On the way, one can see spectacular views of snow-covered mountains, lakes, forests and the sea. This is the reason why not only Harry Potter fans but also travel lovers keep it in their bucket list.

The most memorable part of this journey is the Glenfinnan Viaduct. As the train crosses this historic bridge, passengers are treated to the same scene as Harry, Ron and Hermione traveled in the films. The old wooden coaches and steam engines of the train make the entire journey even more special.

If you are planning to go here, it would be better to book tickets in advance. During summer and holiday season, the seats of this train get filled well in advance. Fort William is easily accessible by both road and rail from Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Other trains that give a feel like Harry Potter also exist

Not only the Jacobite Steam Train, but some other places in the world also offer special experiences to the Harry Potter theme. England’s North Yorkshire Moors Railway is also very famous. Gothland station on this route is the same location that was featured as Hogsmeade station in the films. As soon as you reach here, it feels as if you have come straight into the world of Harry Potter.

Apart from this, Hogwarts Express theme train is also run from time to time in Philadelphia, America. In this train, special decorations, costumes and many fun activities are done on Harry Potter theme. However, this is not a regular train and runs only during special events.

If you are a big fan of Harry Potter, then these train journeys can prove to be not just a trip but a memorable experience. Not everyone gets a chance to closely experience the magical world seen in films. This is why every year thousands of people travel to Scotland and other places just for this experience. The magic may not be real, but the journey on these trains definitely makes you feel for a few hours as if you are actually sitting on the Hogwarts Express.