Glenfinnan Viaduct
Sightseeing attraction | Glenfinnan | Scotland | United Kingdom
Scottish Highlands tourist attractions
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is an impressive railway viaduct in the Scottish Highlands, carrying the West Highland Line over the valley of the River Finnan. It was built between 1897 and 1901 and is considered a masterpiece of Victorian engineering. Spanning 416 meters in length and standing 30 meters high, it crosses the valley with 21 semi-circular arches, each with a span of 15 meters. It is noteworthy that the viaduct is entirely made of unreinforced concrete, which was an innovative construction method for the time.
Glenfinnan viaduct Harry Potter films
The viaduct was designed and built by engineer Sir Robert McAlpine, also known as "Concrete Bob." It was one of the first major structures to extensively use concrete, paving the way for future concrete constructions.
West Highland Line train journeys
Today, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is not only a functioning railway viaduct, but also a significant tourist attraction. It gained worldwide fame through its prominent feature in the "Harry Potter" films, where the Hogwarts Express travels over the viaduct. This connection to pop culture has significantly increased visitor numbers and made the viaduct a popular destination for fans.
Victorian engineering masterpieces
The West Highland Line, which runs over the viaduct, connects Fort William to Mallaig and offers one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. During the summer months, the "Jacobite Steam Train" operates on this route, a traditional steam train that also became famous through the "Harry Potter" films. The ride over the viaduct offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument, which commemorates the start of the Jacobite Uprising of 1745.
Loch Shiel Glenfinnan monument
Near the viaduct, there are several viewpoints for visitors to observe the structure and passing trains. However, it is important to adhere to safety regulations and not trespass on the tracks, as regular train services continue. In the past, there have been incidents where visitors entered the viaduct, leading to dangerous situations.
