Did You Know That You Can Take A Ride In The Hogwarts Express?

Have you ever dreamed about going to Hogwarts? I know I have. In fact, I’m still waiting for my Hogwarts letter, even though it has been (very) long overdue. However, even though my chances of attending a Defense Against the Dark Arts class are close to zero, there is actually still a chance for me to jump on the Hogwarts Express.

Yes, you’ve read that right. Because Potterheads can now take a ride on the “real-life” Hogwarts Express between April and October and enjoy a journey through the Scottish countryside. Sadly, the train is not heading toward the closest wizarding school. But you can still enjoy a stunning view and a comfortable ride.

Platform 9 and ¾

Unfortunately, the train does not depart from London’s Platform 9 and ¾ at Kings Cross Station. While this does take away some of the magic, you will forget about it as soon as you board the train. Because you will feel like you have genuinely been teleported into a Harry Potter movie.

The “real-life” Hogwarts Express leaves from Fort William, about a two-hour drive from Glasgow, and runs to Mallaig in the Highlands of Scotland. If you decide to take a ride on September 1st, you can live out your craziest wizard fantasies and even wear a costume if you like. And you won’t even have to feel weird about it, because a bunch of Potterheads will accompany you.

If this experience doesn’t sound that appealing to you, know that it isn’t the only Hogwarts Express train that is available in the United Kingdom. The North Yorkshire Moors Historical Railway Trust also offers an incredibly realistic Harry Potter experience. Including a stop at the Goathland station. If you remember, this station was featured in the movies, as the “Hogsmeade Station.”

Additional information

If we sparked your interest and you want to take a ride in the West Coast Railways Hogwarts Express, you will have to pay $68 for an adult, and $40 for a child up to age 12. If you want to see more information, or even book a ticket, then head over to the official website of West Coast Railways.

While you’re in Scotland, we highly suggest that every Potterhead plans their own tour of Edinburgh. This city is actually the birthplace of the Harry Potter series, as it is the one where J.K. Rowling got most of her inspiration for the bestselling books. She even wrote the first few chapters of the first book while she was in Edinburgh.

This city is renowned for its heritage, culture, and festivals. You can take dedicated Harry Potter tours, or visit different sites yourself. Elephant Cafe, Greyfriars Kirkyard, Heriot’s, and Victoria Street and the Grassmarket are the most popular ones.