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One of the most famous landmarks from the Harry Potter film series, Scotland’s Glenfinnan Viaduct, is currently undergoing repairs—without the help of magic. Network Rail has launched a £3.4 million project aimed at preserving the 123-year-old viaduct, which became world-famous as the route for the Hogwarts Express in the films.
Located in Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire, the viaduct on the West Highland Line provided the unforgettable setting for scenes where students traveled on the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9 ¾ to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Now, after decades of exposure to the elements, the historic viaduct requires extensive structural maintenance, and the work is expected to take up to 12 months.
Credit: Brian McGowan, Unsplash
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Network Rail in the UK has clarified that this project is part of a broader maintenance effort to protect the viaduct from long-term damage. Laura Craig, the scheme’s project manager, explained the work in an official statement: “The main works to the viaduct will be concrete repairs. We’ll also be doing some repairs to the pier that sits in the River Finnan. Years of planning have gone into this project. The work will not have a massive visual impact on the way the viaduct looks, and that’s very deliberate, with it being grade A listed. We won’t be scaffolding the structure at all, but in the coming weeks, you’ll start to see the rope access technicians on the viaduct as they begin work.”
Craig’s comments highlight the delicate balance of preserving the viaduct’s historical appearance while ensuring its longevity. Engineers will focus on reinforcing the viaduct from below to stabilize the stone ballast beneath the tracks, maintaining both its appearance and function.
Credit: Warner Bros.
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Fortunately, this maintenance work won’t disrupt train services, although it’s uncertain whether it will affect the iconic Jacobite Steam Train—the real-life Hogwarts Express—which crosses the viaduct. The 2024 season has already ended, but the train typically resumes service annually, offering passengers the chance to experience the same magical journey seen in the films.
The Jacobite Steam Train excursion, known for its scenic route across the 21-arch viaduct overlooking Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument, is a favorite for Harry Potter fans. “The train may pause on the viaduct, time permitting, to allow you to take in the magnificent view,” reads the official website. “Once stopped in Glenfinnan, there will be time to stretch your legs and, if you wish, visit the West Highland Railway Museum located in the restored station building.”
Credit: Warner Bros.
Alongside the Glenfinnan viaduct experience, other popular Harry Potter attractions in the UK include Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the beloved films.
Meanwhile, the Harry Potter universe is set to expand with an upcoming television reboot that will recast iconic characters including Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. Warner Bros. Discovery has announced a seven-season series set to begin filming in the UK between 2025 and 2026, with a release expected in 2026.
Have you ever visited the Glenfinnan Viaduct via The Jacobite Steam Train? Let us know in the comments below!
