All Aboard the Hogwarts Express: Magical Train Journeys Inspired by Harry Potter

Pam

1 Aug 20235 min read

It's Harry Potter Day, and Trainsplit has the perfect spell to whisk you away on a train journey fit for any witch or wizard. Forget floo powder and broomsticks – we're talking about affordable train travel that's kind to the environment!

At Trainsplit, we believe the magic is in the journey itself. Imagine yourself gazing out the window, watching rolling hills and charming villages blur by, just like Harry, Ron, and Hermione on their way to Hogwarts. Did you know the Hogwarts Express route was actually inspired by the real-life landscapes of the UK? Maybe you'll even spot a scene that looks familiar...speaking of familiar, let's explore some train journeys that take you right to the heart of the wizarding world!

Travel Green and Save Galleons with Trainsplit

Just like Harry choosing his trusty wand, you too can make a sustainable and budget-conscious choice. Train travel is an eco-friendly way to explore the UK, and Trainsplit helps you find the cheapest train tickets possible. We're talking Split Ticketing – a clever way to combine different fares for the best price – and exclusive deals you won't find anywhere else! Plus, don't forget to add your Digital Railcard (if you have one) for even more savings.

Embark on Your Hogwarts Express Adventure

The Scottish Highlands: For the ultimate Hogwarts Express experience, Trainsplit can help you find the perfect route through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. Imagine gazing out the window at rolling hills and majestic mountains, eerily similar to the scenery on the route to Hogwarts. Keep your eyes peeled – you might just spot a viaduct that looks familiar...

Getting There by Train: For a truly magical experience, look for routes that pass over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. You can search for journeys on Trainsplit that depart from major cities like Glasgow (Queen Street Station) or Edinburgh (Waverley Station).

Image credit: Nicoly | Getty Images

The Yorkshire Dales National Park: Looking for a train trip that feels straight out of the Harry Potter universe? Look no further than the enchanting Yorkshire Dales National Park! Trainsplit can help you book an unforgettable journey through this breathtaking region, offering landscapes that could easily be home to Hippogriffs or Erumpments!

Nearest Train Station: The nearest train station to explore the Yorkshire Dales National Park can vary depending on your desired area. Here are a few options:

Skipton Station: This is a good starting point for exploring the southern Dales.

Settle Station: Perfect if you want to experience the Settle-Carlisle Railway, a scenic route reminiscent of the Hogwarts Express journey.

The Trainsplit app makes it easy to find cheaper alternative journeys through split ticketing.

The app is available on both iOS and Android devices. Just search for "Trainsplit" in your app store and download the app today.

Plan Your Wizarding Weekend Getaway (Without Breaking the Bank!)

Trainsplit makes it easy and affordable to book your magical train journey. With our user-friendly platform, you can compare fares, find the best deals with Split Ticketing, utilise your Digital Railcard, and book your tickets in a flash.

Alnwick Castle | Image credit: Gannet77 | Getty Images Signature

Here are some tips for planning your Harry Potter-themed train adventure:

Choose your destination: Decide which magical landscape you'd love to explore – the Scottish Highlands, the Yorkshire Dales, or the Welsh coast.
Find your perfect train route (including budget options): Use Trainsplit to search for routes that match your chosen destination, desired travel time, and budget.
Book your tickets: Once you've found the perfect train, book your tickets securely through Trainsplit, taking advantage of Split Ticketing and any available discounts.
Dress the part (optional): For an extra dose of fun, don your Hogwarts robes, scarf, and glasses!

Christ Church College, Oxford | Image credit: Tomas Griger | Canva Pro

Explore Harry Potter Filming Locations by Train

While you travel on your magical train journey, keep an eye out for these filming locations from the Harry Potter movies:

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scottish Highlands: This iconic viaduct featured as the Hogwarts Express bridge in several films.You can take a train over the viaduct on various routes through the Scottish Highlands.
Goathland Station, North Yorkshire Moors Railway: This charming station served as Hogsmeade Station in the movies.Take a ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to experience the real-life location! The nearest station is Pickering on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway line.
Lacock Abbey, Wiltshire: Parts of Lacock Abbey were used as Hogwarts interiors and classrooms. Trainsplit can help you find train routes to stations near Lacock, such as Chippenham Station. From there, you can take a taxi or bus for the short journey to the Abbey.
Oxford University, Oxford: The historic buildings of Oxford University served as inspiration for Hogwarts courtyards and libraries, including the Bodleian Library. Oxford is a major train hub, with connections from all over the UK.
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland: The exterior of Alnwick Castle was featured as a backdrop for Hogwarts in the first two films. While not directly accessible by train, the nearest station is actually Alnmouth, a convenient four-mile journey from the castle. Trainsplit can help you find routes to Alnmouth from major cities like Newcastle or Edinburgh. Once you arrive, you can easily hail a taxi or hop on a bus (routes X18 or X20) to complete your journey to Alnwick Castle.

And if you're already in London, the magic awaits even closer!

The spellbinding world of Harry Potter isn't just for train journeys. Experience the wonders firsthand with a trip to see the award-winning play, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This epic two-part production brings the eighth story in the series to life on the West End stage, and it's an unforgettable experience for witches, wizards, and muggles alike!

So, what are you waiting for? Book your train journey with Trainsplit, grab your tickets to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure into the wizarding world!

Making a Booking

Help and FAQs:

Ticket Information:

Booking and Travel Guides:

Blog:

Blog

Terms and Conditions:

Information and Services:

Popular Train Journeys in the UK

Check out our other blog posts

Frequently Asked Questions

Remember, if you have any questions about train travel or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our team. We're here to help you plan a memorable journey.

Take your journeys with you

Journey Planner