Experiencing The Jacobite

The Locomotives in Service The locomotives used on the West Highland Line include:

The ex London Midland and Scottish (LMS) Black 5 4-6-0, 45212 or 45407 ('The Lancashire Fusilier’). This classic and much loved steam locomotive was introduced into service by William Stanier in 1930s.

The highly versatile ex London and North Eastern Railway (LNER) K1 2-6-0, 62005. This locomotive was built in 1949 based on an earlier design by Nigel Gresley with later modifications by Edward Thompson and Arthur Peppercorn. The 62005 is usually based on the North Yorkshire Moors Line, but the 'Lord of the Isles' returns to the Jacobite service in the summer months each year, reviving the memory of the K4 locomotive that originally worked the West Highlands.

The K1 may also be 'sharing its duties' with ex-LMS ‘Black 5’ No 45231, ‘The Sherwood Forester’ built by Armstrong Whitworth of Newcastle in 1936.

Carriages

There are three types of carriage available First Class, the Harry Potter Compartment Carriage (First Class) and Standard Class. The First Class open coach consists of a row of tables for four on one side and a row of tables for two on the opposite side. The first class carriages have comfortable high back fabric upholstered chairs with tables and table lamps. There are also a generous sized storage racks above the tables for depositing your 'luggage'/baggage. There are 42 seats in the first class open coach.

The Harry Potter First Class Compartment Carriage is similarly decorated but with seating for three on each side of the central table and enclosed with sliding doors to access the main aisle. A great option for a family of six or a small party of travellers.

The second class open coach seats 64 in tables of four. The second class carriages are rather basic reflecting the age and style of the coaches.

Toilets are located at the end of each carriage.

Top tips

The First Class carriages are highly recommended whether you are travelling as a group or as a couple for that magical experience. If you are a party of 2, it is worth considering opting for a table for 2 in First Class so that both members of the party have access to a window seat to enjoy the scenery and take photographs.

Refreshments

There is a buffet car with 44 seats and a bar serving a range of hot and cold drinks, alcoholic beverages and snacks. There is also a trolley service where you can purchase a selection of hot and cold beverages and light snacks.

First class passengers are offered complimentary tea and coffee with shortbread biscuits on the outbound and return journey.

Gifts and Souvenirs

There is also a small souvenir shop on the train stocking a range of rail and Harry Potter gifts. This is open throughout the journey but can only accommodate a few people at any one time.

Information on Board

Information on board includes a two sided A5 leaflet: The Jacobite- On the Rails- which details the features of the locomotive and the station stops. There is also a destination leaflet, e.g. for the small fishing port of Mallaig if travelling from Fort William. You can also purchase a Tour Guide which gives an overview of the journey, highlighting the landmarks on route.