If you, or your children, can't wait for the autumn release of Harry Potter And The Half Blood Prince, fear not because you can experience some of the magic right now.
Until JK Rowling's character made it to the big screen Glenfinnan was more synonymous with the Jacobite rising of 1745, with the famous monument at the head of Loch Shiel.
The Glenfinnan viaduct, carrying the West Highland Railway, was built at the end of the 19th century, and was known for the use of concrete by Robert McAlpine.
However, it appeared in Harry Potter And The Chamber of Secrets in 2002 when Harry and Ron's flying Ford Anglia is nearly hit by the Hogwarts Express. It also featured in 2004's Harry Potter And The Prisoner of Azkaban as well as Harry Potter And The Goblet of Fire in 2005 and Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix in 2007.
You can walk up to this piece of cinematic history along a good track which all members of the family should be able to manage. After you have had your fill of magic and mystery, return to Loch Shiel and enjoy the scenery, for this is one of the most beautiful spots in Scotland.
To get there take the A830 towards Mallaig for 17 miles from Fort William and park at a National Trust for Scotland visitor centre by the monument at the head of Loch Shiel.
Return to the road, turn right and cross the River Finnan. On the other side of the river go right, along a track, at a sign for Glenfinnan Lodge. Ignore another track going left and pass some farm buildings to the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
If you fancy recreating your own version of the Hogwarts Express try the Jacobite Steam Train, one of the most scenic journeys in Scotland - booking is essential. 01524 737751 / 737753 or
www.steamtrain.info The full article contains 325 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
