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The National
a day ago
- The National
I went to Glenfinnan to see Harry Potter tourism chaos
The first is the population of the Lochaber hamlet. The second is the number of people that now visit every year to see the viaduct, made famous over the last quarter of a century by a combination of the Warner Bros Harry Potter films and the catalyst of social media. I recently visited Glenfinnan to see how the community struggles daily with this increasingly difficult equation, and what I witnessed was anything but magical. Cars were parked anywhere and everywhere. A hillside turning into a muddy monstrosity. National Trust staff forced to wear bodycams due to the behaviour of some tourists. This is a village at breaking point, and even just being there for one day left me feeling frazzled. The 11am crossing Glenfinnan is full of impossible equations, and here's another – how do you deal with so many tourists when most of them come at the same time of day? I arrived in the village in time for the madness of the 11am viaduct crossing of The Jacobite steam train. I began making my way up to the hillside viewpoint just after 10 to avoid being caught up in a hoard of stragglers that start running down the A830 trunk road when they realise they might miss the key moment. READ MORE: Scottish spot named one of Europe's best for stargazing What I saw as I approached was a sight to behold. There must have been around 1000 people up there, waiting to watch the moment they all remember fondly from the Harry Potter films, when the 'Hogwarts Express' crosses the 21-arched viaduct at the foot of Loch Shiel. (Image: Network Rail) West Coast Railways supplied the engine and carriages used for the filming, and it has subsequently created that rare moment where you can witness the scene from the film almost exactly as it happened – bar the flying Ford Anglia, of course. The problem is not so much that they come to see the train, but the fact that they all come for the same crossing. A lot of tourists who are trying to tick off the big bucket list of locations in Scotland will come to Glenfinnan in the morning for the first crossing and then move on to catch the ferry to Skye. It creates this pressure cooker moment every day for the village. (Image: NQ) Hege Hernes, who is the curator of the Glenfinnan Station Museum, said: 'Lots of people want to come to Glenfinnan, but they are all coming at the same time. There is not enough space. 'It's because that's the itinerary recommended online. For the 11am [crossing], then you can continue with your car to Skye, and you can do this and that in a day. 'If everyone comes by car or comes on the same train, there's not going to be room. If we spread it a bit, then things will get easier.' A new weekend bus service has been launched in recent weeks between Fort William and Glenfinnan to encourage more people to leave their cars behind and travel more sustainably. It will run four times a day and should go some way to helping break up crowds of tourists, easing the strain on the village roads, landscape and resources. Watching the train go over was truly an impressive sight, and, as a 32-year-old who grew up with the hype of Harry Potter, it was a magical sight I was glad I was able to see. But getting into a spot to see the train was hazardous. You could see the toll the footsteps of tourists had taken on the hillside, which was extremely muddy and slippery, even more so when there were so many people to manoeuvre around. (Image: NQ) People I spoke to on the hillside were shocked by the number of tourists they encountered when they got up there. Michelle and Annika were visiting from Germany after being in Edinburgh for the Oasis concert. Asked if she was surprised by the number of people gathering for the train, Michelle said: 'Yes. We were kind of naive. 'We were very surprised [by the number of people] and we were very late, so we had to run.' The pair of friends also had to be dropped off as there was nowhere to park, yet another tricky equation Glenfinnan faces. Glenfinnan's soundtrack – horns, alarms and traffic Driving to Glenfinnan by car is something I strongly suggest you do at your own risk. I arrived in my car at 9am and had made advance arrangements for a parking space, given I had been informed of the chaos I would face on arrival. At that time, I drove past the National Trust Visitor Centre car park which was nearly full. It was originally designed for people to visit the Glenfinnan Monument – which commemorates the Jacobite rising of 1745 that started in the village – but like everything else has fallen victim to the Harry Potter craze. That site, and a slightly larger community car park next door, are the only significant parking facilities in the village, with only a limited number of spaces available at the station. It means tourists – who more often than not choose to arrive in hire cars – get stuck looking for a space and abandon their cars in laybys and verges next to a 40mph trunk road. Some of the scenes I witnessed included a tourist blocking an access road, drivers turning around in the road at what locals like to call the 'magic roundabout' by the Glenfinnan House Hotel, drivers parking half in the road at already full laybys, and tourists wandering up the trunk road where there is no path after leaving their cars. (Image: NQ)And I was told I had come on a quieter day. Everywhere you look, the parking situation is having a huge impact on the community. READ MORE: See inside the 'forgotten' stunning 'fairytale' castle in Scotland Jennifer Northcote, visitor experience manager at the National Trust, told me staff are now having to wear bodycams because of being driven at when turning people away from the car park. Asked what the biggest problems staff face are, she said: 'It's not being able to accommodate everybody and having to say we can't get you in. '[Abuse] does happen. In the past we've had people being driven at. We've had verbal abuse. That's why we've got bodycams now. 'We also do public management training. It's been less chaotic this year than last year because we've had that management, but it's still been quite intense.' Ally Entwistle is a member of the community council and runs two accommodation sites in the village – one of which is at Glenfinnan station. She explained the strain the situation is placing on staff at the station and on her own life. 'People driving through the village are now heading to the station to try and park there,' she said. 'So Hege and the Glenfinnan station museum team have had to hire extra bodies to mind the car park at the bottom and direct people because it's become busier than it has been in previous years. They've had to pay for more folk to marshal that, otherwise the station would become gridlocked.' She went on: 'I have to get around between two sites, and it's very difficult. 'I really feel for people who have been here a long time and have had to see this huge change. People adjust their days from April to October when the train runs. They try not to be on the road.' Entwistle also told me of an incident recently where an ambulance making its way between Mallaig and Fort William with a casualty had to call for police assistance because of the hold up in Glenfinnan. Thankfully, no damage was done, but scenes like these are becoming all too common for villagers who feel as if they are living by the seat of their pants. The problem is too big Gradual improvements have been made to the village, such as double yellow lines and bollards being installed along the eastern entrance, but residents feel they are being left to solve a problem that is beyond them. The yellow lines at one end of the village may have stopped verge parking on the Fort William side, but this has simply displaced the issue, with people now parking unsafely at the Mallaig end. Residents are trying to put out fires, only to watch other ones pop up. The issue is not helped by inadequate public transport. One member of car park staff at the National Trust told me there are not enough ScotRail trains coming to Glenfinnan, while Entwistle explained the ones that do come do not have sufficient capacity – with Sunday trains only having two carriages. ScotRail has been approached for comment by The National on this. Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, who represents the area as an MSP, hopes the new bus will be 'transformational', but it will only operate at weekends. I travelled to Glenfinnan on a Wednesday and left scratching my head as to how the community gets to the bottom of this. Where a pot of money or a helping hand comes from is of little relevance to Glenfinnan residents. It just has to come from somewhere, for it is no exaggeration to say this beautiful wee place is bursting at the seams. Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: 'ScotRail is absolutely committed to supporting leisure travel across the country, and we recognise the West Highland Line as one of the most popular with customers. "Investment in recent years by ScotRail and Network Rail – in refurbished trains, dedicated cycle carriages, upgraded signalling equipment, and the provision of a footpath and viewing areas for the viaduct – shows our commitment to the route. 'And earlier this year, the introduction of longer trains on the route has provided additional space and comfort, particularly for those travelling with bikes and outdoor equipment. 'In the years to come, we'll continue to work to support tourism, sustainability, and bring wider economic benefits along Scotland's most scenic railways by replacing all our diesel trains with a low carbon alternative.'
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Steam trains win bank holiday reprieve as Network Rail lifts fire-risk ban
Steam trains will be able to run on the mainline during one of the busiest weeks of the year after heavy rain eased concerns about the threat of track-side fires. Network Rail lifted a steam ban on popular routes in North West England including the Settle & Carlisle and Cumbrian Coast lines, while the operator of the Jacobite train in Scotland said it would switch back to steam from diesel. Amber alerts indicating a risk of fire across the wider network were meanwhile downgraded after downpours on Friday night soaked lineside vegetation that had been tinderbox dry. An expert on Network Rail's special trains team said that months of minimal rainfall had created 'brown corridors' at substantial risk of being ignited by embers jettisoned by steam engines. He said: 'The entire country has been at high alert, but some routes, particularly in the North West, have been forced to ban steam in recent weeks as the risk has just been too great. 'But with the weather turning and rain arriving Friday night and over the weekend, the risk is reducing and steam can once again run on our metals.' This year has seen the driest start to spring in England since 1956, with half the expected rainfall in April and only a quarter of the long-term average in March. The trend continued into May, with warnings of imminent hosepipe bans and a summer drought, and wildfires breaking out in areas including Cumbria, Derbyshire and Dorset. Network Rail responded with a series of curbs on steam trains culminating in a 10-day blanket ban in the North West. However, with the heatwave ending as low pressure systems bring rainy conditions, Network Rail eased the restrictions in time for the spring bank holiday and school break. The decision was based on forecasts from MetDesk, which provides the firm with predictions of fire risk, ice and leaf fall, as well as weather forecasts for every 500 yards of track. North West England was moved from black alert to red status for Saturday, which meant that a steam locomotive could lead a train using limited power, assisted by a diesel engine at the rear. The risk level was dropped to amber on Sunday, simply requiring operators to exercise caution. West Coast Railways, the biggest operator of steam and classic diesel trains on the national network, said the reprieve was vital going into the busiest months for charter operations. James Shuttleworth, the firm's commercial manager, said that the rainfall meant the Jacobite train in the Highlands – dubbed the 'Hogwarts Express' for its appearances in the Harry Potter franchise – will also be able to return to steam traction from diesel. With most of its steam engines based in Carnforth in North West England, the ban had threatened to leave the firm unable to haul trains even in parts of the country that were unaffected. One locomotive in service when the clampdown was announced had been unable to return to base and was abandoned to York. Mr Shuttleworth said the spring had been the driest he had known since 1995, when the newly launched Jacobite service was forced to use diesels. Steam operators responded to months of bans at the time with measures to limit fire risk, including spark arresters and grills on engines. West Coast is now permitted to make its own decisions regarding appropriate traction for the Jacobite in conjunction with managers at Network Rail's Fort William depot. Mr Shuttleworth said: 'You've got to be responsible. It's also about accessibility and whether the fire brigade would be able to get to the site of a potential fire.' In Scotland and other upland areas, he said, there's also the risk of a lineside fire spreading to forestry plantations or seams of peat, with the latter potentially taking months to burn out. West Coast, like other operators, makes clear to passengers that there will be no refund in the event of steam engines being unable to run or breaking down. The reprieve came too late for the Northern Belle luxury dining train, which relied on diesel haulage over the Settle & Carlisle route on Saturday. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
The Herald Scotland
01-05-2025
- General
- The Herald Scotland
Iconic viaduct protected for generations to come
Network Rail, along with principal contractor AmcoGiffen, assessed the condition of the viaduct. Concrete repairs were carried out across the structure sympathetically, taking care to replicate its heritage appearance. New safety handrails for staff working at height were installed, along with renewing ballast retention systems at the ends of the structure. Engineers also worked in the River Finnan, protecting the piers from erosion caused by the fast-flowing river. Meanwhile, specially trained rope access technicians descended from the viaduct, reaching and restoring areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. READ MORE: Harry Potter viaduct to undergo £3.4 million in repair work Fencing to prevent Harry Potter fans trespassing on viaduct Repairs begin to world-famous Harry Potter viaduct Laura Craig, Scheme Project Manager at Network Rail, said: 'This project was years in planning due to the complexity of navigating such a large-scale, historic structure. Our highly skilled team faced numerous challenges, from preserving the viaduct's original integrity to implementing modern engineering solutions. Every step of the process required meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for its heritage. 'It's an honour to look after the Glenfinnan Viaduct, knowing how much it's loved all over the world. We're proud to see it standing strong and it's a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.' The Glenfinnan viaduct opened in 1901 and is the largest mass concrete viaduct in Scotland, spanning more than 1,000 feet. The build cost £18,904 at the time, which is around £2 million in today's money. Historic Environment Scotland has designated the structure as Category A, the highest level, meaning it's of significant architectural and historical interest. As part of its preservation, Network Rail refrains from cleaning off efflorescence marks from the rain as it drains through, ensuring the character of the structure remains. Ann MacSween, Head of Planning, Consents and Advice Services at Historic Environment Scotland, said: "We welcome Network Rail's investment into the careful repair of this iconic structure. 'Glenfinnan is the most impressive of several mass concrete railway viaducts and bridges along the West Highland Line, which was built 1897-1901. These bridges were mostly designed with an exposed concrete finish, rather than being faced in stone, and are the earliest railway bridges of this style in Scotland. "Over a century after it was first built, Glenfinnan Viaduct still stands strong today, in no small part due to Network Rail's excellent care." The viaduct is an icon of Scottish tourism, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Many pass over the arches aboard ScotRail trains, as well as the 'Hogwarts Express' Jacobite steam train operated by West Coast Railways. Countless more tourists make the trip to Glenfinnan to admire the views from the ground. James Shuttleworth, West Coast Railways' Commercial Manager, added: "Having run 'The Jacobite' for over three decades and celebrated its centenary in 2001, we truly appreciate the historic significance of the viaduct. The recent restoration work has further highlighted its importance, not only as a vital piece of railway heritage, but also as a beloved film star in Harry Potter, for which we proudly provided 'The Hogwarts Express." The restoration of the viaduct is part of a broader programme of work in the Glenfinnan area. A two-year pilot project enhanced the natural habitat by planting trees across approximately 200 hectares to protect, restore and expand rainforest and peatland habitats. Additionally, deer fencing has been installed at Ardmolich to safeguard the newly planted native woodlands from overgrazing. Network Rail is also investing £500,000 to renew over five kilometres of lineside fencing near the viaduct. The project aims to replace life-expired boundary fencing, ensuring the track remains safely separated from public areas.
STV News
25-04-2025
- STV News
Repairs to viaduct made famous by Harry Potter complete after £3.4m project
Repairs to the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct made famous by the Harry Potter movie franchise have been completed as part of a £3.4m restoration project. The popular tourist attraction in the Highlands, made famous worldwide by the Potter films, has undergone an extensive maintenance programme to safeguard its future. Network Rail has carried out concrete repairs across the structure sympathetically, taking care to replicate its heritage appearance. New safety handrails for staff working at height were installed, along with renewing ballast retention systems at the ends of the structure. Engineers also worked in the River Finnan, protecting the piers from erosion caused by the fast-flowing river. Network Rail Specially trained rope access technicians descended from the viaduct, reaching and restoring areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. Meanwhile, specially trained rope access technicians descended from the viaduct, reaching and restoring areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. Laura Craig, scheme project manager at Network Rail, said: 'This project was years in planning due to the complexity of navigating such a large-scale, historic structure. 'Our highly skilled team faced numerous challenges, from preserving the viaduct's original integrity to implementing modern engineering solutions. 'Every step of the process required meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for its heritage. 'It's an honour to look after the Glenfinnan Viaduct, knowing how much it's loved all over the world. We're proud to see it standing strong and it's a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.' The viaduct opened in 1901 and is the largest mass concrete viaduct in Scotland, spanning more than 1,000 feet. The build cost £18,904 at the time. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has designated the structure as category A, the highest level, meaning it's of significant architectural and historical interest. Network Rail The viaduct opened in 1901 and is the largest mass concrete viaduct in Scotland. As part of its preservation, Network Rail refrains from cleaning off efflorescence marks from the rain as it drains through, ensuring the character of the structure remains. Ann MacSween, head of planning, consents and advice services at HES, said: 'We welcome Network Rail's investment into the careful repair of this iconic structure. 'Glenfinnan is the most impressive of several mass concrete railway viaducts and bridges along the West Highland Line, which was built 1897-1901. These bridges were mostly designed with an exposed concrete finish, rather than being faced in stone, and are the earliest railway bridges of this style in Scotland. 'Over a century after it was first built, Glenfinnan Viaduct still stands strong today, in no small part due to Network Rail's excellent care.' Thousands of visitors every year pass over the arches aboard ScotRail trains and the 'Hogwarts Express' Jacobite steam train operated by West Coast Railways. James Shuttleworth, West Coast Railways' Commercial Manager, added: 'Having run 'The Jacobite' for over three decades and celebrated its centenary in 2001, we truly appreciate the historic significance of the viaduct. 'The recent restoration work has further highlighted its importance, not only as a vital piece of railway heritage, but also as a beloved film star in Harry Potter, for which we proudly provided 'The Hogwarts Express.' The restoration of the viaduct is part of a broader programme of work in the Glenfinnan area as part of a two-year pilot project to enhance the natural habitat. The initiative includes planting trees across approximately 200 hectares to protect, restore and expand rainforest and peatland habitats. Additionally, deer fencing has been installed at Ardmolich to safeguard the newly planted native woodlands from overgrazing. Network Rail is also investing £500,000 to renew over five kilometres of lineside fencing near the viaduct. The project aims to replace life-expired boundary fencing, ensuring the track remains safely separated from public areas. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
