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The renowned Jacobite steam train, famously featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter movies, is facing a potential delay in launching its new season. This service is operated by West Coast Railways (WCR) along the iconic West Highland Line, running between Fort William and Mallaig. Known for its vintage Mark 1 carriages, the train is awaiting approval from the regulator, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), regarding a safety exemption to continue using these historic coaches.
WCR has been involved in a lengthy dispute with the ORR over the requirement to fit central locking systems on the Mark 1 carriages to prevent passengers from opening doors while the train is moving. James Shuttleworth, the company’s managing director, confirmed the installation process is underway but will take time. In the meantime, WCR has applied for an exemption to operate using the older carriages, which he said had previously been permitted, with stewards manually locking the doors. Although the train has used the more modern Mark 2 coaches in recent seasons, these were reportedly less preferred by customers and resulted in reduced capacity and income. Additionally, Mark 2 carriages necessitate a diesel locomotive to power their air conditioning, further complicating operations.
The potential delay has drawn concern from the local business community. The West Highland Chamber emphasized the train’s importance as “a vital economic engine” for the area, noting that uncertainty around the service has already led to accommodation cancellations. A spokesperson stated that while a postponed start is not ideal, it is preferable to a full suspension, and praised progress being made on enhancing safety measures. The chamber also expressed the desire to collaborate closely with WCR through this season and beyond to support the region’s hospitality and retail sectors.
Currently, WCR has neither set a confirmed start date nor begun selling tickets for the upcoming season, which typically commences in March or April. The ORR has yet to reach a decision on the exemption application, with the review process ongoing. The Jacobite’s cultural significance is heightened by its connection to the Harry Potter franchise, with the train’s locomotive and the Glenfinnan Viaduct featuring prominently in the films, a fact highlighting its dual appeal as both a heritage railway experience and a tourist attraction
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