Scotland 2026 - Day 5 (September 22)

 Today we had breakfast at our AirBnB and then headed for a 25 minute walk to "the surprise" activity.  Once we got to the train station no one knew what we were doing but MBMell.  

We walked down the platform to see the steam engine and cars that were used in the filming of Harry Potter.  B was not impressed at the activity, but at least got in the photos and smiled.  This specific train has been running since 1984 to boost tourism, but the rail line has been in service for 125 years.  The steam, coal powered engine and cars were used in the Harry Potter films and now people book months in advance to get a seat.  AA booked this as soon as we knew we had flights to Scotland. 

We boarded our first class car, and headed to the upholstered seats were 4 of them sat together and AA and Lola sat in the other row.  The train left at 10:15 sharp. To our surprise the train was pretty smooth, for a steam engine. The max speed was about 65 km/hr and we travelled along the railway, looking out the window. It was a little rainy so we couldn't see some time, because the window was full of rain splatter, but the views were amazing.

The terrain changed as we went along, from pastures of sheep, to spruce trees, to rugged/rocky cliffs, to Lochs and water falls.  B didn't have a good time, but the rest of us enjoyed it. (not sure about DD, he didn't say much as he is a little stressed about work, but handling it ok).  He knew we did this for MBMell so he was supportive and cooperative.  

We enjoyed beverages, including Magical Butter beer hot chocolate, and tea and coffee.  They also tried to sell Harry Potter merchandise, which no one in our car purchased.

We cross over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, and couldn't believe all the people outside to get the shot!  It was super neat.  We made a 20 minutes top in Glenfinnan after crossing the bridge, where we went to the signal house (B stayed in the train), and got a short demonstration on the switches and signals.  There were so many levers, and even Lola tried it. Back on the train a few members of our group had a good nap.

Back on the train we traveled about 2.5 hours to get to Mallaig from Fort William. Once at the end we got off the train and had about 1.5 hours before having to board the train. 

We went for lunch at The Tea Garden Cafe. We got a table and ordered at the bar once we figured out what we wanted. Lola and MBMell enjoyed a baked potatoes, Lolas with tuna and MBMell's with cheese, while B had Cullen Skink Soup, and the other had fish and chips.  T didn't enjoy his fish very much, so B ended up eating most of it.  The food was really good, and the kids ended up ordering themselves Bischoff ice cream sundaes, which they really enjoyed.

We walked around a little before heading back onto the train.  Once we got back on the train, people were in our seats, as they didn't realize they had to change cars (said on their ticket).  AA had to talk to a worker to tell them they were required to move. But this was smart, they changed what side people sat on, so that everyone had a far chance to see the different sides of the train and the views.  The journey back, Lola brought the kids ipads in secret, but T didn't want his as he really enjoyed the views, and B was happy to take hers even though it didn't have what she wanted downloaded.

Eventually DD traded spots with Lola so she could talk with MBMell and T much easier.  B also participated in the conversation. 

On our journey back the skies were a little clearer, and we made less stops along the way.  We also passed the other later steam engine as it went the other way. We got back at 4:00pm.  We got off the train, and then we split up. MBMell and Lola went to the grocery store to make supper, while the others ventured back to the house. We figured we could use a home cook meal. 

AA had a little snooze.

And so did DD.

all the people taking photos of the train on the Viaduct.

The ladies eventually made it back, where the kids were playing video games, DD was working, and AA was also working. We made steak and chicken rice and potato bowls, but the "garlic" sauce we purchased was way spicer than expected.  T had a glass of milk then 3 glasses of water to try and get rid of the spice.  We all enjoyed eating at the house, and then DD went back to work, while the rest of us had a fun evening of playing video games, playing in the backyard, eating dessert and drinking tea.

Once the kids were in bed, the adults enjoyed some cribbage (MBMell didn't play but watched).  AA was on a roll winning 2 times, while Lola pulled up in the end with a big win!  The boys tasted a few different beers, and we had a great time.

The "surprise" day was a hit, and now it is time for bed.