best railway journeys in scotland

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5 Scenic Trains for Exploring Scotland's Dramatic Highlands, Sparkling Lochs, and Coastal Towns

By Marisel Salazar

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The best train rides in Scotland will have you witnessing the drama of the Scottish Highlands, exploring charming castles, and chasing some of the world's best whisky. You’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United Kingdom. Imagine chugging past glittering lochs, breathtaking glens, and vast moors, all while enjoying a meal in a stately dining car or relaxing in a plush cabin. 

Around the world, train journeys are experiencing a great revival , with travelers realizing they’re a scenic, eco-friendly, and affordable mode of transportation. In Scotland, riders can also snag a  discounted rail pass from  ScotRail , which can save a third off the price of an already inexpensive journey. 

And if you would rather have your train tour planned for you, there are a growing number of companies that will book and curate a rail-based adventure in Scotland for you or a group, like  Vacations by Rail .

The most difficult part of your Scottish train travels will be selecting which of these spectacular lines you want to take. Here are five of the best train rides in Scotland—plus, where to stay and what to do along the way.

The West Highland Line takes passengers from Glasgow to either Oban or Mallaig, both picturesque coastal towns in Scotland.

The West Highland Line

Arguably one of the most visually stunning  parts of Scotland , the Highlands are filled with dramatic peaks and valleys, craggy hilltops, and glassy lochs. The West Highland Line starts in Glasgow and runs more than 180 miles to either Oban or Mallaig, two tiny picturesque fishing ports that are resort towns in their own right, as well as departure points for travel onward to the surrounding Scottish Isles. 

Along the way, you’ll cruise by charming towns and villages until the line splits at Crianlarich: One branch of the route heads by Loch Awe to Oban, the other towards the coastline through Highland forest and onto Fort William to the train route's final stop: the petite bustling port town of Mallaig.

Many travelers consider the Fort William to Mallaig portion as the nicest section of The West Highland route. The hills of Fort William, a town in Lochaber, set the scene for many iconic films and shows like Starz’s  Outlander . On this leg of the route, travelers can spot the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle on the right just before crossing the River Lochy, the Glenfinnan Viaduct as seen in the ‘Harry Potter’ movies. Halfway between Tyndrum and Bridge of Orchy stops, there is another famous looped viaduct known as the Horseshoe Curve. On the northbound routes, sit on the left-hand side of the train for the best views and on the right side on southbound trains.

For a taste of Highland hospitality, spend a night or two at the charming  Ballachulish Hotel in Glencoe along the way from Glasgow to Fort William. Pop into the Ben Nevis Distillery for a quick whisky tasting and tour. (Fort William station is only 10 minutes walk from the bottom of the tourist track up Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest peak).

Tickets for the West Highland Line start around $30.87 (£25.40) from Glasgow to Mallaig on  ScotRail for a single fare in a standard cabin but vary depending on how far they are booked in advance and length of the trip.  

The Kyle Line runs through mountain ranges and past tranquil lochs

Kyle Line from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

The most distinctive mountain ranges in Scotland, the Torridon Peaks, loom north along the Kyle Line to Kyle of Lochalsh. Depart from Inverness to take on even more breathtaking scenery of the Highlands. Passengers glide past sleepy coastal villages and hulking mountains towering over tranquil lochs. The Kyle line draws a wide curve from Inverness along the coast south to the shores of Loch Alsh, with views of the Isle of Skye at the line's end. 

Shana Clarke

Lane Nieset

Paris Wilson

On the less than three-hour journey to Kyle of Lochalsh from Inverness, keep an eye out for the snow-capped Ben Nevis mountain, the country's tallest mountain that sits 4,411 feet above sea level, between Muir of Ord and Dingwall stops. Then glimpse the rolling Torridon Hills to the west before the Achnashellach Forest stop. Ride the line along Loch Carron to the Plockton stop, a charming town dotted with palm trees that was used for BBC series  Hamish Macbeth and  The Wicker Man .

At the end of the line at Kyle of Lochalsh, catch a quick cab ride to tour the spectacular 13th-century Eilean Donnan castle, one of Scotland’s most widely recognizable castles that sits on a small island where three sea lochs converge. 

If returning to Inverness, travelers can stay at the 19th century  Ness Walk , a five-star property on the banks of the River Ness or  Kingsmills Hotel , a four-star luxury spa hotel that mixes contemporary design with historic period features. Make sure to grab a wee dram at  The Malt Room , Inverness’ first whisky bar, followed by  Hootananny , a ceilidh cafe for live traditional Scottish folk music (even Mumford and Sons have played here). 

Kyle Line fares start around $18.48 (£15.20) from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh on  ScotRail for a single fare in a standard cabin but vary depending on how far they are booked in advance and length of the trip. 

The Royal Scotsman is a luxurious journey that begins in Edinburgh and takes passengers up into the Scottish Highlands.

The Royal Scotsman, a Belmond Train

The only true luxury train on the list, the Royal Scotsman is a sleek nine coaches, clad in Burgundy and operated by Belmond. First launched in 1985, the all-inclusive train offers exquisite accommodations reminiscent of an Edwardian country house and fine-dining cuisine. Each of the train cars are refurbished 1960s Pullman coaches. 

Tours start at the Edinburgh Waverley station, where ticket holders follow a bagpiper dressed in traditional Scottish garb from the first class lounge to the platform. Once on board, passengers can settle into plush armchairs in the observation car lounge—complete with coffee tables and a bar that serves a wide assortment of Scottish whisky —while enjoying the gorgeous scenery of the Highlands. 

Meals are cooked on board and served in mahogany-walled dining cars that feature Scottish produce, meats, and seasonal fish alongside wines, liqueurs, and malt whiskies. Private wood-paneled cabins feature beds fitted with soft Scottish wools and tartans and also include an en suite shower, toilet, desk, table, wardrobe, toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers. The train also includes two spa cabins.

Itineraries range from two to seven days long and include sightseeing stopovers and overnight hotel stays. New routes are scheduled to start from April 2023 onwards, but bookings are selling out fast. Tickets start at $4,789 (£4,000) for single occupancy on Belmond’s  site or through  Vacations by Rail.  

The Far North Line connects Inverness with the northern reaches of the Highlands

The Far North Line

Take a four-hour journey on Britain’s most rural railway through hundreds of miles of peatland bogs, tiny hamlets, golf courses, quaint train stops, and salmon rivers. The single track Far North Line connects Inverness with destinations Thurso and Wick at the northern limits of the Highlands. It’s remote, rugged, and spectacularly wild.

The route is the same as the Kyle of Lochalsh line up until Dingwall, where the lines split. Passengers shimmy up the coast until the Tain stop, where the line then plunges into the lands of Sutherland and Caithness, across peat bogs and Flow Country, whilst crossing salmon fishing rivers. Flow Country is a vast wetland blanket bog and peat habitat, an important environmental landscape for preventing climate change and a proposed UNESCO  World Heritage site . 

Passengers can spot a few castles from the train route after departing Inverness: Just after the Tain stop is the glorious and exclusive Skibo Castle (formerly frequented by Andrew Carnegie) across the sea inlet Dornoch Firth, followed by the hilltop (and supposedly haunted) Carbisdale Castle after the Culrain stop. Then cruise past the thick and mysterious Balblair Wood, midway between the Rogart and Golspie stops on the shores of Loch Fleet. And if you fancy one more castle, the train will take you to the Dunrobin Castle station, where you can stop off and show your train ticket for discounted entry to the gigantic “home” (with more than 189 rooms, this castle is one of Britain's oldest continuously inhabited houses).

For a stay along the way, the  Glenmorangie House off the Tain stop is a boutique hotel set amongst breathtaking Highland scenery, near the  Glenmorangie Distillery . The award-winning  Mackays Hotel in Wick is just a three-minute walk from Wick stop, run by the same family for over 60 years. It’s welcoming, warm, and cozy.

Tickets for the Far North Line start around $14 (£17.02) from Inverness to Thurso and Wick on  ScotRail for a single fare in a standard cabin but vary depending on how far they are booked in advance and length of the trip. 

The Borders Railway Line whisks passengers from Edinburgh to Tweedbank

The Borders Railway

Explore the “land of Sir Walter Scott” on The Borders Railway line, through former mining towns, wide open farmland, and lush valleys.

Departing from Edinburgh , take in the breathtaking landscapes of the rocky slopes and cliffs of Salisbury Crags in Holyrood Park. You can’t miss Arthur’s Seat, a massive, grass-covered hill that is the remains of an ancient extinct volcano jutting out from the crags. Then pass through the Midlothian. Time it right and you can catch beautiful sunsets between the Gorebridge and Stow stops. Then onto the hills, lochs, farmlands, and cairns (manmade stone piles) of the Scottish Borders to Tweedbank. Tweedbank is also the stop of Abbotsford House, the home of Sir Walter Scott, and the historic market town of Melrose that includes the famous abbey ruins—a quick taxi or bus ride from the station. 

Despite being the longest new domestic railway to be built in over 100 years, the line only takes an hour from Edinburgh to Tweedbank.

Start or end your journey in Edinburgh with a stay at the incredible new  Virgin Hotel Edinburgh , on colorful and curved Victoria Street in the Old Town, one of the most photographed locations in the city. If looking for something along the Borders Railway line, try the  Schloss Roxburghe at Kelso, off the Galashiels stop, the penultimate station on the route. This elegant hotel is part of a historic estate in the Scottish Borders, with a championship golf course, spas, heated swimming pool, and restaurant that offers “Scottish bistronomy.”

Fares for the Borders Railway start around $14.46 (£11.90) from Edinburgh to Tweedbank on  ScotRail for a single fare in a standard cabin but vary depending on how far they are booked in advance and length of the trip.

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• The Most Beautiful Train Journeys...

The Most Beautiful Train Journeys to Take in Scotland

Scotland is made up of many different landscapes – lochs, rivers, coastline and mountain ranges, including the famous Munros, as well as towns and cities that showcase art, architecture and tradition. But it’s spread across a lot of land, so travelling by train makes sense if you want to cover it all. We’ve rounded up six of the best. All aboard!

The borders railway.

This line , which reopened in September 2015, having been been closed for more than 40 years, links Edinburgh Waverley with Tweedbank, and since its reopening has added seven new stations to the Scottish rail network. This engineering feat makes it the longest railway to be constructed in the UK in a century, passing through forests, moorland and great swathes of emptiness. Hop off at Eskbank to visit Rosslyn Chapel , or continue on to Tweedbank and visit Sir Walter Scott’s home, Abbotsford House . In spring 2021, the world’s longest tapestry, The Great Tapestry of Scotland , is due to be rehoused in a new visitor centre in Galashiels, the penultimate stop on the Borders Line.

If you’re not able to wangle a room at Sir Walter Scott’s home, we recommend a cosy stay at either the Townhouse Hotel or the Barn @ the Coach House , both a short walk away in the old town of Melrose.

Head north from Waverley, and you soon come to the mighty Firth of Forth , with the Forth Rail Bridge, a Unesco World Heritage Site and extraordinary feat of engineering. As the train continues, it leaves the sea behind and the rolling fields and woodlands begin to get steeper and more rugged. Beyond Perth, the train enters the Highlands, where, as the name suggests, the mountains start to appear. You can expect to see deer, mountain hare, mountain steep gorges and thundering waterfalls, all from the comfort of your seat. The train climbs higher and higher and snow often clads the mountains. Get off at Aviemore where you can jump aboard the Strathspey Steam Railway, or continue on to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.

There’s no shortage of fantastic accommodation around Inverness. Take your pick from our curated lists:

The Best Boutique Hotels in Inverness, Scotland The Best Bed and Breakfasts in Inverness The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Inverness Where to Stay in Inverness for a Local Experience

Strathspey Steam Railway

Closed to passengers in 1965, this route was reopened in 1978 by the Strathspey Railway Company and is definitely more about the journey than the destination. Your comfortable carriage is hauled by a traditional steam engine through the Cairngorm mountains where you can catch glimpses of eagles and ospreys. This might sound enough of a draw by itself, but the train also has excellent dining options and for the dedicated railway enthusiast, the chance to actually drive it, and fire the steam engine itself.

For an overnight stay in Aviemore, you can’t go wrong at Cairngorm Guest House – a Victorian-style B&B 10 minutes’ walk from the train station. It has 12 country-style rooms, some with fabulous mountain views, and offers free cooked breakfast served in either the cosy dining room or the conservatory, with vegetarian options available.

The Kyle Line

Winding its way through mountains and lochs, past beaches and wildlife, the Kyle Line leaves Inverness towards some stunning scenery. This is one of the best places to spot the golden eagle, or the even larger white-tailed sea eagle, aka the flying barn door. Deer abound, and other treats include otter spotting – from the comfort of your seat. Disembark at Kyle of Lochalsh, on the west coast, and you are at the gateway to the Isle of Skye and the islands to the west.

If you’re spending the night in Kyle of Lochalsh, we recommend a stay at the Kyle Hotel , where you’ll find unfussy rooms with a Scottish touch, plus a cosy pub and restaurant. And if you’re headed to Skye, choose from our definitive list across the island – from seaside B&Bs to luxury glamping pods .

The Far North Line

Like the Kyle line, this route heads north out of Inverness and weaves in and out of mountains and lochs to the top of Scotland and the towns of Thurso and Wick. It is a long journey, as the terrain means the track has to curve and twist, so you’re train is often doubling back on itself. There are picturesque towns on the route, along with request stops – often little more than a platform in the middle of rugged, empty country. Highlights en route include seals and dolphins in the North Sea, wild glens full of nature, and the extraordinary expanse of blanket bog that is the Flow Country . If you get off at Dunrobin Castle you gain a discount on entry if you show your ticket.

Leave the train at Thurso to catch the ferry to the Orkney Islands – and choose your accommodation from our pick of the best places to stay . Or head on to Wick and catch a bus to John O’Groats. Accommodation options here are limited, but there are some lovely, warm and welcoming B&Bs in Wick – try Bank Guest House or the Clachan .

The West Highland Line

Voted as the best railway journey , not just in Scotland or the UK but the world, the West Highland Line stretches from Glasgow to Mallaig on the west coast. The stupendous scenery includes the vast Rannoch Moor, some of the highest peaks in the UK, and the silver beaches of Morar. Expect children, and adults too, to excitedly exclaim, ‘this is Harry Potter bridge!’ The famous Hogwart’s Express , having left Platform 9 3/4, appeared on parts of this route in several of the films, and the ‘bridge’ is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which gives the traveller stunning views of Loch Shiel and the Highlander’s memorial. One of the last stops on the route, with enchanting views out to the islands of Muck, Eigg and Rum, Arisaig is the furthest west station on the UK mainland. In summer the journey between Fort William and Mallaig can be made even more romantic by travelling on the train pulled by the steam engine, The Jacobite.

For a place to stay in Mallaig, take a sea-facing room at the equally charming West Highland Hotel or The Chlachain Inn for tasty pub grub and beautiful views across the harbour.

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Scotland’s Most Scenic Train Journeys

Scotland's most scenic train journies, the belmond royal scotsman.

The West Highland Line

Photograph by @connormollison

Perth to Inverness

Blair Castle By Brett Currie

The Far North Line

Photograph by @gisforgeorgina

The Strathspey Steam Railway

Photograph by @danklaiber

The Royal Deeside Railway

The Borders Railway

From Edinburgh to Tweedbank, this railway journey presents a true snapshot of Scottish highland beauty. Including stops at Gorebridge and Newtongrange, which is not only the largest Scottish mining town but is also home to the National Mining Museum. The journey then moves into the hills of the Scottish Borders, famously home to Sir Walter Scott, a man credited with ‘creating’ modern Scotland. You can even stop off to visit Abbotsford House, the country estate where he lived. The journey will take you through some beautiful Borders villages and you can stop off to hike along the beautiful Borders Loop for some fresh Highland air.

The Kyle Line

Photograph by Ali Horne

The Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway

Travelling from Bo’ness to Manuel, this heritage railway line is home to Scotland’s largest railway museum. The train travels along the beautiful coastline, allowing you an in-depth look at the beautiful towns and villages that make up this area of Scotland. You’ll especially want to look out for the vast swathes of woodland, as well as the fields of wild garlic. Travel via a vintage steam or diesel train and treat yourself to an afternoon tea, luncheon or a full three-course dinner while the countryside provides the most sumptuous of settings.

The Forth Rail Bridge

Photograph by John Murray

Stranraer Line

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These 8 Scenic Train Rides Have The Most Stunning Views In Scotland

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I spend a lot of time traveling around Scotland and I never tire of the incredible views, but sometimes it’s how you travel that’s important. For many reasons, train travel is a great way to travel around this rugged and beautiful country. Apart from the environmental benefits of train travel versus other modes of travel like cars and air travel, traveling by train creates a more relaxing journey and a brilliant way to see some of the scenery as you make your way from A to B.

Quiet coastlines, dramatic mountains and castles, and still and calm lochs all glide past your window as you sit back and breathe in these stunning landscapes. I’ve taken most of these train rides myself, though The Royal Scotsman is still on my must-do list! Here are eight scenic train rides with the most stunning views in Scotland.

1. Royal Scotsman

Various routes across scotland, between 2 and 7 days.

I’m starting with a train journey that’s as much about the train itself as it is about the scenery and the journey. Royal Scotsman train tours are operated by Belmond, who operate luxury train vacations around the world. This is much more than just a train ride — it’s a luxury hotel on rails. If you want to get a taste of traditional Scotland while riding through some breathtaking Scottish scenery, this is a great way to do it.

The Royal Scotsman’s 10 carriages feature double en-suite rooms, a regal-looking dining car, an observation car, and two spa rooms. All train tours on The Royal Scotsman depart from Edinburgh Waverley station and travel to various locations including Ben Nevis, Loch Lomond, and The Isle of Bute. Enjoy Scottish cuisine and taste a few whiskies while the countryside rolls by. You can choose from two all the way up to seven-day train journeys on this incredible luxury train.

2. The West Highland Line

Glasgow to mallaig.

I’m a lot more familiar with the east side of Scotland than I am with the west, but this train journey through the West Highlands shows that this side of the country has some truly stunning scenery and though very different to the east side, is equally beautiful. Often said to be one of the most visually incredible train journeys in the world, The West Highland Line begins at Glasgow and travels through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and on to Fort William.

It’s a beautiful ride, showing you parts of the landscape you can’t see in any other way. This unique perspective on the land and its features, like castles and coastlines, makes this a must for train lovers and anyone who loves a great view.

3. The Far North Line

Inverness to dunrobin castle.

The Far North Line is Britain’s most rural railway, which won’t surprise anyone who knows the north of Scotland even a little. If you like your landscapes rugged, wild, and remote, this is the train ride for you. Beginning at Inverness, the journey takes you through peatland and Flow Country, which is a wetland blanket bog and an important environmental area. It’s incredible to see, but it’s not somewhere you’d go walking, so seeing it from the train is a real privilege. You can spot castles along the way and stop off for some whisky tasting at one of the distilleries in this area.

4. The Kyle Line

Inverness to kyle of lochalsh.

If you like views of rugged and majestic mountains, this train ride is perfect. The Kyle Line offers views of The Torridon Peaks and other imposing mountains that create a backdrop to the quiet lochs and the sleepy villages that dot the landscape. It’s a largely untouched area, and though you’ll pass beautiful sandy beaches on this coastline, you won’t see many people out on them.

It often feels like you’ve entered another world, and if you opt to take one of the steam trains that use this line, organized by one of the heritage train companies, you’ll really feel like you’ve stepped back in time. At the end of the line you reach the village of Kyle of Lochalsh, the gateway to The Isle of Skye, which you can travel onto from here.

5. Strathspey Steam Railway

Aviemore to broomhill.

The Strathspey Steam Railway is a short train ride, but it’s more of an event in itself than simply a train journey. For a start, you have the steam element. Traveling on a steam train has a certain kind of nostalgia about it and it’s a special way to enjoy the views in this part of the country. Sometimes you’re allowed up to the footplate at stops, which the train makes so travelers can enjoy the views and take photos.

Many people hop off at stops to explore a little, but it’s so nice on the train many opt to view from the viewing areas and windows. You’ll pass by the Cairngorm Mountains and the River Spey, and “Osprey Village,” an RSPB nature reserve where you can do a little bird spotting. Depending on when you travel, Sunday lunch and afternoon tea are served onboard the train.

6. ScotRail Commuter Line

Edinburgh to inverness.

Unlike the other train journeys on this list, this one is a commuter line, a train ride taken by ordinary people going about their daily lives rather than a train ride for leisure, but it’s still a strikingly beautiful journey. Beginning in Edinburgh, the line hugs the east coast, where you can sit back and enjoy the views of the sea and the small untouched beaches.

But before that, on leaving Edinburgh, passengers get to marvel at the beauty and the engineering of the red Forth Bridge, built in 1889. If you like bridges, this is a treat. From the pretty east coast stretch of the line, the train takes you through Perthshire and The Cairngorms National Park, with views of the parkland you can’t gain any other way. The line ends in Inverness, near Loch Ness, where you can explore the historic city and the loch.

7. The Borders Line

Edinburgh to tweedbank.

The highlands of Scotland are very impressive, there’s no doubt, but the borderlands also have their charms and don’t get as much love as they perhaps should. This train ride is a great way to explore this area of Scotland and a great introduction to the borderlands.

It’s a short train ride, but even before you’ve left Edinburgh you’ll get to view attractions like Arthur’s Seat, a grassy hill loved by hikers that covers an extinct volcano. From here you’ll travel through Midlothian and then the small villages, farmlands, lochs, and hills of the Borders. The line ends at Tweedbank. There’s a lot to explore in the village of Tweedbank, including Abbotsford House, the former home of Sir Walter Scott.

8. The Bo’ness And Kinneil Railway

Bo’ness return journey.

This one is for railway lovers and is perfect for taking the grandkids to, but it’s equally fascinating for anyone with just a passing interest in the railways. The Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway journey is best taken as part of a wider railway-themed day out. The Museum of Scottish Railways is located at the beginning of this ride, and as you might expect for a rail enthusiasts attraction, you can take this journey by steam train.

The railway line goes through some beautiful scenery, but most people take this journey for the experience of the steam train. There are added attractions like a day with Thomas the Tank Engine for children, afternoon tea onboard, or a murder mystery train ride for adults.

Always book your tickets in advance. Train journeys in the UK are fun, but can be expensive if you buy your tickets on the day of travel. Always check your train is running and on time before you travel. If a train is canceled or late you can waste time waiting at the station.

Related Reading:

• 6 Tips For Taking The Train From London To Amsterdam
• Europe Is Getting Some Fantastic New Sleeper Trains, Plus 11 Others Not To Miss
• 9 Essential Tips For Train Travel In Europe

Travel writer, author, and playwright, Samantha loves historic buildings, quirky hotels, woodland walks and literary trails, specializing in food and drink, luxury travel, retreats, spas, and anything arts based. Samantha is based in Yorkshire, the UK, where she lives with her artist partner. Learn more on her website .

6 scenic train journeys in Scotland: see the stunning pictures

By Steve King

Travelling through Scotland by train is nothing short of a privilege. These are the very best journeys to take, all experienced first-hand by our man in Glasgow – including insider tips.

THE BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN

Something of a marvel, this. A wonder. The outfit that runs it, Belmond , used to be called Orient-Express. You have probably heard the name. As well as the familiar Venice Simplon affair, Belmond operates lots of other similarly glamorous rail routes, together with some of the world’s top hotels , including the Cadogan in London , the Cipriani in Venice and the Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro . The lusciousness quotient of these places is replicated aboard the Royal Scotsman; the main difference between those bricks-and-mortar hotels and this hotel on wheels is a difference of scale. Belmond offers half a dozen or so different itineraries across Scotland , varying in route and duration. All involve excursions off the train to visit castles, whisky distilleries , seal colonies and whatnot. But for the present writer the loveliest moments were often the least complicated ones, sitting at the back of the Observation Car, gazing at the slowly unspooling Highland landscape.

LOOK OUT FOR:

The cows at Ballindalloch Castle. Ballindalloch is one of the many castles you are likely to get a chance to poke around during the trip. It is home not only to the Macpherson-Grant family but also to the oldest herd of Aberdeen Angus cows in the world. The current owners, Clare and Oliver, are charming. ‘Oliver had never set foot in Scotland before he met me,’ Clare said. ‘When he got me, he got the castle and the cows too.’ ‘Admission to the castle is free,’ came Oliver’s reply. ‘But the bull may charge later! Haw haw haw!’

INSIDER TIP:

Don’t forget to pack your penguin suit or ball gown, as appropriate. People really do wear these things. The fun of dancing a reel in your glad rags, late at night on an empty station platform somewhere in the Highlands, with a group of similarly gussied-up fellow travellers, is not to be underestimated.

THE WEST HIGHLAND LINE

Winding north out of Glasgow , skirting the western shores of Loch Lomond, meandering across the lonely wilds of Rannoch Moor, past the looming hulk of Ben Nevis, to Fort William, before striking out at last to the remote coastal village of Mallaig, ferry terminal for the Isles of Skye , Muck, Rum and Eigg. Every now and then someone or other declares this The Best Train Journey in the World . Certainly it provides a marvellous introduction to the severe loveliness of the western Highlands. I am particularly fond of the approach to Glencoe, which, in addition to its great beauty, has about it a peculiar melancholy, an air of inconsolable sorrow, that is almost spooky. You would feel and be moved by this, I think, even if you were a first-time visitor from some distant corner of the globe – a sunkissed, carefree atoll in the South Pacific, perhaps – and cheerfully ignorant of Glencoe’s murderous past.

Harry, Ron and Hermione.

Since its appearance in the first of the Harry Potter movies , the Glenfinnan Viaduct has become a powerful muggle magnet. In the summer months you can book a special ticket to complete the last leg of the journey – from Fort William to Mallaig, which includes the picturesque viaduct – by steam train, for the full Hogwarts Express experience.

PERTH TO INVERNESS

A counterpart to the West Highland Line, though on the whole less dramatic, better behaved and more subdued. With one notable exception: the relatively short but quite magnificent section of the journey near the Drumochter Pass, before you get to Dalwhinnie, on the south-western edge of the Cairngorms. In winter the dark rocky hillsides dolloped with bright snow seem otherworldly in their black-and-white starkness. It is like swimming with orcas in outer space.

Blair Castle, seat of the Clan Murray and Dukes of Atholl since the 13th century, is clearly visible as you arrive at Blair Atholl station (on the right-hand side of the train if you are travelling north, the left-hand side if you are travelling south). Can a castle be perky? This one always strikes me as having a perky look about it. Good feng shui or something.

If you travel in first class, you can stuff your face with as much shortbread as you want at no extra charge. Shortbread always tastes better on the train.

Connor Sturges

Lauren Burvill

Olivia Morelli

THE FAR NORTH LINE

From Inverness up to Thurso then across to Wick. You are going it some by the time you get up here – Thurso is the most northerly railway station in the British Isles and an oatcake’s throw from John O’Groats. There are a few seasonal or request-only stops along the way, a reminder of statelier times when people who had their own castles also had their own train stations. You might care to stop at Dunrobin Castle, for example, one of the oldest continuously inhabited houses in Britain , home to the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland for nearly 750 years. It underwent a spectacular Loire Valley-château-inspired makeover in the 19th century – a prosperous period for the Sutherlands, following their controversial role in the Highland Clearances. Statelier times, then, but not necessarily gentler ones.

If you do alight at Dunrobin Castle, note the length of the platform. Impressive, don’t you think? A 1903 article in Railway Magazine explains: ‘As a rule the platforms of private stations are very small, but this one at Dunrobin is an exception. It is very long, for often the family at the Castle will entertain three or four hundred guests at a time, when important fêtes or events are taking place there.’

Not a tip as such, and really only a guess, but it occurs to me that this route may very well pass more castles and whisky distilleries than any other comparable railway line in Scotland. Even if that is not statistically correct, it would still make for a jolly trip if you were to celebrate both of those legendary Scottish phenomena by knocking back a dram every time you saw a castle.

THE STRATHSPEY STEAM RAILWAY

I imagine this must be a glimpse of heaven for vintage-train obsessives. And it is not without a certain kind of Wallace and Gromit charm for the rest of us. Not without a pleasant dining car, either, come to that. The train is composed of lovingly done-up carriages drawn by a proper old-fashioned locomotive, which puffs and whistles its way from Aviemore to Boat of Garten and Broomhill and, er, back again. Just the three stops, not very far apart from one another, but all extremely shortbread-tin-worthy.

Ospreys. There are thought to be about 250 breeding pairs of ospreys left in Britain. The RSPB Osprey Centre is at nearby Loch Garten and your chances of spotting one of these majestic birds are better here than just about anywhere else.

If you’ve got the time and you’re good at coordinating train timetables, you could treat the Strathspey route as a little east-west interlude on a longer north-south trip. Let’s say you were heading from Glasgow or Edinburgh up to Inverness. You could break your journey at Aviemore and hop onto the Strathspey steam train – out to Broomhill and back, clickety-clack – then resume your journey from Aviemore.

THE WEST COAST MAIN LINE, JUST NORTH OF CARLISLE

A sentimental choice. The area on either side of the border between Scotland and England was always my favourite section of the trip in the years when I was travelling more or less weekly between Glasgow and London on the West Coast Main Line. It did not matter which way the train was going – I was equally happy to cross over from Scotland into England or from England into Scotland. Historically this was reiver or bandit country. Elopement country, too, for English couples eager to get hitched in haste under Scotland’s more relaxed marriage laws (no parental consent or advance notice required). Gretna Green, a few miles north of Carlisle, became the destination of choice for ‘runaway marriages’ in the 18th century following the construction of a toll road that made it the easiest Scottish village to get to from England. Speaking of aisles, I recall an occasion when, late one night, a power failure caused the Glasgow-bound train I was on to come to a standstill near Gretna Green and the interior lights to die. A well-refreshed party in my carriage swiftly devised a competition to keep spirits high in the face of this inconvenient disruption to our journey. A golf club was repurposed as a hobby-horse and liquored-up jockeys undertook individual time trials along the length of the aisle, galloping from one end to the other as if it were the Straight Mile at Redcar. These thunderous feats of athleticism, rather romantically illuminated by mobile-phonelight, were met with frantic cries of encouragement and hysterical hoots of mirth.

Loved-up English youths heading north at speed from Carlisle towards Gretna Green with panicked parents in hot pursuit.

The views from both sides of the train are good during the daylight hours. (At night all you can see if you peer into the darkness is your own reflection in the window.) Choose your seat depending on the time of departure. If you are heading south in the morning, the sun will be in your eyes if you sit on the left of the train – better to sit on the right. There are only so many morning/afternoon, north/south, left/right combinations to worry about, but since the whole trip takes four and a half hours it is worth pausing to consider your options, especially if the weather is set fair.

Like this? Now read:

The best train journeys through Europe

By Monisha Rajesh

North Coast 500: the ultimate UK road trip

The best places to visit in Scotland

All aboard: the most beautiful railway journeys in Scotland

It’s hard to know what to leave out as no Scottish rail line is boring. But it’s easy to know where to start.

• Post author By Benedict le Vay
• Post date 8th February 2021

Scotland is home to a selection of truly impressive railways , taking in Britain’s highest main-line summits, its longest bridge and its highest railway viaduct, as well as some of the quirkiest stations and best traditional steam lines in the world.

While it’s impossible to do justice to every single railway here, I’ve selected some of the most beautiful journeys from my new guide, Scotland from the Rails . From the world-famous West Highland Line to day trips from Glasgow and Edinburgh, these spectacular routes are sure to whet your appetite.

The West Highland Line

This is not just one of the best railways in Scotland – it is the most scenic railway line in the world. And don’t just take my word for it – it has been deemed as such by many an online poll . All I can say is I have travelled every line in Britain, plus dozens more across the world, and this is the king of the lot.

If you like landscapes, prepare to be enthralled: this line offers treat after treat. The fabulous horseshoe curve after Upper Tyndrum. The way it conquers the impenetrable wastes of Rannoch Moor, and then climbs carefully down the side of Loch Treig to follow a beautiful river-carved gorge. And of course, crossing the world famous (and Harry Potter-starring) Glenfinnan Viaduct. The stories and legends are great yarns too.

The Skye Line

The route from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh (jumping-off point for Skye) rightly attracts superlatives. Awesome mountains, rocks and rivers, jaw droppingly beautiful lochs, red deer and eagles and a journey from sea to shining sea – if it’s wilderness and majesty and nature you’re after, this line is one of Britain’s best.

The route goes via the lovely old station at Dingwall and then over the top in beautifully bleak country to a sensational finale, winding through fascinating places along Loch Carron, with sweeping, majestic views of mountains and of Skye. And apart from an avalanche shelter, they somehow did it without major viaducts or tunnels.

The Far North Line

This is another beautiful route well worth the long ride, and very different from the west coast scenically. Indeed, you’re unlikely to experience anything remotely like this outside Norway.

It just goes on and on through majestic landscape – bleak moors, dramatic lochs, lovely villages and lonely halts – until you can stand on the coast and look at Orkney, having conquered Britain’s most northerly railway. Fabulous!

The Highland Main Line

Another spectacular route – and speedy by Highland standards – as it goes from Glasgow or Edinburgh straight up the middle to Inverness.

Despite its name, it creeps through the dramatic Pass of Killiecrankie on a single track, but elsewhere it soars on two magnificent viaducts, swoops past looming mountains, climbs Britain’s highest rail summit, and rushes across grassy plains past famous distilleries. A splendid way to spend an afternoon.

The Oban branch

The Oban line is just enchanting, and were it not for the exalted company it keeps – the West Highland and the Skye lines – it would be the best, most remote, and it could put in a good claim for the loveliest.

The views along Loch Awe are just – well – awesome, and the tales about this line are terrific too.

Days out from Edinburgh and Glasgow

Can I cheat here and suggest four routes from Scotland’s two main cities?  The charming seaside town of North Berwick is easily accessible from Edinburgh, or you can travel down the new Borders Railway to Tweedbank.

From Glasgow, you can journey to the sensational station at Wemyss Bay, for ferries to the Isle of Bute, or to Largs, a pretty resort further down the coast where you must not miss the superb art deco ice-cream parlour at Nardini’s. I guarantee those will be great days out!

More information

Eager to discover more of Scotland’s railways? Check out Ben’s guide :

Scotland by Train Itinerary (with Scenic Rail Journeys)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

Are you planning to visit Scotland? Have you considered a Scottish road trip but decided that’s not for you and would rather travel Scotland by train?

Over the years we have explored Scotland by both train and by car and as an alternative to our Scottish road trip itinerary, we decided to put together a detailed itinerary for those of you who would prefer to take the train.

You will be pleased to hear that travelling around Scotland by train is fairly easy as the railways operate on a route map that is not difficult to navigate in a generally circular direction (with a bus/car/taxi link in between as there are no trains on the Isle of Skye)

Our Scotland by rail itinerary also includes some of the most scenic rail journeys Scotland has to offer with breathtaking scenery and a welcoming rich history and heritage. 

Add this Scotland train itinerary to our best of Britain by rail itinerary for the holiday of a lifetime. Perfect for train lovers and those who like to sit back and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Map of the route

Edinburgh – day 1, edinburgh days 2 – 3, accommodation options in edinburgh (near waverley train station), accommodation options in glasgow, accommodation options in oban, day 6 – oban, accommodation options in fort william, day 8 – fort william, accommodation options in portree on the isle of skye, day 10 to 11 – isle of skye, accommodation options in inverness, day 13 – inverness, day 14 – inverness to edinburgh.

• Train Passes

More UK rail travel tips and inspiration

Overview of the scotland by rail itinerary.

✅ The itinerary starts in the beautiful Scottish capital city of Edinburgh before you set off west towards Glasgow.

✅ After a day in Glasgow head to Oban to explore the islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa before a train ride to Fort William (the gateway to the Scottish Highlands).

✅ Embark on a short ferry ride from Mallaig to Armadale and onto the stunning Isle of Skye (this bit of the itinerary has to be taken by bus, taxi or tour) .

✅ A bus from Skye over the bridge will take you back to rejoin the train line at the Kyle of Lochalsh and a scenic ride to Inverness.

✅ The final train journey to Edinburgh through the beautiful Cairngorms National Park completes the journey.

For each destination included in this Scotland by train itinerary, we have included recommendations of what to see and do, accommodation options plus practical tips and details to help you on your way.

We have also included the distances between destinations and the estimated time it will take you to travel each leg of the journey.

Scotland by train itinerary

Days 1-3  edinburgh.

Perhaps you are planning to fly into Edinburgh or take the train to Edinburgh from London (or another UK destination)?

If you arrive by plane it is good to know that the connection from Edinburgh airport to the city centre is served by a frequent tram service that takes around 30 mins. A single ticket is around £6.50 and a return is £9.  The return ticket is open for a return journey at any time (even months later).

If you arrive by train you will alight the train at Edinburgh Waverley Station which is located on Princes Street in the centre of the city.

There is much to see and do in Edinburgh. The city caters to all interests, including history, walking, royal and military fans as well as whisky fans.

It really is impossible to visit everything the city has to offer in 2 days so we recommend prioritising your must-see items when planning your itinerary.

Highlights of Edinburgh include

• Historic Edinburgh Castle
• The Royal Mile
• Climb Arthur’s Seat and look at the Views
• The Port of Leith and the Royal Yacht Britannia
• The Palace of Holyrood House. 
• Greyfriars Kirkyard
• Taking a ghost tour
• Edinburgh Botanic Gardens

Read – 27 things to do in Edinburgh

If this isn’t your first visit to Edinburgh (or you prefer to explore further afield and can base yourself in the city for a few more days) why not take a day trip by train? Destinations within easy reach of Edinburgh include

• Leuchars (for St Andrews golf course)

All are approx 1 hour from Edinburgh except Aberdeen which takes around 2.5 hours)

Read – Best day trips by train from Edinburgh

Alternatively, join an organised day tour from Edinburgh. Popular choices include this Outlander

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Edinburgh –  The Balmoral
• 🛌  Best B&B in Edinburgh –  The Elder York Guest House
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Edinburgh –  Holiday Inn Express Royal Mile

Day 4 – Edinburgh to Glasgow

📍 On Day 4 it’s time to depart from Edinburgh and head to Scotland’s most populous city – Glasgow.  

🕘 This is a short train journey and only takes around 50 minutes.

✅ There are multiple services available daily.

🔎 During the train journey look out for the Kelpies in Falkirk. These are the 30-metre-high equine sculptures in Helix Park, visible from the train on the right-hand side from Edinburgh. Look carefully, they are easily missed.

Highlights of Glasgow include

• The Kelvingrove Museum & Art Gallery
• Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis
• Glasgow Street Art

Read more – One-day itinerary for Glasgow

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Glasgow – Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel 
• 🛌  Best B&B in Glasgow – The Alamo
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Glasgow – Ibis Styles George Square

Day 5 – Glasgow to Oban

📍 From the Queens Street station catch the train on the West Highland line which is THE number one scenic Scottish train journey (and one of our top 10 UK train trips ).  

🕘 Check your train times as there are only a few trains daily in each direction. The journey to Oban is around 3 hours.

The train heads north out of Glasgow. If possible try to sit on the left side of the train in the direction of travel as the train heads north for the best loch views.

The station at Balloch about 50 mins outside Glasgow is a change station for Loch Lomond if this is an area you want to explore further.

The train divides or splits at Crianlarich, about 90 minutes from Glasgow, with one portion of the train heading to Oban. The other portion of the train heads north to Fort William across the famous Rannock Moor. 

You will be told which part of the train to sit in to ensure you are heading in the correct direction.

On the train journey to Oban from Crianlarich enjoy spectacular views of Loch Lomond, Glen Lochy, Loch Awe and then the shores of Loch Etive.

Highlights of Oban include

• McCaig’s Tower and battery on the hill overlooking Oban.
• Oban is known as the seafood capital of Scotland
• Oban Distillery
• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Oban – No17 The Promenade
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Oban – Glenmoore Guest House

One Day 6 take a tour from Oban to some of Scotland’s most stunning islands – Iona, Staffa, and Mull.

There are a number of tours available from Oban – most last all day. Also worth noting that these may not suit if you suffer from sea sickness! Check out Staffa Tours for more info

Day 7 – Oban to Fort William

Day 7 catch the train from Oban back to Crianlarich and change there for the train to Fort William.

🕘 Journey time is dependent on the service caught from Oban and the time to wait for the connecting service at Crianlarich. Overall time travel time is around 3 to 4 hours.

The train journey from Crianlarich will take you across Rannock Moor on the West Highland train line. 

The next train station stop is at Corrour which is the highest mainline UK train station at 1339 feet.  Here many walkers end/start their hikes over this amazing landscape.

After Corrour the train travels on to Fort William. Look out for the peak of Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest peak at 4,411 feet.

Highlights of Fort William include

• Neptune’s staircase
• Ben Nevis Visitor Centre
• Glenfinnan Visitor centre and monument
• Glenfinnan Viaduct

Read more – Best things to do and see in Fort William

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel in Fort William – Inverlochy Castle Hotel   (this is a taxi ride* from the train station)
• 🛌  Best B&B in Fort William – Glentower Lower Observatory
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Fort William – Culacrick Guest House 

*Note that there are taxis generally available outside Fort William train station.

If you are completing this Scotland by rail itinerary between April and October we recommend booking tickets on the world-famous Jacobite Express steam train to Mallaig (aka the Harry Potter train).

The train departs once a day in the morning from early April until late October. From May to September, an additional train service also runs every afternoon. The Jacobite train is operated by West Coast Railways.

Tip – Arrive at the train station in Fort William in plenty of time to soak up the fantastic atmosphere of the Harry Potter train and take plenty of photos and videos.

❗️Remember to book your tickets early as this sells out very quickly.

Read – How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

Good to know – If you are unable to book tickets for the Jacobite (or are travelling out of season) the normal service train travels over the same train line.  This means you will still travel over the Glenfinnan viaduct and see the same spectacular views along the way to Mallaig.

🕘 The train ride between Fort William and Mallaig takes around 1 hour and 25 mins from Fort William to Mallaig.

What to do and see in Mallaig

The endpoint of the West Highland Train line is Mallaig. Look out for the beautiful views of the islands of Eigg and Rum and the white sands of Morar as the train line hugs the coastline on its way to Mallaig.

In Mallaig explore the beautiful restaurants and try some local seafood and wander around the harbour. For Harry Potter fans there is a dedicated shop also worth exploring.

Day 9 – Fort William (Mallaig) to Armadale (Isle of Skye)

Mallaig is the ferry terminal for the crossing to the truly breathtaking Isle of Skye.

The ferry carries road vehicles and foot passengers and is currently operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac). CalMac also provides ferry services to the Western Isles including Barra, Bute, Arran, Harris, Iona and Eriskey from Mallaig.

🕘 The ferry journey takes 25 minutes before arriving at the ferry port at Armadale which is located in the southern part of the Sleat Peninsula on Skye. 

Whilst there is a road bridge to Skye via the Kyle of Lochalsh the ferry is the best option from Fort William for this rail trip.

How to travel from Armadale to your accommodation on Skye

On arrival at Armadale, you have a few options to get around the island. There are no trains on Skye so you will need to make alternative transport arrangements.

• Taxi to Portree* – takes 1 hour and costs £60+
• Rent a car – There is a small family-run car rental company located in Armadale. Organise a car pick here for the Skye leg of your trip before returning (for an additional fee) to the Kyle of Lochalsh.
• Bus –

*Public transport and tour options are easier from Portree so for this reason (if you do not hire a car from Armadale) we recommend basing yourself in Portree for the duration of your stay on Skye.

• ⭐️  Best luxury hotel on Skye – Cuillin Hills Hotel
• 🛌  Best B&B in on Skye – Canowindra B&B
• 💰  Best budget accommodation on Skye – Tianavaig View Apartments

Read – Complete guide to where to stay on Skye (area and accommodation)

With so much to see on Skye and places to visit visitors are often left thinking they might have wanted more time here (including us in 2022!)

For this reason, it is best to prioritise your must-see places and plan your itinerary accordingly. If you have not hired a car at Armadale your options to explore the island are the following:

• Catch local buses around the island
• Take a tour from Portree
• Hire a private driver tour guide to show you the highlights of the island

Highlights on the Isle of Skye include

• Fairy Pools
• Dunvegan Castle and gardens
• The Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt falls
• Talisker Distillery
• Armadale Castle Gardens and museum.

Day 12 – Isle of Skye to Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness

Leaving Skye over the bridge to the Kyle of Lochalsh is possible by taxi or by bus.  From Portree (Square) the 917 Citylink Service costs around £9 for one adult fare. 

The bus stops at Kyle of Lochalsh Old Slipway bus stop and takes around 1 hour. The bus stop is a few minutes walk to the train station.

What to see around the Kyle of Lochalsh

If you are dropping off the hire car you picked up at Armadale at the Kyle of Lochalsh consider exploring a little of the area before you do so.

• Eilean Donan Castle is 9 miles (about 15 mins drive away) along the coast of Loch Alsh.
• Manuela’s Wee Bakery

Train to Inverness

🛤 This is the beautifully scenic Kyle line.

🕘 The train to Inverness takes around 2.5 hours.

What to see on the train journey to Inverness

From Kyle, the train line hugs the coastline of Loch Carron and at the station of Plockton is the location setting of the popular UK TV program Hamish Macbeth (from the 1990s).

Look out for the Torridon Hills on the left-hand side of the train just after the station at Achnashellach. The line then rises and falls en route to Dingwall past Loch Garve, Loch Luichart and Loch a’Chuilinn with constantly stunning views. Dingwall is at the end of the Cromarty Firth. From here the line heads the 20 minutes journey south to Inverness.  

From Dingwall a change of train on the Far North Line would take you to the north tip of Scotland at Thurso and Wick train stations. From here if you wish to visit the John O’Groats or the Orkney Islands .

• ⭐️  Best hotel in Inverness near the train station – River Ness Hotel
• 🛌  Best B&B in Inverness – Moyness House
• 💰  Best budget accommodation in Inverness – Inverness Youth Hostel

Highlights of Inverness – including easy day trip ideas

• Loch Ness and Castle Urquhart
• Culloden battlefield
• Clava Cairns – Bronze Age Cairn
• Fort George- Artillery fortification
• I nverness to Thurso and Wick (Far North Line)

Good to know – the hop-on hop-off bus from Inverness has stops at Culloden and Loch Ness

Read more – Best day trips from Inverness

✅ On day 14 catch the train back to Edinburgh Waverley from Inverness. 

🔀 There is a choice of train routes to take – the coastal route that takes in Aberdeen and Dundee or the central route that passes through Aviemore, Pitlochry and Perth.

🕘 The coastal route takes around 5 hours while the central route to Edinburgh takes between 3 hours 30 mins – 4 hours.

Both routes are scenic and have contrasting landscapes. There are merits to both depending on timescales or your specific interests such as the Whisky Trail from the station of Keith north of Aberdeen.

Both routes take in the iconic Forth Rail Bridge which is about 12 minutes away from Edinburgh.

The bridge was completed in December 1889 and spans over the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Train ticket and passes – options for your Scotland rail itinerary

There are a number of options open to you when it comes to buying tickets for the Scotland by rail itinerary detailed above. The most cost-effective option for train tickets may be to compare the cost of a train pass or ticket discounts with a railcard.

Train Pass es

The two passes available are the BritRail Pass or the Global Eurail Pass (or Global Interail pass if you live in Europe).

Note – Unfortunately, the Scottish Highlands BritRail Pass and the Spirit of Scotland BritRail Pass are unavailable at the moment due to Covid – hopefully, they will be available again soon.

This means that you would need to buy a regular BritRail Pass for travel by trail in Scotland. The following types are available:

Flexible – 2 Day, 3 Day, 4 Day, 8 Day (valid within 1 month) and 15 Day (valid within 2 months)

Consecutive – 2 Day, 3 Day, 4 Day, 8 Day, 15 Day, 22 Day, 1 Month

The other alternative is a Global Eurail Pass . It offers consecutive travel for 15 or 22 consecutive days, or buy a pass valid for 1, 2 or 3 months. Or a flexible pass for 4, 5 or 7 non-consecutive days spread over a month; or for 10 or 15 days during a two month period. 

With 6 days of train travel (excluding the Jacobite which is not covered by either pass) a 7 day Global Eurail flexipass may be the most cost-effective for this itinerary.

Read – Global Eurail Pass versus BritRail Pass

Another option would be to purchase a d i g i t a l railcard and compare the cost of tickets with discounts from the railcard applied.

Examples of railcards include:

• Two Together Railcard – Costs £30 for the year. Two travellers are named on the same card and you must always travel together to get one-third off the normal ticket price.
• Senior Railcard – For the over 60s. Costs £30 for the year and offers one-third off rail fares.
• UK Train Travel Guide ebook
• Tips to save money on UK train travel
• Britrail vs Gobal Eurail Pass
• Best day trips from Glasgow by train
• Guide to the Caledonian Sleeper (and podcast episode)
• 9 Tips for travelling the UK by train
• Introduction to UK train travel podcast episode #2
• Best day trips from Edinburgh

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• Bus and Train Travel

This Epic Train Journey Through Scotland Is the Best Way to Experience the Country's Stunning Landscapes, Rich History, and Tasty Whisky

The best way to experience Scotland may be by rail.

There’s something I love about train travel : Even while sitting still, you don’t miss a moment. And when it comes to Scotland , the best way to experience the country is by rail. Picture undisrupted rolling hills, rivers, and highland cows for your viewing pleasure as you dunk your customary shortbread into a cup of tea. This trip is about the journey, not just the destination.

I traveled with Vacations By Rail , a rail travel and tour operator that offers memorable adventures through Scotland, whether you're traveling as a group or solo.

Holly-Marie Cato

I began my tour of Scotland in Edinburgh. From London, you can catch the train from King's Cross St. Pancras, bringing you right into the heart of Edinburgh in under five hours. I checked into the spacious Apex Waterloo Place Hotel , complete with beautiful views of the city that enticed me to go out and explore.

The sound of bagpipes followed me around the city center, with men dressed in traditional Scottish kilts. It didn't matter what plans I had made in advance, I couldn’t help but stop and enjoy the music.

Having hiked Arthur’s Seat on my first visit, I chose the family-friendly walk up Calton Hill, which offers a great view of the city and the chance to explore one of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. There, you'll find the Nelson Monument — built in 1816 and with 147 steps to the top, you can experience an epic panorama looking out over Edinburgh. You'll also see National Monument, a semi-complete Greek Parthenon-like structure that even in it’s undress is altogether beautiful.

I also went on a walking tour of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle with Mercat Tours , learning about the medieval alleyways, why the town crier still reads important news three days after an event, and how the Stone of Destiny — used to inaugurate Scottish kings — was stolen by university students.

My favorite meal in Edinburgh was at Luckenbooths . I I tried the haggis and beef shin bon bons, Cullen skink, a traditional Scottish smoked haddock and cream soup, and whisky-glazed smoke salmon. (Don't worry, I was sharing.) Even better, I learned all the food is locally sourced.

A stone's throw from the Apex Waterloo is the Waverley train station, where I caught the train to Fort William, via Glasgow, organized by Vacations By Rail.

A short drive later, I checked into Ballachulish Hotel in Glen Coe and was greeted by complimentary chocolates and the hotel's small-batch production of gin.

The best thing about Glen Coe is the landscape. I woke up early to savor the crisp autumn air. It's worth hiring a local tour guide to show you the lay of the land. Most locals have a deep and prevalent knowledge of their history, as well as where Harry Potter scenes were filmed (we went to the location of Dumbledore's house).

A 30-minute drive from Ballachulish Hotel is Ben Nevis Distillery, a must-visit during any visit. This award-winning small-batch distillery has created some of the smoothest whisky from the waters of the Ben Nevis mountain. My favorite was the 10-year-old, peat-smoked single malt, though I also liked their sherry casked Scotch — all descriptors and flavors I learned during a whisky-tasting tour.

If you're looking for an adventure, take the train down to Mallaig, a small, sleepy port with the best local fish and chips and a pleasant hiking trail. It's worth stopping here for lunch before catching a ferry over to the Isle of Skye . (I'm making it my mission to visit the island on my next Scottish venture.)

The Isle of Skye is clearly visible from the Mallaig train station. I boarded the West Highland line to Fort William, and then headed back to Glen Coe for one more night.

I traveled in style on the West Coast Railways steam train, resting against classic upholstered seats in first class and enjoying an onboard service of afternoon tea with scones, jam, and clotted cream while taking in the spectacular Highland landscape. For Harry Potter fans, listen for when the train conductor announces the Glenfinnan Viaduct is approaching, as it's seen in the Hogwarts Express.

I joined the famous Jacobite cruise and voyaged along the legendary waters of Loch Ness. The boat’s audio guide shared details about the mythical legend of the monster in the loch, as well as offered a deep dive into the Jacobite uprising and Bonnie Prince Charlie, who escaped the English army searching for him and traveled to the Isle of Skye, all with the help of a woman named Flora MacDonald in the 1700s.

From the Loch Ness to Eilean Donan Castle, there are plenty of beautiful historic sites to experience in the Highlands. Situated on a small tidal island, in the Western Highlands of Scotland and only accessible by a footbridge, Eilean Donan Castle stands proudly against the rugged landscape. 

Roaming the castle walls, you can learn how this fortified stronghold of the Clan Mackenzie was blown up by the English government in 1719 during the Jacobite rebellion. It was left in ruins for 200 years, until it was painstakingly restored in the early 1900s by their allies Clan MacRae and friends.

You'd be hard-pressed to make it to the Highlands without learning about the Jacobite uprising. Scottish history is seared into the minds of every countryman.

I ended my Scotland trip in Inverness. Even toward the final leg of the journey, I struggled to sleep in late while traveling, so I took the opportunity to walk through the city's quaint streets in the early morning. I stopped at Cup & Cone with a friend to enjoy one of the best oat cappuccinos and pastries.

As someone who doesn’t drive, I thought Scotland would be largely inaccessible to me, especially the Highlands, which is why traveling with Vacations By Rail has been so transformative. Suddenly, nothing about visiting Scotland feels daunting. I’ve sailed breezy costal waters, sipped drams of whisky in local distilleries, indulged in haggis and neeps and tatties, danced to bagpipes, bundled up in Highland wool, and strolled around a castle. The best part? Knowing I'll be back to Scotland soon.

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• West Highland Line
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Scenic Scotland by rail

The most scenic rail journeys in Scotland

Scotland can be a little tricky to navigate: single track roads, steep gradients, unpredictable weather and underprepared fellow road users can all make for a fairly challenging journey at the best of times. thankfully, the scottish railway network is as enticing as it is practical, with a number of world-class routes on the cards for those looking to ditch the car in favour of a hassle-free holiday by train. here are seven of the best..., west highland line: glasgow to mallaig.

Consistently lauded near (or at) the very top of the world's most desirable railway journeys, this 164-mile (264km) route breathes in Loch Lomond, Ben Nevis, Fort William and the Glenfinnan Viaduct as it meanders between Glasgow and Mallaig.

You'll need to account for around five-and-a-half hours to experience this trip in its entirety – though it would be wise to break it up by joining the Jacobite Steam Train (Fort William – Mallaig, via the Harry Potter-famed viaduct), or follow the branch off to Oban (at Crianlarich) for epic views across Argyll and connecting CalMac ferries to islands like Mull and Barra. Carriages on this route rattle down a single-track railway line, bypassing sweeping landscapes, imposing mountains and often brooding skies. If there was one Scottish train journey you had to take, this would be it.

READ MORE: Beautiful train journeys that don't cost a fortune

The Highland Main Line: Perth to Inverness

Rail enthusiasts and those looking to explore the nooks and crannies of the Cairngorms should look no further than the Highland Main Line . Stretching 118 miles (190km) and transiting the southeastern Highlands, this scenic route starts in Perth, just north of Edinburgh, and snakes around the western Cairngorms before heading northwest to Inverness.

Picture-perfect towns like Pitlochry, Aviemore and Carrbridge provide suitable stopovers for sightseeing and leg-stretching, but there's plenty to see from your seat, too. The train crosses the world's only wooden viaduct at Aultnaslanach and swooshes past breathtaking landscapes on the UK's highest main line railway pass at Drumochter, nearly 1,500 feet (452m) above sea level. Journeys in winter, when the Highlands are coated in brilliant white and the road snow gates are closed, are particularly special.

The Kyle Line: Kyle of Localsh to Inverness/Dingwall

Whether you travel from Kyle to Inverness or vice versa, this 80-or-so-mile (128km) railway journey is one of Scotland's most dazzling. Begin your travels in Inverness and you'll be treated to sweeping views of Skye at your final destination – or head in the other direction for Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and the quintessential Scottish market town of Dingwall.

Either way, this arcing route takes in the Highlands at its very best: from the mighty (and often snow-capped) Torridon Hills and pretty harbourside towns like Plockton, to the still waters of Loch Luichart and the rolling Ross-shire heather moors. Tip: do stop off in Plockton – a popular filming location for movies including The Wickerman – for coastal walks, boat trips and lunch by the harbour. If you're lucky, you may even spot a seal or two.

READ MORE: 10 life-affirming experiences you can only enjoy in Scotland

The Borders Railway Line: Edinburgh to Tweedbank

With a one-way journey time clocking in at just under an hour, this is one of Scotland's shortest train routes but don’t let that fool you though, as the Borders Railway Line is every bit unassuming as it is captivating.

Hop on this 30-mile (48km) journey from the country's capital Edinburgh and be taken on an enchanting journey across sweeping Midlothian landscapes, important mining villages and those influential Scottish Borders landscapes that inspired much of Sir Walter Scott's writing. This short but sweet train line has something for everyone: Melrose Abbey, the burial site of Robert the Bruce's heart, the Borders Loop for keen walkers and the National Mining Museum in Dalkeith.

The Strathspey Steam Railway: Aviemore to Boat of Garten and Broomhill

Proudly the most northerly steam train line in the British Isles, the Strathspey Steam Railway is a must-do for all fans of railway locomotives. This is another of Scotland's short railway lines – three stops, taking around 40 minutes in total – but it is certainly one of the UK's most unique.

A team of local railway devotees have meticulously restored this 1950s-style steam train which saunters between Aviemore, Boat of Garten and Broomhill in the Cairngorms. The staff are even dressed in 1950s attire and there's also a traditional restaurant service on board. Visitors sit comfortably on this 10-mile (16km) jaunt, enjoying the stunning Spey Valley views year-round (though there is a much more frequent service in July and August) with the three towns extremely popular with walkers and cyclists. Feeling lavish? Upgrade your ticket to first class for vintage-style dining in your own private four-seat booth.

READ MORE: Incredible images that capture the history of train travel

The Far North Line: Inverness to Thurso and Wick

The Far North Line traverses much of the Flow Country, an area in the far north of Scotland with vast swathes of blanket bog. To some this may not be the most aesthetically pleasing train window view – at least in comparison to the famed lochs and hills spotted on the West Highland Line – but these far-reaching peat landscapes are protected and regularly maintained by the RSPB, making them a spectacular sight not often seen elsewhere in the UK.

Trains on this 110-mile (177km) route clatter along the track beside bogs, valleys, hills and salmon rivers on their way from Inverness to Thurso, the most northerly railway station on the UK mainland, and Wick, a lovely fishing harbour just 20 miles (32km) east of there. This route is particularly popular for ongoing travel to the famous John o'Groats along with ferries across to the Orkney Islands.

The Stranraer Line: Glasgow to Stranraer

Start this journey in Glasgow and take a trip down to Stranraer, on the lesser-visited Rhins of Galloway peninsula. Trains on this 73-mile (117km) route roll down the west coast of Scotland, with near-immediate views across the Firth of Clyde to Arran and the Mull of Kintyre, before taking in Ayr: the heart of Burns Country.

The journey then bypasses the Galloway National Park as it swoops towards Loch Ryan in Stranraer, the end of the line and the point for ongoing ferry connections to Belfast. From start to finish, the journey takes around two-and-a-half hours and provides ample opportunities to stop off for an afternoon on the beach in Girvan, a round of golf at Troon or a few hours of castle exploring at Culzean.

READ MORE: What to see and do in Scotland

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A Scotrail 156 Sprinter crossing Loch Awe near Dalmally

© Scotrail / Tony Hardley

4-Day West Highland Railway Line Itinerary

The West Highland Line is  one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.

This train line runs from Glasgow north to Crianlarich. One route then goes west past Loch Awe to Oban, or north through Rannoch Moor to Fort William and Mallaig. Or you can do both!

This itinerary gives you ideas for things to do in the four main locations - Glasgow, Oban, Fort William and Mallaig.

Get the  Spirit of Scotland Travelpass  for your train travel, which gives you 4 days unlimited travel for £149 or 8 days unlimited travel (over 15 days) for £189.

• Distance 134 Miles 214 km
• Transport Train
• Main theme Landscapes

Day 1 Glasgow

Glasgow makes a perfect starting point with its great travel links to the rest of Scotland, the United Kingdom and indeed the world. It's tempting to hop straight on the train and head to the West Highlands but then you'd miss all the wonders of Glasgow! Take a day to see some of the city's highlights before you start your rail adventure. Consider taking the  City Sightseeing Bus , which links these great attractions.

The city also has a public cycle hire scheme provided by Nextbike . The scheme offers 500 bikes for   public hire at 67 locations across the city.

Plan a longer trip to Glasgow

Riverside Museum and Tall Ship Glasgow City Centre

Riverside Museum

The Riverside Museum is a visual feast - the building itself is one of the most striking modern buildings in Scotland. Inside, the museum houses all kinds of exhibits related to transport. Vehicles, bikes, and locomotives dating from different periods can be found. In addition, you can also explore the Clyde-built Tall Ship, which is berthed alongside the museum.

• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Hearing Loop
• Level Access
• Accessible toilets

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum Glasgow West End

Exterior of the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Glasgow's trendy West End is home to Kelvingrove, a free museum packed with over 8,000 intriguing objects and artefacts. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of art, from the Dutch Old Masters and the French Impressionists, to perhaps its most famous piece, Christ of St John of the Cross by Salvador Dali.

• On Public Transport Route

UNESCO City of Music Glasgow

Glasgow Music City Tours showcase, King Tut's Wah Wah Hut

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

Glasgow's reputation for live music is legendary; so much so that the city has been given UNESCO City of Music status.

Why not catch a gig or a concert in one of its amazing venues? The OVO Hydro hosts all the big-name stars. You can experience roots, classical and world sounds at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, or see up-and-coming indie artists at the small but perfectly formed King Tut's Wah Wah Hu t .

Board an early train and take the West Highland Line to Oban, a journey which reveals Scotland's great geographic contrasts. Along the way you'll travel alongside the River Clyde, through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, passing the hills and glens of Argyll, before finally ending up at this cheery seaside town where the train terminates.

McCaig's Tower Oban

McCaig's Tower, Oban

Stretch your legs by taking the short climb from Oban town centre up to McCaig's Tower to admire the views across the bay and towards the isles. 

Oban Distillery Oban

Oban Distillery & Visitor Centre

Situated in the heart of Oban, take a tour and discover the history of entrepreneurial brothers Hugh and John Stevenson who founded the distillery. Choose from two tours, and let the knowledgeable tour guides tell you about the seven men who make the Oban Single Malt. 'Old Teddy' is exclusive to the distillery and was inspired by the unique and personal stories of the Maclean family, who have served the distillery on Scotland's west coast for three generations.

Gateway to the isles Oban

Oban Harbour and Pulpit Hill seen from McCaigs Tower at dawn

From Oban you can visit Colonsay, Islay, Mull, Lismore, Coll, Tiree and Barra. Once you're on the islands, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities from cycling to hillwalking, or stay out on the water with boat tours or kayaking. There are ferries between the islands, and day trips and tours to choose from.

Day 3 Fort William

If you want to do both routes of the West Highland Line, you can use the Spirit of Scotland Travelpass to take the Citylink bus directly from Oban to Fort William. This Highland town sits in the shadow of the mighty Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain.

Nevis Range Mountain Gondola Fort William

Nevis Range Mountain Gondola

Get a better view of Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis, on a gentle ride in a suspended mountain gondola up the side of Aonach Mor, one of Ben Nevis’ lofty neighbours.

Soak up the far reaching views towards Ben Nevis, Fort William, the Great Glen and the surrounding Highlands and hop off at the top station to visit the Snowgoose Restaurant & Bar, where you can have a hot drink, a tasty snack or a meal.

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West Highland Museum Fort William

West Highland Museum building

Explore the history of the west Highlands and see archaeological finds and treasures from throughout the area. The museum also has a great Jacobite exhibition with plenty of lesser-known stories to uncover.

Some of the fascinating items you can see include:

• Bonnie Prince Charlie's death mask
• A fine silk waistcoat belonging to the Prince
• A fan created for a grand ball at the Palace of Holyroodhouse
• A secret portrait of Bonnie Prince Charlie

Day 4 Mallaig

Board the train at Fort William and enjoy what is arguably the most spectacular section of the West Highland Line as you venture to Mallaig. The train tracks skirt the A830, fondly known as the Road to the Isles. The views from the train include a mix of rugged landscape and undulating coastline, and the train will traverse the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct at the head of Loch Shiel.

Fort William to Mallaig on the Jacobite Steam Train Fort William

Glenfinnan Viaduct

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

The steam train had a starring role as the Hogwarts Express taking Harry from platform 9 ¾ all the way to Hogwarts.

Some say that the West Highland Line is the greatest rail journey in the world. In the summer, the Jacobite Steam Train* travels along the route in addition to the regular trains. Take the journey over the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, whilst enjoying views of Loch Shiel from your window, a key location in the Harry Potter films.

* Please note that the Jacobite is only running the morning service at this time. There is no Harry Potter coach and reduced First-Class capacity.

Mallaig Heritage Centre Mallaig

Mallaig Heritage Centre

Mallaig is a small but bustling harbour village, once the busiest herring port in Europe. You could easily while away an hour watching boats and ferries come and go at the port. Pop into the Mallaig Heritage Centre and learn about the surrounding landscape and the fishing community. Feeling peckish afterwards? Then head to a café and order something tasty. For a really delicious treat, order a pint of local prawns or Mallaig kippers, if they are on the menu.

Extend Your Trip Skye

Elgol, Isle of Skye

Hop aboard a ferry to the Isle of Skye and explore the stunning island landscapes, or sail to one of the Small Isles and experience the tranquil remoteness of a rural Scottish island community.

After enjoying Skye, cross the Skye Bridge to Kyle of Lochalsh and take the  Kyle Line to Inverness .

Find out more about the West Highland Line .

Plan your onward journey with the Calmac ferry timetables.

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Scotland's 10 most scenic railways

From steam trains to sleeper trains, check out the best ways to experience the scenic railways of Scotland

The landscapes of Scotland are rugged and magical and the best way to take them in is with an unforgettable train holiday . During a Scottish rail adventure, you can see multiple destinations and enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel, worrying less about your carbon footprint, keeping comfortable and relaxed, and without the need to lift a finger!

Scotland is home to some of the UK’s most spectacular rail routes too, whether you want to explore the coasts or the Highlands, by steam train or narrow gauge railway, travelling overnight or on a day trip with the kids.

So read on to get to know the most scenic railways of Scotland and start planning your trip for 2024...

West Highland Line

Known for the resident mythical monster ‘Nessie’, the dramatic, remote John o' Groats and whisky distilleries dotted between mountains and lochs, the Scottish Highlands are a wild and wondrous region.

The West Highlands have their own unique feel, famed for their fresh seafood, Highland hospitality and beloved Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.

Fittingly, the West Highland Line is considered by many to be the most scenic rail journey in the world.

Heading north through the wilds of the west coast, you can see parts of the country only visible by train as you pass through Loch Lomond and the stunning Trossachs National Park.

The line then splits at Crianlarich, and you can either travel past Loch Awe to Oban, or high up to Rannoch Moor, through remote wilderness, and on to Fort William and Mallaig.

Travel with Good Housekeeping on the West Highland Line during a four-day Scotland by steam holiday, where you'll be joined by TV presenter Kirsty Wark. You'll get to experience the Jacobite, from the Harry Potter films, as you make your way across the breathtaking Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Fort William to Mallaig on the Jacobite steam train

An off-shoot of the West Highland Line, this section is world-famous for the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct, which the Hogwarts Express soars over in the Harry Potter films.

Undoubtedly the best way to travel this route is, like Harry, by classic steam train.

The iconic Jacobite, or the Harry Potter train , as it's known to many, offers the perfect way to travel through the Highland scenery, occasionally pausing on the 21-arched viaduct, allowing you time to take in breathtaking views of the mountainous, mossy terrain and glistening Loch Shiel in the distance.

Good Housekeeping has an excellent four-day staycation, where you'll not only experience this epic train journey, but enjoy a cruise on Loch Katrine in the Trossachs and have time to discover the pretty town of Mallaig, where you can stop for fish and chips. TV's Kirsty Wark will also join you for part of this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

FIND OUT MORE

Far North Line

To really see Scotland’s rugged coast and remote farmlands - and of course to visit the traditional distilleries it's so famous for - the Far North Line is the one.

You jump on at Inverness then head out into the wilds, reaching the northern limits of the Highlands - this is Britain's most rural railway, didn't you know?

The journey takes around four hours in full, introducing you to hundreds of miles of beautiful - and varied - landscapes, from quaint hamlets to deep-green bogs, and finally to the gates of the magnificent Dunrobin Castle.

Royal Scotsman

Operated by Belmond, purveyors of sumptuous train experiences, the Royal Scotsman transports you into the Scottish wilderness in style, to see iconic landmarks including Loch Lomond, Ben Nevis, the Isle of Bute and Mount Stuart.

But this is a train like no other. Edwardian elegance meets country-house comforts in the Royal Scotsman’s 10 carriages. On top of the en suite double cabins, this palace on wheels also features a dining room, observation car and the Dior Spa, a new tranquil way to experience the train.

Fine wines, malt whiskies, entertainment and a first-class menu celebrating Scottish produce, is all yours, as you snake through sky-high peaks and dramatic valleys.

The Royal Scotsman has various journeys throughout 2023, including a whisky-themed journey, the castles and isles and a taste of the Highlands tour.

Also departing from Inverness, the Kyle Line winds through charming Highland villages such as Achnasheen and Plockton before arriving in Kyle of Lochalsh, the stunning village gateway to the Isle of Skye .

The Kyle Line, in just two and a half hours, takes you past idyllic beaches and tranquil lochs, and along untouched Highland hillsides, home to rare birds like eagles and herons.

You can also delve into Scottish history at the Kyle Line Museum, catching a glimpse of Scottish highland life from a century ago and understanding the impact the railway made in its early years. And if you want to revisit the Golden Age of travel, there’s a chance you can travel by steam: various heritage trains travel the Kyle Line.

BROWSE HOTELS IN INVERNESS

Strathspey Railway

Home to the Cairngorm quartz, these mystical mountains are often snow-topped and Tundra-like, popular with climbers, walkers and even skiers.

We find that the best way to admire the majestic peaks is from the comfort of a plush carriage on a journey along the Strathspey Steam Railway.

Lasting just an hour and a half, the line connects snowsports base Aviemore with Broomhill, along the River Spey and western edge of the National Park. Many travellers hop off at the RSPB reserve in Boat of Garten - also known as 'Osprey village'.

It makes for a perfect day out, with afternoon tea and Sunday lunch both served on board the train, and the flexibility to take the dogs with you - provided they are well-behaved.

BROWSE HOTELS IN AVIEMORE

The Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway

Perfect for a family day out, the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway is a short journey, taking in multiple points of interest.

It’s a great option for young travellers, taking a little over an hour and offering special activities like a day with Thomas the Tank Engine or an experience on board heritage locomotives at the Museum of Scottish Railways.

The line itself takes you past Kinneil Local Nature Reserve, ideal for walking, cycling and bird watching; the estate, a 16th-century mansion with rare renaissance wall paintings; and the museum, with artefacts dating back to Roman times; as well as Birkhill’s vintage railway station, which kids absolutely love.

BROWSE PLACES TO STAY NEAR BO'NESS

Aberdonian Steam Train

This is a special one, where you can take in two of Scotland’s most exciting cities - Edinburgh and Aberdeen - on a nostalgic day trip on the world-famous steam locomotive Tornado.

Large windows offer unrivalled views of the scenery and fine Scottish fare graces the menu.

A highlight of the journey will undoubtedly be crossing the remarkable Forth Bridge. Connecting Edinburgh with Fife, this structure has the second-longest single cantilever span of any bridge in the world - awarding it its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Aberdonian then runs along the coast as you weave through lush landscapes and verdant countryside with clifftop views.

In Aberdeen, you can explore the historic city and its stunning castle, or visit the distilleries, and Edinburgh needs no introduction.

BEST HOTELS IN EDINBURGH

The Borders Railway

The Borders Railway will take you past the breathtaking landscapes of Edinburgh (think Arthur’s Seat and the Salisbury Crags), Midlothian (catch incredible sunsets on the long stretch between Gorebridge and Stow) and the Scottish Borders (with its rolling hills, lochs and cairns), to Tweedbank.

Tweedbank is popular with visitors, who are keen to explore Abbotsford House, the home of Sir Walter Scott, and Melrose Abbey, the magnificent historic ruin.

Despite being the longest new domestic railway to be built in over 100 years, it takes just an hour to travel from Edinburgh to Tweedbank and you can opt for fun steam train journeys on certain days.

BROWSE HOTELS IN EDINBURGH

Leadhills and Wanlockhead Railway

For something a little bit different, hop aboard a car on this narrow gauge railway which operates between Scotland's highest villages, Leadhills and Wanlockhead.

This is a line for railway and engineering lovers: the line itself was built on the track-bed of the former Caledonian Railway line, which closed in 1938, and the station at Leadhills boasts a collection of locomotives specially preserved from the industrial era.

The line also takes you to remote upland villages where you can learn about the region’s industrial history, like the aptly-named Leadhills. This village is home to Scotland's highest course - not for the faint-hearted!

The lead mining museum at Wanlockhead teaches you about the history of industry, how lead miners dug to below sea level and excavated miles of tunnels looking for lead ore and silver.

PLACES TO STAY NEAR LEADHILLS

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Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, the world's best train ride.

A few years ago, the Wanderlust Travel Awards included a new category, Best Rail Journey.  So who won?  The train to Machu Picchu in Peru?  A train through the Swiss Alps?  A ride through the Canadian Rockies?  No.  Readers of Wanderlust Magazine voted for the wonderful West Highland line from Glasgow to Fort William & Mallaig as the world's best train journey.  Rightly so in my opinion, as the West Highland Line is not only the most scenic train route in Britain, it's one of my favourite journeys anywhere.  This page explains what there is to see on the West Highland line, and how to plan & book a journey on it. You can also travel on the West Highland line on a daily summer steam train , or even on a luxury cruise train .

Where does the West Highland line go?

The West Highland Line runs from Glasgow to Fort William (the largest town in the West Highlands) and on to Mallaig, a tiny fishing port and terminal for the ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye.  Most of the line is a twisting single track railway through fabulous Highland scenery, often miles from the nearest road.  There's also a branch to Oban, the ferry terminal for several other Scottish islands.  Just 3 ScotRail sprinter trains a day link Glasgow Queen Street with Fort William & Mallaig, fewer on Sundays, in addition to the London-Fort William sleeper , see www.nationalrail.co.uk for times & fares.  It's not fast, taking 3h45 for the 123 miles from Glasgow to Fort William or 5h15 for the 164 miles from Glasgow to Mallaig, stopping at all wayside stations.

A winter ride on the West Highland line

Climbing Ben Nevis:   Fort William station is only 10 minutes walk from the bottom of the tourist track up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, 4,409 feet or 1,344m.  It takes 3½-5 hours to climb, 1½-2½ to descend.  Climbing Ben Nevis by the tourist track .

Fort William to Mallaig

Fort William is the largest town on the West Highland Line and the Caledonian Sleeper from London terminates there.  But the West Highland Line extends further north to the fishing port & ferry terminal of Mallaig, and many people regard this as the nicest section of the route.  Mallaig is the ferry terminal for the Isle of Skye and several Scottish islands.  Four ScotRail sprinter trains a day link Fort William & Mallaig in each direction (one on Sundays), taking about 90 minutes - most run direct to and from Glasgow.  On this section, the left-hand side of the train gets most of the best views going north, right-hand side going south, including views round the curve onto Glenfinnan viaduct - but if travelling to or from Glasgow, remember the train changes direction at Fort William which is a terminus, so you'll have to switch sides there!

A brief history

Tiring of the 50-mile trek to the railhead of Kingussie on the Highland Line to Inverness, the citizens of Fort William decided they must have their own railway, and construction started in 1889.  It was not an easy railway to build, across remote and difficult regions of the Scottish highlands.  Lack of money meant the line featured many steep gradients and sharp curves as more direct alignments would have meant expensive viaducts & cuttings.  The first trains linked Glasgow with Fort William in August 1894. 

The next step was an extension to the sea, to serve the fishing industry on the west coast.  A plan to serve Roshven was blocked by a local landowner, so Mallaig was chosen instead.  However, the extension became something of a political football and the Mallaig Extension wasn't opened until 1901. 

The separate branch line to Oban wasn't originally part of the Glasgow-Fort William-Mallaig line at all, it had its own route from Glasgow via Callander, opened in 1880 and operated by the rival Caledonian Railway.  This passed under the Glasgow-Fort William line just north of Crianlarich, and you can just make out the old track-bed today from the train to Fort William. The line from Glasgow via Callander was closed during the Beeching cuts in the 1960s, and trains between Glasgow and Oban diverted to share the line to Crianlarich with the Fort William trains.

Practical information

Times, fares & tickets.

London to Fort William by sleeper

The northbound Caledonian Sleeper leaves London Euston at 21:15 every night except Saturday night, arriving Fort William at 09:57 next morning.  Fares from around £140 each way with a private sleeper for one or from £170 with a private sleeper for two people.  The southbound sleeper leaves Fort William at 19:50 on Mondays-Fridays, 19:00 on Sundays, arriving at London Euston around 07:47 next morning.  Friday nights are busiest, mid-week nights quieter so you're more likely to find the cheapest tickets.  See the Caledonian Sleeper page for more information & online booking .

Elsewhere in Britain to Fort William & Mallaig

You can travel by daytime trains from almost anywhere in Britain to Fort William & Mallaig via Glasgow, use any British train operator website such as tfw.wales or www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk , international credit cards accepted with no booking fee or card fees.

Travel on the West Highland Line: Glasgow-Fort William-Mallaig

3 trains a day (1 on Sundays) link Glasgow's Queen Street station with Fort William & Mallaig over the West Highland Line all year round, with an additional fourth train between Fort William & Mallaig.  The whole West Highland Line can be done as a day trip from Glasgow on Mondays-Saturdays, leaving at around 08:21, with 2½ hours in Mallaig, returning to Glasgow by 21:30.  But it's better to spend a couple of days exploring.

A day return from Glasgow to Mallaig costs £45.10, good for any train.

A 1-month return costs £67.80, good for any train.

Advance-purchase fares (no refunds, no changes to travel plans) start at £5 each way.  To check trains times & fares, see www.scotrail.co.uk .

In addition to the regular ScotRail trains, you'll find a Jacobite steam-hauled train from Ft William to Mallaig once or twice a day throughout the summer, see www.westcoastrailways.co.uk .

The Jacobite steam train, www.westcoastrailways.co.uk

The Jacobite about to leave Fort William for Mallaig.  The Caledonian Sleeper from London has arrived on the other platform.

The Jacobite crosses the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct of Harry Potter fame.

Bus & ferry connections

Local area, food, hotels & accommodation, short breaks from london to the scottish highlands.

Train travel specialist Railbookers arranges short breaks & longer tours from London to Edinburgh & the Highlands, and several packages include the Caledonian Sleeper .  Railbookers can arrange trips for almost any date you like, trips can be customised to your own requirements with additional stops or extra nights.  Download brochure (UK edition)

- City break to Edinburgh by Caledonian Sleeper .

- London - Caledonian Sleeper - Edinburgh - York - London.

- London - Edinburgh - Fort William - Jacobite steam train to Mallaig - Caledonian Sleeper back to London.

- London - Caledonian Sleeper - Inverness - Kyle of Lochalsh - Isle of Skye - London.

- London - Caledonian Sleeper - Inverness - Loch Ness & Glen Urquhart - Edinburgh - London.

Call to arrange, they have offices in the UK, North America & Australia:

  UK call 0207 864 4600, www.railbookers.co.uk , download brochure . 

  us call free 1-888-829-4775, www.railbookers.com .,   canada call free 1-855-882-2910, www.railbookers.com .,   australia call toll-free 1300 971 526, www.railbookers.com.au . ,   new zealand call toll-free 0800 000 554 or see website ..

West Highlands by luxury train:   The Royal Scotsman

Britain's other scenic rail routes.

There are many other scenic routes in Britain, including:

You can check trains times for all of these routes www.nationalrail.co.uk .

Download an excellent map of Britain's national rail network here .

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How to Tour Scotland by Train

Scotland has several train lines that are perfect for exploring the country, including the Kyle Line, the Far North Line, the West Highland Line, the Carlisle Line, the Stranraer Line, and the Borders Railway. Discover everything you need to know about how to tour Scotland by train in this ultimate guide, which includes information about the main train lines and an itinerary for an 8-day train tour of Scotland.

The Best Train Journeys in Scotland

Scotland doesn’t waste an inch of its landscapes when it comes to impressing visitors. From the dramatic coastal railway that runs between Stranraer and Glasgow to the stunning scenery of the West Highland Line, you’re never far from amazing experiences when you hop on board a train.

The sights you’ll see vary in each part of the country so you might consider combining a few routes into one holiday, or if you’re pushed for time maybe just choose your favourite line and base yourself somewhere along it.

A top tip here would be Edinburgh,, where you’ve got city attractions on your doorstep and the Highlands just a couple of hours train ride away if you fancy a day in the mountains, with the Scottish Borders less than an hour away in the opposite direction. Alternatively, you could head over to the west coast and explore Glasgow before setting off south on the Carlisle and Stranraer lines, both of which offer vastly different scenery from the standard tourist hotspots in the Highlands.

Whatever you choose, whether it’s a visit to Loch Ness to see the monster , a tour of Scotland’s whisky distilleries or an excursion into the rugged scenery of the west coast, getting there by train makes it just that wee bit more pleasurable.

The following list of scenic railway journeys in Scotland will give you an overview of each line along with recommended places to stop and visit.

Map of Train Lines in Scotland

The West Highland Line

Start and end points: Glasgow to Mallaig. Journey time: 3 hours 50 minutes. Highlights: The Highland town of Fort William. Glenfinnan and the spectacular viaduct.

Download the route map from ScotRail .

The West Highland Line – or at least the section of it from Fort William to Mallaig – has gained legendary status among Scotland’s tourists.

Everybody knows the scene in the Harry Potter films where the Hogwarts Express transports the young wizard to the magical wizardry school across a multi-arched viaduct. But not everybody knows that this is actually set in the village of Glenfinnan which in addition to the viaduct features gorgeous views from the Glenfinnan Monument across the shores of Loch Shiel.

The section of the railway track as it winds its way north towards Mallaig has been repeatedly voted the best railway journey in the world, and having taken The Jacobite Steam Train myself I have to say it lives up to the title, and then some.

The Jacobite is a 1930s steam locomotive that puffs its way on the 84-mile return journey past a series of stunning Highland vistas. Unlike the other railways, which use modern diesel and electric locomotives with brand-new carriages, the Jacobite pulls restored 1960s carriages, which makes the whole experience feel very special indeed.

The line starts near Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in Britain) before heading towards Arisaig (the furthest-west train station), passing Loch Morar (the deepest freshwater loch) and skirting the River Morar (the shortest river in Britain) before arriving at Mallaig near Loch Nevis (the deepest seawater loch in Britain).

Once at Mallaig, you can take a boat trip around the coastline to see Britain’s largest birds – sea eagles – which hunt from the surrounding clifftops, or you can take a ferry over to the Isle of Skye and its extraordinary landscapes. Or, of course, you can just head back to Fort William on a return journey.

If you’d like to take this amazing train ride I recommend using Get Your Guide which is one of the biggest and best booking websites for activities and tours in Scotland.

The Borders Line

Start and end points: Tweedbank to Edinburgh. Journey time: 1 hour. Highlights: The Borders countryside. The mighty Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park .

The Borders Railway is one of the newest stretches of track in Britain and the first to be built in Scotland in over 100 years. This is a route that’s best used to explore Edinburgh and the Lothians, though I have to admit the Borders are a lovely part of Scotland as well.

The scenery isn’t mountainous and dramatic like you’ll find in the Highlands but it’s certainly picturesque, crossing lowland fields, woodland, and quaint country villages along the way.

Much of this line passes through former mining villages which admittedly don’t have much to offer visitors, but there’s a good tourist attraction in the town of Gorebridge that showcases one of the former mines with a guided tour. Having visited the mine myself I have to say it’s well worth the trip, so check out the National Mining Museum website for the current times and prices.

Once past Gorebridge, you’ll pass open farmland before stopping at Galashiels and Tweedbank. I’d personally give Galashiels a miss and get out at Tweedbank instead as you can take a short walk to visit Abbotsford House which was the ancestral home of Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.

Scott was one of the greatest writers of his time and was so revered that after his death the city of Edinburgh built the Scott Monument as a dedication to him.

You can’t fail to miss the Gothic masterpiece Scott Monument in Edinburgh’s Princes Street (it’s not far from Waverley train station) and it has to be one of the highlights of a visit to the city. The monument is the largest ever created in the world for a writer, and it features an internal winding staircase that allows visitors to look at the cityscape from several viewing platforms

Sticking with the Scottish Borders, another attraction not far from Tweedbank is the historic market town of Melrose which is a lovely quaint wee place that’ll give you a good taste of rural Scotland. It’s also home to Melrose Abbey which is a fascinating ruined abbey close to the River Tweed.

The only negative I have about the Borders railway is that it gets incredibly busy with Edinburgh commuters at peak times which means there’s often standing room only, but travel outside those hours and you’ll have a very relaxed journey.

The Carlisle Line

Start and end points: Carlisle to Glasgow. Journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes. Highlights: Gretna Green , home of untold marriage proposals. Glasgow and its fantastic shopping malls and restaurants.

Just like the Borders Line, the Carlisle Line starts in the countryside of the Scottish Borders, only this time it’s on the other side of the country and finishes in Glasgow instead of Edinburgh.

The similarities between the railway lines continue along the length of this journey as it’s mostly low-lying farmland broken up by the occasional country town, but it does have a couple of stages that make it stand out from the other lines in this list. The first of these has to be Gretna Green which is the second stop after Carlisle.

If you’re an international visitor and are unfamiliar with this place it’s one of the most famous villages in Britain where tens of thousands of young couples fled to get married after England tightened marriage laws in the 1700s.

There’s a decent tourist attraction at the Gretna Green Blacksmiths Shop – the original site of those impromptu marriages – that includes a restaurant, museum, shops and a lover’s maze, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re romantically inclined or looking to surprise your other half with a proposal.

After Gretna Green, you’ll pass the town of Dumfries a little further up the track which is a historic market town with a lovely river cutting through it (the River Nith) and a museum dedicated to Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns . It’s worth spending extra time in this area as a little further away lies Caerlaverock Castle and the Solway Firth which are both great places to visit, especially if you’ve got children in tow.

Continuing along the Carlisle Line takes you through rolling countryside which is nice enough but not exactly jaw-dropping, but it does at least finish in Glasgow which in my opinion is one of the most exciting cities in Britain.

Glasgow has way too many attractions to list in this article so you might like to check out The Best Places To Visit in Glasgow for a few ideas on what you can do in Scotland’s biggest city. The museums are fantastic and there are more parks, galleries, restaurants, and shopping malls than you’ll ever be able to fit into a single visit, with the bonus being that all the best attractions are completely free to enter.

The Far North Line

Start and end points: Inverness to Wick. Journey time: 4 hours 30 minutes. Highlights: The historic town of Wick. The photogenic Dunrobin Castle.

Possibly the remotest railway in Scotland, the Far North Line runs from the city of Inverness to the (almost-but-not-quite) most northern point of the country at Wick.

Wide-open and desolate, much of the scenery that glides past the window is barren grassland interspersed with the occasional mountain, and it’s not surprising that this part of Scotland is one of the least inhabited regions in Europe outside of the steppes of Russia. But that’s not to say the journey isn’t worth making as there are several sights that more than make up for the apparent desolation.

Starting in Inverness the line sweeps up the northeast edge of Scotland in a gently sweeping arc, crossing the Cromarty Firth and Invergordon along the way. To be honest, I’d give Invergordon a miss, but the Cromarty Firth is lovely in the summer and makes a great starting point for cyclists keen to follow the tourist road up the NC500 towards John O’ Groats .

If cycling isn’t your thing you can continue the train ride to Tain (home of Glenmorangie whisky) and Dunrobin Castle which is arguably the finest castle in Scotland. The train station is just a short distance from this historic attraction so you may as well stop and visit it as it’s a real gem with stunning architecture that faces a drop-dead gorgeous coastline.

The Far North Line continues past Dunrobin for the majority of its journey along the northeast coast till it finally makes a diversion west to Thurso before doubling back on itself at Wick.

Thurso is an ok town and while I’ve only visited it once it was raining so it came across as being a bit… grey. Wick isn’t that much better on the looks front but it has a lot of history to be proud of because at one time it was one of the biggest herring fishing ports in the world.

They’re certainly proud of their heritage in Wick which is clearly displayed in the excellent Wick Heritage Museum that’s hidden away at the far end of the harbour. It’s an absolute Tardis in there so don’t get put off by the unassuming frontage as you’ll easily spend a couple of hours exploring the exhibits.

Finally, no train journey on the Far North Line is complete without taking a short detour to Scotland’s most northerly point at John O’ Groats . This is quite a busy little attraction that looks out across the sea to Orkney in the distance, and a selfie in front of the famous signpost is an absolute must if you’re visiting the area.

My advice after wandering around the (slightly gimmicky) tourist area is to take a short walk up the coastline to see the mighty Duncansby Stacks, which are enormous rock formations set against the backdrop of very dramatic cliffs.

The Stranraer Line

Start and end points: Stranraer to Glasgow. Journey time: 2 hours 30 minutes. Highlights: The beach at Ayr. The city of Glasgow.

I’d say the Stranraer Line is probably the least-used by visiting tourists, mainly because this corner of southwest Scotland doesn’t have as many attractions as the rest of the country. While the Solway Firth to the south draws visitors from far and wide who admire its attractive bays and nature reserves, the stretch of coastline further north tends to go a little unnoticed, even though it gets more attractive the further north you go.

This railway branches off at several points, but the main line from the fishing port of Stranraer to Glasgow is the focus of the journey, with the coastal towns of Ayr and Troon offering a pleasant contrast to the farmland that so inspired the poet Robert Burns .

Both towns have decent enough beaches but not much else, although Ayr is notable for the river running through it and the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum . Troon, meanwhile, is worth visiting for the views across the Firth of Clyde towards the Isle of Arran and Royal Troon, which is a large golf course that regularly hosts the Open Championship.

The town is also a quick 5-minute train ride from Prestwick International Airport, so if you’re visiting and have a few hours to kill before the next flight, it makes a decent place to get some fresh air before getting onboard that stuffy plane.

From Troon, the track curves inland past Lochs Semple, Barr,, and Kilbirnie before sweeping further inland past Paisley and onwards into the heart of Glasgow. One attraction you might like to visit before the final stop in Glasgow city centre is Pollock Country Park .

This is the largest park in Glasgow and features lots of woodland and riverside walks, play parks and walled gardens, and as it’s just a few minutes bus ride from the Cardonald train station you can easily get there if you fancy a break from the busy city.

The Kyle Line

Start and end points: Inverness to the Kyle of Lochalsh. Journey time: 2 hours 40 minutes. Highlights: The Torridon Peaks, Achnashellach Forest, Ben Wyvis.

The Kyle Line stretches across North Scotland from Inverness – the capital of the Highlands – to Loch Alsh on the west coast. This is one of the most scenic train journeys in this list and it’s a firm favourite with visitors thanks to the stunning scenery.

You’ll start your journey in Inverness which is easily reached from all the main stations in Scotland, though it might take a little while to get there as the country’s other cities are either located on the east coast or much further south. Expect the train ride from Glasgow and Edinburgh to take around 4 hours to reach Inverness and around 2 hours from Aberdeen.

From Inverness, the train passes the Beauly Firth (a body of water that connects the River Ness to the Moray Firth) and Dingwall where you’ll see the hulking mass of Ben Wyvis. This sprawling mountain dominates the landscape and it’s a recommended hill-walking destination, with the undulating ridge running 3 miles to its highest point at Glas Leathad Mor which has an elevation of just over 3,400 feet.

From Dingwall, the line passes through a mountainous Highland region near Loch Garve where you’ll see the peaks of Torridon before entering a region of thick forest as the track makes its way to Loch Luichart.

There are several points on this journey where the rail track closely follows a relatively busy road (the A835) but once it gets near the loch it runs alongside much quieter roads to the final destination at the Kyle of Lochalsh. From there, you’re just a stone’s throw from the Isle of Skye so you may as well hire a car and cross the Skye bridge to explore this famous west coast island.

There’s a car hire company close to the Kyle Line end terminal if you want to extend your journey and if you do I suggest you take a short drive (about 10 miles) towards the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle while you’re in the area. This stunning castle is situated at the meeting point of lochs Long, Duich, and Alsh (one of the prettiest viewpoints in Scotland) and it’s an absolute must-do if you’re visiting the area.

One-Week Scotland Train Tour Itinerary

Now that we’ve looked at the main railway lines in Scotland, you might be wondering how to put it all together for an extended tour of the country. A quick look online shows lots of opinions about where to go and in what order to see each region, but almost all itineraries involve visiting Edinburgh, Glasgow, The Highlands, and the Isle of Skye.

Concentrating on those areas will show you the best of Scotland – from historic cities to wild mountainous landscapes – on a tour that should take around one week to complete.

Rather than just regurgitate what every other travel writer says, in the following section I’m going to show you the same train tour I took a couple of years ago which I’ve no hesitation in saying was one of the best experiences of my life.

To begin, I bought a Spirit of Scotland rail pass (details further down this page) that gave me unlimited rail travel across the country for 8 days and pre-booked hotels in the middle of each area. I then used each hotel as a base and either took public transport or hired a car to go sightseeing.

By booking everything myself I managed to get the total cost down to around £800, which admittedly isn’t the cheapest holiday in the world but it’s a lot cheaper than most of the specialist package holiday dealers are asking (£2000+ for a week-long train tour of Scotland. Ouch!).

Day 1: Edinburgh

Edinburgh needs no introduction as it’s one of the most-visited tourist cities in Europe and is full of so many world-famous attractions it simply has to be included in a train tour of Scotland.

A single day really isn’t enough to see all of Edinburgh, but because the city is so compact you can walk between the top attractions without ever feeling like you’re getting lost. To start your day I recommend walking from Waverley train station in the city centre to Princes Street Gardens which is home to The Scott Monument and the National Galleries of Scotland.

From the gardens, head to Edinburgh Castle (be aware you could easily spend most of the day at this single attraction), and then soak up the atmosphere of The Royal Mile before taking a look inside St. Giles Cathedra l. If you have time, continue down The Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace , or perhaps stretch your legs in Holyrood Park where you can climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat for unparalleled views of the city.

To be honest, you’ll never fit all of that into a single day unless you fly around everything, so you’ll have to pick what interests you most. I recommend Edinburgh Castle (a must-do), The Royal Mile and the cathedral, followed by Holyrood Palace and Holyrood Park if you have any time before the sun sets.

As far as getting around the city goes, you could walk and hope to stumble across all the main sights, but I can tell you from personal experience you’ll have a much more enjoyable time by using a hop-on hop-off tour bus to visit the top attractions.

Day 2: Central Scotland

Day 2 centres around Fife, Perthshire, and Angus in Central Scotland. This is a less-visited part of Scotland but it features the gorgeous east coast, the forests of Perthshire’s ‘big tree country’, and the possibility of exploring the historic St. Andrews and Scone Palace.

On my tour, I based myself in Dundee, saw the city in the morning, and then took a train ride to Perth in the afternoon. Dundee is a historic city that borders the estuary of the River Tay and the North Sea, and it has a couple of very good attractions in the city centre.

My recommended itinerary is to book accommodation near Dundee train station and walk to the V&A Design Museum and the RRS Discovery, or get a taxi to the superb McManus Museum . Alternatively, take a train to Leuchars (20 minutes) and then take a bus to St. Andrews which is an exceptionally pretty historic town that has a lovely beachfront with a castle, St. Andrews Aquarium , and St. Andrews Cathedral .

From Dundee it’s another short train ride (20 minutes) to the city of Perth which offers lovely riverside walks along the River Tay, the Black Watch Castle and Museum, and the stunning Scone Palace (you’ll need to book a 20-minute taxi from Perth city centre to get to it). If you don’t feel like heading to Perth, another very good historic attraction is the 600-year-old Glamis Castle, which is a 30-minute taxi ride from the centre of Dundee.

Day 3: The Cairngorms National Park

From Dundee, it’s a 2-hour train ride to Aviemore which will take you into the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. The park is situated in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and is the largest national park in the UK, so if you’ve any interest in exploring the wilds of Scotland this is your best opportunity.

Aviemore is often called the gateway to the Highlands and you’ll no doubt find yourself sharing the experience with lots of walkers, cyclists, and skiers thanks to the Cairngorm Mountain Centre which is a 20-minute taxi ride from the town centre.

The centre allows visitors to walk partway up Cairn Gorm mountain where they’ll have breathtaking views across the Highlands landscape at the Coire Cas viewpoint, or they can take the easier option on a funicular railway that glides up and down the mountain slopes.

Other attractions in the area are Loch Morlich (home to the highest beach in Britain), the beautiful Glenmore Forest Park, and the wonderful Cairngorm Reindeer Centre where you can say hello to the UK’s only herd of wild reindeer.

If you have time, a 20-minute drive south of Aviemore takes visitors to The Highland Wildlife Park which features a mini safari around enclosures that house some of the animals that live in the world’s remotest cold regions (including polar bears!).

This is a fantastic tourist attraction and is highly recommended if you have children with you, as is the beautiful Rothiemurchus Estate which offers fun activities in the Highland landscape including pony trekking, quad biking, mountain biking, and white water rafting.

Day 4: Inverness and Loch Ness

This is a short train ride at around 45 minutes but it’s very pretty, so keep your camera at the ready.

Once in Inverness (the unofficial capital of the Highlands), you’ll find lots of attractions in the surrounding area, but the one essential place to visit has to be Loch Ness . Inverness sits at the northern end of the loch, where it transitions into the River Ness, which opens out onto the Beauly Firth.

A search on Get Your Guide will bring up lots of tour operators that run excursions to the Loch, or alternatively, hire a car as you’ll be able to explore the loch in your own time (try Travel Supermarket for good car hire deals).

Highlights of Loch Ness are visiting the historic Urquhart Castle and taking a boat tour to see the loch from the water (it’s the best way to see the infamous Loch Ness monster).

To get to either you’ll need to travel along the A82 which is very scenic and presents several spots to pull the car over and admire the body of water with a picnic in hand – but make sure Nessie doesn’t steal your sandwiches.

Heading back to Inverness you’ll find it’s a rather attractive city but there aren’t many attractions in the centre. However, a short (30-minute) taxi ride will take you to Fort George which is a huge 18th-century military base that overlooks the Moray Firth.

The fort features museums, a military chapel, barrack blocks, a munitions depot and much more, but the highlight has to be standing on the gunnery platform and looking across the sea to Chanonry Point which is home to Britain’s only permanent resident dolphin pod.

Day 5 and 6: The Isle of Skye

This part of the tour sees visitors hopping back on the train and heading to Dingwall before swapping onto the Kyle Line which finishes at Kyle of Lochalsh.

Before heading to Skye, I recommend heading to Eilean Donan Castle which is located a 15-minute taxi ride from Kyle of Lochalsh on the A87. The castle is one of, if not the , most picturesque castles in Scotland, so if you haven’t been to a castle by this point Eilean Donan is the place to go.

After the castle, it’s time to cross the Syke Bridge to spend time on the stunning Isle of Skye, though be aware that even two days is not enough time to see all of the island. If you do, you’ll find a hire car (Travel Supermarket) is an absolute necessity, as although it’s possible to use buses and taxis on Skye, they’re few and far between.

A car, meanwhile, means you can drive to stunning places like the Fairy Glen (a natural landscape of strange earthworks), the Fairy Pools (a series of pools and waterfalls), and the Quiraing (a dramatic landscape formed by an ancient landslide).

Other highlights of Skye are Dunvegan Castle on the island’s northwest tip, the pretty village of Portree, and the huge rock landmark of the Old Man of Storr . There are also lovely beaches surrounding the island, lots of walks into the Black and Red Cuillin mountains, and ferry trips over to the secluded Isle of Raasay.

There’s a lot to see, so if you do find yourself wondering where to go I recommend at least the Fairy Pools, Portree, the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and Dunvegan Castle. After finishing your sightseeing tour you’ll need to travel down to the southwest tip of the island to Armadale and then catch a ferry to Mallaig on the mainland where you can continue your journey on the iconic West Highland Line.

Day 7: The West Highland Line and Glasgow

I already covered the West Highland Line earlier in this article so I won’t repeat myself here, other than to say it is, without doubt, the most scenic railway in Scotland.

By far the best way to experience the route is on the restored Jacobite steam train which runs from Fort William to Mallaig and back in a single day, but sadly the train doesn’t offer one-way tickets so you can’t join it from Mallaig. Instead, visitors can clamber aboard the regular ScotRail carriages to make this journey which isn’t as historic but is certainly quieter and comfier.

The entire journey from Mallaig to Glasgow takes 5-6 hours depending on the time of travel, but there are a couple of places to break it up if you’d like to add an extra day onto the itinerary.

The first is the town of Fort William which is a superb place to base yourself for hikes up nearby Ben Nevis. Climbing Britain’s highest mountain is a dream of many people, but as the return route takes 7-8 hours on average it needs a full day to plan, complete, and recover from. The second place to take an extra day on the West Highland Line is Oban which opens up opportunities for exploring the western isles.

Depending on the ferry times I recommend sailing from Oban to Craignure on Mull as the crossing takes less than an hour and there are usually at least 3 ferries every day.

Returning to the West Highland Line and its endpoint in Glasgow, you probably won’t want to do too much sightseeing when you arrive, but there are plenty of nighttime activities to enjoy thanks to the city’s unmatched collection of bars, restaurants, late-night shopping malls and cinemas.

The best place for families to go on an early evening outing is the city centre around Queen Street and Argyll Streets as there are dozens of family-friendly places to eat, but couples might prefer to head to the Finnieston Strip which is livelier and has more traditional bars.

Highlights have to be the Riverside Museum of Transport on the River Clyde, The Tall Ship (a restored sailing ship) that’s moored outside, and the Glasgow Science Centre that’s located almost directly opposite.

History lovers will no doubt enjoy wandering around the grand Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis (a vast Victorian cemetery), while anyone who enjoys museums will have a blast at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum and the Hunterian Museum at the University of Glasgow .

Day 8: Edinburgh and the Borders Line

Following a busy day of sightseeing in Glasgow, it’s now time to return to Edinburgh with another train journey that takes less than an hour door to door. The bonus here is that you’ll have plenty of time to see everything you couldn’t fit into day one of this train tour, or alternatively, you could venture outside the capital.

If that interests you I have two options to recommend.

The first is to book yourself onto a Get Your Guide tour that will take you to fascinating places like Rosslyn Chapel , and the second is to take a ride on the Borders Railway. This train line opens up the pretty countryside south of Edinburgh where quaint villages and enormous medieval abbeys appear to lie around every corner.

The Scottish Borders is a very underrated region in my opinion, and watching it glide past the window in a train carriage is, without doubt, the nicest way to see it.

My advice for places to visit on the Borders Railway is to ride it to the last station at Tweedbank and then take a taxi to Abbotsford House which is a stunning Victorian mansion set in an incredibly scenic location. The house was built by famed Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott and is full to the brim with collections of books, artefacts from Scott’s travels, curios, and vintage books, while the extensive grounds outside offer pleasant walks through manicured gardens.

The Borders Line takes an hour each way from Edinburgh to Tweedbank and Abbotsford House has enough things to see to keep visitors busy for around 4 hours, making this wee adventure a nice relaxed end to a busy week of touring Scotland by train.

Resources for Scotland Train Tours

The Trainline : The Trainline is the UK’s favourite train ticket booking service, mainly due to the fact they make the process so easy.

Once you’ve registered you can enter your credit card details and book your tickets online with the minimum of fuss, and being able to reserve a ticket when you’re late is an absolute godsend. Not only that but you’ll usually get a big discount by purchasing your ticket through them – sometimes up to 60% or more compared to buying at the station.

ScotRail : ScotRail is Scotland’s main train operator that provides the majority of the routes detailed in this article. While you’ll frequently hear weary commuters complaining about the service, I have to admit I’ve never had any problems using any train in Scotland whether it’s been for work or pleasure.

As a whole the carriages are clean and they’re usually on time. Not to Japanese or Swiss ultra-efficient standards or anything, but never more than a few minutes deviation from the stated time (again, this is purely based on my personal experience here in Edinburgh).

ScotRail gets top marks for its website which seems to offer more and more information the deeper you delve into it. It’s a great resource for rail travel in Scotland and it’s a website that you should definitely bookmark if you’re a new visitor to this country.

Traffic Scotland : Where would the humble commuter be without Traffic Scotland ? Probably gnawing their steering wheels in frustration at being stuck in yet more roadworks I’m guessing, or seething at the fact the fast lane has been closed for repairs AGAIN.

Traffic Scotland distributes real-time information about closures, delays, accidents, and general annoyances on the country’s road network, but it also provides information on the rail network.

It’s not the easiest website to navigate admittedly and the design looks like it’s straight out of 1995, but the information is reliable nonetheless. For rail travel, click the Further Travel Information > Travel information Links section in the sidebar and then the ‘Are you interested in air, rail…’ link at the top of the next page.

You’ll find links to all the main train stations in Scotland along with details of any line closures and whether the next train is on time or not.

Traveline Scotland : The one website I go back to time and time again when planning a train journey is Traveline Scotland . This website has a very useful journey planner that you can access from their homepage which allows you to enter a beginning and endpoint along with a departure time, after which it displays the travel time and train route on a big map.

It really helps to be able to see the journey you’ll be taking and makes it a breeze to see which attractions are located around each station – which is essential when planning a whistle-stop tour of Scotland. Take my advice and bookmark it ASAP.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to see on a train tour of scotland.

The Borders Line : The Borders countryside and Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park . The Carlisle Line : Gretna Green and Glasgow city centre. The Far North Line : The historic town of Wick and Dunrobin Castle. The Stranraer Line : The beach at Ayr and Glasgow city centre. The Kyle Line : The Torridon Peaks, Achnashellach Forest, Ben Wyvis. The West Highland Line : Fort William and Glenfinnan.

Which train tickets can I buy in Scotland?

Off-peak  tickets are restricted for use between the morning and evening peak times. Anytime  tickets are valid for use at any time of the day and are usually more expensive than off-peak tickets. First-class  tickets are more expensive than the other two types but offer a higher standard of service, including free Wi-Fi and refreshments.

Which railcards can I use in Scotland?

Two Together Railcard : Gives a third off all rail travel on off-peak journeys for any two people over the age of 16 when they travel together. 26-30 Railcard : Gives a third off all rail travel on off-peak journeys for people aged between 26 and 30 years. Senior Railcard : Saves a third off train fares for anyone aged over 60 years. Highland Railcard : Offers a 50% discount for people who live in the Scottish Highlands.

What are the best rail travel planning websites?

The Trainline is the UK’s favourite train ticket booking service. ScotRail is Scotland’s main train operator and operates the majority of the lines in the country. Traffic Scotland distributes real-time information about closures, delays and accidents. Traveline Scotland has a journey planner that displays the travel time and train route on a map.

What is the best train journey in Scotland?

The most beautiful train journey in Scotland is The Jacobite from Fort William to Mallaig which has been described as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world.

What is the nicest way to travel to Scotland by train from London?

The most luxurious train journey is the Caledonian Sleeper train to Scotland which operates overnight between London and multiple destinations between Edinburgh and Inverness. It is called a sleeper train because it has sleeping compartments where passengers can sleep while the train is in motion. Some of these compartments have double beds and en-suite bathrooms.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

5 of the Most Scenic Train Routes in Scotland

There are many ways to travel around Scotland but travelling by train is a preferred option. Why? You simply cannot witness some of the scenes that the rail routes offer on any other form of transport. Even Scottish locals like to embark on some of these routes every once in a while. Check out our short list of some of the most scenic and popular train routes in Scotland below. 

The West Highland Line

Perhaps the most iconic train route in Scotland, the West Highland Line has merited the title as the ‘World’s Best Train Journey’, as voted by readers of Wanderlust Magazine, and it’s not hard to see why. The route begins at Glasgow, passing through Glaswegian suburbs and along the banks of Loch Lomond, with the option to continue the line at Oban, where it branches off, or journey further north to Fort William and Mallaig. The West Highland Line travels through some of Scotland’s most staggering mountain landscapes, lochs and heather moors – some parts of the country you’ll only be able to witness via a train journey. 

The Kyle Line

If there is any way to truly experience the heart of the highlands, it’s travelling on the Kyle Line. Departing from Inverness and ending at Kyle of Lochalsh, the Kyle Line is 2 and a half hours of mountains, forests, lochs, moors and rural villages. This route passes along the southern bank of the Beauly Firth, through the town of Dingwall and the small village of Garve, where Ben Wyvis can be carefully be spotted. Travellers will know when they have reached Kyle of Lochalsh as the view of the Isle of Skye is unmissable. Kyle of Lochalsh is the gateway to the Isle of Skye and other western islands.

Like the Kyle Line, the Far North Line also departs from Inverness, only it heads further north towards Thurso and Wick. This route passes through the more wild and remote areas of Scotland like the Flow Country, one of the world’s last wild places, stretching across Caithness and Sutherland. But as one of the longer train journeys – lasting 4 hours or more if heading to Wick- there’s still plenty of landmarks to spot along the way, including Skibo Castle just across the Dornoch Firth, just after Tain and Carbisdale Castle shortly after Culrain. If travellers leave the train at Thurso, they can catch the ferry to the islands of Orkney, or if continuing on to Wick, there’s the option to take the bus to John o’Groats, the most northernly point of British mainland. 

The Borders

Unique compared to any other railway line in the whole of the UK, the Borders railway line is the longest new domestic line to be built in the UK in over 100 years. It was only in 2015 that this line reopened after closing in 1969 when it was then known as the Waverly Route. The line runs for 30 miles from Edinburgh, through Midlothian and into the Scottish Borders lasting around 55 minutes. Since reopening in 2015, 7 new stations have been added to the route, allowing passengers to hop off at Eskbank to visit Rosslyn Chapel or visit Sir Walter Scott’s home in Tweedbank. The entire route is encompassed by rolling hills and charming villages.

The Strathspey Railway 

The Strathspey Railway is one for real railway enthusiasts, offering an experience like no other. Not only does the route take in some of Scotland’s best sights like the Cairngorm Mountains, passengers travel on a tradition steam train in comfortable vintage carriages with the option to dine as well. The Strathspey Railway was brought back to life in 1978 by a group of volunteers after being closed in 1965. The route travels for 10 miles on a restored section of the original Highland Railway Line, departing from Aviemore and passing along the west side of the Spey Valley to Boat of Garten.

Our team of experts at Best of Scotland Holidays have put together the ideal West Highland Train Journey package, Scotland’s most popular train route.

This package combines the iconic route with time to explore attractions of the capital city, Edinburgh, an optional boat and bus tour of the Inner Hebrides islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa, an option steam day trip, plus much more.

Find out more about our West Highland Train Journey package  here  or  get in contact  with us directly to speak with a member of our team.

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• Scottish Highland Railways: 12 Most Breathtaking Train Rides Of Scotland!

The destination so much to do with the journey but the journey is not only about a destination, when he en route trail is beautiful in itself! We know, there might be many among you all, who enjoy the journey more than the destination itself! And there are some destinations which can thoroughly experienced only if you travel through its roads and tracks. The beautiful sights off mountains, rivers, forests, rural villages, busy cities and all that you pass on the way makes your entire journey richer and better. The journey in the Scottish Highland Railways is one such experience.

On the way, you can witness amazing play of clouds and nature, which will never leave you in doubt, whether you should have taken this journey or opted for something else! It doesn’t really matter, whether you are traveling alone or are a part of a group get on here and enjoy the feel and beauty at its best!

12 Best Rides In Scottish Highland Railways

More than we say, we suggest you to scroll down for yourself and keep reading the list of best Scottish Highlands rail tours! Sit, relax and go through all the amazing imaginations, following train rides’ write is going to give you! Do not worry, these train rides are no doubt, the promising deal to be taken, at any point of time and at any season!

1. The West Highland & The Jacobite Steam Train

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This is one of the widely known train which has gained so much of fame from all over the world! The train service is been staffed by many Abellio Scotrail, which is also one of the amazing train staff, known as of now! The route starts from Glasgow and terminates at Mallaig. Some of the amazing views can be taken from the places called Loch Shiel, Loch Eilt and Ben Nevis. One of the greatest thing about these locations is these were seen in Harry Potter films.

Duration of journey: 5 hours and 15 minutes Pick Up station: Glasgow Queen Street Station Highlight: Viewtiful scenery and Highland loch scenes

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2. The Far North Line

Another train service managed by Abellio Scotrail, is been counted among Britain’s most real railways. You can get to witness amazing trail of beauty which is intermixed with landscape and comfortable journey which passes the places like various landscapes, from peatland bogs along with minuscule hamlets to the gates of the huge Dunrobin Castle. This one is a sure thing to give you the desired charm and dose of prettiness with amazing memories, which you would love to treasure and cherish forever!

Duration of journey: Approx 4 hours. Pick Up station: Highlands of Inverness Train Station Highlight: varied coastline, traditional distilleries and pleasant farmland

3. The Kyle Line

The train journey be very amazing and does not take too much of your time. Even if you have an already planned schedule, this one is surely going to prove helpful to you! The reason being the very short duration it takes to cover the amazing highlands the scenic views from the landscape! The ride could also get you to witness some of the exquisite birds, which are only a sure deal if you are lucky!

Duration of journey: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes. Pick Up station: Highlands of Inverness Train Station Highlight: Could get to spot anything from herons or eagles!

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4. The Belmond Royal Scotsman

Image Source If you are looking for Scotland Train tours from Edinburgh, this train ride will get you amazing experience, not only in terms of scenic beauty but also in terms of the amazing staff and their top notch service! The deal is a sure thing to seal, when the remains cherry of the cake is the highly magnificent views, provided by the train, as it takes the journey, amidst highlands and low plains decorated with beautiful and amazing grasses, adding on to the view of the rides!

Duration of journey: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes. Pick Up station: Waverley Station, Edinburgh Highlight: Get to experience luxury travel, first-class service, breathtaking scenery along with exquisite food and drink

5. Strathspey Steam Railway

Get to witness the Cairngorm Mountains while being in the comfort and cozy environment of a plush carriage on a trip. This trip runs along the Strathspey Steam Railway and is ideal for kids, not doubt due to the less time duration involved! Get yourself hooked onto one of the Sunday brunch provided on the train or get yourself-relaxed with the tea on the go!

Duration of journey: Approx 90 minutes Pick Up station: Aviemore, Highlands Highlight: Get to experience comfortable travel, while being on train can get to try some awesome food and even can come out to spot some of the wild lives!

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6. Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway

Another incredible alternative for youthful voyagers is the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, simply outside Falkirk. Taking a little more than a hour for an arrival venture, the course goes by the neighborhood nature save, bequest and historical center at Kinneil and the enchanting vintage railroad station at Birkhill.

Duration of journey: Approx 90 minutes Pick Up station: Bo’ness, near Falkirk Highlight: a fun family day out which revolves around themed steam train rides and wild prey birds!

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7. Glasgow-Ayr-Stranraer

Small ones can appreciate multi day out with Thomas the Tank Engine, while greater children move on board legacy trains at the Museum of Scottish Railways in Bo’ness, the biggest of its sort in Scotland. Get the view of Glenluce Abbey, which are been believed to date back to 1192 and have a lot stored within!

Duration of journey: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes Pick Up station: Glasgow Central Station Highlight: Witness the best of Ayrshire and Dumfries while getting to craft so many memories!

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8. The Forth Rail Bridge

No Scottish rail encounter is finished without a trek over the Forth Bridge! Associating Edinburgh with Fife, this amazing structure has the second-longest single cantilever length of any scaffold on the planet and has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status. Watch out onto extraordinary perspectives of the Firth of Forth as you speed over the rails. This one is sure to go for as you can really get to witness the amazingly crafted engineered beauties!

Duration of journey: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes Pick Up station: Waverley Station, Edinburgh Highlight: Witness the best of the engineering wonders along with the natural’s scenic views!

9. Borders Railway

Get yourself hooked onto one of the Sunday brunch provided on the train or get yourself relaxed with the tea on the go!This is one of the widely known trains which have gained so much of fame from all over the world and no doubt due to the service and scenic views accompanied along! The train takes the journey, amidst highlands and low plains decorated with beautiful and amazing grasses, adding on to the view of the rides!

Duration of journey: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes Pick Up station: Waverley Station, Edinburgh Highlight: Engaging family attraction while rolling through the beautiful sites and scenic views!

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10. Carlisle Line

Travel south through the marshes of Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway, crossing the fringe with England to the memorable city of Carlisle. The tourist detour to Carlisle brings you profound into Scotland’s history, past the combat zones of Robert the Bruce, through Dumfries and Gretna Green. Pay special mind to the moving farmland, woods, and Beltie dairy animals from the train. This one will help you get into knowing and collecting information about the roots buried deep within the history of Scotland!

Duration of journey: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes Pick Up station: Glasgow Queen Street Station Highlight: Juggle through Scotland’s history while witnessing life remains of Robert, the Bruce!

11. Far North Line

Take the train from the deep side of North and get to visit he remotely secluded area of Scotland, The land is wide and gets to be non-touched by humans and their work! Get to visit this place as it has been since the very start of nature and its creation! Make sure to carry some hot sips to gulp on while you witness the beauty from this train ride. No more you will feel alone, being on this amazing ride, where beauty meets reality and the combination is an amazing train ride memory!

Duration of journey: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes Pick Up station: Highlands of Inverness Train Station Highlight: Could get to spot anything from plains to magnificent birds!

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12. Stranraer Line

The train takes the journey, amidst highlands and low plains decorated with beautiful and amazing grasses, adding on to the view of the rides!This one will help you get into knowing and collecting information about the roots buried deep within the history of Scotland!Get to experience comfortable travel, while being on train can get to try some awesome food and even can come out to spot some of the wild lives!

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We believe that by now, the article must have taken you into the beautiful journey deep in the location of Scotland. There is so much to see that this article would not be able to describe well in words! Doing your art by reviewing and sharing would be the hint for us; we were able to justify the beauty of Scotland rides in this one! So, plan a trip to Scotland and take the most surreal Scotland’s Greatest rail journey of your life.

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3 (More) Best Scenic UK Train Journeys Every Traveler Should Take

O ne of the most relaxing and stress-free ways to travel is by rail. Consider that the journey on a train can be as special as the destination, especially when traveling through the United Kingdom. Skip the stress of airports, TSA, and delays. Undoubtedly, sitting comfortably in a cushy chair is a simpler way to travel, forcing you to slow down. 

Imagine sipping your favorite hot tea gazing at the UK’s diverse and extraordinary topography. See the low-lying flat countryside that butts up to rolling hills and rugged, harsh, remote mountains. Travel from Britain to Scotland and witness the beautiful windswept seagrass, pastures, hills, castles, and quaint towns that glide by just outside your window. 

Travel by train across the rural countryside of Ireland from busy, modern, and trendy Dublin to the quaint Gaelic historic town of Galway. Escape the congestion of London for a simpler, slower pace of life in Edinburgh, Scotland. Explore this noble land while giving a nod to a truly romantic homage by rail travel. 

Our favorite scenic train routes offer beautiful unspoiled views along the way. Hop aboard these “no-stress-express” trains and see the UK all from the comfort of your seat.

1. London, Britain

The British Pullman train is by far the most luxurious and iconic train ride in Britain. Catch the Pullman and enjoy day trips from Victoria Station in London. This luxury rail line operates year-round in a variety of destinations. The Pullman is a restored 1920s-era train that has carried royalty and has been on the silver screen. Expect luxury, glamor, and adventure. Each rail car has an iconic history with a name to match. Feel like royalty as you start and end your day in style. 

Schedule a themed train ride — such as a murder mystery, special afternoon tea, or a festive Christmas-themed journey — while enjoying a fabulous meal. Enjoy a round-trip scenic ride through the Kentish countryside. Take the historic route to Chatsworth House and Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame, or select a day trip to the seaside town of Hastings. Enjoy a wonderful experience, all with a glass of champagne and a superb meal served by your steward while you depart from the congestion of downtown London and pass by rolling hills, towns, and villages. It’s a true smorgasbord of views!

2. Edinburgh, Scotland

Forget about flying from London to Scotland. Hop aboard a train and enjoy the picturesque views on the 4- to 5-hour rail ride to the most prestigious city in Scotland — Edinburgh. For train enthusiasts, there is nothing quite like a train ride between London and Edinburgh. Two trains operate daily and each offers a slightly different experience. 

The Avanti West Coast train is a bit slower at 5.5 hours vs. the faster LNER train , which shaves off an hour and can reach speeds of up to 125 miles per hour. Both trains leave Kings Cross station in London and arrive at Waverly , the central station in Edinburgh. The views from the large train windows are memorable. While your train races through the countryside, you pass the boroughs of London, witnessing historic castles, cathedrals, grassy hills, and loads of golf courses. 

You won’t forget the views as you enter Scotland with its green rolling hills speckled with grazing sheep! Scotland’s own author, Robert Louis Stevenson, once said, “The most beautiful adventures are not those we go to seek.”

3. Dublin, Galway Ireland

Travelers who are interested in discovering the scenic landscape of Ireland might find that a shorter trip on a train crossing the country from coast to coast is the best option. The journey on the Galway-Dublin train , about 3 hours, is one of the most picturesque routes in the country. 

The countryside of Ireland is so different as you cross from coast to coast. Ireland is called the “Emerald Isle” for a reason. The landscape is vast, green, crisp, and clean. To say the hills are rolling and bucolic doesn’t give justice to the true beauty of this place. Enjoy this cross-county train and see the topography of rolling hills with many gradations of green. Farms are separated by volcanic rock walls and sheep wander while they freely graze. Galway is a festive and lively waterfront village with the Cliffs of Moher nearby. Hop on this train, grab a Guiness, and see the best of Ireland — the countryside, cities, towns, and oceans. Dublin offers a vibrant city, culture, history, and great pubs. Whichever city you start or finish in, this train ride is worth it!

One of the most relaxing forms of travel is viewing the world through a carriage window. The UK has hundreds of beautiful railway lines offering a chance to see unspoiled, rugged, and scenic beauty. Whether you travel by train to skip the hustle and bustle of busy airports, or ease your travel stress by not driving in a foreign country, train travel in these beautiful UK cities can be the highlight of your journey. All aboard!

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits