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Scotland's cruise train

Belmond royal scotsman.

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The Royal Scotsman is Scotland's luxury cruise train, offering 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7 night tours of the Scottish Highlands.  Run by Belmond who also run the famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and equally luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express , the Belmond Royal Scotsman sets the same top-end standards of service & cuisine.  They aim to create the atmosphere of a Scottish 5-star country house hotel and they succeed.  The 9-coach train carries a just 36 passengers maximum with a passenger to staff ratio of 3:1.  I've experienced the Royal Scotsman and it feels very exclusive, an unbeatable combination of superb scenery on Britain's most scenic train routes, country-house all-inclusive luxury with great food, wine & service and some very well-chosen off-train excursions.  A trip on the Royal Scotsman isn't cheap, but if it's a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a lot of Scotland in a very short time, you really won't be disappointed.  This page gives you the low-down on the Belmond Royal Scotsman experience.

The Belmond Royal Scotsman operates from April to October, offering 2, 3, 4 , 5 or 7 night itineraries.

All Belmond Royal Scotsman tours start & finish at Edinburgh Waverley station.

Some itineraries head over the famous West Highland Line , others the Highland Main Line, some the Kyle line and some a combination of these.  The tours beautifully showcase the history, culture & scenery of the Scottish Highlands.  Which tour should you choose?

Prices start from around £4,500 per person for 2 nights rising to over £13,000 for 7 nights.

The price includes all meals, alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks, on-board accommodation & off-train excursions such as (depending on the tour) a guided tour of a whisky distillery, clay pigeon shooting on a Scottish laird's estate, a visit to a highland woollen mill.

You can check itineraries, prices & departure dates at www.belmond.com/.../belmond-royal-scotsman .

Buy tickets online at www.belmond.com/.../belmond-royal-scotsman but also call Railbookers ( see here for phone numbers ) as they can sometimes offer better rates and can also sort hotels & connecting trains.

How to book a trip on the Royal Scotsman    Recommended hotels in Edinburgh    Travel to Edinburgh by train

Boarding the Belmond Royal Scotsman in Edinburgh

The lounge-observation car.

This is the social hub of the train, located either at the rear or (for some parts of the trip) immediately behind the locomotive.  The lounge has armchairs, sofas, coffee tables, a bar serving tea & coffee, alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks (all included in the price, just ask), and best of all there's an open-air observation platform, great for photography.  The day's activities, timetable & menus are posted in the carriage vestibule.  The bar carries some 30 different types of Scottish whisky, from the stronger west coast whiskies like Lagavulin, Talisker or Oban to the smoother eastern malts like Dalwhinnie.  You might not get through all 30, but with some suitable suggestions and guidance from the train manager and you may well find yourself doing some... er... interesting research...

Your private stateroom

Your wood-panelled stateroom includes two single beds (there are a few single rooms with one bed) and all the facilities of a good (though compact) hotel room:  Small en suite shower & toilet, desk, table, wardrobe, tissues, mineral water, bathrobe & slippers, writing paper, soap, fluffy towels, shampoo & shower gel.  The train is always stabled in a siding or quiet platform for the night, so you don't have to sleep on the move.  The cars were specially rebuilt as 'hotel cars' for the Belmond Royal Scotsman from 1960s Pullman seating cars.  You can find more about the history of the Belmond Royal Scotsman train here .

The dining experience

The Belmond Royal Scotsman has two dining cars, Raven with a long central table & 16 seats, and Victory with conventional restaurant car tables offering 20 seats.  Victory dates from 1945 making it the oldest car on the train.  The meals and well-chosen wines are all included in the price.  The food is cooked on board in the train's tiny kitchen, and it's excellent.  At least one dinner on each tour is 'formal', so remember to bring your dinner jacket!

Off-train excursions

Each Belmond Royal Scotsman tour includes several well-chosen off-train excursions, which vary depending on which tour you choose.  Be warned, the clay pigeon shooting is addictive.  Tea & coffee followed afterwards at the big house, where you may even get to meet the Laird.  In the evening over after-dinner drinks in the lounge car, you may be privileged to listen to Highlander Ray Owens talk about 17th century Highland Life, which he can bring alive like no-one else.

The scenery

If you drive around the Highlands, the winding single-track roads of childhood memory have sadly been replaced across much of the countryside by wide straight 60mph concrete highways blasted thoughtlessly through the landscape.  The good news is that you can still see unspoilt Highland countryside from Scotland's railways, and the train takes you through some of the best scenery in Scotland (or indeed, in Britain).  The most scenic route of all is probably the West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort William & Mallaig , so for sheer remote Highland beauty take one of the itineraries heading up this route.  But the Highland Line is also beautiful as the photos below try to show, and itineraries that travel over the Highland Line usually return via the famous Tay & Forth Bridges between Dundee & Edinburgh.

The Tay & Forth Bridges

The Belmond's Royal Scotsman 2-night Taste of the Highlands, 4-night Scotland's Classic Splendours, 5-night Grand Taste of the Highlands & 7-night Grand Western Scenic Wonders tours usually take you over the famous Tay Bridge & Forth Bridge between Dundee & Edinburgh, and these deserve a special mention.  Once the longest & largest bridges in the world, it's a real privilege to cross them standing on the Belmond Royal Scotsman's open-air viewing platform, as you get views and a photo opportunity that you simply don't get from any regular sealed-in train.  As you can see in the photo below, the stumps of the piers from the first (1878) Tay Bridge remain visible in the water next to the current (1887) Tay Bridge, a macabre reminder of the first Tay Bridge which collapsed under a train in a storm in 1879 with the loss of all 72 passengers on board.  The Tay Bridge Disaster was immortalised in a poem by William McGonagall , allegedly Scotland's worst poet.  The train was found on the sea bed, still encased in the bridge girders.  The locomotive was found relatively undamaged and was raised and returned to service.  Nicknamed 'The Diver' (it sank twice whilst being salvaged and brought ashore) it was only scrapped in 1937, but for years no driver would dare take it over the Tay Bridge...

Which tour to choose ?

You may find this map of the British train network useful .  The West Highland Line is the route from Glasgow to Fort William & Mallaig.  The Highland Line is the one from Perth to Inverness,  The Kyle Line is the one from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh.  The Tay bridge is just south of Dundee on the line to Edinburgh, the Forth Bridge is on that same line just north of Edinburgh.

If it's wild, remote Highland scenery you're after, the West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort William is considered the most scenic route in Britain ( see the West Highland Line page ) so choose any of the tours that take in that route. 

If you're a Harry Potter fan, you'll also want a West Highland itinerary as these include crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct as featured in the Harry Potter films.

If you can only spare 2 nights (3 days), then take the 2-night Taste of the Highlands tour, as the Highland Line from Edinburgh via Perth to Inverness is also beautiful, if not quite a wild or remote as the West Highland Line, and you normally cross the infamous Tay Bridge & awe-inspiring Forth Bridge on the way back to Edinburgh. 

The Kyle Line from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, just across the water from the Isle of Skye, is another candidate for most scenic route in Britain.  If you can't decide and just want to see everything, the 5- or 7-night itineraries cover all or almost all of the others in one trip.

How to buy tickets

Book it with Railbookers :  Call train specialist Railbookers who can book the Belmond Royal Scotsman and sometimes offer special rates.  Railbookers can also arrange hotels & scheduled train travel (such London-Edinburgh) to connect with the Royal Scotsman.

Book it with Tailor Made Rail can also organise a Royal Scotsman trip.  Call their dedicated seat61 phone line 020 3778 1461 and quote seat 61 when booking.  From outside the UK call +44 20 3778 1461.  Lines open 09:00-17:30 Monday-Friday.  See www.tailormaderail.com/trains/belmond-royal-scotsman .

Or see www.belmond.com/.../belmond-royal-scotsman .

Hotels in Edinburgh :  A tale of two rivals

Consider these two historic rival hotels before or after your Royal Scotsman tour, both luxurious hotels in prime locations, both originally built by railway companies:

The Balmoral Hotel , an excellent 5-star hotel now run by Rocco Forte.  Built in 1902 as the North British Hotel and known locally as the 'NB', this was the North British Railway's prestigious Edinburgh Hotel, located on Edinburgh's famous Princes Street right next to Waverley station where the Royal Scotsman departs and where trains from London & the south arrive.  In the 19th & early 20th centuries, the North British Railway was one of two competing railways linking Scotland with the south, handling trains to and from London's Kings Cross station via the East Coast Route via York & Newcastle.

The Caledonian Hotel , 5-star.  The Caledonian Railway was the North British Railway's arch rival, which handled trains via the West Coast Route to and from London's Euston station via Carlisle and Crewe.  In 1903, the Caledonian Railway built their own imposing railway hotel at the opposite end of Princes street, next to their own Princes Street station.  The hotel is now all that's left of Princes Street station, which was closed in 1965, all trains now use the North British Railway's Edinburgh's Waverley station.  This hotel underwent a £14m refurbishment in 2012 became The Caledonian, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

Train travel to Edinburgh

London to Edinburgh takes only 4h20 by train, city centre to city centre stress-free, trains run every hour or better and cost from just £14.90 one-way if you book in advance.  The journey takes you via York, so why not stop in York for a day on the way?  See the guide to the London to Edinburgh train journey .

History of the Royal Scotsman train

The Belmond Royal Scotsman has been running since 1985, when it was started by two entrepreneurs using an assortment of leased coaches.  It was a success, and this enabled a new purpose built (or rather, purpose rebuilt) set of Royal Scotsman carriages to be introduced in 1990.  Six of the nine coaches including most of the sleeping-cars, dining-car 'Raven' and the lounge-observation car, were rebuilt from Pullman seating cars originally built by Metro-Cammell in Birmingham in 1960 and used on prestige trains on the East Coast route between London Kings Cross, Leeds, York, Newcastle & Edinburgh.  The coaches' interiors are radically different from their original 1960 interiors, with new Edwardian-style interior wood panelling provided by a specialist firm in Bournemouth.  Dining-car number 2 'Victory' was built in 1945 as an LNER (London & North Eastern Railway) first class carriage, used for much of its life as a inspection saloon for railway officials.  The last two vehicles (one service & generator car, one crew/sleeper) were built in the early 1980s as British Rail Mark 3 sleeping-cars.  The Royal Scotsman was acquired by Orient Express Trains Ltd in 2005, and it's now part of their portfolio of world-class luxury trains.  More details about the Royal Scotsman carriages .  The locomotive that hauls the Royal Scotsman train is contracted from the West Coast Railway Co. Ltd, and it's usually a ex-British Rail class 47.  Dating from the 50s & 60s, class 47s were once the most common mainline diesel in Britain but are now a rarity.

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

By Marisel Salazar

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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. 

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Rachel Chang

Jamie Spain

Katie Bowman

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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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 .

There is an extra long bed (2.2m / 7ft 2ins) in cabins Q, R and S.

Here are the carriage plans of the Belmond Royal Scotsman, with the type and letter for each cabin.

Here is further information, including about Belmond Royal Scotsman disabled access .

Observation Car

This carriage exudes elegance, with its fresh flowers, potted palms and panoramic windows. The Observation deck at the rear of the carriage allows one to sample the freshest of air and uninterrupted views and is the only open Observation Deck in Europe. The Royal Scotsman Observation Car is always full of life as fellow travellers provide conviviality and conversation redolent of a country house weekend party.

Both Dining Cars are beautifully decorated with rich mahogany paneling and luxurious fabrics. Victory provides sixteen elegant settings grouped in twos and fours, while Raven has larger tables for six or eight. This offers you the chance to make new friends with your fellow guests or simply enjoy the company of the one you are with.

The Spa Car is operated by British wellness brand Bamford is inspired by nature, with botanical skincare collections and holistic treatments that are made using organic ingredients. The Haybarn Spa uses sustainable wood from Scotland and the Cotswolds. It has two single-treatment rooms with picture windows.

Treatments include: Bamford Bespoke Facial, Bamford De-Stress Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, manicures and pedicures using eco- natural Kure Bazaar nail polishes. Contact us to book your treatments.

Catering on Royal Scotsman

With game-rich glens, Aberdeen Angus beef, a wealth of seafood and rivers of wild salmon, dining on board is an experience to savour with meals prepared from local ingredients. All are served with regional specialties.

Each day starts with a hearty Highland breakfast or a continental style breakfast .

Here are some sample menus for lunch and dinner.

As evening falls, take your seat in the Dining Car. Expect sensational dishes, like warm pigeon salad accompanied by blackcurrant dressing, spiced roast halibut, and sumptuous apple mousse.

The extensive cellar provides a range of fine wines to accompany lunch and dinner, and a fine range of liqueurs and malt whiskies.

Mark Tamburrini, Head Chef has worked in some of the UK’s finest restaurants, such as the Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, and Michelin-starred L’Escargot in Soho, London.

Itineraries, Prices and Dates Royal Scotsman 2024/2025

Scroll down for detailed itineraries, dates and prices

The journeys have carefully crafted itineraries but suggested excursions can be changed for a specialist activity, according to taste. Ask for details.

Scotland’s Classic Splendours (4 nights)

Glen Ord Distillery, Eilean Donan Castle, Ballindalloch Castle, Glamis Castle, Rothiemurchus Estate

This 720-mile journey is the ultimate in a Scottish experience, taking in Dundee, Montrose, Aberdeen, Keith, Inverness, Plockton, Dalwhinnie and Perth.

Day one. As the Royal Scotsman leaves Edinburgh in the early afternoon, it travels north, crossing the firth of Forth via the magnificent Forth Railway Bridge, affording one spectacular views. Be on the open Observation Deck for the best experience. Whilst indulging in a leisurely afternoon tea, the train passes Arboath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in Keith. In the evening enjoy an informal dinner and a drink in the Observation Car.

Day two. Breakfast is served as the train leaves Keith, travelling west along the Moray Firth towards Inverness. Later enjoy a delicious lunch on the way to Kyle of Lochalsh. Alight at Plockton*, to explore or perhaps take a boat trip to see wild seals or enjoy a dram in the Plockton Hotel. Night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh. Dinner is formal, followed by entertainment in the Observation Car, which offers mesmerising views over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye.

Day three. Join your onboard Host for an invigorating early-morning walk over the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye. Alternatively, take a short drive before breakfast to marvel at Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic sights. Depart Kyle as breakfast is served and retrace part of yesterday's route as far as Dingwall, allowing views of Plockton across the bay, where you can see white-washed cottages with fishing boats and yachts riding at anchor. Disembark in Garve to visit Glen Ord Distillery, which is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, founded in 1838. Situated on the edge of the Black Isle, Glen Ord continues to malt its own barley and to use the long fermentation and slow distillation methods followed there for generations. Enjoy a tour of the distillery as well as a private tasting and nosing session.

Travel south to Carrbridge where you disembark to explore romantic Ballindalloch Castle on beautiful Speyside. Options at Ballindalloch include a private castle tour or an exclusive look at what is Scotland's only single estate distillery.

The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After an informal dinner, our Highlander regales guests with tales and weaponry displays.

Day four. Begin with a visit to the stunning Rothiemurchus Estate , one of the glories of wild Scotland in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, where fishing, clay pigeon shooting or a tour of the estate can be enjoyed. Re-joining the train at Kingussie, lunch is served during the journey south to Dunkeld, where you disembark for a visit to Glamis Castle (pronounced 'Glarms'), childhood home of the late HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. After rejoining the train in Perth, enjoy a formal dinner with entertainment. Overnight stay on board in Dundee.

Day five. After breakfast the train heads back to Edinburgh, arriving during the morning.

Dates and Prices 2024/2025

2024: April 11,22. May 6,13. June 10. July 1,8,29. August 12,19,25. September 9,18,27. October 7,19

2025: April 7,21. May 5,26. June 16,23. July 7,20. August 4,18. September 1,15,29. October 6,20,27

Price per person : from £7,500 twin cabin / double cabin + Bellini Benefits

Prices quoted are ex Club Discount. Contact us for Club Price and Offers

Scotch Malt Whisky Tour (4 nights)

Glen Ord Distillery , Glenlivet Distillery, Rothiemurchus Estate, Tullibardine Distillery

As the world’s foremost malt whisky club—specialists in single cask, single malt whiskies—The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is the perfect partner for this special Scotch Malt Whisky Tour, the ultimate whsky odyssey through Scotland.

Day one. Meet your whisky ambassador in the Balmoral Hotel and enjoy a welcome dram before departure. Belmond Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh Waverley Station and travels north across the Firth of Forth over the magnificent Forth Railway Bridge . Afternoon tea is served as you journey through the former Kingdom of Fife. Continue east along the coast, passing through Carnoustie, Arbroath and Aberdeen before arriving in the market town of Keith in the heart of the Speyside whisky region. After an informal dinner, enjoy traditional Scottish entertainment by local musicians.

Day two. After breakfast, alight for a private tour of the new Macallan Distillery in the Speyside whisky region, with a tutored tasting. Lunch back on board as one enjoys the spectacular views on one of the most scenic routes in Britain; Loch Luichart, the Torridon Mountains, the edge of Loch Carron through Attadale and Stromeferry before skirting the pretty fishing village of Plockton on the way to Kyle of Lochalsh. This evening a formal dinner is served, followed by coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car.

Day three. Breakfast is served before a specialist single cask tasting in the Observation Car. Lunch is served before disembarking in Aviemore at the Tomatin Distillery for a private tour. Return to the train at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway for an informal dinner followed by some Scottish entertainment.

Day four. After breakfast, travel by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Choose from country pursuits that include fishing, clay pigeon-shooting and an estate tour. Back on the train, enjoy a leisurely lunch during the journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry to Dunkeld. Disembark to visit Tullibardine Distillery in Blackford village. Your private VIP tour features nosing straight from the cask, a visit to the bonded warehouse and a tutored tasting of three Tullibardine Highland single malts. Re-join the train in Perth and prepare for a formal dinner en route to Dundee, where you can join in some lively Scottish country dancing on the station platform, a fitting finale to your Whisky Journey.

Day five. Breakfast is served as the train leaves Dundee and crosses the Tay Bridge, arriving at Edinburgh. Disembark in Edinburgh Waverley Station where you are invited by your whisky ambassador to spend the morning at the Society's headquarters in Edinburgh's elegant New Town.

2024: April 15. May 22. June 15. July 22. September 23. October 13

2025: April 14. May 19. August 4. September 15. October 12

Price per person:

Twin / double cabin from £7,000 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Suite from £19,000 + Bellini Benefits

Western Scenic Wonders (3 nights)

Morar Sands, Glenfinnan Monument, Inverlochy Castle, Mount Stuart House

This 660 mile route from Edinburgh takes you east, then north into the some of the most dramatic mountain and coastal scenery Scotland can offer, including Ben Nevis which is the highest peak in both Scotland and the United Kingdom.

Day one. As the train departs Edinburgh in the early afternoon, heading west through Falkirk, reaching Craigendoran, guests enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea and soon catch a first glimpse of Loch Lomond. After climbing up the waterfall-rich Glen Falloch , the train continues north to the village of Spean Bridge for the night. Enjoy a delicious informal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car.

Day two. Continuing west through Fort William, there are views of Ben Nevis. Disembark at Arisaig, for a stroll along the gleaming Morar Sands marvelling at the views of the Isle of Skye's majestic Cuillin Mountains. Lunch is served as the train retraces its route back to Fort William, the largest town in the West Highlands. After lunch, our Highlander accompanies you to Glenfinnan Monument to explain the history of the area before tea at Inverlochy Castle . Energetic guests can choose instead to walk to beautiful Steall Waterfall . Return to the train in Fort William and relax on board before an informal dinner is served as you travel south towards the tiny Argyll village of Bridge of Orchy, followed by entertainment in the Observation Car.

Day three. As the train arrives in the charming Isle of Bute, an island rich in geology, history and wildlife, with a varied landscape, guests enjoy a fascinating visit to Mount Stuart , a Victorian Gothic house with arguably the finest privately held collection of family portraits in Scotland. Return to Gourock for a formal dinner and overnight on board.

Day four. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the train makes its way back to Edinburgh.

2024: April 19. May 3,10,31. June 7,21. July 12,26. August 2,9. September 6. October 4

2025: April 18. July 11. August 1,8,29. September 12. October 3

Twin / double cabin from £6,400 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Suite from £17,000 + Bellini Benefits

Taste of the Highlands (2 nights)

Rothiemurchus Estate, Culloden Battlefield, Strathisla Distillery

A 540 mile round trip taking in a broad swathe of the Highlands and Scottish cities and North east coast of Scotland, visiting Dundee, Montrose, Aberdeen, Keith, Inverness, Dalwhinnie and Perth.

Day one. Departing Edinburgh in the early afternoon, journey north through the former Kingdom of Fife, then up into the dramatic scenery of the Highlands. In the evening a sumptuous dinner is served, followed by entertainment in the Observation Car.

Day two. After breakfast, you travel by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Rothiemurchus offers a magical setting in which to try a spot of clay-pigeon shooting or fishing or a tour of the estate. Rejoin the train for lunch and travel to Culloden Battlefield for a private tour of this atmospheric place (made more so if the mists are swirling around), complete with a fascinating visitor centre. Enjoy an evening visit to Strathisla Distillery, one of the oldest working distilleries and home to one of Scotland's most famous whiskies. Back on board, the spectacular panoramas unfold on the way south through Aberdeenshire and Angus. A formal dinner is served on the way to Dundee.

Day three. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast whilst leaving Stirling behind and returning to Edinburgh.

2024: April 29. May 1. June 19. July 6,15. August 23. September 4. October 11,17

2025: April 28,30. June 11. July 18,27. August 11. September 10. October 10

Twin / double cabin from £4,500 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Suite from £9,500 + Bellini Benefits

Clans, Castles and Isles (5 nights)

Morar, Glenfinnan, Steall Waterfall, Oban Distillery, Duart Castle, Isle of Bute (Mount Stuart House), Drumlanrig Castle

Embark on the Clans, Castles & Isles five-night journey exploring the wild and rugged west coast of Scotland, including Oban and the Isles of Mull and Bute. (This trip will also operate in reverse)

Day one. Edinburgh. Board Belmond Royal Scotsman at Edinburgh Waverley Station for an afternoon departure, weaving past magnificent Loch Lomond and the great wilderness of Rannoch Moor. An informal dinner is served as the train continues to Spean Bridge, known as the ‘crossroads of the Highlands’. Here you are treated to local entertainment.

Day two. Spean Bridge – Fort William – Taynuilt. As the train makes its way to the pretty village of Arisaig, the mighty Ben Nevis comes into view and is the highest mountain in the British Isles. Alight to stroll along the famous Silver Sands of Morar, soft white beaches with breathtaking views. After lunch on the train there are two options: either join our Highlander to explore Glenfinnan, where Bonnie Prince Charlie rallied his clansmen, or savour the beauty of Glen Nevis on a hike to the Steall Waterfall in the company of our mountain guides. An informal dinner on board is followed by spirited Scottish music in the Observation Car. The train stables overnight at Taynuilt.

Day three. Taynuilt – Kilmarnock. Today you visit Oban, gateway to the Hebridean islands, to enjoy an exclusive visit to historic Oban Distillery, producer of a fine 14-year-old single malt. Afterwards, cross to the Isle of Mull to visit spectacular Duart Castle, strategically located on a high crag at the end of a peninsula jutting into the Sound of Mull. Dating from the 13th century, the castle was modified over time by the Macleans of Duart and completely restored to its original glory in the early 20th century. Return to the train in Oban and dress for a sumptuous formal dinner on board as the train travels to Kilmarnock for overnight stabling.

Day four. Kilmarnock - Girvan. A leisurely morning onboard, followed by lunch and then a visit to Drumlanrig Castle, the Dumfriesshire home of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. A turreted sandstone mansion with sweeping views over the Nith Valley, it is home to important collections of silver, porcelain, French furniture and art, while its surrounding 90,000-acre estate embraces lavish formal gardens, rambling woodlands and miles of footpaths. Choose between a Victorian gardens tour, an architectural tour or a history/fine art tour. Rejoin the train for dinner. After a leisurely breakfast, journey from Wemyss Bay to the Isle of Bute to visit Mount Stuart House, one of Britain's most astonishing Victorian Gothic houses. The architectural fantasy of the 3rd Marquess of Bute and his architect, Sir Robert Rowand Anderson, the extravagant mansion boasts stunning and mysterious interiors that reflect the Marquess's passion for art, heraldry, astrology, mythology and religion. Surrounding it are expansive landscaped gardens and wild woodlands. Back on board, enjoy an informal dinner followed by entertainment.

Day five. Wemyss Bay. During breakfast the train travels to Wemyss Bay where a ferry is taken to the Isle of Bute to visit Mount Stuart House, one of Britain's most astonishing Victorian Gothic houses. The architectural fantasy of the 3rd Marquess of Bute is an extravagant mansion that boasts stunning and mysterious interiors that reflect the Marquess's passion for art, heraldry, astrology, mythology and religion. Surrounding it are expansive landscaped gardens and wild woodlands. Back on board, enjoy an informal dinner followed by entertainment.

Day six. Edinburgh. Breakfast is served as the train wends its way back to Edinburgh, where your journey ends.

2024: May 17. September 13

2025: June 6. September 5

Twin / double cabin from £12,000 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Suite from £29,100 + Bellini Benefits

Heritage Homes and Gardens (4 nights)

Montrose (Brechin Castle Gardens) - Kyle of Lochalsh - Invergordon, (Foulis Castle) - Torridon mountains, Achnashellach forest and Loch Carron - Attadale (Water Garden, Japanese Garden and Sunken Garden) - Isle of Skye (Clan Donald) - Dingwall (Ballindalloch Castle)- Boat of Garten - Rothiemurchus - Dunkeld (Ruthven House and Pitmuies Garden) - Edinburgh

The Heritage Homes and Gardens itinerary provides an insight into some of Scotland's finest country estates and house. The guided tours are often conducted by the clan chieftains and estate owners themselves.

Hosts on board: photographer Patsy Floyd (who owns the English country house Chalfield Manor ) and gardening writer Susan Chivers .

Day one: Edinburgh. Depart early afternoon. The train heads north, crossing the splendid Forth Railway Bridge. Disembark at Montrose to visit Brechin Castle Gardens, one of the finest private gardens in Scotland.

Day two: Kyle of Lochalsh. During a leisurely breakfast, the train makes its way to Inverness and north to Invergordon, where guests alight for a visit to the 18th-century Foulis Castle, seat of the Clan Munro. Mrs Munro of Foulis and her son, Hector, the Clan Chief, welcome you, after which you can explore the grounds and courtyard garden. Alternatively, join Hector in the drawing room for a whisky tasting.

Return to the train for lunch as you travel towards Kyle of Lochalsh past the Torridon mountains, Achnashellach forest and Loch Carron. Disembark at Plockton for a visit to Attadale on the west coast, this magnificent estate boasts a Water Garden, Japanese Garden and Sunken Garden among other treasures. The night is spent in Kyle of Lochalsh, where an informal dinner is served followed by coffee and liqueurs in the Observation Car.

This evening disembark to visit Ballindalloch Castle, one of Scotland's most romantic castles, with its wonderful walled gardens. Rejoin the train at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway.

2024: June 3

2025: June 2

Twin / double cabin from £8,900 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Suite from £22,300 + Bellini Benefits

Prices quoted are ex Club Discount . Contact us for Club Price and Offers

Grand Western Scenic Wonders Westbound (7 nights)

Edinburgh, Kyle of Lochalsh, Isle of Bute, Keith, Kyle of Lochalsh, Boat of Garten, Rothiemurchus, Edinburgh

8 days/7 nights. A combined tour of Scotland's Classic Splendours + Western Scenic Wonders. The itineraries are as in the separate journeys listed above, under those titles. Visits include: Glen Ord Distillery, Eilean Donan Castle, Ballindalloch Castle, Glamis Castle, Rothiemurchus Estate, Morar Sands, Glenfinnan Monument, Inverlochy Castle, Mount Stuart House.

2024: April 19. May 3,10. July 26. August 9. September 6. October 4

2025: April 18. August 29. September 12. October 3

Twin / double cabin from £14,000 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Suite from £38,300 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Western Scenic Wonders Northbound (7 nights)

Edinburgh, Kyle of Lochalsh, Boat of Garten, Rothiemurchus, Edinburgh, Glenfinnan, Isle of Bute, Edinburgh

8 days/7 nights (or 7 days/6 nights). A combined tour of Western Scenic Wonders + Scotland's Classic Splendours. The itineraries are as in the separate journeys listed above, under those titles. Visits include: Glen Ord Distillery, Eilean Donan Castle, Ballindalloch Castle, Glamis Castle, Rothiemurchus Estate, Morar Sands, Glenfinnan Monument, Inverlochy Castle, Mount Stuart House.

2024: May 6. July 8,26

2025: July 7. August 4,18. September 29

Grand Taste of the Highlands (5 nights)

Edinburgh, Keith, Spean Bridge, Fort William, Isle of Bute, Edinburgh

6 days/5 nights. A combined tour of Taste of the Highlands + Western Scenic Wonders . The itineraries as in the separate journeys listed above, under those titles. Visits include: Rothiemurchus Estate, Culloden Battlefield, Strathisla Distillery, Morar Sands, Glenfinnan Monument, Inverlochy Castle, Mount Stuart House, Royal Yacht Britannia.

Dates and Prices: 2024/2025

2024: July 12

2025: August 8

Twin / double cabin from £10,400 + Bellini Benefits

Grand Suite from £27,300 + Bellini Benefits

Royal Scotsman General Information

Travel & Health Advice. Here are t ravel and health advisories links to national governments and health agencies , including the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Included. State cabin accommodation, daily meals, all alcoholic and other beverages, entertainment, sightseeing excursions as shown in the itineraries, all applicable taxes. Not included: insurance, gratuities, souvenirs.

About the Accommodations on Royal Scotsman. Double Bed or Twin Beds options. Dressing tables, full length wardrobes, private bathroom with shower, high quality toiletries and bath robes, hairdryers etc., along with individual heating controls and panoramic windows. Each beds has one feather & one foam pillow plus feather duvet. 14 Twin Bed Suites, 2 Double Bed Suites & 4 Single Suites.

Dynamic Pricing. Belmond operate a dynamic pricing system, with FROM prices. Prices given on this site are generally the lowest, but can change upon booking depending on what is available . Prices are subject to confirmation on booking and are per person based on two people sharing a compartment.

Dress Code. During the day whilst relaxing aboard the train and for excursions we recommend comfortable clothing. Low-heeled, soft-soled shoes are especially important for walking comfort during visits. Scottish weather is unpredictable and rain is possible during any season so we would advise passengers to pack with a degree of flexibility in mind. For informal dinners a jacket and shirt is the norm for gentlemen, except at times of unusually hot weather. Formal dinner means tuxedo or kilt for gentlemen and cocktail dress, or similar for ladies. Royal Scotsman recommends a kilt hire company if guests wish to dress in traditional attire, at an additional charge. Kinloch Anderson : Tel: +44(0) 131 555 1390 or by e-mail: [email protected] . This hire company is an alternative: 8 Yards, Tel: +44 (0)131 337 3333 or email: [email protected] .

Beds. There are Extra Long bed lengths in cabins, O, P and Q: 6ft 8 inch or 20.0. Availability checked at time of booking.

Luggage. Cabins have limited space. One suitcase and one carry-on bag/suit carrier are recommended. Twin State Cabins have luggage storage space under each bed which is 28" wide x 9" high (71cm x 23cm). If necessary, facilities are available at The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh for storage of extra luggage during your Royal Scotsman journey. However should you be staying at an alternative hotel, please ask the Hotel Manager.

Timings. Belmond Royal Scotsman operates within the constraints of the railway network. As such timings, routes and associated itineraries are therefore subject to change.

Catering. Special diets can be accommodated with our Chef. Please be sure to tell us in advance of any allergies, food related or not.

Edinburgh Station & Balmoral Hotel. The Balmoral is very close to the station. Here is the plan of the station. Take the exit for Princes Street – there are escalators all the way to the top and the hotel is on the right. Check in for the train is in the hotel. Train staff will take your luggage to the train.

Passport and Visas. If you are not a UK citizen, you must have a valid passport that will remain valid beyond the duration of your journey. Depending on which country issues your passport, you may need a visa for entry into the UK. Please check with your travel agent or government agency before travelling to the UK.

Offer. Belmond Offers may be removed at any time without notice; subject to availability; offers cannot be combined and are only valid for new bookings; complimentary hotel accommodation offer is based on double occupancy. Single travellers please contact our reservations offices for availability.

Belmond Gift Cards are accepted by the Luxury Train Club towards the price of any Belmond train, hotel or river cruise. Belmond Gift Cards can be redeemed for a delightful afternoon tea or a relaxing massage, a fascinating masterclass or used towards the trip of a lifetime. Go here for Belmond Gift Card terms and conditions.

Unforeseen events/changes: itineraries, routes and times may change at any time for reasons outside the control of the train company. Every effort will be made by train staff to minimise any impact; the Luxury Train Club cannot accept any responsibility for any changes. The Club aims to keep itineraries as up to date as possible.

Coronavirus Notice : Go here for general travel and health advice from governments, WHO and other organisations. Go here for information about Belmond Covid-19 cleaning processes. The Belmond Royal Scotsman health and safety booklet is here. Belmond Flexible Covid Terms are here .

Royal Scotsman Booking & Reservations

All luxury train ticket prices are at publicly-quoted rates. Members get Club discount and any valid train promotion.

Contact us UK : +44 (0)1249 890205 or [email protected]

Other Itineraries not shown above include: Heritage Homes and Gardens Journey; Grand Taste of the Highlands (previously Grand West Highland Journey); Grand Western Scenic Wonders Northbound or Westbound (ex-Grand North Western); The Grampians And Beyond (ex-Grampian Discovery), Clans, Castles & Isles , Scotch Malt Whisky Trail .

Details of the other Belmond trains are here .

Royal Scotsman Train and Carriage Plans

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Here is the press release about the sale of Belmond to LVMH.

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Seeing Scotland By Train: Day trips from Glasgow

How to see the best of Scotland by train by taking fabulous day trips from Glasgow

If you want to see the best of Scotland by train, there are several good reasons for using its largest city as a base. Top of this list is the multitude of destinations and routes to choose from.

Glasgow is a magnet for Scottish rail journeys , with the majority of towns and attractions across the country accessible by direct trains. The city’s two main stations, Central and Queen Street , also have ultra-convenient city centre locations, which offer a wide choice of accommodation options, no matter what your budget.

Glasgow really has the edge over Edinburgh as base for exploring the best of scenic Scotland by train. It’s closer than the capital to the west coast islands and it’s the starting point for the incredible West Highland Line .

You don't have to travel far

Travel for less than 90 minutes by train from Glasgow and you can experience multiple great destinations:

Loch Lomond - by taking a train to Balloch, which depart every 30 mins from Charing Cross, Queen Street and High Street stations.

New Lanark – by taking the trains to Lanark, which depart every 30 mins from Central station and connecting to bus line/route 135 at Lanark station.*

Stirling Castle - take a frequent train from Glasgow Queen Street.*

The Falkirk Wheel *- take bus route/line 6 from Falkirk Grahamston station, which is served by 2 x trains per hour from Glasgow Queen Street - avoid the trains to Falkirk High station. (Both the castle and the Wheel can be easily be combined on one day trip, there are frequent trains between Falkirk and Stirling).

*These three destinations can all be accessed by using a Central Scotland Rover .

It’s also straightforward to experience all of the delights of Edinburgh while staying in Glasgow. For most of the day two trains per hour operate over the fastest route between the two cities, with a journey time of under 45 minutes; and the final train of the day back to Glasgow leaves Edinburgh just after 23:00.

Fabulous ideas for long-distance day trips:

If you want to combine beautiful destinations and stunning scenery on easy longer adventures from Glasgow, here are six fabulous ideas for day trips by train, which tick every box.

If you want to head off to Arran or Bute, you’ll be taking a combination of train and ferry, but you don’t have to book in advance to save money – just make sure you leave Glasgow after 9:30 and book combined Rail + Sail tickets .

You also don’t have to book ahead to make a saving if you want to head to St Andrews, you can book Day Return tickets to Leuchars (the connecting station for St Andrews) after 09:30 at Queen Street station

Advance Tickets, which are discounted, are available if you book ahead online for the journeys to Mallaig (for The Jacobite), Oban, or to Aviemore for The Strathspey Railway.

Or if you want to head off on at least four of these suggested longer excursions and want the freedom to choose your departures on your travel date, a Spirit of Scotland rail pass enables spontaneity and should also save you money.

The Jacobite steam train makes majestic journeys between Mallaig and Fort William from late May to late October. Despite the distance from Glasgow, it’s surprisingly feasible to take this steam train when making a day trip from the city as long as you don't head off from the city on a Sunday.

For those adverse to rising too early, what’s good know is that the required train to Mallaig via Fort William usually departs from Glasgow Queen Street station, on Monday to Saturday only, at 08:22; and a little over five breath-taking hours later, you’ll arrive at your destination. You’ll have sufficient time for an excellent fish and chip supper, from the café right by Mallaig station, before the steam train departs for Fort William at 14:10.

The Jacobite will arrive back in Fort William with time to spare before the evening train leaves for Glasgow (it usually departs at 17:37). This means you’ll be back in the city before 21:30, well in time for a nightcap.

...includes the stunning journey on the West Highland Line

If the weather is fine, try and take your seats on the left-hand side of the train when boarding in Glasgow, as you’ll get the best views of the journey as far as Fort William on that side of the train.

Within 20 minutes of departure, you’ll be travelling along the north shore of the River Clyde.

Then, between Helensburgh and Tarbet, on your left, there are lovely views over Loch Gare and Loch Long.

When you depart from Tarbet, Loch Lomond will be over to the right, although, for most of the journey, it can only be glimpsed through the trees. If you’re travelling during the long summer days, it make sense to take in those views from the opposite side of the train when heading south from Fort William.

After your departure from Crianlarich, where the train heading to Mallaig separates from the train to Oban , there will be fewer trees getting in the way of these majestic views. After the train has crossed Rannoch Moor and called at Corrour station, another highlight, on the left, is the view of Loch Treig. Also on the left − between Tulloch and Spean Bridge stations − the railway shares a beautiful valley with the River Spean. Then, as the train nears Fort William, you’ll also see the spectacular peak of Ben Nevis.

On arrival at Fort William station it’s worth moving over to occupy seats on the other side of the train. The train will travel in the reverse direction upon departure, but the best of the views between Fort William and Mallaig are also on the left.

From Fort William the train will travel along the shores of Loch Eil and with some wonderful sea views after the departure from Lochailort (when heading to Mallaig, between Glenfinnan and Lochailort stations, the beautiful Loch Eilt is on your right).

If you want to capture an image of the train crossing the amazing Glenfinnan Viaduct when you’re heading back to Fort William, find a window on the right-hand side of the train when it arrives at Glenfinnan station.

You don’t have to travel so far, or leave so early in the morning to experience a stunning journey from Glasgow on the West Highland Line. On Monday to Saturday at 10:33/10:34 a train will usually depart from Queen Street station for Oban .

The charming coastal town is pretty much the perfect location for a late lunch. On Mondays to Saturdays the train from Glasgow will arrive there at 13:43 and the trains back to Glasgow should be departing at 16:11 and 18:11.

As far as Crianlarich, you will experience the same stunning route described above, taken by the train to Mallaig.

At the next station Tyndrum, for the first part of the journey from there to Oban, the best of the views are again on the left.

From that side of the train there will be views over Lochan na Bi and then after Dalmeny the railway is by the shore of Loch Awe.

This lovely island in the Firth Of Clyde used to attract thousands of Glaswegian day-trippers, thanks mainly to its easy access by train and ferry, and it’s still straightforward to follow in their footsteps today.

Every hour, a train from Glasgow Central journeys to Wemyss Bay railway station, and this truly magical station occupies pride of place on the cover of Simon Jenkins’ book ‘ Britain’s 100 Best Railway Stations ’.

There will be time to take in its beauty before the ferry departs for Rothesay (in the summer, the boats connect with every train arrival).

This delightful ferry crossing takes around 35 minutes and, on arrival, you can see the best of Bute touring the island on an open-topped bus.

Trains from Glasgow Central station take less than 45 minutes to make the journey to Ardrossan Harbour station, where an easy transfer is available to the ferries that travel over to Brodick, the main town on the island of Arran It’s possible to depart Glasgow after 11:00 and see the best of the island on a straightforward day trip, but you should check the timetable and the ferry status ; sadly high winds were disrupting the timetable on the day that SMTJ planned to take our trip.

Though much of the train journey isn’t especially exceptional, it’s the ferry crossing and the bus trips around the island that offer the stunning views.

Due to the variety seen in its majestic landscape, Arran has been described as ‘Scotland in miniature’ and a network of local bus routes link the ferry terminal in Brodick to beauty spots across the island. Though the buses are timed to connect with the ferry arrivals, so it’s best to take time out to explore the charms of Brodick when arriving back in the village; before awaiting the ferry back to the mainland.

The Mondays to Saturday only schedule which SMTJ had intended to follow is:

• Depart Glasgow Central by train at 11:18
• Arrive Ardrossan Harbour at 12;05
• Depart Ardrossan Harbour at 12:30
• Arrive Brodick at 13:25
• Depart Brodick on bus/line route 324 at 13:40; the route goes along the island's north coast
• Arrive Blackwater at 15:02
• Depart Blackwater at 15:40 on bus/line route 322 , which takes the The String road through the mountains across the island
• Arrive Brodick at 16:08
• Depart Brodick at 16:40
• Arrive Glasgow at 18:50

During the summer, the final ferry of the day usually departs from Brodick at 19:20.

The beautiful Strathspey Railway is one of Britain’s most delightfully preserved steam railways, and it has easy access from Glasgow, as it shares the station in Aviemore with the mainline trains (although optimum connections aren’t available on Sundays).

An early start from Glasgow is required if you want to make the most of the day. You’ll need to take a train to Stirling, which leaves from Glasgow Queen Street station at 08:41, then on arrival in Stirling there will be a generously timed connection on to Aviemore.

Make that early start from Glasgow and you’ll have the opportunity to make two return trips up and down the line, having the optional tea on your second journey of the day, you’ll also have time to explore the charming Boat Of Garten station between trains!

Or if you just want to have afternoon tea whilst making the one return journey on the line, you can take a direct train to Aviemore from Glasgow at 10:07 or 10:10 depending on the day of the week.

The end-to-end journey between Glasgow and Aviemore takes around 2hrs 45mins, but the scenery is fabulous, particularly north of Perth.

Having enjoyed your steam railway adventure there is typically a direct train back to Glasgow which departs Aviemore at 18:08.

(The Strathspey Railway from Edinburgh)

Those trains on from Perth will have commenced their journeys in Edinburgh, so enjoying the Strathspey Railway makes for an easy day trip from the capital - the direct trains to Aviemore are usually scheduled to depart from Waverley station at 08:33 and 10:36.

At least once an hour, express trains depart Glasgow Queen Street for Dundee , and this lovely journey takes under 90 minutes.

If you want to take the time out to explore Dundee, the wonderful V & A Museum , which celebrates the best of Scottish design, is just across the street from the station. In Dundee, you’ll connect into trains heading to Leuchars, the next station to the south.

The journey to Leuchars from Dundee takes only 15 minutes, but few train journeys between adjacent stations are as spectacular as this. That’s because, for around three of those minutes, the train travels over the incredible Tay Bridge .

Frequent buses meet the trains at Leuchars station and the transfer into the centre of lovely St Andrews takes around 10 minutes.

Having explored the town, when you return to Leuchars station, you can either travel back to Glasgow via Dundee, or board a train heading towards Edinburgh. If you choose the latter option, take a seat on the left where you can marvel at the Fife coast scenery as you travel over the iconic Forth Railway Bridge .

Leave the train at Haymarket station and you can connect into one of four trains per hour from there, which will transport you back to Glasgow Queen Street.

Booking tickets

Off-Peak Day Return tickets will be money savers when travelling from Glasgow to multiple destinations including the island of Arran ; Bute ; Balloch for Loch Lomond ; Dundee, Edinburgh, North Berwick, Perth and Stirling Castle . Those tickets won't be any more expensive if you buy them at the station right before your journey.

And some great news is that ScotRail has embarked on a trial until June 28th , of abandoning peak travel periods - meaning that the cheaper Off-Peak prices are available on any train, on these routes and more. all day! This is terrific, because when using Off-Peak Day Return tickets to make day trips, they can be under £2 more expensive than booking single tickets.

When travelling from Glasgow on the suggested longer trips, to Aviemore, Fort William, Mallaig and Oban, the Advance type of tickets which are discounted if you book ahead of the travel date, are available. These Advance tickets also include seat reservations.

Though to save money by using these tickets you have to commit to taking a specific train on your travel day - so if the weather happens to be poor at the time you will making your trip, you won’t then be able to choose a different train or destination; without paying a £10 admin fee and the price difference with your original booking

Though something out of the ordinary, which is very much worth being aware of, is that ScotRail doesn't release Advance tickets for sale until 8 weeks ahead of the travel date. However, on the routes on which Advance tickets are available, the more expensive Anytime tickets will be placed on sale up to 3 months ahead. So if you look up a long-distance journey ticket on the ScotRail website more than 8 weeks ahead, you will only see the Anytime tickets.

ScotRail takes Advance tickets off sale at 18:00 (6pm) on the day prior to a travel date.

ScotRail also offers deals for when adults travel with children – which can impact on whether using the Spirit of Scotland Pass as a family will be a money saver. Up to four children aged 15 and under can travel off-peak for just £1 return each with an adult (aged 16 and over ) ticket holder - and until June 28th all ScotRail journeys are Off-Peak ! The ' Kids For A Quid ' offer also applies when booking Advance tickets on the long-distance routes. There's no need to book the offer ahead of travel, so if an Adult buys an Advance ticket ahead of the travel date, to save money - the ticket can then be presented at a station ticket office just before boarding, or shown to a conductor on the train, and the offer can then be purchased.

And at many attractions in Scotland, including Edinburgh Zoo, the RSS Discovery and Deep Sea World, one child travelling with the Kids For A Quid offer, can gain free entry !

The majority of Glasgow’s most popular attractions, for the days on which you don’t want to make a longer train journey, are outside the city centre, but have easy access by the subway. Kelvinhall is the closest station to the Kelvingrove gallery and museum , while Hillhead is the nearest station to the Rennie Mackintosh Museum .

Simon Harper

I wanted to share my passion for train travel and explain how anyone can take the fantastic journeys I have taken.

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Luxury train taking Glasgow passengers on a stylish trip with champagne lunch

The Northern Belle is touring the UK, with the stylish train being voted one of the most luxurious in the world – here is when it will be heading to Glasgow and how you can get tickets.

• 15:42, 27 JAN 2023

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Ever fancied taking a trip on one of the world's most luxurious trains ? Well, the elegant Northern Belle is touring the UK and will soon be stopping off in Glasgow .

The incredibly stylish train will be offering passengers a champagne lunch, afternoon tea or seven-course meal on three different journeys this year.

This summer, train lovers can experience two journeys with a difference, transporting them back to the "golden age" of rail travel, with a scenic trip between Glasgow and Edinburgh, both taking place on Friday, July 14.

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The first will see guests enjoying a "bubbly day to remember", with a Laurent Perrier champagne lunch and celebrated executive chef Matthew Green and his team hard at work in the kitchen carriage preparing a sumptuous seven-course lunch, including their famous Great British Cheese Board.

Entertainment will be provided by strolling musicians in the Northern Belle's 1930s Pullman-style carriages, while a resident magician will add an extra touch of magic.

While those looking for something a little less extravagant can enjoy a Classic Afternoon Tea trip, complete with delicate sandwiches, delicious cakes, home-baked scones, clotted cream and jam, mouth-watering pastries and, of course, a pot of freshly-brewed tea.

Dubbed the “Grand Dame of luxury travel” by actor Bill Nighy on Channel 5’s 'The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys', the Northern Belle's carriages are individually decorated with tapestries and mosaics, as well as plush armchairs.

Prices start from £295 for the afternoon tea, while the champagne lunch is priced at £440, passengers can also upgrade to Krug Class for an extra £195.

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A spokesperson for the Northern Belle said: "It might sound like a lot of money, but this will be an unforgettable day out that transports passengers back to the golden days of rail travel. Nothing too good for our passengers from the moment they first step on board over a red carpet on the station platform and are handed their first glass of champagne."

To find out more and book tickets, you can visit the Northern Belle website.

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Caviar, Champagne and much more!

To celebrate our fantastic recognition from Condé Nast Traveller magazine, we are enhancing our guest experience at no additional cost with the inclusion of a Champagne reception, Caviar and Blinis , upgraded Sommelier's choice wine, Port with the cheese board and Fortnum & Mason tea . We've also brought back Champagne Afternoon Tea which includes a bottle of Laurent-Perrier champagne per couple.

Give The Gift of Luxury Train Travel

Delight friends or loved ones with a unique and unforgettable experience on board the Northern Belle, where they can immerse themselves in opulence while traversing breathtaking landscapes. Whether it's a romantic escapade or a thoughtful gesture, Northern Belle gift cards offer a remarkable journey that will be treasured for years to come.

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Condé Nast Traveller

Readers’ choice awards 2023.

The Northern Belle has been voted one of "the best train trips in the world" by readers of the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller magazine for the second year in a row.

The magazine said: "It’s all about the food – and the scenery. The meal services are exquisite, offering fine dining crafted mostly from UK suppliers so you can enjoy classic British fare as the heaths, meadows and dales roll on by."

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Our mission is simple; to exceed our guests' expectations. We are constantly striving to improve the experience, make special memories for our passengers and operate the most luxurious train.

Experience luxury rail travel at its finest

Beyond the world of ordinary first-class there has been an almost secret world. Since the dawn of railways there has existed a world of private luxury trains and only a handful remain. The Northern Belle is one such Train, and the most luxurious, carefully restored to its former glory by the Venice Simplon-Orient Express. Welcome to our world.

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Our mission is simple; to exceed our guests' expectations. We are constantly striving to improve the experience, make special memories for our passengers & operate the most luxurious train.

Read our fabulous reviews

5 out of 5 stars

We were greeted by the most friendly and amazing smile, from the moment we got on board, the staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff made the day very pleasant. The menu offered a delightful array of dishes, each expertly crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Every bite was a culinary delight. My dining experience was truly exceptional. and I can’t wait to return. The luxurious train, coupled with exceptional service, made our day truly memorable Highly recommended!

Absolutely fantastic this Christmas trip is a must the best experience you can give someone the staff are absolutely lovely the food amazing could not fault this at all.

The Christmas Festive Lunch journey from Liverpool to Holyhead was great. We were in the Glamis carriage and the decor was lovely. The food was delicious and the porn star martini was very good. We were serenaded by songs and there was also a magician going from table to table. A thoroughly enjoyable experience.

I was very thankful that we had Del in our carriage who was very helpful. As we no longer spring chickens. He kindly helped us out of and back into the carriage. A big thank you. I hope the managers will thank him from us. Someone who is that willing and helpful should be utilised to the fullest extent. Great team member

First trip in 4 years and just as good as ever, if not better - superb, friendly attentive service attending to our every need in that wonderful atmosphere only found on the Northern Belle and the entertainment too from the singing duo and magician at the table. All four of us had a great day out from Carlisle to Dundee - topped off by a tour of Glamis Castle.

Went on a circuit of Cumbria on 23rd September. Was originally meant to include a return leg through the Dales on the Settle-Carlisle line, but had to be changed due to engineering works on the line. For us, the alternative route down the coast was even better and so we were very happy with the change. Throughout the whole journey, the attentive staff were outstanding and the food and drink were to genuine fine dining standards. The carriage was beautifully presented. Yes, it is expensive, but you don't mind if the experience exceeds all expectations as this one did. Strongly recommended.

Fabulous excursion from Darlington to Edinburgh made an excellent experience by being hauled by Flying Scotsman to mark its Centenary. Absolutely faultless service, food, and organisation. The preparation and presentation of the carriage (Duart) was superb and was regularly maintained throughout the return journey. Nothing was too much trouble for the hardworking staff who cannot be praised highly enough. Main meal of beef was cooked to perfection and melted in the mouth. Absolutely recommended to anyone. A wonderful day.

We did the Flying Scotsman centenary special journey - from York to Edinburgh. What a wonderful day! The superb, efficient team worked hard to make our day memorable. The luxurious carriages and excellent food and beverages added to the glamour of the day. I’d recommend one of the Northern Belle journeys to anyone wanting this kind of special day out.

What an absolutely wonderful experience. A perfect day with friends spent being served outstanding food and drink by kind, attentive staff whilst relaxing in luxurious surroundings. The whole experience ran like clockwork and will be fondly remembered.

Our hosts Emma and Assam worked very hard in hot conditions to make this a memorable experience. The carriage was comfortable, despite the heat, and the food service for our champagne afternoon tea was excellent. We made our way across Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Norfolk and the food and drink kept flowing and filled the time well. This is a great experience and one we would look to do again and would recommended anyone looking to do an afternoon tea for a special occasion to look at this as it is so different from the norm.

We travelled the Liverpool-Edinburgh route of the Northern Belle as part of a birthday present. We were in the Harlech carriage and attended by Barry, Lily and Del. The overall experience was already good in our view but the staff made it perfect, very attentive, chatty and also helpful with whatever we needed. The job they do is difficult, trying to provide a luxury experience for their guests while being bounced about a railway track, but they did it professionally! not once moaning or groaning about it. Had a superb day, the staff were polite and couldn't do enough and we thoroughly enjoyed it! so thank you guys, you are a credit to the company!

Excellent customer service these days is a luxury, and Northern Belle have this down to a fine art. From the beautifully decorated immaculate carriages, fantastic food with accompanying drinks to the attention to detail, the whole day was a wonderful experience for my family and I.

An amazing day of luxury and wonderful service and who doesnt want to go to Devon in a day! This was a day of pure pampering thanks to Anwyn, Phil and Lucy who looked after us on the Belvoir carriage of the Northern Belle. They really were fantastic. Make sure you have dieted for a few days as the food really is amazing and keeps in coming! The service from all three in beautiful surroundings really did make this a special experience and the added bonus was 24 degrees sunshine in Devon. Included was the Dart Valley steam train and ferry tickets to Dartmouth and a lovely afternoon strolling by the river and a glass of wine before we headed back to the Nothern Belle for the journey home. Most people were celebrating an anniversary or birthday so a lovely atmosphere on the train. Worth every penny and 5 star review fully deserved.

12/8/23 My husband & I travelled on the NB I can’t Thank the ladies enough for their hospitality & generosity on the beautiful, colourful & Very comfortable Chatsworth. The food was endless & the presentation was mouth watering. Tremendous charisma & presence from anwen. What a chatty, friendly, kind & approachable host. Always smiling. Really made us feel relaxed & at ease. I can't tell you how much we enjoyed being passengers in luxury. It was lovely spending the day in trustworthy hands. All the staff work so hard to accommodate for the train. It’s remarkable. Thank you for a special memorable day

As a birthday gift from my employers my daughter and I had a trip from Edinburgh to Dumfries House (which included a guided tour), brunch. and champagne reception with a 5 course dinner on the way home. A full day from 9:20 in the morning to arriving back in Edinburgh after 10p.m. and the most wonderful experience from start to finish. You feel very special sitting in the beautiful surroundings (the Alnwick carriage), amazing food, lovely staff and not forgetting the on board entertainment. For anyone wanting to experience something special I would highly recommend the Northern Belle and look forward to doing it again in the future.

What an amazing experience. The train was fabulous and the staff made it their misdion to make sure everyone enjoyed themselves. Cannot fault the food or the staff. If you want to spoil yourself you must do this trip.

From the moment we got to Durham train station the service on the Northern Belle was fantastic. The staff attention to detail was great. The food was incredible and Glamis Castle was lovely place to visit. I would like to thank the staff to allow me to see their kitchen and talk to the chef. I can't recommend this more highly then say it was worth very penny!

We travelled on The Northern Belle from Cardiff to Truro on 3/6/23. From the minute you board right throughout your journey, you are treated to the luxury of the train. The seats are armchairs, the crockery and glasses are quality and the food is absolutely outstanding. Barry and his team were friendly and professional. We had both musicians and a magician to entertain us. This is our second trip aboard The Northern Belle and certainly hope it’s not the last.

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Grand Tour of Scotland by Train

Experience The Beauty of Skye

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A leisurely self-guided fortnight touring Highlands and islands, featuring spectacular rail journeys & authentic experiences beyond the train line.

This comprehensive and sustainable 14-night rail holiday is carefully designed to allow plenty of two night stopovers. Take in the dramatic beauty of the West Highlands including spiritual Iona, the rugged charm of Skye, the delights of Inverness, the prehistory of Orkney and the magnificent scenery of the Cairngorm mountains. Enjoy the nostalgia and romance of the Jacobite steam train as well as trips by boat and ferry – after all, even we can’t arrange a railway journey over the sea!

You’ll spend time in the company of expert local guides exploring the Isles of Mull and Iona , plus Skye and Orkney. On your rail journeys you’ll have the chance to interact with locals going about their daily lives – a great chance to get right under the skin of the areas you’re visiting. The places you’ll stay have all been carefully selected by McKinlay Kidd to ensure a hospitable welcome and comfortable rest.

This meticulously planned journey is the ultimate leisurely and stress-free way to experience the Highlands and islands of Scotland. You really do have the best of both worlds: your own independent trip but with the support throughout of our local knowledge and years of expertise.

You could spend a month juggling maps, timetables and guidebooks without coming anywhere near the company’s expertise and astute choice of stopovers, hotels and guest houses … It has been a truly grand “grand tour”.   Stephen McClarence,  The Times , December 2016.

• McKinlay Kidd

Holiday Details

Day one – west highland line to oban.

Begin your grand tour of Scotland from Glasgow (with a connection also possible from Edinburgh). Travel north on the world-famous West Highland Line by Loch Lomond then westwards to the coast at Oban. Look out for the enchanting ruins of Kilchurn Castle standing jaggedly proud by the shores of Loch Awe as your train glides past.

Your first base is a comfortable and welcoming guest house overlooking Oban Bay. Perhaps complete your first day with a relaxing seafood dinner in one of the town’s fine restaurants – we’ll assist with recommendations.

Day Two – Three Isles Tour to Mull, Staffa and Iona

Today you join a group trip by ferry and coach, whisked across the Sound of Mull then onwards to Fionnphort, with spiritual Iona lying just across the water. Next, it’s a 45-minute boat trip out to Staffa, famed for the geological wonder of Fingal’s Cave.  From mid-April until the end of July you’ll also have the chance to seek out comical puffins which nest on Staffa. Returning to beautiful Iona, you will visit the Abbey and discover the history of Saint Columba. Finally, journey back via Mull to Oban.

Day Three – West Highland Line to Spean Bridge

Hop back on board the train to continue your journey along the West Highland Line, branching north and across the wilderness of Rannoch Moor skirting Glen Coe. Your next base is near Fort William in the village of Spean Bridge.  Your two night stop is in a long-standing McKinlay Kidd favourite small hotel with views towards Ben Nevis and wonderful home-cooked food – dinner here is included on both nights.

Day Four – Find your Highland Soul

A day at leisure to soak up the Highland atmosphere in this tranquil spot. Stay local, with a gentle stroll to the Commando Monument or venture a little further afield – perhaps ascending the Aonach Mor gondola into the Nevis mountain range or venturing to the southern shores of Loch Ness.

Day Five – First Class Jacobite Express & Over the Sea to Skye

This morning, we’ll transfer you to nearby Fort William to join the Jacobite Steam Train. Enjoy a journey in first-class comfort of yesteryear on the final section of the West Highland Line over the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig. A true holiday highlight!

Then travel on by ferry for the romantic journey “over the sea to Skye”, arriving on the southern peninsula of Sleat.  Here you will be met by local taxi, for the hour-long trip to Portree, the island’s capital. Your accommodation for the next two nights is another family-run guest house, traditional in style and boasting a well-preserved Victorian interior.

Day Six – Uncovering Skye in Local Company

Explore the highlights of Skye on a full day’s tour in a small, guided group, which can include the impressive natural rock formations of the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing, the man-made wonders of Dunvegan Castle and the enchanting Fairy Glen.

** Please be aware that a reasonable level of fitness and mobility is required for this Tour due to a 1 mile walk in each direction to the Fairy Pools**

Day Seven – Picturesque Plockton

Say a fond farewell to Skye, returning to the mainland via the bridge and on to picturesque Plockton, setting for both the film “The Wickerman” and TV series “Hamish McBeth”.  Rather unexpectedly palm trees line the shore!  Here you may wish to join a late afternoon seal-spotting boat trip from the harbour.  The seafront hotel for this single night stopover includes a welcoming, traditional bar and restaurant boasting plenty of fresh, local produce.

Day Eight – Take the Kyle Line to Inverness

After breakfast and a morning stroll, continue by rail along the Kyle Line, taking in yet more dramatic scenery en route to Inverness.  Here, spend two nights in a charming guest house just a short walk from the centre of the Highland capital.

Day Nine – Nessie and More

At leisure to explore Inverness -perhaps wander around the shops, meander by the river, or join a boat trip on Loch Ness and indulge in some monster-spotting! We’ll provide you with plenty of suggestions and can assist with advance bookings if required.

Day Ten – Venture North

Continue by rail to the very end of the Far North Line at Thurso, skirting the coast of the Moray Firth, then across the wilderness of the Sutherland Flow Country. Another warm welcome awaits at a homely and immaculately-maintained B&B in the town.

Day Eleven – Ancient & Modern History on Orkney

Join a small group tour to the Orkney Islands to discover some of the UNESCO World Heritage Site wonders of this northerly island group, from the 5,000-year-old stone age village of Skara Brae to the ceremonial Ring of Brodgar and the towering stones of Stenness.  Magnificent in a very different way is the ornate Italian Chapel, built in a Nissen Hut by Italian prisoners of war.  This tour will give you an insight into both the ancient and more recent history and current culture of these captivating islands.  Return late afternoon for a second night in Thurso.

Day Twelve – Relax on your next Great Rail Journey

Soak in more of the wonderful scenery on the return train trip to Inverness, changing here to head further south to Kingussie, on the edge of the Cairngorm National Park.  Your accommodation is a delightful former Edwardian hunting lodge, set in tranquil surroundings.

Days Thirteen & Fourteen – Highland Perthshire

Continue south by train from Kingussie to Pitlochry, with a short transfer to an award-winning guest house for a final two days of Highland relaxation. Located in the heart of Pitlochry, you’re within walking distance of all the local attractions, shops, restaurants, Pitlochry Festival Theatre and The Dam & Salmon Ladder. It’s only a short bus or taxi ride to Blair Castle or The House of Bruar – the perfect spot for last-minute gift shopping.

Day Fifteen – Edinburgh

Depart on a final train journey to Edinburgh to complete your grand tour of Scotland. (Just ask if you would like to add on a few nights’ stay in the capital.)

Sustainable Travel

This holiday is part of our ever-growing collection of public transport based trips, enabling you to reach destinations around Scotland without the need to drive. We feel strongly that true sustainability also means promoting and helping to maintain a way of life in areas where the economic benefit of tourism can make a genuine difference to the local community. That’s why we have selected locally-owned small accommodation and local guides for this holiday.

This car-free tour, based largely on the railway lines which traverse the Scottish Highlands, starts from Glasgow, then heads along the West Highland Line, with stops in Oban and Spean Bridge. Next by ferry to Skye, back to the mainland at Kyle, then via Plockton and Inverness to the far north coast and Thurso for a day-trip to Orkney, before returning South, through the Cairngorm National Park and a final stopover in Perthshire before ending in Edinburgh.

You can also start the tour in Edinburgh, rather than Glasgow. We will be happy to arrange overnight stays in either or both cities for you if desired.

£2895 per person for April & October, £2995 per person from May to September.

All prices based on two adults sharing a double or twin room for 14 nights, and includes 11 nights bed & breakfast, and three nights dinner, bed & breakfast in our hand-picked selection of three and four star small hotels and guest houses. The holiday also includes:

• Train travel in standard class on the West Highland Line between Glasgow, Oban and Fort William, the North Highland Line between Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness, return travel on the Far North Line between Inverness and Thurso, and between Inverness, Pitlochry and Edinburgh.
• First class single journey on the Jacobite Express steam train , from Fort William to Mallaig.
• Transfers to and from the train at all locations, except for Glasgow, Edinburgh, Oban & Inverness.
• Ferry travel to Skye and Orkney.
• Three Isles day-long group tour to Mull, Iona and Staffa from Oban. * for October holidays an alternative boat trip will be offered. Please also note, from mid-August, construction is taking place and Staffa (including Fingal’s Cave) will not be accessible. However you can still see and cruise around the island and the cave from the boat.
• A day tour of the Isle of Skye in a small group.
• A day tour in a small group to Orkney from Thurso.

The supplement for a single traveller is  £1200 , based on single occupancy of double/twin rooms.

We would also be delighted to assist with hotel reservations in Glasgow and Edinburgh from our selection of centrally located hotel options.

Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday.

As porterage is not included in this largely self-guided holiday, and assistance at train stations is somewhat sporadic, we recommend packing just one manageable suitcase per person.

All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels.

We work hard to make sure the unexpected doesn’t affect your trip. On rare occasions, changes or cancellations may occur, affecting accommodation, transport or excursions, including the Jacobite Express Steam Train . We are committed to informing you of any such circumstances and will use our knowledge and resources to offer suitable alternatives wherever possible.

You are requesting availability for

This holiday can be arranged from April to October. In 2024, the Jacobite Steam train will run from the 28th March until the 25th October. Outside these dates the same route can be booked, but a standard train service operates.

Should you wish to travel at a different time of year or have specific requests, take a look at our full range of train holidays in Scotland or ask us to tailor-make a rail tour just for you.

Availability is individually checked for a hand-picked selection of smaller hotels, guest houses and other independent businesses, so please bear with us and we will respond in 1-2 working days.

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Rail Touring in Scotland Guide

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All our holiday prices include a service charge of £9 per person per night towards the costs we incur in researching, planning and designing your holiday.

We guarantee to refund this service charge if you believe that arranging your holiday through McKinlay Kidd has not met your expectations for value. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests.

Exploring ancient civilisations in Orkney

Last month I was in Orkney for the first time. I have never been that far north before. I flew from Glasgow to Kirkwall, the main town, instead of tak...

We have never had a holiday where everything is covered in such detail - we could not fault the service.

All of the places you recommended were beautiful and interesting.

The memories we have are unforgettable.

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Planned service alterations during March, April & May due to engineering works – please view our service alterations page.

Between Perth and Stirling sits Gleneagles, best known for its world class golf courses. The course was home to the dramatic 2014 Ryder Cup victory where Paul McGinley’s European side resisted the challenge of an American team led by the great Tom Watson.

An iconic country estate set beneath the beautiful Ochil Hills, The Gleneagles Hotel has been a luxury destination for nearly a century. Located just one hour from Glasgow and Edinburgh airports and with its own railway station, Gleneagles offers the perfect retreat for those looking for relaxation, fun and adventure.

Three championship courses have established the resort’s reputation as a golfer’s paradise but the hotel offers so much more than golf. The 850-acre estate epitomizes the rugged natural beauty for which Scotland is famed and offers guests a glorious playground of country pursuits and activities.

Whether you come to fly a Harris’ Hawk, ride horses, play tennis, go off-roading, train gundogs, shoot game, fish, enjoy Michelin-starred dining, or relax in an award-winning spa, Gleneagles offers a world of unforgettable experiences.

Where do you want to travel?

Some of the UK’s best destinations connected by the Caledonian Sleeper.

Whether it is for business or leisure, Caledonian Sleeper will take you to some of the UK’s most wonderful destinations.

Our trains travel from London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen or Fort William, allowing you to unwind and enjoy a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

The Silver City with the Golden Sands, also known as the Granite City, Aberdeen has established itself as a dining and entertainment destination.

Castles, dungeons, ghosts and tunnels give Scotland’s capital an air of mystique, but there’s more to Edinburgh than history and creepy tales.

Fort William

Home to many a lively ceilidh – where the celebrated local malt is the toast of the guests – Fort William is an idyllic escape from the rat race.

A creative scene like no other, Glasgow is famous for the arts, live music, and comedy.

As a gateway to the Highlands, Inverness has matured to become one of the UK’s most spectacular cities.

The capital of the UK and one of the world’s most spectacular cities, London needs little introduction and gives you access to business, entertainment and leisure on a grand scale.

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Best Day Trips from Glasgow by train (+ logistics & tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

Discover the best day trips from Glasgow by train plus practical tips, logistical information and what to see along the route in our complete guide.

If you are based in Glasgow for a few days or more you may be considering adding a day trip or two to your itinerary. In this article, we cover the best day trips from Glasgow by train .

We have included details of various train routes from Glasgow with possible stops along the way (you may wish to spend the day in one of these destinations) plus details of the duration, ticket costs and what to see along the route plus tips to make the most of the trip once you arrive at your chosen destination.

Travel Scotland by train with our 14 day best of Scotland by rail itinerary. Includes logistics, what to see and do plus practical tips to make the most of your Scottish rail adventure.

Balloch (For Loch Lomond)

Crianlarich, inveraray castle, day trip to mull, iona and staffa, carrour (west highland line), what to look out for on the train journey from fort william to mallaig, skye and the western isles, guide to uk train travel ebook, what to see along the route, stirling (central scotland), alternative day trip options from glasgow central, britrail spirit of scotland, eurail global pass terms, conditions & exclusions, which day trip by train will you take from glasgow, glasgow to oban, fort william & mallaig (west highland line, scotland).

🛤 Perhaps the most picturesque or well-known of the scenic railway lines in Scotland, if not the UK

✅ Possible day excursion from Glasgow Queen Street station – however only up to 4 trains run daily in each direction 

❗️If you do this trip as a day excursion note that the day is spent mainly spent on a train in each direction. If you enjoy train travel and wish to observe the beautiful Scottish scenery in a comfortable setting this may be the day trip for you!

🛏 Consider an overnight stay in Fort William if time allows

⏱ Journey durations (all direct services) from Glasgow Queen’s Street

• Corrour – 3 hours
• Oban – 3 hours 10 mins
• Fort William – 3 hours 50 mins
• Mallaig – 5 hours 20 mins
• Balloch (Change at Dumbarton Central) – single journey £9.80, return journey £12.40.
• Corrour – single journey £35, return journey £57. 
• Oban – single journey £16, return journey £32.
• Fort William – single journey £35, return journey £57.
• Mallaig – single journey £43, return journey £51.

❗️ CHECK train times – Do not get caught out, remember there are only a few trains daily back to Glasgow, be sure of your train times for a return journey

❗️ If returning to Edinburgh and not Glasgow allow a minimum of 6 hours for the journey changing at Glasgow Queen Street. CHECK train times

Route Guide (+ What to see along the way)

From Glasgow Queen Street Station try to sit on the left side of the train as the train heads north for the best Loch views en route. 

• If you have booked seats and the train has spare seats move to a better seat.  Alternatively request a seat on the left-hand side if you reserve seats
• Seat reservations are generally not essential for these services

Direct from Glasgow Queen Street station, 50 mins, or change at Dumbarton Central or Ardlui.

• Balloch station is a short walk to the south end of Loch Lomond in the national park
• See the visitor centre and take a boat cruise across the Loch
• See also the views of Balloch Castle

• 1h 30 mins from Glasgow
• The train line splits with the line to Oban and the ongoing line to Fort William on the West Highland line
• The line heads north onto Rannoch Moor where the train line floats over peat bogs

After leaving Crianlarich the train passes breathtaking sights including Loch Lomond, Glen Lochy, and Loch Awe to the Pass of Brander before reaching Taynuilt on the shore of Loch Etive. Oban is the last station on the line.

• Oban train station is perfectly placed next to the ferry terminal for boat trips to the inner and outer Hebridian islands (Staffa, Mull and Iona)
• Popular landmarks and sights in Oban include McCaig’s tower and battery on the hill overlooking the town, also the Oban distillery and a short distance away Castle Stalker, Dunstaffnage castle, Loch Etive and Dunollie castle.

Popular day trips from Oban include Inveraray Castle and the Hebridean islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa etc

Inveraray is one of Scotland’s most popular castles and is located on the shore of Loch Fyne in Argyll and is the seat of the Dukes of Argyll.

• Open from April to October. 
• Located around 40 miles from Oban.
• The nearest train station is Dalmally 15 miles away.

If you plan to stay in Oban for a couple of nights a day trip to the Hebrides is very doable. There are day trip excursions by boat available to Mull, Iona and Staffa (for Fingal’s Cave) plus additional islands to see puffins and other bird life.

Note! This may not be for you If you suffer from sea sickness (I took a tour in summer and the sea was pretty rough sailing in a small boat from Mull to Staffa and then to Iona)

Carrour is the highest mainline UK railway station (at 1,339 feet) and perhaps the most remote. 

• It is not exactly a day excursion but more of a walker’s stop-off or set-off point, providing stunning landscape views of Rannoch Moor and Loch Ossian. 
• Nearby are the Rannoch Moor visitor centres and also the Glencoe Mountain resort.

Fort William & Mallaig (for the Jacobite Express or Harry Potter train )

On the approach to Fort William look out for Scotland’s highest Peak, Ben Nevis, 4,411 feet. 

There are lots of things to see and do in Fort William including taking a ride on the famous Harry Potter train (the Jacobite)

• The Jacobite train departs twice daily from Fort William train station. Morning runs from April to October and afternoon runs in addition from May to September.
• Operated by West Coast Railways. Check timetables for specific dates/times. 
• ❗️Book early as the tickets sell out very quickly.
• If you are planning a trip on the Jacobite we recommend arriving in Fort William the day before and staying the night so you can be at the train station in time for the departure the following morning. 
• It is possible if you catch the 1 st Jacobite service to return to Glasgow that day on the national rail service.
• Even without a ticket for the Jacobite, it is good to arrive a the station for a few photos/videos of the steam train and soak up the happy atmosphere.

Read – How to travel the Harry Potter train in Scotland

• The train travels over the famous Glenfinnan viaduct on the left-hand curve.
• Sit or look out on the right-hand side of the train to get the best views of the viaduct.
• Announcements are made on the train’s public address system to advise of the train’s approach to the viaduct. Sit/look out on the right-hand side on the return journey.
• Explore the restored station, signal box and railway museum as the train pauses at the Glenfinnan station.
• On the left side of the train Loch Eilt from Fort William train station.
• On the right look for Neptune’s Staircase which is the 8 locks on the Caledonian Canal, look carefully because it is easily missed (look for it on the way back as well, on the left side of the train).
• Look on the left for Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument and then on past Loch Eilt.
• On the approach to Mallaig look for the fantastic view of the Sound of Sleat as the line hugs the coast and offers views of the islands of Eigg and Rum and the White Sands of Morar.

Tip – For the best photos/videos of the train passing over the viaduct head out from Fort William to the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre where you can walk to the lookout viewing points. 

Good to know: Missed out on tickets for the Jacobite or travelling out of season? Don’t worry there is NO need to take the Jacobite to travel this route. The normal train service uses the same train line between Fort William and Mallaig!

Mallaig is a port on Lochaber and the terminus station of the West Highland railway line.

• Visit the heritage centre, try some of the local seafood at the numerous restaurants and cafes and wander around the harbour area and enjoy the spectacular views.
• Don’t miss a visit to the Harry Potter shop in Mallaig!
• There is a Mallaig circular walk that is around 3 km and takes about 90 mins. 

The ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye departs from Mallaig harbour.

• Foot passengers are permitted
• The ferry is operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac)
• Also, from Mallaig are ferries to the Western Isles including Harris, Iona, Eriskay, Arran, Barra, Bute etc

❗️ Reminder – CHECK train times – Do not get caught out, remember there are only a few trains daily back to Glasgow, be sure of your train times for a return journey.

Glasgow to Edinburgh

🕘 Takes between 50 mins and 1 hour 30 mins in each direction depending on the selected service and route, some trains stop at more stations than others.

✅ Multiple daily trains.

✅ Direct service, no changes.

🎟 Approx. cheapest ticket (Dec 2022) is £17 in each direction or a return booked on the day is £28. Advance or Anytime tickets are available.

Helix Park and the Kelpies are on the left in direction of travel along the belt of Scotland. Read more about visiting the Kelpies.

Things to do in Edinburgh include visiting the world-famous castle and Royal Mile, climbing Arthurs Seat (an imposing volcanic Peak for spectacular views of Edinburgh and surrounding areas including the port of Leith and the Royal Yacht Britannia), and exploring the Royal residence of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Calton Hill, Botanic Gardens, the Scotch Whisky Experience and much much more!

Read – Best day trips from Edinburgh by train

Glasgow to Inverness (North East Coast Scotland)

✅ Easy day trip from Glasgow Queen Street station.

✅ Multiple services each day in both directions.

🕘 Takes approx. 3 hours 25 mins for the direct service.

🎟 Approx. cheapest ticket found (Dec 2022) £12.90 for each single journey. The cheapest option for a return ticket is another single ticket.  

🕘 Approx. 30 mins direct from Glasgow Queen Street

🎟 Approx. cheapest ticket found (Dec 2022) £15.40 for each single journey. The cheapest option for a return ticket is 2 x single tickets at £19.70

✅ Train station is in the city centre.

📍 See medieval Stirling castle, the National Wallace Monument (that commemorates the 13-century hero William Wallace) where from the top you can see the site of the 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge, Battle of Bannockburn Experience, Deanston Distillery, The Old Town Jail and 1hour from Loch Lomond and close to the Battle of Bannockburn visitor centre.

❗️ Stirling is quite hilly to walk around so be prepared!

🕘 Approx. 1h from Glasgow Queen Street

📍 The city is located on the River Tay.  

🎟 Approx. cheapest ticket found (Dec 2022) £8.50 for each single journey. The cheapest option for a return ticket is 2 x single tickets at £17

Visit the Black Watch Castle and Museum, Kinnoull Hill and nearby the Scone Palace.

🕘 Approx. 1h 40 from Glasgow Queen Street) and Blair Atholl (next station, check train stops)

📍 Historic town on the River Tummel.

🎟 Approx. cheapest ticket found (Dec 2022) is £11.90 for each single journey. The cheapest option for a return ticket is 2 x single tickets at £21.10

Visit the dam and fish ladder, nearby Blair Athol Distillery, Edradour Distillery, falls of Bruar and Blair Castle and Gardens and the Queen’s view and visitor centre.

🕘 Approx. 2h 45 from Glasgow Queen Street

📍 Located in the Cairngorms National Park.

🎟 Approx. cheapest ticket found (Dec 2022) £18.30 for each single journey. The cheapest option for a return ticket is 2 x single tickets at £31.20

Famous for beautiful lochs and walks and also for skiing and winter sports. Also, for the Cairngorm brewery and the Strathspey Railway (steam trains from Perth to Broomhill, 92 miles and takes around 1h 45) if you want a leisurely excursion, try an afternoon tea too.

📍Inverness is the largest city in the Highlands and is located where the River Ness joins the Moray Firth.

Things to see in Inverness

• The 19 th Century cathedral
• Indoor Victorian market
• Inverness Castle
• Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
• Botanic gardens
• Leakeys bookshop
• Enjoy a 2-hour walk circuit walk along the River Ness and Ness islands.

Why not extend your trip and stay a few nights in Inverness ? It’s a fantastic base from which to explore the Scottish Highlands with some great day trip options including…

• Loch Ness and Castle Urquhart
• Culloden battlefield
• Clava Carins – Bronze Age Cairn
• Fort George- Artillery fortification

Glasgow Central Station to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute

Glasgow to Wemyss Bay train station then to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute by ferry.

🕘 Train journey to Wemyss Bay is around 50 mins with direct service.

🎟 Train ticket – Approx. cheapest single ticket (at date) £8.80 with a return cheapest buying two singles at £16.80.

⛴ The ferry is operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) and has separate summer and winter timetables.

🎟 Ferry ticket – Approx. cheapest ticket (at date) £7 for a foot passenger for a return ticket.

🕘 Ferry takes about 35 mins and an hourly service (check timetables)

Read – Complete Guide to Scottish Islands

• Located on the Clyde coast.
• The train station is built on a pier opened in 1903, grade A architectural listed curved glass canopy with and mock-Tudor exterior and clock tower.
• The Ferry to Rothesay leaves from the same pier across the Firth of Clyde.
• An island in the Firth of Clyde is divided into the lowlands and highland areas.
• Tours cost approx. (at date) £12 per adult.
• A lovely Victorian seaside resort
• See the Bute Military Museum and the 13 th Century Rothesay Castle (currently access is restricted for masonry inspections).
• There are Alternative Trains and Ferry Options from Glasgow Central.
• 🕘 46 mins
• ⛴ Ferry to Dunoon
• Ardrossan Harbour train station is a branch line on the Largs train line
• 🕘 1 hour
• Ferries are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) Note that there are separate summer and winter timetables.

Glasgow to Stranraer (South West Scotland in Dumfries and Galloway)

The Stranraer Line is a scenic rail line that runs from Glasgow Central to Stranraer via Ayr where visitors need to change trains.

🕘 Takes around 2h 25 mins in total

✅ Up to 4 trains daily. 

❗️ No direct service to Stranraer

🎟 Approx. cheapest ticket (Dec 2022) £9.10 in each direction or 2 x purchased single tickets £18.20.

• South West out of Glasgow Central station keep a lookout for the 3 lochs of Castle Semple, Barr and Kilbirnie. Also, the famous golf course at Troon.
• The historic country town of Ayrshire. Change trains at Ayr or stop off to see Robert Burns’s birthplace museum or Greenan Castle
• The train line approaches the coastline with the best views on the right side of the train in the direction of travel. 
• Look out to sea for the views of the island of Alisa Craig. The island is famous for supplying the world with the stones used in the sport of curling.
• On the banks of Loch Ryan in Scotland’s South West. See the medieval castle of St John, the Stranraer museum and the Killantringan lighthouse.
• The fastest ferry takes around 2 hours 16 mins.
• ⛴ Ferry to Belfast ( Northern Ireland ) – As well as the day excursion on the beautiful train line visitors can also catch the Stenna Ferry from the ferry port at Cairnryan which is 12 -20 mins away by taxi or bus.

Glasgow to Dumfries (South West Scotland – Dumfriesshire)

📍Dumfries is located near the River Nith that flows into the Solway Firth.

📍Approx. 25 miles from the border with England.

🕘 Journey time is 1h 45 from Glasgow Central Station.

✅ Direct service

✅ No changes in each direction.

🎟 Dumfries direct services – Approx. cheapest ticket (Dec 2022) £21 in each direction or 2 x purchased single tickets £38.20.

🔄 Return journey on a different route via the West Coast Mainline back to Glasgow Central takes 1h 20.

• A walled city with a rich historic past.
• Additional costs if extending the trip to Carlisle.

• Pass over the 23-arch viaduct outside Kilmarnock before the line heads to the scenic Ayrshire hills and on down the Nith Valley to Drumlanrig tunnel. 
• Historic Dumfries is a busy growing market town with a rich history, tracing its heritage all the way back to the Roman era.
• See Dumfries Museum, the Camera Obscura, Robert Burns house arts centre and the Aviation Museum.

Best day trips from Glasgow by train FAQs – Train Passes

If you are planning to travel around Scotland by train it may be cost-effective to buy a BritRail Pass or Global Eurail pass to cover the costs of your rail adventure.

(*Note the  Eurail Global Pass  is available to non-Europe residents only. For those of you who reside in Europe the  Global Interrail Pass  is the equivalent pass.)

• The Spirit of Scotland pass is for those who want to discover the area north of the border with England.
• Ferry and coach services are included as well as trains.
• Passengers cannot use some trains before 9.15 am on weekdays.
• The pass covers the entire country of Scotland, from Berwick-upon-Tweed on the Northumbrian border right up to the highlands and islands.
• Only child discounts may be available on the Scottish pass.
• Depending on the type of pass travel for 2, 3, 4, 8, 15, 22 or 30 consecutive days or 2, 3, 4 or 8 non-consecutive days spread over a month; or for 15 days during a two-month period. 
• For use in 33 countries across Europe (unless otherwise stated)
• Non-European residents are eligible to buy the Global Eurail Pass   (European residents have the equivalent  Global Interail Pass )
• The first travel date can be up to 11 months after the date of purchase
• Discounts may be available for children, youths or seniors 
• Paper or M (mobile) pass
• Seat reservations are advised
• Passes entitle holders to special discounts on hotels , ferries, entrance fees, tickets, city cards and much more
• Great Britain is included on the Eurail Global Pass
• Depending on the type of pass travel for 15 or 22 consecutive days, or buy a pass valid for 1, 2 or 3 months or for 4, 5 or 7 non-consecutive days spread over a month; or for 10 or 15 days during a two-month period. 

Read more about the BritRail Pass and Eurail Global Pass

Whichever of these train trips you take I am sure you will have a wonderful time. Scotland is a beautiful country to explore!

We have more resources to help you plan your trip!

• Scotland Travel Guide
• Guide to 10 regions of Scotland
• 19 Beautiful places to visit in Scotland
• Guide to the Caledonian Sleeper
• Best day trips from Edinburgh

THE 10 CLOSEST Hotels to Tourist Information Center Orekhovo-Zuyevo, Orekhovo-Zuevo

Hotels near tourist information center orekhovo-zuyevo, property types, distance from, traveler rating.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance from Tourist Information Center Orekhovo-Zuyevo See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.

1. Pokrovskiy Medved

3. Apelsin Hotel

4. yesenin hotel, 5. hotel berezhki hall, 6. kalipso hotel, 7. areal congress hotel, 8. shaturaholl, 9. apart hotel yantar, 10. wesendorf hotel in ramenskoye, 11. continent hotel, 12. yakor hotel, 13. country club zolotye karasi, 14. park hotel bogorodsk, 15. hotel edem, 16. artiland, 17. piccadilly, 18. yakhonty noginsk, 19. park hotel rayki, 20. business-hotel voskresensk, 21. vorkug sveta hotel, 23. hotel a108 voskresensk, 24. 3a balashikha, 25. kupavna hotel, 26. voskresensk hotel, 27. hotel kornilov, 28. novokosino hotel, 29. sosnovy bor park hotel, 30. kamelot, hotels near tourist information center orekhovo-zuyevo information.

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A ride across passages of history - Moscow Metro rolls on

Click on the map to enlarge it

Lying at a depth of 5 (Pechatniki station) to 80 metres (Park Pobedy station), the history of the last eight decades unfold before your eyes, carved out of marble and granite and built in iron and glass – revealing the tastes, ideas, dreams, hopes and disappointments of the previous generations and contemporaries. The Moscow Metro dates back to 1931, when its construction first began, although engineers Pyotr Balinsky and Evgeny Knorre submitted their first designs to the Moscow City Duma as far back as 1902. “His speeches carried a strong temptation: like a true demon, he would promise to cast Moscow down to the bottom of the sea and raise it above the clouds”, a journalist for the Russkoye Slovo newspaper commented on Balinsky’s idea. Yet the Duma, made up of rich people, did not bite the bait: after all, they all lived in the centre of the city and never rode overcrowded trams.

After five failed proposals before the Duma, the Moscow Metro finally threw open its doors on May 15, 1935, 18 years after the revolution, and carried the first passengers on its moving staircases, escalators, and the padded seats of its new wagons (unlike the wooden seats in trams). The first metro line – from Sokolniki to Dvorets Sovetov (now known as Kropotkinskaya) -- was 11 km long and had 13 stations. Now, the Moscow Metro has a track of over 300 km with 12 lines and 182 stations. The city’s development outline for 2020 envisages that, by then, another 120 km will have been added to the existing routes.

For the first 20 years of its history, the Moscow Metro was named after Lazar Kaganovich, the “iron commissar” and Stalin’s right hand man, who was in-charge of construction of the first stage of the metro (incidentally, he personally blew up the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in December 1931 as a part of the Proletarian Capital project). In 1955, however, the Metro was renamed after Vladimir Lenin. Although Russia has long since changed its political track, you can still find the images of the former leader at over 10 stations, including, for instance, busts of Lenin at Belorusskaya and Komsomolskaya stations, impressive mosaics at Baumanskaya and Kievskaya stations, a tile panel in the passage between the Borovitskaya and Biblioteka Imeni Lenina stations. By a bitter irony of fate, Lenin’s full-face and side-face images decorate the Tsaritsyno (translated as the Tsarina’s Estate) station (dubbed Lenino up until 1990) – images of the very person who ordered the shooting of the royal family. You will not, however, find any images of Stalin in Moscow’s underground. A symbol of Russia's victory, he was omnipresent in the late 1940s. After his death in 1953 and the denunciation of Stalin’s personality cult, his images were gradually withdrawn from the Moscow Metro.

“Architecture developed along the same lines, both above and below the surface. Anything that emerged above ground had a reflection underground. It is equally true that vice versa never occurred: good architecture underground but bad architecture above the ground,” says Nikolay Shumakov, chief architect of the Moscow Metro. The first metro stations, up until the mid-1950s, were conceived and built as luxurious “palaces for the people”, great architecture for a great state. Art historians insist that the richly-decorated underground was a deliberate ideological move to eulogise the young Soviet country. Stations built between 1937 and 1955 are characteristic of the first architectural period. Everything completed at this time is worthy of special attention. For instance, look at the ceiling at Mayakovskaya and Novokuznetskaya stations to see mosaic panels based on designs by artist Alexander Deineka – 24-Hour Soviet Sky and Heroic Labour of the Soviet People on the Home Front. The mosaics were assembled by famous mosaic artist Vladimir Frolov, author of the mosaic icons in St. Petersburg’s Church of the Saviour on Blood. The Ploshchad Revolutsii station was decorated with 76 bronze sculptures of workers, soldiers, farmers, students and other Soviet people. You can even find a frontier guard with a dog and rub its nose for good luck. You may also note that all the figures (except pioneers) are either sitting or bent, which engendered the sad joke – “Any Soviet man is either in jail or on his knees.”

 Elements of decoration in Moscow's metro.   Photos by Alexandr Ganyushin

1955 heralded the end of the good times for Russian architecture – both underground and above ground – after the Communist Party issued a decree "On elimination of extravagance in design and construction.” Dull stations, without any stucco work, mosaics, original columns or other “unjustified” elements, were built under the slogan “Kilometres at the expense of architecture”. Things were the same above the ground, where entire cities were built of commonplace five-storey apartment blocks, all looking the same, nicknamed ‘Khrushchevkas’ after the then leader, Nikita Khrushchev. To get a sense of this period’s architecture, see the few stations built in the 1960s-1980s like Tverskaya, Kitay-Gorod and Kolomenskaya. In 2002, with the reconstruction of the Vorobyovy Gory station, the development of the Moscow Metro entered a third stage, which could be defined as ‘renaissance’. The platform of the station offers a splendid view of the Moskva River, the Luzhniki Olympic Complex and the Academy of Sciences building. Architectural canons of the 1930s-1940s were once again in use in the design of underground stations. By the same token, artists once again become involved in decorating the stations. As such, the Sretensky Bulvar station boasts silhouettes of Pushkin, Gogol, and Timiryazev and Moscow sights; the Dostoevskaya station is decorated with black-and-white panels featuring the main characters from Dostoyevsky’s novels The Idiot, Demons, Crime and Punishment, The Brothers Karamazov, and the Maryina Roshcha station flaunts its pastoral mosaic landscapes. In 2004, Russia's first monorail transport system was launched into service – an elevated track (running 6 to 12 metres above the ground) in the northern part of Moscow, linking the All-Russian Exhibition Centre and the Timiryazevskaya metro station. The evolution of the Moscow Metro goes on. It’s still a work in progress, with ambitious plans to move the Moscow Metro even closer to passengers over the next ten years, not just by adding an extra 120 km to its total track. “We want to strip the stations of everything we can,” says Nikolai Shumakov. “We are trying to show the passengers their very framework, what the metro is made of. Cast iron and concrete are beautiful.”

Joy ride: Read Gogol, Dante or savour art

The Aquarelle Train.   Source: Reuters/Vostock-Photo

With any luck, you can ride in a retro train, a moving art gallery or a library. The trains are actually a part of the general traffic (i.e., they do not run to any special schedule) and are used on certain lines. The Reading Moscow Train , an ordinary train on the face of it, features extracts from literary works for adults and children. Each wagon has its own selection, from children’s fairy tales to Gogol. Circle Line. The Poetry in Metro Train carries an exposition, updated this year, dedicated to Italian poets Dante Alighieri, Francesco Petrarch, Giacomo Leopardi, etc. All the poems are featured in two languages, Russian and Italian. Filevskaya Line. The Sokolniki Retro Train looks exactly like the first Moscow Metro train, both inside and out. Painted brown, it has padded seats, typical wall decorations and retro lamps. Sokolnicheskaya Line. The Aquarelle Train looks like a cabinet painted with flowers and fruit on the outside. Inside, it is an art gallery featuring art reproductions from the Vyatka Apollinary and Viktor Vasnetsov Art Museum. Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya Line.

Revolution Square station (built in 1938) is close to the Red Square area. There are 72 sculptures in the station, depicting the people of the Soviet Union, including soldiers, farmers, athletes, writers, industrial workers and school children.

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