scottish rail tours 2022

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Train Holidays in Scotland - Getting Around by Rail

You’ll find some of the world’s most iconic railway journeys and train holidays in Scotland. Plus a Scottish railway journey is one of the best ways to take in the stunning landscapes.

From scenic train routes through the Scottish Highlands to short steam train rides, Scotland's train tours can offer unforgettable journeys with great service and amazing views.

The Belmond Royal Scotsman Starts from Edinburgh

The Glenfinnan viaduct on the West Highland Line

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

Perfect for: luxury travel, stunning scenery, first-class service, exquisite food and drink

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on a luxury train in Scotland, then treat yourself to a trip aboard the truly glamorous Belmond Royal Scotsman. This ultra-exclusive train offers fine-dining and 5-star hospitality as guests are whisked away on luxury breaks around the country, stopping off along the way for unforgettable experiences and excursions.

West Highland Line Glasgow to Oban or Mallaig

A Scotrail 156 Sprinter crossing Loch Awe near Dalmally

© Scotrail / Tony Hardley

Time: 5h 15mins

Look out for: the Jacobite Steam Train* and its Harry Potter connections

The West Highland Line is described as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. It runs from Glasgow up north to Crianlarich. One route then goes west past Loch Awe to Oban or continues north through Rannoch Moor to Fort William and Mallaig. Or you can do both!

This route is known to millions for taking Harry Potter from Platform 9¾ all the way to Hogwarts. As the train heads west, it passes over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and offers breath-taking views of locations such as Loch Shiel, Loch Eilt and Ben Nevis, many of which can also be seen in the films.

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

The Far North Line Inverness to Thurso or Wick

Inverness Castle and the River Ness

Time: 4h 30 mins

Look out for: varied coastline, pleasant farmland, traditional distilleries

The far north of Scotland is home to unspoiled landscapes perfect for a relaxing break, but it's still easy to get there by train. Trains run north from Inverness to Thurso and onto Wick in just four and a half hours.

The Kyle Line Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh

Time: 2h 30 mins

Look out for: the magnificent rocky shoreline, wild mountain vistas, red deer

Travel along the Kyle Line between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh for amazing views of mountains, forests and lochs. You’ll also pass by charming Highland villages, such as Achnasheen and Plockton.

The Borders Railway Edinburgh to Tweedbank

A couple admiring the Borders steam train from the platform at Tweedbank

© VisitScotland / David N Anderson

Look out for: rolling countryside, historical gems, engaging family attractions

The Borders Railway will take you through the engaging landscapes of Edinburgh, Midlothian and the Scottish Borders, giving you easy access to some rich history and thrilling outdoor activities.

The Forth Bridge Edinburgh to North Queensferry

The Forth Bridge seen from North Queensferry

© VisitScotland/ Kenny Lam

Time: 20 mins

The Forth Bridge is an iconic structure which connects Edinburgh with Fife across the Firth of Forth. It is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site.

Enjoy amazing views of the Firth of Forth and the other bridges as you speed across on the train. You can take the train from Edinburgh and get off at either Dalmeny or North Queensferry to admire the bridge from below.

The Strathspey Steam Railway Aviemore to Boat of Garten and Broomhill

The Strathspey Railway is a traditional steam powered train, based in Aviemore

Time: 1h 45 mins

Perfect for: a fun family day out, vintage steam train trips, wild birds of prey

See the majestic Cairngorm mountains from the comfort of a plush carriage on a trip along the Strathspey Steam Railway. Tuck into afternoon tea or a three-course Sunday lunch on board the train or stop off at Boat of Garten to spot ospreys and other wildlife at the nearby RSPB reserve.

The Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway Bo-ness to Kinneil, Birkhill and Manuel Junction, Whitecross

The Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway

Time: 1h 10 mins

The route passes by the local nature reserve, estate and museum at Kinneil and the charming vintage railway station at Birkhill. Book a special trip with Thomas the Tank Engine for young kids, while all the family can climb aboard heritage locomotives at the Museum of Scottish Railways in Bo'ness after the trip.

• Pets Welcome
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The Royal Deeside Railway Milton of Crathes

The Royal Deeside Railway

Look out for: the award-winning Victorian station and railway carriage tearoom

Take a journey through the beautiful Royal Deeside countryside, as this heritage railway runs for a mile alongside the River Dee. Explore the Milton of Crathes complex for craft shops, a restaurant and art gallery.

Leadhills and Wanlockhead Railway Leadhills

Leadhills And Wanlockhead Railway

Time: 30 mins

This railway runs between Scotland’s highest villages, Leadhills and Wanlockhead in Dumfries & Galloway. This round trip takes you through the mining area. You can request to get off at Glengonnar Halt and walk into the village of Wanlockhead to visit the Museum of Lead Mining.

Keith and Dufftown Railway Dufftown to Drummuir, Towiemore, Keith Town

Keith Town Station

Time: 40 mins

This heritage railway runs for 11 miles through dense pine forests, the valley around the River Isla and rolling fields. Try and spot the local wildlife from the window including red squirrels, deer, buzzards and other birds of prey.

• On Public Transport Route

The Aberdonian Edinburgh to Forth Bridge, Perth, Dundee, Aberdeen

The Aberdonian Steam Train

Time: All day

This train runs along the coast of Fife before heading up to Perth and along the coast again to Dundee, through Angus and up north to Aberdeen. There are bookable off-train excursions to a castle or whisky tasting. You can enjoy fine Scottish produce on-board served by a friendly team.

Museum of Scottish Railways Bo'ness, near Falkirk

Museum of Scottish Railways

© @museum_of_scottish_railways

Not a train tour, but a chance to find out more. 

Railway locomotives, carriages and wagons – there’s plenty to keep all explorers entertained at the fascinating Museum of Scottish Railways at Bo’ness, near Falkirk.

General tickets and travel information

There are a variety of tickets available for national railway routes through Scotrail.

Buy train tickets

Look out for the Spirit of Scotland Travelpass, which gives you:

• 4-days unlimited travel over 8 consecutive days for £149
• 8-days unlimited travel over 15 consecutive days for £189

Buy the Spirit of Scotland Travelpass

Check out our Railway FAQs page for more information on train travel in Scotland.

Find out more on Scotland's railways

Want to see more of Scotland by train? Check out our train tours for a guided trip filled with the best attractions, scenery and more.

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Train & Rail Tours in Scotland

Relax and admire breathtaking views in Scotland only accessible by train journey. With 4 Scotland train tours lasting from 2 days up to 8 days, you're sure to find a railway carriage with your name on it on a route that will leave you speechless.

4 Train tour packages in Scotland with 11 reviews

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing

Highlights of Scotland

Loch Ness, the Jacobite and Skye Guided Rail Tour

Fabulous tour guide and drivers, beautiful scenery and very nice hotels. Train was fun but there was a strike on the train so we had to go by coach a little more than we would have liked. Also would have liked to go to more castles but r do other activities other than just driving and looking at scenery. Easily could have done the other distillery as well as go inside more castles. It was nice to have time on our own as well as very few early mornings.

Jacobite Steam Train & The Great Glen

We had a fabulous time on the Jacobite tour. Our rep was Greig and is an excellent ambassador for your company. He was very welcoming and informative about things to look at and the history. This made our trip all the more enjoyable

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

North Highlands & Orkney Guided Rail Tour

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Enquire About Scotland Rail Holidays

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Scotland Rail Holidays

Scotland rail holidays will take you on a discovery of outstanding unspoilt landscapes, history, and unforgettable experiences!

Travel between the beautiful cities of Glasgow, Edinburgh and Inverness and discover the breathtaking mountains, lochs, glens and valleys that make rail holidays in Scotland a genuinely memorable experience. 

Ready to experience Scotland Rail Holidays? Enquire today!

EXPLORE THE BEAUTY OF SCOTTISH RAIL TOURS

Explore the magical  Isle of Skye  and visit the beautiful  Fairy Pools  and Neist Point lighthouse.  Discover the picturesque surroundings of  Fort William,  then travel on the iconic J acobite Steam Train  and wind through breathtaking Scottish scenery. You'll pass lochs and mountains across the impressive  Glenfinnan Viaduct  and on until reaching  Mallaig.

Go in search of the pre-historic monster that lurks beneath the waters of Loch-Ness  and then admire the picturesque  Glen Urquhart Castle.  Journey through the breathtaking scenery and enchanting natural beauty of the  Scottish Highlands all aboard our incredible rail tours of Scotland. 

Ready to start planning your Scotland Rail Holiday? Speak to our expert team today!

RAIL TOURS OF SCOTLAND MADE YOUR WAY

We have a wide range of Scottish Rail Holidays with incredible itineraries and a choice of   3, 4 and 5-star hotels,  all centrally located and always with breakfast included, you'll be perfectly set up to explore the best of Scotland. 

We can include travel from your local rail station to Scotland during the day or overnight from London Euston aboard the famous  Caledonian Sleeper Train ! 

Contact us today and speak to our expert team! 

THE BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN 

If you are looking for a luxury rail experience or have a special occasion to celebrate, journey into the heart of the Highlands aboard the  Belmond Royal Scotsman .  With your own private cabin, 24-hour steward service and all meals included, you will have a memorable journey aboard this legendary train. 

Life onboard is relaxed yet indulgent; you'll dine on world-class cuisine, rich with Scottish specialities, and embark on thrilling excursions each day; this is the top choice for those exploring Scotland in style.

Marvellous Escapes has access to several Rail Journey specialist operators. As a result, our advice is always unbiased and tailored to your holiday plans. Start booking Scotland Rail Holidays today!

• First Class Rail travel as per itinerary  
• 1 night accommodation onboard Caledonian Sleeper  in Club class
• 4 nights accommodation with breakfast in Inverness 
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour in Inverness (Apr-Sept only)
• Sightseeing tour of Loch Ness and Glen Urquhart Castle 
• Sightseeing tour of the Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle 

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Grand Tour of Scotland by Train

Travel by Rail Along The Spectacular West Highland Line

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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 romance of train travel including the Jacobite steam train when possible 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.

• 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 – Glenfinnan Viaduct & Over the Sea to Skye

This morning, availability permitting, we’ll transfer you to nearby Fort William to join the Jacobite Steam Train. Whether aboard the steam train or the regular Scotrail service, you’ll experience the final spectacular section of the West Highland Line, crossing the engineering marvel of the Glenfinnan viaduct.

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.

A reasonable level of fitness and mobility is required for this tour due to a one mile walk in each direction to the Fairy Pools – if this is challenging for you, please let us know at time of enquiry and we will assist with alternative arrangements.

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 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 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, subject to availability – alternatively this journey will be by the Scotrail service train, with the difference in cost deducted.
• 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. 
• 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. Or speak to us if you require left luggage or baggage transfer services.

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.

Please note, the Jacobite Express Steam Train service is currently suspended, as of 20th March 2024. We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide travel via the Scotrail service along the West Highland Line as necessary.

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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The McKinlay Kidd Guarantee

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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Rail Holidays to Edinburgh

A beacon of international culture, the city of Edinburgh, has earned its reputation as one of the most exciting cities to visit in the world. With its unique mix of ancient history and Georgian architecture, the city inspires millions of visitors to return every year.

Why Edinburgh?

If you’re passionate about history, enthusiastic about culture and energised by adventure, the city of Edinburgh promises an unmissable experience.  

Considered by many experts as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, this royal and ancient capital justly deserves the accolade of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historic Old Town

Classical new town.

With its cobbled streets, the ancient Royal Mile forms the backbone of the Medieval Old Town. It leads from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle and was the scene of many important events in Scotland’s history, 

The 18th Century New Town features gracious Georgian terraces, squares and crescents with sprawling formal gardens. Princes Street has an outstanding natural feature in its magnificent gardens, making this one of the most spectacular thoroughfares in the world.

Known as the Festival City, Edinburgh stages events throughout the year. The highlight of the cultural year is the International Festival and Festival Fringe, which attracts artists from around the World each August.  

Edinburgh offers visitors an outstanding range of visitor attractions, museums, galleries and theatres. The city is a real food lovers destination. You’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, from historic city pubs to fine dining, including four that have been awarded a coveted Michelin star.  

Experience the Scottish capital as never before, with Scottish Rail Tours. Let us introduce you to the hidden secrets of this internationally famous city. Discover the rich tapestry of history that makes the city of Edinburgh an enduring location in the popular imagination.

Edinburgh Attractions

Britannia – follow in the footsteps of royalty and presidents when you board the former floating royal palace  

Edinburgh Castle – this impressive and historic fortress is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny

National Galleries of Scotland – stroll through the permanent displays and discover visiting exhibitions at the three galleries  

Palace of Holyroodhouse – the official residence of H.M. the Queen in Scotland has connections to Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie  

Scotch Whisky Experience – discover the story of Scotland’s National Drink and enjoy tutored tastings of fine malts    

The Royal Mile – noted for its museums and historic buildings, including Gladstone’s Land, a 17th-century merchant’s house, the Writers’ Museum and John Knox House

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Edinburgh Glasgow Inverness Scottish Highlands

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