train travel in scotland and england

When travelling by train:

The rail network is centrally managed by National Rail and its website is a great resource for planning journeys, looking up general ticket and national rail pass info and checking whether maintenance works will be impacting on the route you will be travelling by. It also has the up to date info regarding the impact on rail services of the rail strikes . It’s also a central resource for information and booking of mobility services for those that require additional assistance.

In the coaches of most trains used in Britain there will be electronic information showing the calling points of the train. It is worth checking to see if the station you're heading to is the next calling point; as the automated announcements which will say "this train is now arriving at..." usually occur only around a minute before the train will get to a station.

This destination info is usually all that's available on the info screens on British trains, info such as details of onward connections, the location and the speed of the train, isn't typically shown. So if you will be making an onward connection it can be worth asking the conductor, for the time and platform number of any subsequent train you will be taking.

The seat reservation info

Because seat reservations are optional on British trains, systems have to be used to inform passengers without reservations which seats are available. Therefore information for reservations is assigned to each specific seat. On newer trains this is shown electronically, with the info being above the train windows, green lights can indicate available seats, but on older trains paper cards are inserted into the back of the seats

So if you have a reservation, the usual procedure is: 1: find your seat number(s), which will be on your reservation or ticket - or if you have booked a mobile ticket, you may need to check your booking confirmation email. 2. find the matching seat number within the coach. The info in the train will usually confirm that this is the seat you have been assigned, but some operators including South Western Railway, don't display any info re: seat availability.

If you don't have a reservation then blank electronic displays, or green lights, or no cards on the seat backs, are indicators of available seats. However, on busy trains it's worth checking the info displayed for each seat, because the stations between which the seat has been reserved for, will be shown, so the seat may actually be available for your journey. For example, you may be travelling from London to York and the reservation info for a specific seat may show that it has been reserved for travel between York and Edinburgh, but as you will only be travelling as far as York, you can occupy this seat.

Many train operating companies offer First Class long distance ticket holders complimentary food/drink ranging from snacks to a particularly generous full meal service; particularly when travelling on Monday – Friday.

Avanti West Coast and GWR and LNER offer particularly good First Class benefits.

First Class ticket holders can also access the First Class lounges provided at stations by the train operating company that they will be travelling by.

However, First Class is not available on some fairly lengthy regional express services, including those operated by, Northern , Transport For Wales and ScotRail .

Each Train Operating Company offers a specific MOBILITY ASSISTANCE services and details of how to book Assisted Travel can be found on these links below:

Avanti West Coast l Chiltern Railways l Cross Country l EMR l Grand Central l Great Northern l Great Western Railway l Greater Anglia l Heathrow Express l London North Western Railway l LNER l Northern l Scotrail l Southern l Southeastern l South Western Railway l TFW l Thameslink l Trans Pennine Express l

One of the most unusual aspects of travelling by train in Britain is the breadth of the different types of train used to provide the services across the country.

Each TOC is responsible for its own fleet and buys trains to meet its needs, so more than 35 different types of train are used nationally.

Though normally only one, or occasionally two, types of train are used on each specific route; though that is changing temporarily because new trains are gradually being introduced on many routes. That's because long-distance train travel in Britain has recently been transformed, because brand new trains have recently entered service across the country (Greater Anglia, TPE, Northern, TFW, Southeastern, Scotrail, Southern, South Western) - or will soon be introduced on a swathe of routes across the country.

Shorter distance train travel has also been transformed for the better, particularly across northern England , because the notorious 'Pacer' trains, which were in effect buses on rails, have now been replaced.

In general long distance train services are more frequent in Great Britain than any other country in Europe.

Many long distance routes between London and other major cities have 2 x trains per hour throughout the day, some have three! When travelling between cities other than London, a minimum of an hourly service of express trains is the norm, some shorter distances routes such as Leeds <> Manchester have 4 x trains per hour!

Though on some routes fewer trains operate at weekends; particularly on Sundays, and journey times can be longer at weekends too. Many routes and stations outside the major cities have a particularly limited service on Sunday mornings.

Works on the railway lines tend to be carried out at weekends and when they are occurring, buses are often used as substitutes for the train services: You can check which works are being carried out on all railway lines here .

When looking up tickets/journeys on the TOC's websites, it may not be particularly clear that works are being carried out on your travel dates.

Although if you’re only offered journeys with more changes than our journey summaries suggest, or the journeys are much longer, or Advance tickets aren't being made available on specific dates; it usually indicates that works are being carried out.

No charges apply when taking a standard non-folding bicycle on any British train - bike tickets aren't required.

However, each train operating company (TOC) has its own bicycle policy – only folding bikes may be allowed on some services/departures.

Certain Train Operating Companies including...

Avanti West Coast l Cross Country l EMR l Great Western Railway l Greater Anglia l LNER l Scotrail l South Western Railway l TFW l Trans Pennine Express

....request or insist that spaces for NON-FOLDING bikes are reserved before boarding on some or all departures; but there is rarely a charge for arranging this. (Those links above go direct to the bike reservation/info pages for each company).

Notes on the ticketing:

One of the not particularly unusual aspects of booking train tickets for British train journeys is that there are actually general nationwide terms for how tickets are sold; at most stations you can pick up a National Rail ticketing guide, which explains what they are.

For example, the names of the three main types of tickets sold are Advance, Off-Peak and Anytime, regardless of which website is selling the ticket, or which company is operating the train you will be travelling by.

However, the TOCs (Train Operating Companies) have the freedom to market tickets for the services they manage and the routes they operate. So for example, they may not offer Advance tickets on all or any of their routes, or can offer cheaper Super Off-Peak tickets at particularly quiet travel times.

Therefore the information below is very much a general guide and refers to the most typical scenarios, travellers will encounter when booking and using tickets on British train journeys.

(1) 'Advance' tickets live up to their name, because you'll need to book this type of ticket ahead of your travel date or time, but you will save money, as this type of ticket is discounted.

Avanti West Coast , CrossCountry , EMR , Great Western , LNER , and TransPennine Express are among the Train Operating Companies which offer particularly large discounts on Advance tickets.

In contrast the two other key types of British train ticket - 'Off-Peak' and 'Anytime' aren't typically discounted if you book ahead.

More info is available on our in-depth guide to British train tickets .

(2) A fairly recent change to how British train tickets are sold is that if you will be travelling long-distance by Avanti West Coast , CrossCountry , Grand Central , Greater Anglia , LNER , Northern and TransPennine Express , you can now also obtain discounted Advance tickets online on the day of travel. They'll be more expensive than booking Advance tickets ahead, but will be cheaper than buying last minute tickets at the station.

So if you’re travelling long-distance try to avoid buying walk-up tickets at a station ticket desk just prior to boarding, as only the more expensive Off-Peak or Anytime tickets may be available. During peak business hours when Mondays - Fridays are working days, Anytime tickets can be more than 5 x more expensive than the most heavily discounted price of the Advance tickets.

(3) Because peak business hours have such a significant impact on prices when Mondays to Fridays are working days, if you travel at weekends or on national holidays, on most routes there will be a much wider choice of departures with tickets at cheaper prices.

(4) The further ahead you book, the bigger the savings, because the most heavily discounted Advance tickets inevitably sell out faster. Though there isn't a uniform time period as to when Advance tickets will be placed on sale, hence the launch of a useful new service by National Rail, which enable the dates ahead of travel that each operator is offering Advance tickets, to be looked up .

(5) There can be big price differences between each specific departure on a travel date, because the cheapest Advance tickets sell out fastest on the most popular trains.

(6) However, if your journey involves changing trains AND using more than one Train Operating Company, then it can be cheaper to book separate tickets for each part of the journey operated by each company - in the UK this is known as 'Split Ticketing', see the notes below.

(7) There are four different types of online services which sell tickets for British train journeys:

The TOCs will sell tickets on their respective websites, most of them sell tickets for nationwide journeys, regardless of whether they operate the trains on those routes.
National Rail is the organisation which manages the railway network and its ticketing service will connect you with the website of the TOC providing the train service on the route you will be taking.
Independent ticket agents, which sell tickets for nationwide journeys, regardless of which TOCs will be operating the trains.
Other independent ticket agents, which specialise in split-ticketing.

(8) What can be particularly bewildering are the multiple options, which can be available for booking return (two-way) journeys . The means of saving money can vary between travelling each way with Advance tickets, booking 'Open Return' or 'Day Return' tickets, or booking a different type of ticket for each direction of travel.

(9) Something that's different from the norm on mainland Europe, is that when taking shorter-distance journeys from cities other than London - the routes which are too short for Advance tickets to be available, you can board any train including the premium express services. As a result the Standard Class coaches on trains heading to London can be become particularly crowded between the big city location and a first station call, which isn't great when boarding at the starting point without reservations for a longer-distance journey. Examples of such routes include: Birmingham > Coventry Bristol > Bath Edinburgh > Dunbar Leeds > Wakefield Manchester > Stockport

(10) Children aged 5 – 15 travel at a discount of at least 50% on any UK train; some companies offer cheaper terms for children, particularly when travelling at weekends. Those aged 4 and under can travel for free when accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Though the terms for those 4 and under can vary between the Train Operating Companies re: how many infants can travel with an adult and whether those 4 and under have to travel in your lap.

(11) Up to two dogs per passenger can travel for free too.

(12) For those aged 60 and over, discounts are available when using a special railcard that both UK and visiting seniors can purchase (UK residents can buy this online or at station, but visitors need to purchase the card at a station).

When travelling between some towns and cities multiple Train Operating Companies (TOCs) can provide the train service.

These TOCs can share a route, or take different routes between stations.

This can impact on tickets on how tickets can be purchased and used, depending on;

whether the trains will be taking the same or different routes,
whether you book ahead online,
if you'll be booking last minute at the station,
how far you will be travelling.

Find out more

Split-Tickets can save money on:

journeys which require connections,
when travelling on routes shared by multiple operators.
long-distance journeys

Journeys with connections

When looking up an end-to-end journey involving connections between trains operated by more than company, the prices can be comparatively expensive, on the booking services provided by the train operating companies.

Because the discounted Advance tickets are reliant on travelling on specific trains, usually the best case scenario is that the cheaper 'Advance' rate will only be factored into the total ticket price, for travel on the first train in a chain of connections.

However, that cheaper Advance rate may be available on all, or some, of the subsequent trains in a chain of connections - So some companies including Trainline will bundle these Advance rates together, enabling a cheaper total price to be offered for the end-to-end journey. The customer is therefore saved the bother of having to split the booking into a ticket per train.

Another anomaly, which can be less than obvious when looking up a journey, is that the Advance tickets won't typically be made available when having to make connections on a route which is managed by one company. This scenario can be common when travelling to and from the larger cities including London. It can be cheaper to book Advance tickets between the city centre station and a final destination - and then buy last minute tickets at the station for travel to and from the city centre.

Journeys along routes with multiple operators

Because each company can set its own prices it wants to charge for a travelling on a route, it can be possible to save by booking end-to-end journeys which involve making connections between trains provided by different operators. This particularly applies when travelling to destinations on the East Coast route between York and Edinburgh and on the West Coast route between Preston and Glasgow. Making connections between trains at locations such as York or Preston can be cheaper than travelling direct. You don't need to have an in-depth knowledge of this, but it's worth looking out for, as on some journeys you can save more than 50% by choosing journey options with these unnecessary connections.

On long-distance journeys

Because travelling by trains in Britain is typically more expensive at peak business hours, if you will be travelling on train which begins or ends its journey at those times, or passes through a city when the peak rate applies, this will push up the price of a conventional ticket. But those more expensive rates won't apply when booking tickets from stations further along the route. So some ticket booking services, including Trainline , will automatically look for those cheaper prices and then bundle them together into a cheaper total price. But as you will in effect be booking multiple Advance tickets for different sections of the journey, each ticket will have different assigned seat reservations.

Seat reservations are another aspect of British train travel, which is managed differently, compared to what's typical in Europe. What's particularly worth knowing is:

(1) Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, EMR, Great Western, Hull Trains, LNER, ScotRail, TFW and TransPennine Express are the TOCs Train Operating Companies which make seat reservations available for long-distance journeys. Greater Anglia also offers seat reservations on its London ↔ Norwich route.

(2) Seats are always assigned when purchasing Advance tickets online or at stations for journeys on trains operated by these companies. Because Advance tickets are only valid for travel on a specific departure, the seat reservation, which will be issued separately, is in effect an extension of the ticket. You will need to board with the ticket and the seat reservation for the ticket to be valid - the train conductor will need the seat reservation details as proof that you booked tickets, for the specific departure that you have boarded.

(3) If you opt to use e-tickets which can be stored in mobile phones, the details of the seat reservation = the coach + seat number(s) may not be shown on your ticket. Instead they may only be included on the booking confirmation email.

(4) Seats are also assigned when booking Advance tickets for the longer-distance routes operated by London North Western Railway, Southern and South Western Railway, though when travelling with these operators, the reservations won't be marked on the trains.

(5) However, the time limit for booking reservations at stations ahead of travel depends on the TOC providing the train service you will be travelling by; it can vary from a couple of hours to just 10 minutes So if you will be departing the following morning, SMTJ's advice is to book reservations by the end of the previous day.

(6) Keep this is mind if you will be using a rail pass , such as a Britrail Pass or an InterRail or Eurail pass, because it typically won't be possible to book reservations at a station, just prior to boarding. Though when using rail passes you won't be charged for booking reservations at stations, but you will need to use a staffed ticket desk and not a ticket machine.

More information is available on the ticket guide .

Click on the buttons below to access info such as on board facilities, and what to look out for when boarding and travelling with luggage/bikes.

All that's good to know about travelling on an Avanti West Coast Pendolino

The UK capital is served by more major stations than any other city in Europe, so there's a weight of useful info that's worth knowing about taking trains to and from London. Hence the guide below:

includes links to detailed info on how to use the eight largest London stations
useful info on how to use / avoid the Underground and how to use the other cross-city railways
how to transfer between the major stations
explains how to travel on to the tourist destinations from each major station
how to use the trains to travel between London's airports and the city centre.

The journey guides include access to booking links and information about the trains, tickets and destination stations. Plus for the scenic routes there are insights on how to make the most of the rides on the trains.

What's good to know when arriving in London by train

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Notes on the stations

The eight things most worth knowing about taking a train from a UK station are:

1: Unlike countries such as France, Italy or Germany there can be differences in how the information at UK stations is provided to travellers. Twenty of the largest stations are managed by Network Rail but all other stations are most typically managed by the Train Operating Company, which happens to provide most of the train services at that station. Therefore there isn't a national standard for departure screens and signage etc - hence the info below has to be general summary.

2: Outside of London most cities only have one major station; the main exceptions are Birmingham and Glasgow and Manchester .

3: Until recently British stations didn't have any information which informed travellers of where to wait on a platform (track) for easy boarding into coaches in which reserved seats are located. The platforms/tracks at British stations still aren’t usually divided into zones, as obviously as they are in France and Germany. Instead the platforms (tracks) at many large stations, at which trains call at during a journey, now have comparatively small signs spaced along the platform, which show the coach numbers of the trains; usually the trains heading to and from London.

4: It's a good idea to pay close attention to the information screens on the platforms (tracks) as many of them now show a lot more information than the destination and time of the next departure - they often now also tell travellers where to wait on the platform if you have a reservation.

5: At the lager terminal stations, the platform / track number that a train will be leaving from, isn't usually confirmed until around 20 mins prior to departure.

6: If a train is departing on time it can be removed from the main departure board two minutes before it is due to leave.

7: On long distance trains heading away from London, the First Class coaches are usually at the rear of the train, when heading to London, they’re usually at the front.

8: Trains very rarely reverse directions at stations in Britain during their journeys, so if you prefer to face forwards, you will usually be facing that way for the entire trip. The three major exceptions are:

Manchester <> Bristol/Exeter trains reverse direction at Birmingham.
Newcastle <> Southampton services reverse direction in both Birmingham and Reading.
Manchester <> Bournemouth services reverse direction at Reading.

A typical main departure board, with all the calling points of each train listed in each column

A train numbering system in which every individual train is given a specific code isn't used in Great Britain, so there isn't, for example, a train 5743 to Edinburgh which is also calling in York. Therefore in Britain the departure time is the key piece of information, which specifies the train you will be travelling by.

So if you will be travelling to York with a seat reservation on the 11:30 train from London Kings Cross, the key piece of information on your reservation is the departure time. When you're at King's Cross station you can look for which train you will be boarding on the main departure board. You would be looking for the train leaving at 11:30, it's final destination will be Edinburgh, but beneath its destination, all of the other stations the train will be calling, at will be listed. One of these other stations will be York, so this 11:30 train to Edinburgh, is also the train to York.

Therefore the train departures are arranged in vertical columns of lists of the stations that each departure will be calling at. As each train departs, the columns shift to the left, because they are shown in departure order from left to right.

Top right on each column will be the platform (track) number, but when each departure is initially listed, it will often be blanked out. So you'll know which departure you will be taking because you'll have matched your destination to the departure time, but you won't know, yet, which platform it will be leaving from. You need to keep an eye on the departure board, because at some point the platform number will appear and it won't usually be announced; only untypical information is usually announced at stations.

On the platform

On the platforms at non-terminus stations, the departure info will also list all of the stations that the next train to depart will be calling at. Though this info can be shown as scrolling text; this text is worth watching closely as it can also covey additional info other than the calling points.

Taking time out to check all of the info on the platform departure screens is recommended, particularly when travelling long-distance. As explained above, you can often use the info to work out where to wait for boarding into the coaches in which your reserved seats will be located, but other useful info, not usually shown on the main departure boards, can include the scheduled arrival time at each calling point.

Click the buttons below to discover how to travel to and from the stations by public transport, plus links to additional info including the station and city websites.

The scenic sections of the journey are shown by the arrows:

Glasgow - Dalmuir > Arrochar > Fort William > Mallaig
Leeds - Skipton > Settle > Carlisle
Exeter > Totness - Plymouth > Lostwithel (Cornwall)
Inverness > Kyle of Lochalsh
Machynlleth > Pwllheli
Newcastle - Morpeth > Berwick upon Tweed > Dunbar - Edinburgh > Kirkcaldy > Dundee > Stonehaven > Aberdeen
Lancaster > Carlisle > Carstairs - Glasgow and Edinburgh
Edinburgh > Kirkcaldy > Perth > Inverness
St Erth > St Ives
Swansea > Llanelli > Llandrindod > Craven Arms - Shrewsbury

Short videos showcasing some of these journeys have been uploaded to the ShowMeTheJourney channels on YouTube dedicated to England and to Scotland .

National Rail, which has overall responsibility for how the trains are managed in Britain, has teamed up with a swathe of tourist attractions for a promotion which allows two entry tickets for the price of one when travelling to and from them by train. How it typically works is:

You can look for which attractions and guided tours are members of the scheme on the National Rail website .
Having chosen an attraction you can then see how to book the special promotional tickets or voucher; when needed you can find promo codes on the dedicated page for each attraction on the National Rail Website.
On the online booking page of the attraction you should see an option which corresponds to 'National Rail - Two for One offer'.
Book your attraction tickets or voucher.
On arrival at the attraction you present your attraction tickets and rail tickets to gain entry.

The offers are available to visitors to the UK as well as residents, so they can be a great way to save money when on a holiday .

Though what's good to know is:

You need to present either the outward or return part of a national rail ticket to gain entry, along with your attraction tickets, so Oyster Cards and other Travelcards aren't valid.
The ticket machines at stations will retain one-way tickets, hence return tickets are a must - and if possible avoid putting your outward tickets through the machine, by asking the staff to open the gates/barriers.
The two people entering the attraction on the 2-for-1 offer will both need separate rail tickets.
The type of rail ticket, how much you paid for it and the distance travelled all don't matter, any pair of return rail tickets will suffice.
If you have one, you can use Railcards to book the rail tickets.

Be inspired and discover how to make the fabulous journeys

How to experience the coasts and mountains without a car

Make going by rail the star attraction of your explorations.

How to take a train to a British steam railway

Escape from Britain on the train:

How to travel from London to Europe by train

If you are not resident in the UK you can use Eurail and InterRail 'global' passes to see Britain by train in addition to other countries of your choice; though you'll need to be sure that your trip to and from England / Scotland / Wales falls within your selected period of time that your pass will be valid for.

For European citizens InterRail for Great Britain passes are available for 3, 4, 5, 6 or 8 days of non-consecutive travel. Everybody else who solely wishes to explore Britain by train can make use of BritRail passes ; and if you meet the InterRail criteria and aren't resident in the UK, there are BritRail passes valid for two days of travel which are cheaper than those InterRail passes valid for 3 days. Eurail passes are not available solely for travel in Great Britain.

With any of these passes you can hop on any daytime national rail service, reservations are available but optional on most long-distance routes ; and on daytime trains there will be no charge for making the reservation; special rates are available to rail pass users on the Caledonian Sleeper and Night Riviera services.

Users of Eurail and InterRail 'global' passes can book reservations on Eurostar , which can seem pricey, but the cost per day of using the pass + the reservation fee, is often much cheaper than booking Eurostar tickets. However, BritRail passes are not valid on the Eurostar.

On the train from Rome and Naples to Sicily

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How to Tour Scotland by Train

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

The Best Train Journeys in Scotland

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

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

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

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

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

Map of Train Lines in Scotland

The West Highland Line

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

Download the route map from ScotRail .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Borders Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Carlisle Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Far North Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Stranraer Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Kyle Line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One-Week Scotland Train Tour Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Edinburgh

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Central Scotland

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

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

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

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

Day 3: The Cairngorms National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Inverness and Loch Ness

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 5 and 6: The Isle of Skye

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: The West Highland Line and Glasgow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8: Edinburgh and the Borders Line

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

If that interests you I have two options to recommend.

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

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

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

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

Resources for Scotland Train Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Which train tickets can I buy in Scotland?

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

Which railcards can I use in Scotland?

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

What are the best rail travel planning websites?

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

What is the best train journey in Scotland?

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

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

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

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

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England and Scotland by Rail

A Britain Rail Tour – Experience the cities and landscapes of two great nations on this rail journey of discovery through England and Scotland. Travelling from vibrant London in the South to romantic Edinburgh in the North and back again your itinerary will take you through the historic cities of Oxford, Glasgow and York. Along the way you’ll experience scenic rail-rides through the rolling British countryside and enjoy hand-picked day tours to reach the rural sites and villages of the Cotswolds, the Lake District and Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park.

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After arriving in to Heathrow or Gatwick, validate your BritRail Passes and travel by rail to the historic university city of Oxford, your base for the next two nights. Here you can soak up the unique academic ambience and explore the lawns, quads and spires of renowned Oxford University which once inspired the likes of J.R.R. Tolkien and Oscar Wilde. Perhaps visit one or more of the famous colleges such as Magdalene and Christchurch or the Bodleian Library and New College Hall which were used as parts of Hogwarts in the "Harry Potter" movies.

Overnight: Oxford

Journey details: 20 minutes to London (via Gatwick/ Heathrow Express) followed by 1 hour to Oxford (approx.)*

Today is dedicated to exploring the quintessential English landscapes and villages of the Cotswolds – take a short rail ride from Oxford to the market town of Moreton-on Marsh. Meet your local driver to begin your scenic journey through the country lanes and rolling hills of the heart of England – your day will be packed with rustic Cotswold views and we’ll pause regularly to enjoy some of England’s prettiest settlements. Visit eccentrically named villages such as Upper Slaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold and Broadway each bustling with local markets, honey-coloured homes and thatch cottages.

Meals: Breakfast included

This morning board the train for a journey to the North of England and the rustic landscapes of Cumbria. Arriving in the beautiful market town of Windermere on the shores of the famous Lake Windermere make your way to your hotel to drop your bags. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming lakeside town – wander the local boutiques, visit The World of Beatrix Potter exhibition, hike along the shores of the lake or take a private boat or leisurely cruise along on the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere.

Overnight: Bowness-on-Windermere

Journey details: 4 hours 40 minutes (approx.)*

Today is dedicated to exploring the rugged landscapes of the Lake District with a local guide on a small-group tour of this spectacular region. Your journey will take you off the beaten track over mountain passes, through deep valleys and passing sparkling lakes. Along the way you’ll stop at one or more the traditional Lakeland towns or villages such as Grasmere or Keswick and take in some of the region’s most iconic spots such as Borrowdale Valley, Thirlmere and Castlerigg Stone Circle. The highlight will be an included boat trip on one of the lakes itself.

Board the train once more and head north through the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands on route to Scotland's largest city, Glasgow and your base for the next two nights. By contrast to the lakes, Glasgow is a vibrant city; explore the Victorian monuments of George Square, the bustling Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow Cathedral and necropolis, Kelvingrove Park and Museum before enjoying a vibrant Scottish nightlife around the fashionable bars of the Merchant City or the West End.

Overnight: Glasgow

Journey details: 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)*

Today enjoy a small-group excursion to for a taste of Scotland’s dramatic Highlands. Meet your driver and group in the heart of Glasgow then head north passing the historic town of Inveraray and its white-washed castle on route to Scotland’s scenic West Coast. Pause in Oban “Gateway-to-the-Isles” for lunch before continuing deep in to Glencoe Valley; one of the most eerily beautiful areas of Scotland and home to a tragic history of clan battles. By afternoon you’ll return south over the barren Rannoch Moor and along the banks of Scotland’s largest Loch, Loch Lomond.

Today make the short journey east to the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh. Explore this magnificent city from the winding streets of the cobbled Old Town to the wide avenues of the opulent Georgian New Town. Stroll past the Gothic Burns Monument and through Princes Street Gardens before climbing the Royal Mile to the city's centrepiece at the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and St Margaret's Chapel.

Overnight: Edinburgh

Journey details: 40 minutes (approx.)*

Today explore Edinburgh in more depth; perhaps enjoy a spot shopping along Princes Street, visit Scotland’s national museums and galleries or discover Royal Edinburgh with visits to the Palace of Holyrood House, the Queens Edinburgh residence, or the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith Docks, the official royal yacht for over forty years. By afternoon, take a short rail journey from Edinburgh to the historic town of Stirling, whose impressive castle was once the royal seat of Scotland. Alternatively, you could take an optional small group tour to St Andrews and the Fishing Villages of Fife.

Hop on the train and head south through the rolling hills of the Scottish Lowlands and rugged landscapes of Northumberland to York. This historic city is home to a wealth of historic and cultural sites to explore; wander the city from the cobbles of the famous Shambles (Britain’s first shopping street) to the medieval city walls, gates and towers. The highlight of course will be exploring the Gothic masterpiece at the iconic York Minster which dominates the city and marks York as the ecclesiastical capital of the North of England.

Overnight: York

Journey details: 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)*

Today you’ll be whisked south to London on the high-speed line; this will be your base for your final two nights offering you time to explore the stunning English Capital. London is a thriving metropolis with a vibrant modern culture and rich history and heritage. Explore world renowned sights including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square. In the east of the city you’ll find the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral. By evening why not take a flight on the London Eye for spectacular views of the city skyline.

Overnight: London

Journey details: 2 hours (approx.)*

Today explore London in more depth; culture vultures will delight in some of the world’s most prestigious museums and galleries including the Tate Modern, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum and the Imperial War Museum. You may choose to stroll through Hyde Park to the elegant Kensington Palace or simply enjoy the abundance of shopping opportunities the city has to offer; from the department stores of Oxford Street to the host of traditional street markets such as the one in Covent Garden.

Today bid farewell to the UK as you board the Heathrow or Gatwick Express rail links to take you back to your departure airport.

Oxford University, Oxford, England

Cotswolds village, England

The Lake District, Cumbria, England

Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow, Scotland

Glencoe, Scotland

Panoramic view of Edinburgh castle from Calton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Stirling Castle, Stirling, Scotland

York Minster, York, England

Westminster, London, England

Tower Bridge, London, England

*Journey times and distances are estimates and are based on the direct route between the start location and end location for each day of the itinerary, where applicable. They do not include detours or stops for sightseeing.

Map - England and Scotland by Rail 2024 + day tours

What's included

11 nights accommodation (suggested accommodations listed below).
Full cooked regional breakfast each morning
BritRail Flexi Passes (8 day) – Passes offer 8 separate days of travel on the British National Rail Network within a one-month period. Travel is fully flexible and completely unlimited on each day of use and will cover all outlined rail journeys including transit on the Heathrow or Gatwick Express rail links.
Famous Cotswolds or Cotswold Highlights tour from Moreton-in-Marsh.
Ten Lakes Spectacular Tour from Windermere, Lake District.
Oban, Glencoe, Highland Lochs and Castles tour from Glasgow.
Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh.
London hop-on-hop-off bus tour to explore the city.
Adeo travel documents pack and suggested rail schedule information for each of your point-to-point journeys including journey durations and departure stations and travel departure times etc.
Toll-free calls (from USA and Canada) to your Britain vacation specialist whilst planning your trip.
Expert assistance during the planning of your trip and local out-of-hours number for use during travel.

Our Selected Lodging

The Randolph (or similar), Oxford x 2 nights
Lindeth Howe Hotel (or similar), Windermere x 2 nights
Hotel Indigo (or similar), Glasgow x 2 nights
Bonham Hotel (or similar), Edinburgh x 2 nights
The Grand (or similar), York x 1 night
The Kensington (or similar), London x 2 nights

Wherever possible we select characterful accommodation representative of the destination where you're staying. We regularly personally visit and quality-check hotels across the country. The hotels listed are a representative selection of just some of the properties we work with, ask your consultant for their personal favourites and recommendations. Read more about the accommodation we offer by clicking here .

Optional extras

Upgrade your rail passes for First Class Travel – first class carriages are available on many inter-regional services across Britain.
Add a small group day-tour to St Andrews and the Fife from Edinburgh.
Purchase London Oyster travel cards for flexible travel around London on its underground rail network.

Customize this tour!

Add an extra night in York and enjoy a day-tour to the Yorkshire Dales or Moors.
Combine this tour with one of our other Britain rail tours.
Have your own rail travel expert accompany you on your tour.
Travel on the London Underground, the Glasgow Subway rail networks – these are separate to the national rail network and your Britail Passes will not be valid.
Taxis / transfers from train stations to your hotels – taxis are readily available at all major train stations in the UK and hotel receptions / concierges will be happy to call local taxi firms for collection on days of departure.
Trip Insurance – we ask that our guests purchase suitable cover in case planned travel is affected or disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances. More information on the benefits of trip insurance can be found here .
Flights – adeo Travel do not book air travel but are happy to offer advice on where to seek competitive airfare.
Meals and/or sightseeing other than that outlined above.

Departure Dates 2024/2025

This self-guided tour is customizable and can be taken at any time throughout the year and starting and ending on any day of the week - simply let us know your preferred dates of travel!

Pricing 2024/2025

Twin/Double - from GBP £2,495 per person. Single supplements apply for single occupancy rooms, please ask for a quotation for details.

Pricing Notes

Above pricing is an estimated "from" price based on shoulder-season travel (April/October). As this tour can be taken at any time pricing will vary dependent on departure day, date of travel, selected accommodations etc.
Above pricing is based on suggested accommodations listed however please note that we can tailor your specific quote to accommodate your budget and preferences.
Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room with one adult BritRail pass per person as specified. (Please enquire for single supplement)
Prices are for land only travel and do not include flights.
Prices are in GBP£ currency, for approximate amounts in other currencies please contact us.

BRITISH RAILWAY: TRAIN TICKETS, SCHEDULE & MAP

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The Man in Seat 61

Scotland's most scenic railway

The west highland line.

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

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

Where does the West Highland line go?

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

A winter ride on the West Highland line

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

Fort William to Mallaig

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

A brief history

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

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

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

Practical information

Times, fares & tickets.

London to Fort William by sleeper

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

Elsewhere in Britain to Fort William & Mallaig

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bus & ferry connections

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

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

- City break to Edinburgh by Caledonian Sleeper .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Short breaks to Scotland with Railbookers

West Highlands by luxury train: The Royal Scotsman

Britain's other scenic rail routes.

There are many other scenic routes in Britain, including:

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

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

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We've refreshed our website design so things may look a little different if you've been here before. We'll be making more improvements soon so watch this space.

Getting Around Scotland by Train FAQs

Travelling around Scotland by train is often a rewarding way to see the very best of the country. Once aboard a train, you can sit back and enjoy your journey to some incredible destinations.

A group of friends at Perth Train Station

Getting Around by Train Faqs

Top tip for train travel: you can get cheaper travel by booking your tickets in advance.

Glasgow Central Station

WHERE CAN I GO BY TRAIN?

There are rail connections to each of Scotland's eight cities. The rail network links many towns and villages across the country, with more options across the central belt.

You can buy tickets:

At train stations
At ticket machines
From major travel agents
Over the phone

If the ticket office at the station is closed, there is usually an automatic ticket machine, but you can also buy a ticket on board from the inspector using cash or a credit/debit card. However, the inspector cannot always issue discounted or special offer tickets.

There are five different types of train tickets available for most journeys:

Off-Peak tickets are valid on all trains at any time of day (until the trial ends, currently 27 Sept 2024).
Advance train tickets are available on selected routes, and can save you up to 60% on your journey.
First Class tickets allow for travel in quieter carriages with extra space and comfier seats.
Groupsave tickets allow for cheaper travel if you're travelling with a group of three or more.
Kids for a Quid tickets allow up to four children to travel for just £1 return each per paying adult.

Not sure which ticket to get? When you search for your journey, different tickets will be shown if available. Be sure to check the luggage, bicycle and animal guidelines in advance if you wish to use these facilities.

What's New

The new Levenmouth Rail Link opens on 2 June providing another sustainable travel option connecting passengers with Fife, Edinburgh and the wider Tay area. A daily service will run from Edinburgh to Leven and Cameron Bridge stations via Kirkcaldy with a travel time of 1 hour 15 minutes approx.

Learn more about the Levenmouth Rail Link

A couple enjoying an afternoon aboard the Borders steam train

DISCOUNT FARES AND PASSES

ScotRail trains offer ticket discounts for age, group travel, and advance bookings.

ScotRail also offer flexible travel passes and other passes for the benefits of travellers. These include:

Spirit of Scotland Travelpass - gives unlimited train travel within Scotland. The pass is also valid for some coach, subway and tram travel, and gives discounts on Northlink ferries to Orkney and Shetland, some tours and car hire.
Highland Rover and Central Scotland Rover - flexible tickets offering unlimited train travel in a particular region (Highlands or Central Scotland).
Rail and Sail tickets - combines rail and ferry tickets (to some islands) for great value in one ticket and can be purchased from ScotRail.

GLASGOW'S SUBWAY

Scotland's only subway is located in Glasgow and is known as 'the Clockwork Orange' due to its bright exterior. It's a cheap and efficient way to travel around the city and several stations also provide a park & ride facility.

Singles, returns, all day and 7-day tickets are available from all Subway ticket offices and automatic machines, but you can also purchase a Smartcard online from the Strathclyde Partnership for Transport .

The Borders Railway

TRAIN TRAVEL AROUND THE UK AND ON TO EUROPE

If Scotland is only a part of your itinerary, there are a range of passes available that allow unlimited travel across Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales.

You can purchase a BritRail pass before you leave your own country, through local travel agents or online. Look out for various discounts available for young travellers under the age of 26 or over the age of 60, and for families.

If you've been resident in a European country other than the UK for at least 6 months, an InterRail pass , allowing unlimited train travel within Britain, could save you money, if you're visiting Scotland as part of a longer European trip.

Plan a Scenic Train Trip

Travel in style on the Scottish railways and make the journey part of the adventure.

Train Holidays in Scotland - Getting Around by Rail

Hop onboard a train, sit back and enjoy your journey to some incredible destinations.

The ScotRail Highland Explorer carriage

ScotRail Temporary Timetable

From 10 July ScotRail is operating a temporary timetable to provide a more reliable service for passengers.

Consult the timetable before planning your journey.

Useful Information

Find out which destinations are on the rail network and get routes, timetables and tickets with ScotRail, as well as accessible train travel info.

Book train tickets with ScotRail

Find out which destinations are on the rail network and get routes, timetables and tickets.

ScotRail Accessible Travel

ScotRail is dedicated to assisting disabled customers and anyone who needs support to travel.

National Rail Accessible Travel

It's possible to reserve a seat which is accessible, or even book assistance at a train station. See accessibility information.

Accessible Travel Hub

The Accessible Travel Hub can provide you with information and resources about accessible travel in Scotland.

Thistle Assistance App

Download the Thistle Assistance app to help you during your journey.

At some train stations in Glasgow and Stirling you can pick up bicycles at nextbike at any time of the day.

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One-week scenic Scotland by train itinerary

Posted on Last updated: July 8, 2024

Explore Scotland by train in just one week on this Scottish rail itinerary featuring castles, lochs and mountains as you travel from Edinburgh and Glasgow to the Highlands and Isle of Skye.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

One-week scenic Scotland by train itinerary

Travel across Scotland by train from the lowlands to the highlands, with historic cities, ruined castles, deep blue lochs, mountain peaks and wild moorland along the way. This one-week railway journey takes you from the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and heads north into the Scottish Highlands, crossing to the magical Isle of Skye before finishing in Inverness – and includes two of the UK’s most spectacular rail routes.

The Scenic Scotland by train one-week itinerary will show you which trains to take, how much they cost, how to book and what to see, do and where to stay along the way.

One-week scenic Scotland by train itinerary map

Day 1: Edinburgh

Start your Scotland by train trip with a full day in Edinburgh. Visit the historic highlights of the Old Town – listen to bagpipers on the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, learn about Scotland’s history at the National Museum of Scotland, hear the One O’clock Gun being fired at Edinburgh Castle, take a tour of the Queen’s Scottish residence the Palace of Holyroodhouse, or follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter on Victoria Street.

Alternatively head across to the wide Georgian streets of the New Town to admire the artworks at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, climb to the top of the Scott Monument, wander along the leafy Water of Leith or watch the sun set from Calton Hill.

Or why not check out some of Edinburgh’s more unusual attractions ? You can go underground to the buried streets of Mary King’s Close , visit the gory Surgeons’ Hall Museum (if you’re not too squeamish) or take an evening ghost tour.

Edinburgh’s an unexpected gem for foodies, with a range of food and drink tours where you can try local delicacies – from handmade chocolates and Scottish cheeses to whisky tasting at the Scotch Whisky Experience * and distillery tours at Edinburgh Gin.

Where to stay in Edinburgh: Splash out on a stay on the Royal Mile at the gloriously over-the-top Witchery by the Castle *. This 16th-century Gothic hotel has nine suites with four-poster beds and rolltop baths, eclectically decorated with antiques, artworks, gilt and velvet. It’s full of old-school glamour, with one of the city’s most romantic restaurants.

Read more: A weekend in Edinburgh: 2-day Edinburgh itinerary

Day 2: Edinburgh > Glasgow

Next morning, catch a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Central/Queen Street (a short walk from each other). The journey only takes an hour and trains run frequently, so you can decide how early you want to leave. Then spend the rest of the day in Glasgow.

Where Edinburgh is all about history, Scotland’s second city has a bit more of an edge, and has transformed itself from an industrial centre to a city of art and culture. Admire the Art Nouveau designs of Glasgow’s famous son Charles Rennie Mackintosh at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum or over afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms.

Or explore some of the city’s more contemporary artworks on the City Centre Mural Trail , a self-guided walk through Glasgow which links 25 works by different local artists.

Artwork on Glasgow's City Centre Mural Trail

Take a walk along the River Clyde past the modern architecture of the SSE Hydro and Armadillo to the quirky Riverside transport museum, where you can take a tour of the Glenlee , a restored tall ship that’s one of just a few built on the Clyde that are still afloat.

Or visit Scotland’s oldest museum, the Hunterian, on the campus of the University of Glasgow, and explore the city’s medieval cathedral and atmospheric hillside Necropolis.

Where to stay in Glasgow: The Grasshopper Hotel * couldn’t be better located for train travellers – right next door to Glasgow Central Station, close to Merchant City’s shops, bars and restaurants. Rooms are smart and comfortable, with penthouse views over the city and special touches like handmade wallpapers, vintage cameras and free cupcakes.

Read more: A weekend in Glasgow: A 48-hour Glasgow itinerary

Day 3: Glasgow > Fort William

Then head north on the 3 hour 45 minute journey to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, departing Glasgow Queen Street at 08.21 and arriving in Fort William at 12.08.

The West Highland Line is one of the world’s most scenic train trips, which runs along the banks of Loch Lomond, around Horseshoe Curve at Ben Dorain, past the UK’s highest altitude train station in Corrour (as featured in the film Trainspotting ) and across remote Rannoch Moor on a line suspended above a peat bog.

Fort William is set on the banks of Loch Linnhe in the shadow of the UK’s highest mountain – Ben Nevis – making the town a real hub for hikers, bikers and other adventure-seekers. The climb to the top of Ben Nevis takes five–seven hours, weather permitting, so you might have to add in an extra day to your trip if you want to tackle the peak.

Train near Bridge of Orchy on the West Highland Line in Scotland

If you fancy something more sedate, it’s a pretty 1.5-mile walk along the River Lochy to the ruins of 13th-century Old Inverlochy Castle and the Ben Nevis Distillery, where you can do a tour and tasting of their whiskies. You can also learn more about the history of the Highlands (and see Rob Roy’s sporran) at Fort William’s West Highland Museum.

Where to stay in Fort William: Spend the night behind bars in former police station The Garrison * in the centre of town. Choose from a modern en-suite room, or an original cell that’s been converted into compact double or bunk room with shared bathroom.

Read more: 13 things to do in Fort William and Glencoe

The ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle near Fort William in Scotland

Day 4: Fort William > Isle of Skye

The following day, reboard the West Highland Line for the 1.5-hour journey from Fort William to Mallaig across the curving Glenfinnan Viaduct and past lochs and the sandy beaches of Morar. If you depart Fort William at 08.15 you arrive in Mallaig at 09.38.

Or from April–October you can also ride the Jacobite steam train , better known as the Hogwarts Express (departs Fort William at 10.15 and arrives Mallaig at 12.26).

Then swap the train for the ferry to the Isle of Skye. Ferry times vary throughout the year, with 8–10 sailings a day in summer. If you have time for lunch before you sail, try locally caught prawns or fish and chips at Mallaig’s Fishmarket Restaurant.

The ferry from Mallaig takes 45 minutes to reach Armadale in Skye. From Armadale you can catch the 52 bus to Portree (changing in Broadford), but buses are slow and infrequent so it may be worth taking a taxi if there are a group of you – it takes an hour and costs around £90–£100, but you do need to book taxis well in advance.

The Jacobite steam train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct

Portree is the capital and largest town on the Isle of Skye, set around a picturesque harbour with pastel-painted houses and surrounded by hills. It’s the hub of transport and tours for the island, and a good place to shop for souvenirs, with local producers including the Isle of Skye Soap Co, Skyeskyns and Isle of Skye Distillers all having shops in town.

Where to stay in Portree: The Cuillin Hills Hotel * is half a mile outside of Portree but comes with knockout views across the Bay of Portree to the Cuillin Mountains from its 15-acre gardens. Inside are traditional Scottish touches, from tartan fabrics to local seafood in the restaurant and a malt whisky bar with over 130 varieties to choose from.

Read more: Isle of Skye itinerary: The best of the island in 3 days

Day 5: Isle of Skye

Today you have the whole day to explore the Isle of Skye – buses connect Portree with many parts of the island, but it’s easier option to either hire a car for the day (book in advance as availability’s limited) or take a guided day tour of Skye’s highlights. A small group day tour * (£80 per person) departs Portree at 9am and returns at 6pm.

The Isle of Skye is known for its magical landscapes, with dramatic rock formations around the Quiraing which look like something from another planet (and are a film location favourite). Admire the 200-foot Old Man of Storr and the steep cliffs at Kilt Rock.

Visit the lighthouse at Neist Point and look out for dolphins and whales, or tour imposing lochside Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.

Skye has plenty of myths and legends – get away with the fairies at the Fairy Glen, a grassy glen with rock spirals and ancient trees dripping with moss. Or follow the 1.5-mile path to the Fairy Pools with their clear green waters and cascading waterfalls.

The Fairy Pools waterfalls in the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Day 6: Isle of Skye > Inverness

The next day, catch the CityLink bus from Portree to Kyle of Lochalsh, where you pick up the train for the journey to Inverness. There are a couple of different options – the number 915 bus from Portree Square departs at 10.35 and arrives in Kyle at 11.36.

Or if you’d like to visit nearby Eilean Donan Castle, catch the earlier 07.30 bus from Portree to Dornie, arriving at 08.48. Spend a few hours at the castle before travelling back to Kyle of Lochalsh on the 11.44 service (which takes around 15 minutes).

Then catch the 13.46 train from Kyle of Lochalsh for the 2 hour 40 minute journey to Inverness, arriving at 16.27. The Kyle Line is another of the UK’s top scenic train routes. Opened in 1870, it runs through remote landscapes, following the coast with views of Syke, across moorland and past the Torridon Peaks – keep an eye out for deer on the way.

Views from the Kyle Line train to Inverness

Spend the evening in Inverness – capital of the Highlands. Follow the path along the River Ness to the Ness Islands, a group of tree-covered islands connected by elegant Victorian footbridges. Or head up to Inverness Castle to watch the sun set over the city, before checking out some of Inverness’ live music scene at pubs like Hootananny.

Where to stay in Inverness: End your trip in style with a night at the five-star Rocpool Reserve *. This Georgian house has been converted into a lavish boutique hotel with bar and restaurant. Its luxurious rooms come with Egyptian cotton bedding, emperor-size beds and 24-hour room service – and some have outdoor hot tubs, saunas or balconies.

Read more: A weekend in Inverness: A 48-hour Inverness itinerary

Day 7: Inverness

Spend the final morning of your Scotland by train trip seeing more of Inverness. Learn about the history and culture of the Highlands at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery and shop for secondhand books at Leakley’s. Or if you have time you can take a half-day trip out to either Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle , or the battlefield at Culloden.

Then if you’re flying back home, Inverness Airport is 10 miles north of the city. The two are connected by the 11 bus, which takes around 35 minutes. Or if you’re travelling back to Edinburgh, the train journey from Inverness takes 3.5 hours. There’s also the Caledonian Sleeper overnight train which connect Inverness to London in around 11 hours.

If you have more time, you could head north to John O-Groats – most northerly point of mainland Britain – Caithness and the Cromarty Firth on a day tour * from Inverness. Or catch the train south to Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park for mountain hikes in summer, skiing in winter and the Strathspey Steam Railway. There are also plenty more Scottish cities to discover nearby, including Dundee, Aberdeen and St Andrews .

How much does it cost?

When you’re planning a Scottish rail trip, you can either book individual tickets or get a railpass, which can be a better deal if you’re under 28/over 60, want more flexibility or are booking late. Here’s how prices break down for the two different options on this route.

Individual tickets

Ticket prices depend on how early you book and if you’re booking a specific train or want to be flexible. There are three main fare categories: Advance, Off-Peak or Anytime. Advance are cheapest and can be booked 8–12 weeks in advance, but are non-transferable so you’re tied to a specific train. Off-Peak services are valid on any train outside weekday peak hours. And Anytime are most expensive but can be bought on the day and used on any train.

Using the cheapest Advance fares, the cost of trains on this route starts at £69 per person:

Edinburgh > Glasgow: from £14.70
Glasgow > Fort William: from £26.60
Fort William > Mallaig: from £8.20 (£65 for The Jacobite )
Mallaig > Armadale (by ferry): from £3.20
Kyle of Lochalsh > Inverness: from £15.90

You can also save a third on all rail fares with a Railcard *. These cost £30 with different versions for 16–25s, 25–30s, Seniors and Disabled People. You can also get a Two Together railcard for two named adults travelling together, or a Friends and Family Railcard for up to four adults and four children. Both UK and overseas residents are eligible.

The railpass option

There are various rail passes available, and which you’re eligible for depends on where you live. If you live outside the UK, you can can get a InterRail/Eurail pass (InterRail is for European residents and Eurail is for non-European residents).

For the Scotland by train itinerary, the best InterRail / Eurail option is the One Country Great Britain pass for 4 travel days within 1 month , which costs £199 for adults, £167 for youths aged 12–27 or £179 for seniors in second class.

ScotRail also offers its own rail passes, which are available to both UK and overseas residents. The best option for this itinerary is the Spirit of Scotland Pass for 4 days within 8 days , with unlimited travel by train, ferry and coach. It costs £149 for adults and is half price for children aged 5–15, with discounts for Railcard holders.

Passholders are recommended to make seat reservations – though it’s probably only worth doing for long-distance services or at busy peak times so you’re guaranteed a seat – which you can do for free at any UK train station up to two hours before departure.

Please note The Jacobite steam train is privately owned so isn’t covered by any rail passes.

Outside Inverness Castle and statue of Flora MacDonald

How to book

There are a variety of websites where you can book UK train journeys, but some charge a booking fee. To avoid fees you can book direct with ScotRail and either use a mobile ticket on your phone or collect them from a ticket machine or a counter at the station. Or if you have an international credit card you can book with The Trainline for a small fee.

Don’t want to do it yourself? You can also book a custom trip based on this Scenic Scotland by train itinerary through our partners Byway ,* the flight-free holiday platform, including train travel and accommodation.

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Explore Scotland by train in just one week on this Scottish rail itinerary featuring castles, lochs and mountains as you travel from Edinburgh and Glasgow to the Highlands and Isle of Skye | Scotland by train | Scotland rail trip | Scotland itinerary

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Steve & Sally Barkley

Tuesday 30th of July 2024

Hello- We are seniors from the US and would like to start a train tour in Inverness to Skye, then Skye to Glasgow with an overnight stay at Cameron House on Loch Lamond on 9/21. Would we take to train to Glasgow and then find transportation to Cameron House? We would return to Glasgow for a night then a train to Edinburgh. Would you recommend the Spirit of Scotland pass for this travel? Can you advise the best train routes. We would start in Inverness on Sept. 20 and would need to be in Edinburgh by 9/24. Is this workable? Thank you in advance for your help.

Tuesday 6th of August 2024

@Lucy Dodsworth, Hi- Thank you for your advice and we agree. Thinking now to start in Glasgow, take the train to Mallaig and then return to Loch Lomond. After Loch Lomond travel to Inverness and then do a day trip to Kyle with a return to Inverness, then the next day travel to Edinburgh. Does this make more sense time wise and still provide the scenic travel?

Lucy Dodsworth

Monday 5th of August 2024

Hi there, I think the first part of the trip would be very tight if you don't leave Inverness on the 20th Sept and need to be in Loch Lomond on the 21st as you wouldn't have any time to see Skye (there are no trains on Skye and the buses are limited so I would usually recommend 2/3 days minimum to make the connection to Glasgow).

Sunday 21st of January 2024

Hi Lucy, Thanks a lot for this itinerary, looks great. We are actually planning a week in Scotland in May. We are not really interested in Glasgow and we were thinking about making our first stop after Edinburgh at Tarbet (have a cruise on the Loch and walk around) Can you let me know your opinion and any suggestion ? Thanks a lot. Serge

Monday 22nd of January 2024

Hi Serge, yes you could definitely swap that in. It's 2.5 hours by train from Edinburgh to Arrochar and Tarbet (with a change in Glasgow), so if you took a morning train on Day 2 you could do a boat trip in the afternoon and stay the night there, then catch the train to Fort William the next day which is 2.5 hours and carry on the itinerary from there.

Monday 15th of January 2024

Great itinerary! I am considering taking the train from Glasgow to Mallaig, ferry to Armadale and bus to Portlee in one day next month. How do the buses run from Armadale to Portlee this time of year? Are there tours of Skye running in February? I'm planning on a three day stay in Portlee. Any suggestions?

Hi Tim, there are buses Stagcoach 52 buses between Armadale and Portree but they're not very frequent this time of year to you would need to time it carefully (timetable here: https://tiscon-maps-stagecoachbus.s3.amazonaws.com/Timetables/North%20Scotland/Highlands/Skye%20Revised%202022.pdf). You would probably need to take a private tour in February – try Real Scottish Journeys who do winter tours.

Sunday 7th of January 2024

Hi, Great itinerary. Would like to go Glasgow to Oban, Oban to Fort William. What is the best way Oban to Fort William. Additionally, recommend a stop between Inverness and Edinburgh. Thanks

Sunday 4th of February 2024

@Karen, Thank you Lucy for your insight. Any thoughts on the Spirit of Scotland pass? In short,we are two seniors traveling, Edinburgh to Glasgow,train, to Oban,train,to Ft. William,bus,to Skye,train,taxi to Dorrie,bus,Kyle of Lock to Inverness,train, Inverness to Edinburgh,train. In April. I tried to add up separate fares,still confusing.Need flexibility in case of changes.Also, is it advisable to reserve a seat on the Ft. William to Mallaig , ferry section. Would appreciate your guidance

Hi, Oban to Fort William is slow by train (4 hours) but you can take the West Coast Motors 918 bus instead which is less than two hours. It does only run a couple of times a day though (https://passenger-line-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/westcoastmotors/WCMO/918-timetable-20220815-14e38acb.pdf). Between Inverness and Edinburgh you could stop off in Aviemore to see the Cairngorms, or do a short diversion to Leuchars to visit St Andrews which is a lovely city.

Saturday 6th of January 2024

Thank you for your helpful ideas. We will be touring Scotland by train in late April using a very similar itinerary. We plan to purchase the Spirit of Scotland Rail pass. Once I purchase that, am I able to reserve seats for the various legs of the train journey? We live in the US, so I need to do everything I can online. On the Scotrail website, it looks like I need to buy individual tickets in order to get a seat reservation online. If we can't make seat reservations, do we just arrive early to help guarantee we get on the desired train? Thank you for any insight on reserving seats with the Spirit of Scotland Rail pass!

Hi, you don't need to make seat reservations with the Spirit of Scotland pass, and a lot of trains don't take reservations. The ones that do on this route are Glasgow > Fort William and Inverness > Edinburgh – you can't reserve online using the pass but you can do it at stations, so could make reservations when you first get to Scotland, or call 0344 811 0141 when you arrive in the UK.

See the best of Britain by train (2 week itinerary + maps & tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 19, 2024

Follow our 14-day itinerary to see the best of Britain by train including top destinations in England, Wales and Scotland. We’ve done all the planning so you don’t have to!

Do you have 14 days to explore Britain but are struggling to put together an itinerary? Not sure what places to include or how to get around? You will find everything you need to know to see the best of Britain by train in this article.

We have included 5 of Britain’s most popular destinations in 3 countries – London, Bath, Cardiff, Edinburgh, and York with the option of choosing between 2 others -the Lake District and Liverpool – on days 7 and 8.

For each destination included in the itinerary, you will find recommendations of what to do and see, accommodation suggestions, and logistics plus practical details and tips to ensure your 14-day train trip around England, Wales and Scotland is everything you dream of.

I have also included a map illustrating the points of travel, the distance between destinations, and the estimated travel time for each leg of the journey.

Good to know! For non-UK citizens we recommend purchasing a BritRail Pass or the Eurail Global Rail Pass for this 2-week itinerary – click to find out more about BritRail passes & Eurail Global Rail Passes or here to read our comparison guide.

Britain by train - 14 day itinerary map.

Days 1 – 3 London

Day 4 london – bath, day 5 bath (day trip – cotswolds or stonehenge), day 6 bath – cardiff, day 7 cardiff – liverpool or lake district, day 8 – liverpool or lake district, day 9 liverpool or lake district to edinburgh, day 10 edinburgh, day 11 edinburgh (or day trip), scotland by rail itinerary, day 12 edinburgh to york, day 13 – york, day 14 – york to london, listen to our introduction to uk train travel podcast, what train cards or passes are recommended for this uk train travel itinerary, where can i buy train tickets, what do i need to know about travelling the uk by train, can i take luggage on uk trains.

Are any of the UK's scenic train routes included in this itinerary?

Enjoy your UK train travel adventure

See britain by train with our 14 day itinerary.

A minimum of 3 days in London is recommended especially if it is your first visit to the city . This will give you enough time to see the main London landmarks and tick some attractions off your London bucket list.

This 14-day Best of Britain by train itinerary begins with Days 1/2 and 3 in London and ends on Day 14 back in the capital. Depending on your flight or onward travel itinerary, you may have some flexibility to add a few more sights in London .

London Day 1

I recommend spending your first day visiting some of the most popular London attractions, landmarks, and sights.

If you are feeling energetic a self-directed walking tour of the main sights located in central London is one option.

Alternatively, consider booking a guided tour. We recommend the London In a Day: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & Changing of the Guard tour from Take Walks . This comprehensive tour is dedicated to the quintessential sights of the city: Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, Changing of the Guard, a Thames river cruise, and a full Tower of London tour with access to the Crown Jewels.

If you prefer to take it easy on your first day (don’t discount the effects of jetlag), a hop-on hop-off bus tour is another option and a great way to orient yourself with the city.

London Day 2

If you did not visit the Tower of London on Day 1 I would recommend starting your morning by exploring this ancient and historic landmark.

Afterwards, walk to the 43rd floor of the Walkie-Talkie building for lunch at the Sky Garden (London’s highest public garden). Entry to the Sky Garden is free but it is essential to book tickets ahead of your visit.

In the vicinity of the Sky Garden are 4 other landmarks and buildings worth visiting – St Dunstan in the East Church Garden, Pudding Lane, St Paul’s Cathedral, and Leadenhall Market.

After exploring the area jump on the Central Line at St Paul’s changing at Holborn for the Piccadilly Line to Covent Garden. Enjoy the street entertainment, shops, and attractions around Covent Garden before dinner and a show.

London Day 3

Today I recommend visiting the British Museum in the morning. The museum is always busy so try to arrive as early in the day as possible. I recommend purchasing a ticket that enables you to skip the line so you don’t waste precious vacation time in a queue.

If you are visiting with children we recommend this private customised family-friendly tour of the museum with a special children’s guide. During the 2 hour tour, you will enjoy favourite displays such as the Egyptian mummies and the Rosetta Stone with your guide.

For your final afternoon in the city, I have a few alternatives depending on your interests.

If you enjoy shopping head to Harrods. If you enjoy history a trip to Churchill’s War Rooms is a great option. If you have young kids head to London Zoo or – if they are up for another museum – the Natural History Museum in South Kensington. If you have visited London previously and are seeking something different I highly recommend jumping on the Thames Clipper to Greenwich.

For those of you with specific interests, this may also be a great time to do a themed tour – Harry Potter, James Bond, Jack the Ripper are some examples of the themed walking tours available in London .

These are just a few ideas for your first 3 days in London – please see our detailed itinerary posts for more.

View of 2 people standing with umbrellas opposite the Houses of Parliament in London.

On Day 4 depart London for the South West of England and one of England’s most beautiful and oldest cities – Bath!

For centuries Bath’s naturally warm and mineral-rich waters attracted those who sought its curative powers and potential for rejuvenation.

Roman Baths constructed nearly 2000 years ago, stunning Georgian architecture, a museum dedicated to Jane Austen and numerous boutiques, independent shops and tea houses are just some of the attractions of the city.

Tip – Take an early train from London and you will have most of the day to explore.

🌟 Highlights of Bath

Roman Baths
Royal Crescent
Jane Austen Centre

Read more – One day Bath Itinerary – follow our one day in Bath itinerary to see the cities sights, attractions and landmarks.

Read more – Bath Travel Guide – our complete guide to visiting Bath including accommodation suggestions, where to eat, and what to read before you visit.

🗺 Logistics London – Bath

London to Bath travel time by train is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Depart London Paddington (Platform 5 typically) arrives Bath Spa (Platform 1 typically)
This is a direct train service with Great Western Railways

🏨 Accommodation options in Bath

Best luxury spa hotel in Bath – The Gainsborough Bath Spa is a luxury 5* hotel and the only UK hotel to have access to naturally heated thermal waters within its Spa Village.
Best mid-range hotel in Bath – Eight is a small independent boutique hotel in the centre of Bath.
Best budget option in Bath – Grays is a boutique B&B situated in an imposing semi-detached Victorian villa located 15 minutes from the centre of Bath.
Find more options in my guide to the best places to stay in Bath

On day 5 you have a few options. Bath is close to two of England’s most popular destinations and I highly recommend including at least one of them in your itinerary.

Your options are

Spend another day exploring Bath OR

Take a day tour from Bath and explore the beautiful Cotswold villages and/or Stonehenge OR
Travel independently taking the train from Bath to Salisbury and catch the Stonehenge tour bus from there.

We will explore these options in more detail so you can decide which you prefer.

☂️ Day tour options from Bath

I have picked the best day tour options to the Cotswolds available from Bath. Stonehenge is also included in some of these tours.

If you decide to include both destinations (Cotswolds & Stonehenge) in one tour bear in mind that you will have less tim e to explore the Cotswolds but this may be the best option if you really want to see both.

It is possible to travel to Stonehenge independently using public transport from Bath to Salisbury (and onto Stonehenge) but I have included some day tours too so you can choose the best option for your needs.

Day tours from Bath to the Cotswolds

‘Stonehenge & Secret England’ Private Full-Day Tour from Bath – Private tour to Stonehenge then personalize your sightseeing to visit castles or gardens, or take a film location tour of medieval villages featured in ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘Downton Abbey,’ and other hits.
Full-day private Cotswolds tour from Bath – Explore idyllic villages and famous Cotswold towns on this 9-hour full-day tour. This will give you a wonderful overview and experience of what the Cotswolds is all about.

Day tour from Bath including Stonehenge

Stonehenge, Avebury stone circles & stunning Cotswold Villages – Full-day tour which includes the beautiful villages of Lacock and Castle Combe.

Day tours from Bath to Stonehenge

Stonehenge Private Tour (Half-Day Tour from Bath) – Includes a detailed guide to Stonehenge and private end-to-end transportation from your Bath hotel.
Bespoke private tours of Stonehenge and Avebury by car with a local guide – Half or full-day tour to the prehistoric stone circles at Stonehenge and Avebury.

🗺 Logistics – Bath to Salisbury (Stonehenge)

Bath to Salisbury travel time by train is approximately 1 hour
Depart Bath Spa arrives in Salisbury

Britain by train - 14 day itinerary map showing day 6 of 14 - Bath to Cardiff.

On day 6 hop on the train for a journey of just over an hour to a new country – Wales . The Welsh capital of Cardiff is the buzzing centre of this Celtic nation.

Crammed with cultural hotspots, charming Victorian architecture, a rich history, impressive castles, and modern urban hangouts, Cardiff has a whole heap of things for visitors to do and see.

🌟 Highlights of Cardiff

Cardiff Castle
Sail Cardiff Bay
Stroll the Centenary Walk through the city
Take a themed Dr Who or Gavin & Stacey tour

🗺 Logistics Bath – Cardiff

Bath to Cardiff travel time by train is approximately 1 hour 12 minutes
Depart Bath Spa (Platform 1 typically) arrives Cardiff Central (Platform 3/4 typically)

🏨 Accommodation options on Cardiff

Best luxury spa hotel in Cardiff – Voco St David’s Hotel is a waterfront hotel with balconies, bay views, and a luxury spa.
Best mid-range hotels in Cardiff – 4* Hotel Indigo Cardiff offers modern accommodation and a rather splendid Marco Pierre White restaurant!
Best budget option in Cardiff – Hotel Number One Hundred is a boutique-style B&B offering superb value for money.

On Day 7 you can choose to either spend a few days exploring the city of Liverpool or alternatively a rural experience in the beautiful Lake District.

If you are a fan of the Beatles Liverpool is the must-visit destination. Take the Magical Mystery tour and visit the childhood homes of Paul and John before dancing the night away at the Cavern Club.

Alternatively head to the Lake District and explore its stunning lakes and mountains, quaint towns and villages , from your base in Windermere .

Britain by train - 14 day itinerary map showing day 7 of 14 - Cardiff to Liverpool.

🗺 Logistics Cardiff – Liverpool

Cardiff Central to Liverpool Lime Street travel time by train is approximately 3 hours 25 mins.
Depart Cardiff Central (Platform 1/2 typically) arrives Crewe (platform 6 change trains and depart at platform 6) to Liverpool Lime Street (Platform 9 typically)
There is one change required at Crewe. Transport for Wales trains from Cardiff to Crewe and then Crewe to Liverpool on Avanti West Coast

🏨 Accommodation in Liverpool

Best Liverpool Hotel for Beatles fans – The Hard Days Night Hotel is decorated with Beatles memorabilia and located around the corner from the Cavern Club – our number one choice when staying in Liverpool.
Best mid-range hotel in Liverpool – The Titanic Hotel is located in a historic warehouse in the UNESCO World Heritage Stanley Dock. Spacious rooms in a unique setting.
Best budget option in Liverpool – The Resident Liverpool offers affordable accommodation in a central location.

⭐️ Find more options in my area & accommodation guide to Liverpool

Lake District

🗺 Logistics Cardiff – Lake District

Cardiff to Windermere in the Lake District train time is approximately 6 hours with 2 changes required.
Depart Cardiff arrives Windermere
Change at Crewe (arrive and depart platform 6) and catch the Avanti West Coast to Lancaster (arrive and depart from platform 3) on Northern Trains to Windermere (Platform 1).

🏨 Accommodation in the Lake District

Best luxury hotel in Windermere – Macdonald Old English Hotel and Spa is a luxury 5* hotel and spa perched on the shores of Lake Windermere.
Best mid-range hotel in Windermere – Cragwood Country House Hotel is located in stunning gardens on the shores of Lake Windermere. It offers spacious rooms, exceptional food, and a relaxing experience for guests.
Best budget (ish) hotel in Windermere – The 3* Windermere Manor Hotel is an 1850’s stone manor house offering dog-friendly accommodation.

Tip – More accommodation options can be found in my guide to the best places to stay in Lake Windermere

Liverpool versus the Lake District illustration.

🌟 Highlights of Liverpool

Albert Dock
Beatles Tour
Tate Modern
Enjoy a football match

Read more – Liverpool Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary & map

🌟 Highlights of the Lake District

Boat trip across Windermere
Take a Hike and enjoy stunning views
Visit Hill Top the former home of Beatrix Potter
Enjoy a drink in an English pub

Read more – Lake District Travel Guide

On day 9 travel from Liverpool or the Lake District to Edinburgh. Journey time from both departure points is around 3 – 4 hours so you will arrive in plenty of time to start exploring the sights of Edinburgh.

Top tip – Book a hotel near the train station, drop your bags, and head out to the Royal Mile and soak in the atmosphere of the Scottish capital. This hop-on-hop-off bus pass is great to explore Edinburgh at your own pace with a 3-route tour ticket.

🗺 Logistics – Liverpool to Edinburgh

Liverpool Lime Street to Edinburgh travel time by train is approximately 3 hours 45 minutes
Depart Liverpool Lime Street arrives Edinburgh
One change at Preston in Lancashire.

🗺 Logistics – Windermere to Edinburgh

Windermere to Edinburgh travel time by train is approximately 3 hours 10 minutes.
Depart Windermere arrives Edinburgh Waverley
Depending on time of travel 1 or 2 changes at Oxenholme in the Lake District (and possibly an additional change at Carlisle) .

🏨 Accommodation in Edinburgh

Best luxury hotel in Edinburgh – The Balmoral is a luxury 5* hotel
Best mid-range hotel in Edinburgh – Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre
Best budget option in Edinburgh – Elder York Guest House

Scotland’s capital is historically rich and scenically beautiful. The winding cobblestone streets of its Old Town offer quaint medieval charm which is contrasted by the New Town, the very epitome of Georgian style.

There is culture and history around every corner and numerous landmarks, sights, and attractions to explore.

🌟 Highlights of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle
Walk the Royal Mile
Shop on Princes Street
Enjoy the views from Arthur’s Seat

☂️ Best day trips from Edinburgh

There are some fantastic day trips you can do from Edinburgh. You could hire a car for the day but we recommend either jumping on the train or taking an organised tour especially if you want to fit as much as possible into your day.

Destinations which can be reached easily by train from Edinburgh in 2 hours or less include:

St Andrews (1½ hours)
South Queensferry (30 mins)
The Kelpies & Helix Park (1 hour)
Glasgow (1 hour)
Pitlochry (2 hours)
Linlithgow Palace (20 mins)
Dundee (1 hour 30 mins)
Stirling Castle (1 hour)
Loch Lomond (1 hour 40 mins)

We recommend the following day tours from Edinburgh:

Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour – Escape the city for the day and head to the Scottish Highlands. Follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous wizard, Harry Potter, and jump on board the Hogwarts Express on an unforgettable journey on the Jacobite Steam Train.
Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Tour from Edinburgh – Enjoy a full-day tour and experience some of the most dramatic scenery the Scottish Highlands has to offer. Spend time at mysterious Glencoe and have the chance to enjoy a cruise on Loch Ness and a visit to Urquhart Castle.
Loch Lomond, Kelpies, and Stirling Castle Small-Group Tour – Discover the Scottish Highlands on a full-day small-group tour, and see forests, lochs, and stunning mountains. Explore Scotland’s history and learn about its greatest heroes with visits to Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and more.
Loch Ness, Highlands & Whisky Distillery Tour – Experience the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands on a full-day coach tour to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Trossachs National Park. Go to a working whisky distillery for an optional tasting. Stop for lunch in Fort Augustus and more.

Why not combine this best of Britain by rail itinerary with our Scotland rail itinerary?

We have done the work for you and produced a 21 day + plus complete UK rail itinerary which includes the best of England, Scotland and Wales.

UK rail trip - 14 day itinerary map showing day 12 of 14 - Edinburgh to York.

On Day 12 depart Edinburgh for York. This ancient city is located halfway between Edinburgh and London and its medieval city walls, museums, and shops make this the perfect destination for the last stop on your 14-day tour of Britain.

Journey time is around 2½ hours.

Good to know – Book a seat on the left side of the train (facing direction of travel) for views of the beautiful Northumberland coastline as you journey towards Newcastle and look out for the iconic Angel of the North after departure.

The train passes through Durham and Darlington before arriving in York.

🗺 Logistics Edinburgh – York

Edinburgh Waverley to York travel time by train is approximately 2 hour 25 minutes
Depart Edinburgh Waverley arrives York
This is a direct train service with London North Eastern Railway (LNER)

🏨 Accommodation in York

Best luxury hotel in York – The Grand York is the only 5* hotel in York. Chic, luxury rooms in a grand Edwardian hotel.
Best mid-range hotel in York – The Bar Convent is England’s oldest living convent and one of the most unique places to stay in York.
Best budget option in York – Wheatlands Lodge offers good value accommodation only 5 minutes walk away from York train station.

🌟 Highlights of York

York Minster
Walk the Walls
The Shambles
The Jorvik Viking Centre

🗺 Logistics York – London

York to London Kings Cross travel time by train is approximately 2 hours 10 minutes
Depart York arrives London King’s Cross
This is a direct train service with LNER

FAQs – Travelling the UK by train

If you are considering following this UK rail trip itinerary the easiest and most cost-effective way to travel is to either purchase a BritRail Pass or a Global Eurail Pass . These tickets are only available for overseas visitors so buy them before you arrive.

What are the advantages of purchasing a BritRail Pass?

The Britrail M-Pass is an electronic rail pass that can be downloaded directly onto your phone. Also available to print as a PDF copy if you prefer.
No need to stress over searching for ticket prices and booking each leg of your journey separately.
No need to stick to a rigid timetable as you can travel as much as you like on each day your BritRail Pass is valid.
Easier than searching for ticket prices for every leg of the journey.
Cheaper than buying individual tickets.
Children travel free with most passes. A family of 4 will only pay for 2 adults.
No queuing at ticket offices to purchase your ticket – just head to the platform and hop on the train.
Airport transfers by rail are included (Heathrow Express, Gatwick Express, and the Stansted Express)

For the itinerary above I recommend purchasing a Britrail GB M-Pass or a Global Eurail Pass as these passes enable unlimited travel across the full length of England, Wales, and Scotland.

I recommend comparing these passes before you buy as you may find one is more cost-effective for your trip.

Click for more information and to purchase BritRail Passes

Click for more information and to purchase a Global Eurail Pass

For this 2 week itinerary, I recommend purchasing a Britrail Pass or a Global Eurail Pass .

If you are planning to take a limited number of train trips purchasing individual tickets may be more cost-effective.

🗓 Purchase prior to travel for the cheapest train tickets .
🚆 Bookings open 12 weeks (84 days) before the date of travel.
🎫 Tickets can be purchased online via thetrainline.com
⚠️ Reservations are compulsory on many services.
😷 Check regulations in regard to Covid-19 prior to travel.

Our complete guide to travelling the UK by train details everything you need to know including how and where to buy tickets, tips for your day of travel and what to expect from your UK train trip.

You can take up to 3 pieces of luggage for free on UK trains including 2 large items such as suitcases or rucksacks.

Store luggage in overhead luggage racks, under the seats, and in the luggage compartments at the end of each carriage.

Are any of the UK’s scenic train routes included in this itinerary?

Some of the most scenic train journeys in the UK are included in this itinerary including the East Coast Mainline from Edinburgh to York.

If you are planning a UK rail trip itinerary for the first time you will find our comprehensive guide to using the UK train network an invaluable resource.

Written by Doug Collins who worked on UK railways for over 25 years it contains practical information, tips, and advice to ensure you make the most of your UK rail adventure.

Read more – Complete guide to travelling the UK by train

13 Tips to save money on rail travel in the UK
9 tips for those planning to travel the UK by rail
Guide to the 9 regions of England
UK trip planner
Guide to English drinks

Great-Britain

Suggested Day to Day Itinerary: ARRIVAL INTO EDINBURGH Day 1 Start in Edinburgh Day free. Overnight: Edinburgh From Edinburgh : Optional Day tour: St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Day Tour St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Day Tour A day out with lots of free time in the medieval city of St. Andrews, home of golf, and the picturesque old fishing villages in the East Neuk (corner) of the Kingdom of Fife. The magic of this place, world famous for its University and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club, stems from both of these institutions. St. Andrews has existed from prehistoric times as a fishing village and market town. We recommend this tour for those who love coastal scenery, golden sandy beaches and all the royal history of St. Andrews, home of Golf and Scotland’s oldest University. There’s time for shopping too. DAY 2 - PERTH AND PITLOCHRY Today, catch the train to Perth, across the Forth Estuary, travelling on the famous Forth Rail Bridge. During your journey you will see beautiful coastal and inland scenery. You can store your luggage at Perth Railway Station while you explore this small city, which was once the capital city of Scotland. With accommodation in Pitlochry, jump back on the train and make the short journey to this charming highland town, the gateway to the highlands. For whisky lovers, why not visit Blair Athol Whisky Distillery this afternoon, which is located a short walk from the main street in Pitlochry, to learn more about whisky and sample the national drink of Scotland? Overnight: Pitlochry Train journey time: appr. 1 hour 45 minutes DAY 3 - INVERNESS AND LOCH NESS Today take a morning train to Inverness and spend the afternoon exploring the city they call the Capital of the Highlands. Enjoy the circular walk from Inverness Castle along the river and through the Ness Islands. Time permitting take the free shuttle bus from the Tourist Information centre at Bridge Street, which takes you to Loch Ness pier.

Optional Day Tour : The Complete Loch Ness Experience - 1 day tour Your ultimate Loch Ness adventure. Travel the full length of the loch, explore frothy waterfalls and visit cozy villages. No one can resist the mythical Loch Ness: its beauty evokes a sense of wonder, while its monstrous depths are legendary. And on this tour, you explore all of it. You can enjoy incredible views from a cruise, learn about the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle and explore the less frequented south roads of the loch. And even if the monster doesn't show up, we can assure you that your guide will bring this loch to life with intriguing tales and history. Overnight: Inverness Train journey time: appr. 1 hour 35 minutes DAY 4 - HIGHLAND SCENERY Today take the train for the 2 hour 40 minute journey to Kyle of Lochalsh on the west coast of Scotland, along one of the most scenic railway routes in the world! Arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh and board the local bus service, which will take you across Skye Bridge and onto the Isle of Skye or the ‘Misty Isle’ as it is called. Overnight: Isle of Skye area Train journey time: appr. 2 hours 40 minutes DAY 5 - DAY ON THE ISLE OF SKYE Free day for exploring the Isle of Skye by coach or you may want to visit the Clan Donald Centre near Armadale to learn more about the Lords of the Isles and the clan system. Or if you’d like to venture further why not hire bicycles to explore the rest of the island? Overnight: Isle of Skye area DAY 6 – MALLAIG AND HARRY POTTER VIADUCT Today you will catch the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig, back on the mainland. This beautiful little town is the gateway to the Western Isles. In the afternoon board the train to Fort William, on the route described as one of the greatest railway journeys in the world. Along the way, you will cross the famous Glenfinnan viaduct, which was featured in the Harry Potter films. Check into your hotel or B&B in the Fort William area. Overnight: Fort William area Train journey time: appr. 1 hour 20 minutes DAY 7 - GLASGOW SIGHTSEEING Depart in the morning by train to Glasgow, enjoying a scenic rail journey across Rannoch Moor and along Loch Lomond. In the afternoon spend some time discovering this vibrant and stylish city, with its various galleries and shops. The open top bus tour is highly recommended as it will take you round the main sights. Overnight: Glasgow Train journey time: appr. 4 hours DAY 8 – DEPART Today you will leave Glasgow from Glasgow Airport, or take the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh and fly out of Edinburgh airport.

LONDON & EDINBURGH 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS Combine two capital cities by rail – spend time in cosmopolitan London and historic Edinburgh, with day trips to experience even more. Included in the package: • 4 nights accommodation in 3 / 4 star properties, in rooms with private bath • Breakfast daily – English, Scottish or Continental - depending on accommodation provider (4 in total) • A one way rail ticket from London to Edinburgh, in standard class • VAT at the current rate of 20% • Two day tours – one in London, and one in Edinburgh Accommodation in: • 2 nights – London • 2 nights – Edinburgh

DAY 1 - ARRIVE INTO LONDON Arrive at a London airport and make your way to your hotel to check in. Depending on your flight arrival, you may have time to explore the exciting capital city this afternoon. Overnight: London DAY 2 - DAY TOUR (Pick one) Bath, Avebury & Lacock Village - 1 day tour: Discover the beauty of a vanished world at the standing stones of Avebury; and explore the classically elegant city of Bath, on this history packed journey. OR Shakespeare’s Stratford–upon–Avon - 1 day tour: Follow in the footsteps of England’s favourite playwright on this trip to inspirational Stratford-upon-Avon.

DAY 3 - TRAIN TO EDINBURGH Catch a train from London to Edinburgh and enjoy the scenic journey across the border to Scotland to discover Edinburgh on arrival. Overnight: Edinburgh Train journey time: appr. 4 hours and 20 minutes

DAY 4 - DAY TOUR (choose 1) St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife - 1 day tour: An ancient university, breathtaking medieval ruins, and quaint coastal villages, all rolled into one great adventure through the ancient kingdom of Fife. OR Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands - 1 day tour Myths, monsters, and mountains: this tour is the best way to see ‘Scotland in a day’. DAY 5 - DEPART EDINBURGH Tour ends in Edinburgh.

Train Travel in Wales Rail Wales

NEWPORT/CARDIFF/SWANSEA/ CARMARTHEN/TENBY/LLANELI/ LLANDRIDOD You can visit all of these areas by train: Caerleon Roman Museum and Fort – Newport Tredegar House and Park Newport Cyfarthfa Castle – Merthyr Tydfil 3 miles Museum of Welsh Life (St Fagans) – Cardiff Central 3 miles National Museum of Wales (Cathays) – Cardiff Central Gower – Swansea Caerphilly Tenby Day 1 – LONDON/CARDIFF Train from London Paddington to Cardiff (2 hours). Head for the art collection at the National Museum & Gallery, including one of Europe’s best collections of Impressionist works. Explore Caerphilly Castle, the second largest castle in Britain. Built in the late 13th century, the fortress is a supreme example of the concentric “walls within walls” system of defense. The castle’s only sign of weakness is its famous leaning tower (which out-leans the tower at Pisa). Overnight at Park Inn Cardiff or Hilton. Day 2 – SWANSEA Many different experiences are available. The city of Swansea is the birthplace of movie star Catherine Zeta Jones and poet Dylan Thomas. The nearby Gower Peninsula has some spectacular coastal scenery including the view from the village of Rhossili, with its fabulous sunsets. Overnight at Park Inn Cardiff or Aberavon Beach Hotel . Day 3 – TENBY Tenby, a town in Pembrokeshire lying on Carmarthen Bay, probably originated as a Viking settlement. Attractions include the 13th-century town walls, the Five Arches barbican, the 15th-century St. Mary’s Church, and the Tudor Merchant’s House. Boats sail from Tenby’s harbor to Caldey Island, where perfumes are made. Another option: Visit the open-air Museum of Welsh Life at St. Fagans, with its carefully restored buildings and exhibits on Welsh culture. Overnight at Park Inn Cardiff or Hilton . Day 4 – CAERLON ROMAN CAMP Follow the path of Romans, Normans and Cistercian monks along the border of Wales – fought over by the Celts and Anglo-Saxons and romanticized by Turner and Wordsworth. Visit Caerleon Roman fort, with its baths and amphitheater – believed to have become one of legendary King Arthur’s courts. Take the train back to London.

North Wales

Longer stays and additional hotel nights are available. You make your train reservations as you go along. They are not booked in advance. Travel where and when you please. Some of our favorite scenic routes: Scenic Routes Scenic Rail Routes in Britain- a Must See! Take in Britain's beauty from the comfort of your seat! There are many rail lines in Britain worth the trip just for the scenery. To fully enjoy them, all should be traversed in daylight hours. Remember, during the summer in the north of England and Scotland daylight ends around 10 PM, which gives you extra hours for touring! Scotland - Scotland travels. Scotland possesses some of the most magnificent scenic rail journeys in the world. We particularly recommend these routes: Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh The Far North Line - Inverness to Wick/Thurso to catch ferries to the Orkney Islands West Highland Line - Glasgow to Oban, Fort William or Mallaig Perth to Inverness Glasgow to Stranraer - for the ferries to Northern Ireland Edinburgh to Dundee Newcastle to Edinburgh

Hub cities - using London as your base.Train times from London
London – Edinburgh : 4h22m
Glasgow – London : 4h33m
York – Edinburgh : 2h27m
Glasgow – Fort William : 3h45
Glasgow – Edinburgh : 52m
London – Liverpool : 2h14m
London – York : 1h51m
London – Oxford : 58m
London – Cardiff : 2h01m

2020 Train Tickets in Britain We sell train tickets only in conjunction with other arrangements. Choose your route here: BritRail Map The fares shown below offer the luxury of unrestricted travel to allow for stopovers en route, and are available only outside of the United Kingdom. Prices in US Dollars, one way. Rates depend upon how far in advance you book. This are the rates for booking more than 3 months in advance North Country England's North Country is a secret well kept with an abundance of wonderful scenery. Enjoy one of these journeys: Settle and Carlisle Line The 72 mile route from Settle to Carlisle takes you on a journey through the magnificent Yorkshire Dales, over the 24 arches of the Ribblehead Viaduct before plunging in to the longest tunnel on the line at Blea Moor. Emerging onto the side of Dentdale, the line leaves the Dales at Garsdale and makes it way through the gentle, lush rolling hills of the Eden Valley, with rural villages and market towns before arriving at the great border city of Carlisle. Middlesborough to Whitby Manchester to Sheffield Newcastle to Carlisle Preston to Carlisle Leeds to York via Harrogate East Anglia & Central England Norwich to Sheringham Norwich to Lowestoft Ipswich to Lowestoft Ely to Norwich Oxford to Hereford West Country Unique rugged coastlines interspersed with seaside towns and villages are the trademark of a trip through Devon and Cornwall. Exeter to Penzance Liskeard to Looe Truro to Falmouth St Erth to St Ives Bristol to Weymouth Salisbury to Exeter Bristol, Bath, & Beyond Stay Some suggested days out from Bristol, which can be taken by train. Day 1 Spend the day in Bristol today visiting the sites and soaking up the atmosphere in some of the many cafes, bars, and restaurants. Day 2 Visit another country today - Wales! Head north west to cross the Severn Bridge into Wales and to the capital, Cardiff, steeped in history and a vibrant developing city. Day 3 Head north into the Cotswolds today to visit the elegant spa town of Cheltenham (just 40 mins. by train), renowned for its Regency architecture, stylish shopping, colourful parks, music and literature festivals. Day 4 Today, it's a day in the Roman city of Bath. Drive or take the train (only 10 mins.). Visit the Roman Baths which are over 2000 years old, Bath Abbey, the Pump Rooms, and indulge at the new Thermae Bath Spa (state of the art treatment facilities isituated in the old Bath buildings with open air heated rooftop pool overlooking this gorgeous city.Visit Bath's numerous antique shops, boutiques, and stop for lunch and/or tea at one of the city's cafes or restaurants.

London, York, Scotland ITINERARY 1 week

London Kings Cross to
to York (2hr)
to Edinburgh (2hr 30min)
to Glasgow (1hr)
to LondonEuston (5hr 45min).

England & Scotland 2 week ITINERARY

London to York (2 hr)
to Inverness (3hr 30min)
to Glasgow (3hr 30min)
to Windermere (2hr 30min)
to Birmingham(3hr)
to Bath (2hr)
to Penzance (4hr 30min)
to Exeter (3hr 30min)
to Salisbury (1hr 45min)
to London (1hr 30min).

England & Wales 1 week ITINERARY

London to Bath (1hr 30min)
to Cardiff (1hr 15min)
to Chester (3hr 15min)
to Manchester (1hr)
to York (1hr 30min)
to London (2hr).

Questions? Call Lynott Tours at 1 (800) 221-2474 USA Canada; 01 516 248 2042 ELSEWHERE Please Email Us For Information 9AM-5PM Eastern

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

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

Destinations
European Rail
Types of Travel
United Kingdom

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.

Strathcarron Station, a small stop on the Kyle of Lochalsh Line

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.

Great Railway Journeys of Scotland

Experience some of the world's most spectacular scenery as you enjoy journeys on 4 of Scotlands most celebrated railways

Detailed Overview
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Experience some of the world's most spectacular scenery as you enjoy journeys on four of Scotland's most famous railways - discover wild and dramatic landscapes from a unique angle aboard magnificently restored trains gently rolling through the picturesque heather-clad hills of the Scottish Highlands, with breathtaking scenery right outside your window!

Return coach travel

5 nights half board

Visit to Moffat enroute

Journeys on the Jacobite Steam Railway, Kyle of Lochalsh Line Railway, Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway & Strathspey Railway

Photo stop at Eilean Donan Castle

Scenic drive along Loch Ness

Free time in Mallaig

Please note: we cannot guarantee that steam trains will make railway journeys. This tour may be unsuitable for passengers with restricted mobility.

After departure, we travel north towards the Scottish border, where we enjoy a stop in the Border market town of Moffat. After some free time to explore, we continue our journey to our overnight hotel.

Today, we will travel to the historic port of Bo'ness on the Firth of Forth for a journey on the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway. On our ten-mile scenic journey to Manuel, you'll travel along the Forth Estuary, through woodlands, past waterfalls and over the Avon Viaduct. From here, our journey continues by coach into the Highlands and our hotel based near Fort William.

Today, we head north with a photo opportunity at Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most striking castles in Scotland. Perched atop a tiny island and joined to the mainland by an elegant bridge, it was designed to defend the region from invading Viking raiders. We next follow in the footsteps of Michael Palin and embark on a railway journey on the Kyle of Lochalsh Line. This primarily single-track railway travels via breathtaking scenery from Kyle of Lochalsh to Dingwall. After disembarking, our return by coach takes us along the shores of Loch Ness - keep your eyes peeled for the mythical resident!

Described as the 'Greatest Railway Journey in the World', we board the Jacobite Steam Railway today. This section of the West Highland Line crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you may remember from the Harry Potter films. Starting in Fort William, a town in the shadow of Ben Nevis, our journey will take us to Mallaig, a busy fishing port and home to many shops, restaurants and freshly caught fish and chips! After some free time to explore, you'll enjoy a return journey by train back to Fort William.

Today's journey takes us towards the magnificent Cairngorm Mountains and to Aviemore. All aboard the Strathspey Railway for a twenty-mile trip along a section of the original Highland Railway line! Winding along the river Spey, enjoy your journey through moorlands and wooded glens via the Boat of Garten and Broomhill. From here, we head to our final overnight hotel.

We begin the drive south, before crossing back over the border and returning home.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner

The Onich Hotel 3*, Fort William

With dramatic mountain views and a stunning loch-side setting, this family-run hotel offers attractive, beautiful gardens and individually decorated ensuite bedrooms, each unique. Some rooms have panoramic views over the gardens to Loch Linnhe and the stunning scenery beyond. All rooms have satellite TV, radio, telephones, tea/coffee-making facilities and hairdryers.

Please note that this hotel does not have a lift. There are approximately twenty steps to the first-floor bedrooms.

Hotel Facilities

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8 Must-Do Train Journeys For Every Traveller

Venice Simplon-Orient Express (England, France, Switzerland & Italy)

Start: London | End: Venice | Distance: 2,090km | Duration: 24 hours

In a world obsessed with breakneck speed, train travel offers a delightful rebellion. It's a chance to surrender to the rhythm of the rails, a slower pace that allows romance and wonder to seep into exploration. Furthermore, rail stands out as the most promising form of mass transportation in the fight against global warming. A 2022 report by the International Energy Agency highlights that while carrying 9 per cent of global passengers and 7 per cent of freight, train travel only accounts for 3 per cent of transport energy use.

The true magic, however, lies in the unique perspective a train grants the voyager. Unlike a fleeting car ride, a train unfolds the landscape like a storybook. Imagine gazing out the window as the train snakes through the Swiss Alps, revealing snow-capped peaks and charming chalets. Quaint villages, hidden valleys, and the very soul of a destination come into view, one frame at a time. Train journeys aren't just about reaching a point; they're about the in-between, the ever-changing scenery that becomes an experience in itself. The gentle rocking of the train lulls you into a state of tranquillity, where fellow passengers become companions, and the rhythmic clatter of wheels are a comforting lullaby. The slower pace allows you to truly disconnect and unwind, a luxury often forgotten in our fast-paced world. Train travel isn't merely transportation; it's a gateway to a slower, more immersive way of seeing the world.

Rocky Mountaineer (Canada)

Start: Vancouver | End: Banff | Distance: 957km | Duration: 37 hours

Hokkaidō Shinkansen (Japan)

Start: Tokyo | End: Hakodate | Distance: 824km | Duration: 4 hours

Ella Odyssey Train (Sri Lanka)

Start: Colombo Fort | End: Badulla | Distance: 293km | Duration: 10 hours 15 minutes

Qinghai-Tibet Railway (China)

Start: Beijing | End: Lhasa | Distance: 3,750km | Duration: 40 hours

The Bergensbanen (Norway)

Start: Oslo | End: Bergen | Distance: 496km | Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes

Glacier Express (Switzerland)

Start: St Moritz | End: Zermatt | Distance: 290km | Duration: 8 hours

Jacobite Steam Train (Scotland)

Start: Fort William | End: Mallaig | Distance: 70km | Duration: 2 hours

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Railcards: can I get one and will it really save me money on train tickets?

Exclusive: half a century on, there’s a discount waiting for everyone – but subject to a tangle of terms and conditions, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Age appropriate: Janet Street-Porter poses with a senior railcard

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Railcard holders are complaining of a “stealth” price increase on train tickets . From 15 September the discount on fares for most railcard journeys will be cut from 34 per cent to 33.4 per cent. The effect is a 0.9 per cent fare rise.

Up to that date a £30 off-peak single from Coventry to London Euston on London Northwestern Railway will cost £19.80; after that, it’s £20.

The move by the Rail Delivery Group makes it a good time to assess the value of railcards – especially in the light of research from Virgin Trains Ticketing that two-thirds of consumers don’t have a discount card. Most of those people think they don’t travel by train often enough to need one.

For anyone who uses trains in the UK, there’s probably a discount waiting. Mark Plowright, director at Virgin Trains Ticketing, said: “Our research shows that 20 per cent of consumers who have a railcard are encouraged to travel by train more frequently.

“So if we want more people to choose the train over their car or domestic flight, then it’s a good idea to better educate and promote the use of railcards for eligible customers so that more passengers can get the best value on their journeys.”

But each railcard is subject to a tangle of terms and conditions – notably restrictions on when you can use them in London and southeast England.

These are the key questions and answers.

What’s the big idea?

The rail industry uses price to stimulate additional travel by rail – both encouraging passengers to switch from other modes of transport and to make more journeys than they otherwise would.

Railcards, whose ownership is restricted to specifically targeted groups, is the method the rail industry has used to try to boost revenue.

The first Student Railcard was introduced in October 1974, giving one-third off train tickets for people who could prove their student status. The aim was to tempt students away from long-distance coaches and hitchhiking, and to encourage them to make additional journeys by rail – whether to see bands in other cities, visit friends at other colleges or to take dirty laundry home to be dealt with.

In 1992, the Student Railcard became the Young Persons Railcard. It changed again in 2008 to become the 16-25 Railcard.

A family of other cards delivering discounted tickets has gradually emerged, all at a basic price of £30 per year (or £70 for three years on some cards). All are available digitally, which means they can be used instantly.

They include:

16-17 Saver : An outlier, because the discount is 50 per cent and the card can be used to buy season tickets. Anyone entitled to the card is advised to use one until their 18th birthday, since it delivers far better benefits than …

16-25 Railcard : Gives the standard one-third off (more precisely, 34 per cent rounded down to the nearest 5p, soon to be reduced to 33.4 per cent). To protect revenue earned from commuters, there is a minimum fare of £12 (single or return) for travel between 10am from Monday to Friday – though this condition is dropped in July and August.

26-30 Railcard : Known as the “Millennial railcard”, it offers similar prospect to the 16-25 card, but with slightly inferior terms (eg minimum fare rule is not lifted in summer).

Senior Railcard : One-third off, but not valid for journeys wholly in London and South East England during the morning rush-hour. Annoyingly the exact times vary from one route/train operator to another.

Status based

Disabled Persons Railcard : Travellers who have a visual or hearing impairment, receive a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP), or buy or lease a vehicle through the Motability scheme qualify for a one-third discount for themselves and an adult companion.

Two Together Railcard : Aimed at people who are in those tricky decades between 31 and 59. One-third off if the two people named and photographed on the railcard travel together. Morning rush-hour time restrictions apply, and train and station staff are often meticulous in checking both holders are travelling.

Family & Friends Railcard : Probably the most generous and flexible of all the discount cards. One or two adults can be named on the card. As long as they travel with a child aged between 5 and 15, the grown-ups get one-third off and children gain a 60 per cent reduction. Up to four adults can travel together with up to four kids, so long as one of the adults is named on the card is part of the group.

Veterans Railcard : You are eligible “providing you have served for at least one day or more in His Majesty’s UK Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve)”.

Most of these are strictly limited: Cotswold Line, Devon & Cornwall, and Pembrokeshire, for example. But there are two stand-outs that covers large areas.

Network Card : For travel in the old “Network SouthEast” area, which is a really odd shape: including Essex but not Suffolk, in Norfolk only the line to King’s Lynn, then bounded by Huntingdon, Long Buckby in Northants, Banbury, with a giant leap to Worcester but nowhere west of Didcot on GWR, Exeter only on South Western Railway, plus everywhere in Dorset, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Sussex and Kent. Strict time/minimum spend rules to discourage commuting. A passenger who qualifies for any other kind of railcard should choose that option, not this.

Club 50 (Scotland only): In some ways this ScotRail card, available to those aged 50 and above, is better value than the Senior Railcard. It costs only £15 annually. While the standard discount is only 20 per cent (and then only through ScotRail online), it allows a remarkable flat-fare deal of just £17 return between any two stations in Scotland at certain times of year. You even get half-price food and drink on board – but note ScotRail is alcohol-free.

Is it unfair that age-based railcards end at 30 and don’t resume until 60?

Yes. There is a strong argument for the Family & Friends and Two Together railcards, which seek to divert travellers in groups of two or more from road to rail.

But the current mess of 16-17, 16-25, 26-30 and 60-plus cards is out of step with reality. It is a “railcard raffle” rather than a coherent and equitable system. Reaching one’s 31st birthday does not mean one is suddenly able to pay 50 per cent more than the day before.

Also, many Senior Railcard holders are very gainfully employed: a glance at any intercity first-class carriage after the rush hour will reveal plenty of working people in their 60s and 70s who are benefiting from lower fares (and complimentary catering) at the same time as enjoying generous salaries.

Eliminating all age-based railcards and cutting fares across the board makes sense. But some people will end up paying a bit more. And that, in political terms, is toxic.

Any other options?

Yes. “National railcards” are already sold in Germany and Switzerland. The Swiss Half Fare Card costs Sfr190 (£170) for a year. It is so commonly held that the default setting for online and machine tickets assume the 50 per cent discount.

In Germany, rail passengers can choose from BahnCards offering 25 per cent or half price. The 25 per cent card in second class costs €62.90 (£53) for a year, while a 50 per cent card allowing first-class travel is €492 (£361).

Travellers can also buy a 100 per cent card, allowing free travel all year anywhere in Germany and costing €4,550 (£3,830) in second class.

The ideal country to keep the cost of travel low is Luxembourg, where public transport fares have been abolished.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calder’s podcast

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Scotland Region – Fixed Term Area Organiser

About this job.

Our public services are under major threat. Our members are working under extreme pressure and UNISON is actively campaigning for services and jobs. We are seeking an Area Organiser to recruit, organise and work on a range of time-defined projects to support our campaign.

The successful candidate will bring their experience and skills to the role and be able to develop and deliver recruitment and organising initiatives and campaigns in our branches, The Area Organiser will train and develop stewards, undertake case work, advise, support and mentor branch officers and stewards in representation and negotiation.

You will have excellent presentation skills and communication skills, both face-to-face and on paper.

A sound understanding of trade unions and their objectives is essential along with a good understanding of UNISON’s policies and objectives.

The role is based between Glasgow and Edinburgh with travel throughout central Scotland You will need to be able to travel within the region for meetings/training as required.

How to apply

To apply for this opportunity, please see the job description and person specification below and download and complete the Local and Area Organiser application form, and disability and recruitment monitoring forms (under “Documents”).

Please send completed application forms along with Recruitment and Disability monitoring forms to [email protected] quoting Ref No: R7/104T.

The closing date for completed applications will be 5.00pm on Wednesday 25 th September 2024.

Interviews to be held in person in the Glasgow office on Friday 11 th October 2024.

About UNISON

UNISON is the UK’s leading public services trade union, with over 1.3 million members working in the public sector, private, voluntary and community sectors and in the energy services. We employ approximately 1,200 staff, with around 370 at our national centre in Euston in central London and the remainder in our 12 regions across the UK, including Northern Ireland.

UNISON is a dynamic, progressive union, committed to equality. We encourage men and women of all ages, Black and minority ethnic groups, disabled people, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people to work with us.

JD – Area Organiser

5 September 2024

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Welcome to the Official source for UK trains
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20+ operators, one network. Click here for the best map of the UK train network. Here is a quick guide to train travel in Britain. Since 1995, Britain's rail network has been run by over 20 private train companies, but they work together as National Rail with co-ordinated fares & ticketing. You can find train times & fares for all train operators all on one website, you can buy a train ticket ...
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The Kyle Line is another of the UK's top scenic train routes, passing lochs, mountains and herds of deer. Spend the evening and next morning in Inverness. Explore the castle and riverside, take a monster-spotting trip on Loch Ness or visit historic Culloden battlefield. Read the full Scenic Scotland by train itinerary.
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Here's a teaser for what a Scotland by train itinerary might look like. Day 1: Edinburgh. Day 2: Fife and St Andrews. Days 3 and 4: Pitlochry, Aviemore and the Cairngorms National Park. Day 5: Inverness and Loch Ness. Days 6 to 8: the Highlands and Islands. Day 9: Loch Lomond and Glasgow.
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Scotland Region
The successful candidate will bring their experience and skills to the role and be able to develop and deliver recruitment and organising initiatives and campaigns in our branches, The Area Organiser will train and develop stewards, undertake case work, advise, support and mentor branch officers and stewards in representation and negotiation.

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