A Guide to Exploring Scotland by Rail
Scotland is a breathtakingly beautiful country that is best explored by rail. From the rugged highlands to the charming cities, the train network provides easy access to a wealth of stunning sights and unforgettable experiences. Railbookers will make all of the arrangements for your train, hotel and sightseeing to have the Scottish holiday of a lifetime.
Let's dive into some of the top destinations and activities you can enjoy on a rail journey through Scotland.
Where to Go
1. Edinburgh
No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to the capital city of Edinburgh. Arrive in style at the grand Waverley Station and then embark on a journey through the city's medieval Old Town and elegant New Town. Admire the iconic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the Royal Mile, and enjoy the vibrant cultural scene.
2. The Highlands
Venture into the serene Scottish Highlands and witness the dramatic landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries. Board the famous Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the "Hogwarts Express," for a ride over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct. Explore historic castles, pristine lochs, and charming villages like Inverness.
3. Isle of Skye
Visit the iconic Isle of Skye, known for its rugged sea cliffs, rolling hills, and picturesque fishing villages. Discover the island's rich history, from the iconic Dunvegan Castle to the ancient Fairy Pools. Indulge in fresh seafood and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant Gaelic culture.
4. Glasgow
Scotland's largest city, Glasgow, is a vibrant hub of art, music, and architecture. Arrive at the grand Central Station and venture out to explore the city's trendy neighborhoods, world-class museums, and lively pubs and music venues.
5. The West Highland Line
Experience one of the world's most scenic rail journeys on the West Highland Line. This iconic route takes you through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, offering breathtaking views of lochs, glens, and mountain peaks. Stop along the way in charming towns like Fort William and Mallaig.
How to Get There
Scotland is easy to reach by rail from the United Kingdom’s capital city of London, as well as other destinations in the U.K. Trains run frequently between Edinburgh and London, taking just over four hours, and transport you directly to the city center.
A direct train from London to Glasgow takes slightly longer, between 4.5 to five hours. Of course, if you’re looking to reach Scotland from other cities, connections are easy and plentiful using the UK’s rail network.
You can even experience Scotland in the lap of luxury by making the Belmond Royal Scotsman a part of your holiday, complete with world-class traditional cuisine and exciting daily excursions.
Want a unique train journey between the two countries? Ask us about including a ride on the Caledonian Sleeper, which transports guests overnight with hotel-style accommodations onboard. This service runs six days a week in both directions between England and Scotland, with two routes depending on your Scottish train station.
Finally, you can even enjoy a trip featuring Scotland and Ireland, pairing a rail trip with a ferry ride across the Irish Sea for a seamless travel adventure.
Whether you're interested in history, nature, or cultural experiences, exploring Scotland by rail offers an unparalleled way to discover the country's many wonders. With convenient connections, comfortable accommodations, and stunning scenery, a rail journey through Scotland is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
