The most beautiful train routes in Scotland

Traveling by train is one of the best ways to discover Scotland. The best train routes in Scotland They traverse the Highlands, skirt lochs, and cross historic viaducts. Moreover, you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about the road, which makes all the difference on the small roads of the Highlands.

In short: The West Highland Line, between Glasgow, Fort William, and Mallaig, is the most beautiful railway in Scotland. The Jacobite steam train only runs seasonally and must be booked well in advance. ScotRail's Spirit of Scotland pass offers 4 days of travel out of 8, or 8 days out of 15. From London, the Caledonian Sleeper offers overnight service to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Fort William.

In this guide, we present the country's most beautiful routes, useful tickets, and our tips for planning a car-free trip. At Brightside Travel, we regularly incorporate these routes into our tailor-made itineraries.

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Why choose train routes in Scotland?

The train allows you to admire landscapes that the road does not always show. Several lines cross deserted moors, run along wild coasts or traverse isolated valleys.

• The scenery unfolds before you without you having to drive.
• You travel in a more economical way than by car.
• Fort William, Inverness or Oban are easily accessible.
• Finally, you avoid narrow single-lane roads.

The train is therefore a real alternative to the car, especially for a first trip to the Highlands.

The West Highland Line, queen of train routes in Scotland

The West Highland Line is often cited as one of the most beautiful railway lines in the world. Starting from Glasgow, it first runs alongside Loch Lomond, then heads into the Highlands.

It then crosses Rannoch Moor, a vast, almost uninhabited moorland, before reaching Fort William. A branch also leads to Oban, on the west coast. Finally, the section between Fort William and Mallaig crosses the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.

The Jacobite, the Glenfinnan steam train

The Jacobite is a steam train that runs seasonally between Fort William and Mallaig. It became famous thanks to the Harry Potter films, as it crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Fans of the saga will also appreciate our Harry Potter tour in Scotland, designed for families.

The journey also offers beautiful views of Loch Shiel and the islands off the west coast. However, this train is very popular: book well in advance. The viaduct can also be seen from the road, as we explain in the most beautiful scenic routes in Scotland.

Train routes in Scotland: the Kyle Line to Skye

The Kyle Line connects Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, opposite the Isle of Skye. The route crosses valleys and runs alongside several lochs.

Upon arrival, the Skye Bridge is very close. It's a great way to reach the island without a car, before continuing your journey by bus. Then, find out more about the sights to see in our guide. must-sees on the Isle of Skye.

The Far North Line to Thurso and Wick

If you love wide open spaces, the Far North Line is for you. From Inverness, it goes all the way up to Thurso and Wick, in the far north of the country.

It crosses peat bogs and almost deserted moors. It also provides access to ferries to Orkney. To explore the north by car, see our North Coast 500 guide.

The Highland Main Line and the Borders Railway

The Highland Main Line connects Perth to Inverness. It notably serves Pitlochry and Aviemore, two good bases for the Cairngorms.

Further south, the Borders Railway connects Edinburgh to Tweedbank. It crosses the Scottish Borders, a region of hills and ancient abbeys. It therefore makes for an easy day trip from the capital.

Coming to Scotland by night train

The Caledonian Sleeper connects London to Scotland overnight, serving Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Fort William, among other destinations. This allows you to wake up directly in the Highlands, ready to begin your journey.

Which tickets are available for these train routes in Scotland?

For multiple journeys, the ScotRail Spirit of Scotland pass can be a good option. It comes in two versions: four days of travel within an eight-day period, or eight days within a fifteen-day period. It covers trains, as well as some buses and ferries.

For just one or two journeys, single tickets are sufficient. In all cases, check the conditions and timetables on the official website of ScotRail.

When is the best time to take these train routes in Scotland?

Spring and autumn offer beautiful colors and fewer crowds. Summer allows you to enjoy long days, while winter brings landscapes that are sometimes snowy. At the end of December, the train remains the easiest way to reach the capital to celebrate. Hogmanay in Edinburgh.

Keep in mind, however, that some services, such as the Jacobite, only operate seasonally. Our guide when to go to Scotland details each period.

Our tips for successfully traveling by train in Scotland

• Book the most popular routes early, especially in summer.
• Sit by the window, and change sides according to the line.
• Plan to spend nights there rather than just day trips.
• Combine the train with bus or chauffeur-driven excursions to remote locations.

Also read: Things to do in Glasgow: sightseeing, museums and outings.

The train is also ideal for avoiding driving on the left, as we explain in our guide to trip to Scotland for seniors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most beautiful train routes in Scotland?

The West Highland Line, between Glasgow, Fort William and Mallaig, is the most famous. It crosses Rannoch Moor and passes over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Is it possible to visit Scotland without a car?

Yes. The train serves Fort William, Inverness, Oban, Pitlochry, or Aviemore. Buses and excursions then complete the journey.

Does the Jacobite run all year round?

No, it only runs seasonally. As it's very popular, it's best to book well in advance.

Is there a train pass in Scotland?

Yes, the ScotRail Spirit of Scotland pass. It offers four days of travel out of eight, or eight days out of fifteen, and also includes some buses and ferries.

Is it possible to travel to Scotland by night train from London?

Yes, with the Caledonian Sleeper. It notably serves Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William.

Plan your train journeys in Scotland with Brightside Travel

At Brightside Travel, we design tailor-made trips that incorporate the most beautiful train journeys. We book tickets, choose accommodations near train stations, and add excursions to remote locations.

For more ideas, browse The 20 most beautiful places to visit in Scotland, or discover our tailor-made holidays in Scotland.

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