The Most Scenic Train Journeys in Scotland

Becky blog author avanti social team

By the Avanti Web Team

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8 min read | Published 27 June 2023 | Updated 05 July 2024


A scenic train journey in Scotland is a relaxing travel experience that gives you a great appreciation of the Scottish Highlands. There’s nothing quite like sitting back in a comfortable seat, watching the world go by in a state of restful bliss.

Naturally, it’s all the better if the view out of your window is awash in green. Lucky for you, such a trip is just a train ride away. And a Highlands train will let you take in some breathtaking views on your way to the best Scotland has to offer.

Getting to Scotland by train

Woman with camera in front of her face taking photographs of countryside scenery while leaning outside of train window.

For the full train travel experience, consider taking a sleeper train from London to Glasgow on the Caledonian Sleeper. It takes about eight hours and lets you off at Glasgow Central, refreshed and ready for your next adventures.

If you’d prefer a faster journey, daytime trains will get you to Glasgow or Edinburgh in about four and a half hours. For those who enjoy train travel, the journey between Aberdeen and Penzance is the longest train journey you can take in the UK. 

No matter where you’re travelling from in the UK, Scottish rail journeys always make for an enjoyable trip. Whether you’re headed to Scotland from the south or the northwest, you’ll encounter magical scenery en route.  

The best train journeys in Scotland

Aerial view of a steam train running across the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Making up a third of the UK’s land area, Scotland has a lot to offer visitors, especially when you travel via rail. From the borders right up to the Highlands and beyond, every train journey in Scotland treats travellers to something new.

Here’s our list of the most scenic train journeys in Scotland to help you plan your next trip.

1. Glasgow to Fort William

Loch Linnhe with Fort William and Ben Nevis in the background.

  • Route time: Approximately four hours

From Queen Street Station in Glasgow, the route to Fort William takes you along the western part of your Scottish train journey. As a longer route, there are plenty of stops you can make to explore West Scotland’s gems. 

Just over two hours from Glasgow, be sure to visit the Bridge of Orchy, a tiny village named for its 18th-century bridge. Explore the military roads built during the Pacification. Once you’re back on the train, the kids will love waving at hikers as you cruise past the West Highland Way long-distance trail.

Fort William is an unmissable stop on your Scottish railway journey. Known as the gateway to Ben Nevis and the outdoor capital of the UK, there is plenty to see and do here. If you love history, you’ll want to visit Old Fort William and the Inverlochy Castle ruins.

If you’re more interested in the outdoors, there are many hiking trails in the area. If you plan to stop for a while, you can even climb to Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. Loch Linnhe is right there and offers plenty of activities including sailing and kayaking.

2. West Highland Line

Aerial view of Glenfinnan Viaduct with a loch and rolling hills in the background.

  • Route time: Just over five hours

Often described as one of the most scenic train journeys in Scotland, the West Highland Line should be on your list. There are plenty of stops en route, but with a longer journey time, you’ll want to choose the locations you want to see.

The railway line runs from Glasgow, with two routes available. One goes west to Oban past Loch Awe, while the other keeps running north to Fort William and Mallaig. Here, you can tuck into some excellent fish and seafood from this working fishing town. 

Mallaig is also a great location for travelling further north if you want to visit the Isle of Skye. A particular highlight on the West Highland Route is the passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. For the muggles among us, this is the famous bridge that transported Harry Potter to Hogwarts on many occasions. 

While the bridge is a spectacle itself, you’ll also be able to take in the views of Loch Shiel, Ben Nevis, and Loch Eilt. Be sure to look out for the Jacobite steam train.

3. Edinburgh to Inverness

Ness River flowing through Inverness with the city on either side and a suspension bridge in the background crossing the river.

  • Route time: Approximately three and a half hours

Once you’ve had a chance to enjoy all that Edinburgh has to offer, continue your Scottish train journey with a slow train to the Highlands. This scenic trip will take you to Inverness along the east coast of Scotland.

Just 50 minutes from Edinburgh, be sure to stop at lovely Stirling. While you’re there, be sure to visit the 14th Century Stirling Castle. Kids and kids at heart will enjoy visiting the Old Town Jail where you can learn the history of crime and punishment.

If you’re headed along the inland route, as opposed to the coastal route, it’s worth stopping off at Perth. It’s just one and a half hours from Edinburgh so is a great halfway point. 

Climb up Kinnoull Hill to see a majestic view of Perth and much of Perthshire. Or you can get some retail therapy on trendy George Street. 

If you’re looking for a little tranquillity, the village of Pitlochry is half an hour away by train. Immerse yourself in rich clan history or try a wee dram at one of the distilleries. If you’re visiting during the summer, you could be lucky enough to see the salmon run at the famous dam and salmon ladder.

4. The Forth Bridge

View of the entire Forth Bridge, a red bridge over blue water with a few sailing boats passing.

  • Route time: Approximately half an hour

If you want to take some time out for a quick train journey in Scotland, travel the short distance to North Queensferry. This UNESCO World Heritage site connects Edinburgh to Fife across the Firth of Forth.

As you journey along, you’ll have unparalleled views of the Firth of Forth and other bridges that connect these important parts of Scotland. 

The village of North Queensferry is the southernmost village in Fife. It’s a great place for a short coastal stroll and there are plenty of opportunities for a coffee and cake.

5. The Kyle Line

Ruins of Eilean Castle with a loch to the left and countryside hills in the background.

  • Route time: Approximately two and a half hours

Quite possibly the most photogenic train journey in Scotland, the Kyle Line runs from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. The route passes through several tiny villages nestled against the lochs.

Along the way, you’ll experience plenty of different types of scenery. From forests and lochs to some of Scotland’s highest mountains. If you’re keen to spot some wildlife, bring your binoculars along as you pass through the Torridon Peaks and see if you can spot eagles or grazing deer.

Kyle of Lochalsh is best known for being the gateway to the Isle of Skye. Once in Kyle, you can take a scenic train tour of the Isle of Skye or stay on Skye for a few days at one of its many cosy inns.

6. The Far North Line

Dunrobin Castle from the grounds of the castle, with gardens and a fountain in the foreground and the castle above.

  • Route time: Approximately four and a half hours

When it comes to scenic rail journeys in Scotland, the Far North Line is hard to beat. Untouched vistas and tiny villages abound.

On your way north from Inverness, you might enjoy stopping at Dunrobin Castle for a visit (from March to October). On the Cromarty Firth, the village of Invergordon is just one hour’s ride from Inverness. Once there, you can feast on oysters and watch the cruise ships on their way in and out of the port.

As the train makes its journey to Wick, look out for Insta-ready views of Skibo Castle, Carbisdale Castle, and the Balblair wood.

If you’d like to catch a ferry to Orkney Island for a day trip, hop off at Thurso. It’s just under two hours from Inverness. Or you can stay on until you’ve reached Wick, an old herring port and former Viking outpost.

What is the most beautiful train station in Scotland?

Inside view of Wemyss Bay Train Station. Showing wrought iron curves of the roof with a track in the background and a woman with her dog waiting for a train.

While Scottish railway journeys are all about the scenery, let’s take a moment for the train stations themselves. 

Scotland is home to several iconic and architecturally beautiful train stations. Edinburgh’s Waverley Station has an iconic Victorian glass canopy over the waiting room. Glasgow’s stained glass panels and intricate stonework make it one of the country’s most impressive stations, too. 

However, it’s Wemyss Bay station in Renfrewshire that takes the top spot. Often named the most beautiful station in the UK, this train station is over 100 years old. 

With sweeping iron curves and a stunning glass canopy, walking through this station is an enjoyable experience. You’ll effortlessly flow through the curves and winding walkways to your next destination.

Booking your train trip to Scotland

Mother and father with two children sitting on a train looking out of the window at countryside views.

Scotland's diverse landscape and rich history are best appreciated through picturesque train journeys. With Avanti, you can experience the captivating beauty of the Highlands, the charm of the Isle of Skye, and the untamed vistas of the Far North Line.

Ensure a seamless and enjoyable train journey in Scotland by booking your tickets in advance to get the best fares and discounts. The Avanti West Coast app is your essential travel companion. Access train schedules, find competitive prices, and manage your tickets all within the app.

Embark on a memorable Scottish rail journey with Avanti, and let the awe-inspiring landscapes leave you with memories to cherish. If you’re keen to explore more scenic train journeys in the UK, Avanti travels to many other destinations sure to inspire you.

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