Train holidays in Scotland - getting around by rail

Time: 5h 15mins

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

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

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

* Please note that the Jacobite Steam Train is running with reduced capacity for the 2024 season. Please check directly for the latest availability.

Time: 4h 30 mins

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

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

Time: 2h 30 mins

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

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

Time: 1h

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

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

Time: 20 mins

Look out for: the incredible views when crossing the bridge.

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

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

Time: 2-7 nights

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

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

Time: 1h 45 mins

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

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

Time: 1h 10 mins

Perfect for: a family day out.

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

Time: 20 mins

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

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

Time: 30 mins

Look out for: the collection of locomotives at Leadhills station.

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

Time: 40 mins

Look out for: the special events including Santa Specials and a Ghost Train.

This heritage railway runs for 11 miles (17.7 km) through dense pine forests, the valley around the River Isla and rolling fields. Try and spot the local wildlife from the window including red squirrels, deer, buzzards and other birds of prey.

Time: All day

Look out for: the off-train trips including a whisky distillery.

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

Time: 2 hours

Good to know: this isn't a train tour, but a chance to find out more about trains in Scotland.

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