Peter Harrison

Scottish Circular Rail Holiday

A Great Way to Discover Scotland

Tour Overview

A captivating circular rail holiday through Scotland that seamlessly blends Scotland’s dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cities, promising an unforgettable journey.

Starting in vibrant Glasgow, where you can explore cultural treasures like the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the iconic Riverside Museum, and the bustling Merchant City.
Journey west to the coastal town of Oban, with its picturesque harbor and stunning views of the Inner Hebrides. From here, travel to Fort William, nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, and board the iconic Jacobite Steam Train.
Relish the breathtaking ride across the Glenfinnan Viaduct, with views of sweeping moorlands and shimmering lochs. Arrive in Mallaig and continue to the Isle of Skye via the road bridge by taxi or car hire.
Skye enchants with rugged coastlines, dramatic Cuillin mountains, and charming villages like Portree. Return to rail travel on the scenic Kyle Line from Kyle of Lochalsh to Inverness, a route offering incredible vistas of fjord-like inlets, rolling hills, and distant peaks.
In Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands, explore Loch Ness, visit the historic Urquhart Castle, and delve into local culture at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. Enhance your journey with heritage railway rides, including the Strathspey Railway in Aviemore, offering views of the Cairngorms, and the Keith & Dufftown Railway through the Whisky Trail.
Conclude your adventure in Edinburgh, a city of striking contrasts where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance. Visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace, or admire modern art at the Scottish National Gallery.

Travel Tips

Both Glasgow and Edinburgh have good rail connections, with direct services running from London. Consider upgrading to First Class to enjoy access to the First-Class Lounge, a wider seat with more legroom onboard and inclusive snacks and drinks during the journey.
Glasgow has an excellent public transport system, including buses and the Glasgow Underground. Check out the tourist information centre in George Square for free maps, advice, and brochures to plan your stay.
The West Highland Line is one of the most scenic and iconic train journeys in the UK. It runs from Glasgow to Mallaig, consider breaking your journey in Oban and/or Fort William.
Oban, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Isles," is a picturesque coastal town on the west coast of Scotland. It’s known for its stunning scenery, fresh seafood, and its proximity to the beautiful Inner Hebrides. Consider a day tour out to Mull and Iona.
Fort William is the departure point of the Jacobite Steam train – this famous line is incredibly scenic, and runs to the small port town of Mallaig, travelling over the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct. Allow a full day to enjoy the return journey, with time in Mallaig for lunch.
The Isle of Skye is connected to the mainland by the Skye Bridge, making it accessible by car/taxi from Kyle of Lochalsh. The drive across the bridge offers great views of the surrounding sea and mountains. Some bus services also cross over the bridge.
The Kyle Line runs between the Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness passing through beautiful lochs, forests, and mountainous terrain, culminating at the capital of the Highlands, Inverness.
Inverness is also the gateway to Loch Ness, famous for its mysterious monster, "Nessie." While visiting, you can take a boat tour on the loch or visit Urquhart Castle, located on the shore of the lake.
Heritage steam railways which are well worth a visit include the Strathspey Railway in Aviemore, and the Keith & Dufftown Railway. Both are accessible by public transport but allow a day for each as services aren’t that frequent.
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Allow at least 1 or 2 days here to see some of the main sights.