One of the nice things about visiting Scotland is that they have an extensive train system to transport people around most of their major cities with ease- no cars needed.
This is especially convenient as Scotland drives on the left side of the road, and I’m much more comfortable driving on the right!
ScotRail
The main train network throughout the country is operated by ScotRail. You can look up their most up to date train schedules on their website here. They operate on all rail lines in Scotland, so they’re a good alternative to more expensive train tours, plus a great way to get around!
Finding the Best Deal
ScotRail offers a ton of ticket options, so make sure you’re getting the best deal. The “Friends Fare” discount for groups of 3 or 4 and the “Kids for a Quid” deal should be particularly popular for travelers!
They even have combo tickets for visitors looking to add bus and ferry travel into their trips, turning the whole country into a custom hop-on-hop off tour.
The website does help you out and offers suggestions for discounted tickets as you make your selections. I saved £50!
Depending on the train, you are able to request seats that are window or aisle, facing forwards, or a table seat. I suspect that the request is based on a first come first serve policy as I never had an issue with my assigned seats.
Although you’re able to purchase your selected ticket on the ScotRail website, please keep in mind that you will be required to create an account and download the ScotRail app to access your tickets. I’m not a huge fan of mandatory apps, but at least it worked smoothly and without issue for the duration of my trip.
The Journey
I found the trains to be pretty standard. They were clean and comfortable with two seats per row on each side of the aisle. Outlets are located on each seat, and a seat back table is available for the seats that do not face a table.
Although none of my train journeys had a snack car, I was pleased to see a snack trolly on each train. I didn’t even have to get up for my tea, how convenient! Be aware that there is definitely an upcharge on the snacks. You’ll be better off buying snacks and water from a shop before boarding the train, but it’s hard to beat a hot drink on a long train ride. Let it be known that I savored my £4 tea!
Sightseeing
ScotRail
Although ScotRail is primarily intended more as a form of transportation than as a sightseeing method, Scotland is so pretty that there’s something to see no matter where you end up! As previously mentioned, ScotRail offers tourism-based combo tickets with suggested routes throughout the country.
Particularly popular routes also include the West Highland Ride from Glasgow to Oban or Fort William and Mallaig, which is widely regarded as the prettiest train route in Scotland. Further North, the Kyle Line from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh is a really lovely way to explore some of the wildest parts of Scotland. I personally spent a lot of time in this area on my last trip and it’s stunning!
The Jacobite
If you know Harry Potter, you know the Jacobite steam train which doubles as the Hogwarts Express in the movies! This scenic rail journey takes visitors 84 miles round trip past sights such as Ben Nevis, Loch Morar, and Loch Nevis. You even get to travel over the Glenfinnan Viaduct- as seen in the second Harry Potter movie- in the very train Harry and Ron are trying to get on!
The Jacobite offers two classes of service; Standard Class at £69 per adult, and First Class at £105 per adult. The First Class seats are more spacious and luxurious, but you’re all looking at the same views! First Class does have the option to pre order Afternoon Tea for the journey at an additional cost.
This scenic train runs from Fort William to Mallaig and back, and the whole journey takes about 8 hours, including the stop at Mallaig.
It’s important to note that this is the same train line that ScotRail runs on at a significantly lower cost- if you’re looking to save a few bucks and don’t mind a modern train, take a look at the ScotRail schedule!
Royal Scotsman
If you’re looking for a really bougie way to explore Scotland, the Royal Scotsman may be for you! This train-tour offers 14 different journeys ranging from 2-7 nights. The journeys are themed, with options such as Whisky tours, Culinary tours and Adventure tours. The tour includes 24-hour service, all meals (including alcoholic drinks!), tours, and daily on-board entertainment.
The Royal Scotsman prides itself on being a luxury boutique experience and it’s service certainly reflects that!
Pricing can vary dramatically depending on the tour and cabin, but are currently starting at £4,800 per person.
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