Train travelling through the Drumochter Pass along the Highland Main Line.
Strathspey Railway train departs Aviemore
ScotRail Train travelling on the Horseshoe Viaduct along the Highland Line, Scotland
Highland Line

Image credit: Alexander Johnson

Pitlochry Railway Station along the Highland Line, Scotland.
Rainbow in the Scottish Highlands

Arts and culture

History and heritage

Outdoors and nature

Scenic views

Highland Main Line

Dunkeld & Birnam – Carrbridge

The Highland Main Line is considered to be one of the most scenic routes in Britain, travelling through beautiful Scottish landscapes, but there is so much more to explore too.

History & heritage

Discover the historic station and signal box at Dunkeld & Birnam, before heading to Birnam Arts, less than 10 mintes walk from the station. Here you can explore how Beatrix Potter’s childhood summers spent in Scotland, inspired her much loved work. You’ll also find a programme of exciting exhibitions held throughout the year, showcasing work by talented artists.

Further along the line you’ll reach Pitlochry. This beautiful and well-kept Victorian station is also home to Pitlochry station bookshop, selling pre-loved books to passengers and visitors with all proceeds going to six different chairities. The bookshop has raised over £420k for charity since opening in 2006.

Leave the train at Carrbridge to explore this historic Highland village and take a photograph of the impressive Old Pack Horse Bridge.

Keep travelling along the Highland Main Line and you’ll reach Blair Atholl. Blair Castle and Gardens is less than a 10 minute walk from the station. This fascinating castle has a rich history and has been expanded and adapted over 750 years.

Arts & culture

Scotland is famous for its whiskey distilleries. Uncover the interesting process of whisky-making at Dalwhinnie Distillery, home to the famous Highland Single Malt Whiskey. Choose from a range of different guided tours and enjoy seeing the distiling process up close.

Scenic views

The Highland Main Line offers impressive views from the train and is considered to be one of the most scenic routes in Britain, if not the world! Be sure to grab a window seat and have your camera ready as the journey takes you through the stunning Cairngorms National Park. Leave the train at Dalwhinnie and you’ll have reached the highest station on the line.

Outdoors & nature

Aviemore is a beautiful place to explore no matter what time of year you’re visiting. The area is classed as the place to be for active outdoor persuits in the Cairngorms National Park. Aviermore’s perfect winter conditions, make it a popular spot for snowsports but the summer months bring excellent walking, biking and climbing opportunities.

About this line

Route

Dunkeld & Birnam – Carrbridge

Journey time

1 hr 10

Cost

Off-peak return from £33.10

Distance

118 miles | 190 km

This line is supported by:

Stations on this line:

  • Dunkeld & Birnam
  • Pitlochry
  • Blair Atholl
  • Dalwhinnie
  • Newtonmore
  • Kingussie
  • Aviemore
  • Carrbridge

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