Train with mountains in the background | Scotland
Train at station with mountainous views in the background

Scotland

Discover Scotland by train: scenic routes, highlands & lochs

Scotland offers some of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys, combining epic natural landscapes, historic cities, and rich cultural heritage. Traveling by train is the perfect way to experience this beautiful country. Sit back and enjoy panoramic views of rugged Highlands, shimmering lochs, and dramatic coastlines from your window seat.

From iconic routes like the West Highland Line to hidden gems and vibrant cities, there’s so much to explore. Find inspiration for your next rail adventure today and make your journey part of the experience.

Why travel by train? Rail travel across Scotland is not only relaxing and sustainable, but it also gives you access to destinations that are hard to reach by car. Discover charming villages, historic castles, and world-famous landmarks along the way.

Whether you’re seeking a scenic escape through the Highlands or a cultural city break in Edinburgh or Glasgow, taking the train offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Scotland

Train travelling through lush Scottish landscapes, with green trees and house in background Borders Railway

Edinburgh – Tweedbank

See a snapshot of Scottish history as you travel along the Borders Railway.

East Coast Main Line

York – Edinburgh via Newcastle

The main line from London to York, Durham, Newcastle and Edinburgh, home of the Flying Scotsman, has some spectacular scenic highlights.

East Beach at North Berwick along the East Lothian Line

Edinburgh Waverley – North Berwick

Experience 25 miles of picturesque Scottish countryside as you travel along the East Lothian Line.

Train travelling along the Far North Line, Scotland

Inverness – Wick via Thurso

Explore north from Inverness, following the North Sea coast as you travel along the Far North Line.

Train travelling through the Drumochter Pass along the Highland Main Line.

Dunkeld & Birnam – Carrbridge

Experience the stunning scenery of the Scottish Highlands along the Highland Main Line.

Stunning scenery along the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line.

Inverness – Kyle of Lochalsh

Travel coast to coast across the Highlands, in the shadows of mountains and forests along the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh.

View from the New Bridge over the River Ayr towards the sea, over the piers of the former railway bridge along the South West Scotland line.

Gretna Green – Stranraer via Dumfries, Kilmarnock, and Ayr

Travel through lush Scottish countryside as you journey along the South West Scotland Line.

An image of a lake with mountains in the background

Stirling – Perth via Dunblane

See the Scottish landscape like never before as you pass historic towns and pretty villages following the riverbanks of Allan Water along the Strathallan Line.

Train on the West Highland Line with mountains in the background

Crianlarich – Mallaig via Fort William

Enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of lochs dominated by towering mountains and delve deep in the wilds of the West Highland Line.

You may also like

Family waving at train as it approaches the station | Days Out by Rail

Spend quality time with the family as you embark on unforgettable days out by rail. Take a look at our suggestions, curated by community rail, here.

Station sign with rolling hills in the background

We're getting on board for Catch the Bus Month and bring you some suggestions on how you can explore further when you combine your adventure with trains and buses.

Ingleborough in the snow along The Bentham Line

Leeds – Morecambe / Heysham Port via Skipton, Bentham & Lancaster

Explore the beautiful Bentham Line, nestled in scenic Yorkshire & Lancashire countryside.

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.