Scotland walking and wheeling

Scotland’s epic landscapes are made for exploring. Whether you’re walking through ancient woodlands, wheeling along coastal paths, or meandering through historic towns and villages, Scotland walking and wheeling routes offer plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

One of the most sustainable and scenic ways to access these adventures is by train. Community rail routes across Scotland connect you to hidden gems and well-loved destinations, making it easier than ever to explore somewhere new without the need for a car.

To help you find inspiration for you next trip, we’ve teamed up with Scotland’s community rail partnerships to curate a selection of walks and wheeling routes that are easily accessible by train. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll, a family-friendly trail, or a more adventurous route, there’s something here for everyone.

Read on to discover our top picks and start your journey into Scotland’s great outdoors, one step or wheel at a time.

Remember to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code when walking, wheeling and cycling, especially if you are taking dogs with you.

Central Scotland: Stirling and surrounds

The Strathallan Line connects Stirling with Dunblane, Bridge of Allan and beyond, offering easy access to some of central Scotland’s most picturesque walking and wheeling routes. Whether you’re looking for a gentle riverside stroll or more adventurous hill trail, these routes are all easy to reach when you take the train.

Perth | Strathallan Line

Dunblane to Ashfield Riverside Walk

• Start/End: Dunblane Station to Ashfield (return via train or same route)
• Distance: 2.75 miles | 4.25km
• Time: Approx. 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Peaceful riverside route along Allan Water

See route map here.

Bridge of Allan to Dunblane via Gallow Hill

• Start/End: Bridge of Allan Station to Dunblane Station
• Distance: 2.8 miles | 4.5km
• Time: Approx. 1 hour 30 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Woodland paths, riverside views, and open countryside.

See route map here.

Bridge of Allan to Dumyat Summit

• Start/End: Bridge of Allan Station
• Distance: 8.3 miles | 13.3km
• Time: Approx. 3 – 4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Panoramic views from Dumyat over the Forth Valley and Wallace Monument.

See route map here.

Carse of Lecropt Loop

• Start/End: Bridge of Allan Station
• Distance: 4 miles | 6.5km
• Time: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Open countryside with views of Highland and Lowland landscapes.

See route map here.

Southern Scotland

The Borders Railway connects Edinburgh with the scenic Scottish Borders, offering a gateway to peaceful countryside, historic abbeys, and charming towns. The routes below are ideal for walkers and wheelers seeking gentle trails, cultural landmarks, and car-free adventures.

See routes here.

Borders Abbeys Way – long distance trail

• Start/End: Tweedbank Station
• Distance: 68 miles | 109 km, can be split into smaller routes
• Time: 5 – 6 days
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Historic abbeys, riverside paths, and scenic countryside.

See route map here.

Borders Railway

Fushiebridge Circular

• Start/End: Gorebridge Station
• Distance: 2.5 miles | 4 km
• Time: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Woodland and open countryside views.

See route map here.

Highland Heartlands

The stunning Highland Main Line winds through the wilds of the Cairngorms National Park and provides views of some of Scotland’s most breath-taking scenery. Explore these landscapes at your own pace as you join one of the self-led routes below, all easily accessible by train.

Pitlochry Dam & Fish Ladder Trail

• Start/End: Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre, 7 minute walk from Pitlochry Station
• Distance: 1 mile | 1.6 km
• Time: Approx. 1 hour
• Highlights: Scenic views of the River Tummel, the dam, and the fish ladder

See route details here.

Pitlochry | Connor Gan for Unsplash

Aviemore Orbital Path

• Start/End: Aviemore Station
• Distance: 3.75 miles | 6 km
• Time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
• Highlights: Woodland and urban landscapes.

See route map here.

South East Scotland: East Lothian Coastline

A picturesque journey awaits along the East Lothian Line as you depart Edinburgh and pass coastal towns, beaches and coutryside trails before reaching the quaint seaside town of North Berwick. There’s no surprise that this area is a walkers and wheelers paradise, offering scenic routes and peaceful strolls.

River Esk Walkway – Musselburgh

• Start/End: Musselburgh Station → Town Centre
• Distance: 3.2 miles | 5.1 km
• Time: Approx. 1 hour 30 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Riverside views, wildlife, and historic town centre.

See route map here via Go Jauntly.

Prestonpans & Cockenzie Loop

• Start/End: Prestonpans Station
• Distance: 3.3 miles | 5.4 km
• Time: Approx.1 hour 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Murals trail, heritage sites, and coastal views.

See route map here via Go Jauntly.

North Berwick Town & Sea Walk

• Start/End: North Berwick Station
• Distance: 3 miles | 4.8 km
• Time: Approx. 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Harbour, beach, Seabird Centre and coastal cliffs.

See route map here via Go Jauntly.

North Berwick | Mieke Campbell for Unsplash

Northern Horizons

Scotland’s Far North Line is Britain’s most remote and northerly railway, winding through the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands, offering lots of opportunities for walking and wheeling adventures. See a full list of car-free walking adventures with easy access to the stunning Far North Line, brought to you by Far North Line Community Rail Partnership.

Helmsdale Riverside Trail

• Start/End: Helmsdale Station
• Distance: 1 mile | 1.6km
• Time: Allow approx. 30-45 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Historic riverside walk featuring a 19th century bridge, old fishing spots, and potential salmon sightings.

See route details here.

Invergordon Mural Trail

• Start/End: Invergordon Station
• Distance: 1 mile | 1.6km
• Time: Allow approx. 1 hour with stopping points at each mural
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Over 20 large-scale murals depicting local history and culture, all within the town centre

See route map here.

Brora Circular Beach and River Walk

• Start/End: Brora Station
• Distance: 2 miles | 3.2km
• Time: Approx. 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Sandy beach, river views, and peaceful Highland scenery

See route map here.

Please check your route before setting off for any disruptions or path closures.