Scotland's 10 most scenic railways will make you want to book a staycation
Scotland: a country of glens, fells, lakes and islands beyond your wildest dreams. It's where white-sand beaches and snowy peaks sit side by side, and tiny coastal towns and world-class cultural cities sit just a few hours from each other - the ideal backdrop for the most scenic railways in Scotland.
The landscapes of Scotland are rugged and magical and the best way to take them in is with an unforgettable train holiday. During a Scottish rail adventure, you can see multiple destinations and enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel, worrying less about your carbon footprint, keeping comfortable and relaxed, and without the need to lift a finger!
Scotland is home to some of the UK’s most spectacular rail routes too, whether you want to explore the coasts or the Highlands, by steam train or narrow gauge railway, travelling overnight or on a day trip with the kids.
So read on to get to know the most scenic railways of Scotland and start planning your trip for 2024...
West Highland Line
Known for the resident mythical monster ‘Nessie’, the dramatic, remote John o' Groats and whisky distilleries dotted between mountains and lochs, the Scottish Highlands are a wild and wondrous region.
The West Highlands have their own unique feel, famed for their fresh seafood, Highland hospitality and beloved Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.
Fittingly, the West Highland Line is considered by many to be the most scenic rail journey in the world.
Heading north through the wilds of the west coast, you can see parts of the country only visible by train as you pass through Loch Lomond and the stunning Trossachs National Park.
The line then splits at Crianlarich, and you can either travel past Loch Awe to Oban, or high up to Rannoch Moor, through remote wilderness, and on to Fort William and Mallaig.
Travel with Good Housekeeping on the West Highland Line during a four-day Scotland by steam holiday. You'll get to experience the Jacobite, from the Harry Potter films, as you make your way across the breathtaking Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Alternatively, travel part of the Line during an exclusive cruise with TV presenter Kirsty Wark as you explore the lochs of Scotland on a boutique ship and sail the Caledonian Canal.
Fort William to Mallaig on the Jacobite steam train
An off-shoot of the West Highland Line, this section is world-famous for the stunning Glenfinnan Viaduct, which the Hogwarts Express soars over in the Harry Potter films.
Undoubtedly the best way to travel this route is, like Harry, by classic steam train.
The iconic Jacobite, or the Harry Potter train, as it's known to many, offers the perfect way to travel through the Highland scenery, occasionally pausing on the 21-arched viaduct, allowing you time to take in breathtaking views of the mountainous, mossy terrain and glistening Loch Shiel in the distance.
Good Housekeeping has an excellent four-day staycation, where you'll not only experience this epic train journey, but enjoy a cruise on Loch Katrine in the Trossachs and have time to discover the pretty town of Mallaig, where you can stop for fish and chips.
Royal Scotsman
Operated by Belmond, purveyors of sumptuous train experiences, the Royal Scotsman transports you into the Scottish wilderness in style, to see iconic landmarks including Loch Lomond, Ben Nevis, the Isle of Bute and Mount Stuart.
But this is a train like no other. Edwardian elegance meets country-house comforts in the Royal Scotsman’s 10 carriages. On top of the en suite double cabins, this palace on wheels also features a dining room, observation car and the Dior Spa, a new tranquil way to experience the train.
Fine wines, malt whiskies, entertainment and a first-class menu celebrating Scottish produce, is all yours, as you snake through sky-high peaks and dramatic valleys.
The Royal Scotsman has various journeys throughout 2023, including a whisky-themed journey, the castles and isles and a taste of the Highlands tour.
Strathspey Railway
Home to the Cairngorm quartz, these mystical mountains are often snow-topped and Tundra-like, popular with climbers, walkers and even skiers.
We find that the best way to admire the majestic peaks is from the comfort of a plush carriage on a journey along the Strathspey Steam Railway.
Lasting just an hour and a half, the line connects snowsports base Aviemore with Broomhill, along the River Spey and western edge of the National Park. Many travellers hop off at the RSPB reserve in Boat of Garten - also known as 'Osprey village'.
It makes for a perfect day out, with afternoon tea and Sunday lunch both served on board the train, and the flexibility to take the dogs with you - provided they are well-behaved.
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