With a new year brings a renewed sense of excitement and optimism for adventures ahead.
You don’t need to venture far to discover the wonder and beauty of Scotland, no matter where you live. We’re lucky to live in a country that can be explored easily by train, meaning you can leave the driving to someone else and make the journey part of the experience – leaving you to enjoy the views along the way. Here are a few ideas to inspire you to explore Scotland by train this year.
Marvel at the splendour of the Forth Rail Bridge
Starting at one of our most iconic locations, there is something truly magical about the sight of the Forth Rail Bridge. Taking the train across it is an experience in itself – the views over the other two bridges and the Firth of Forth are magnificent! But to get a grasp of its sheer scale, you’ve got to get below it. Thankfully, we’re not talking about taking a dip, but rather a walk or a boat trip. Boat tours run from South Queensferry and sail under all three bridges for a truly unique vantage point. Or take the train to North Queensferry, walk down the hill from the station and find yourself wowed. Don’t forget your camera!
See the palm trees in Plockton
Situated on the Great Scenic Kyle Line, the pretty village of Plockton should be on everyone’s ‘places to visit by train’ bucket list. Sat on the edge of a secluded bay overlooking Loch Carron, this gorgeous wee village offers everything – stunning views, coral beaches and a fantastic traditional music scene. It’s also home to something you wouldn’t normally associate with Scotland – palm trees. Thanks to the Gulf Stream bringing in tropical waters, palm trees have been able to thrive on the village’s waterfront. Definitely a great spot for a photo!
Travel over the Glenfinnan Viaduct
Put firmly on the map thanks to the Harry Potter film franchise, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is another one for the ‘places to visit by train’ bucket list, even if you’re not a fan of the boy wizard. It really is an astounding sight! Nestled in the valley at the top of Loch Shiel, the 21-span structure curves through the stunning valley creating wonderful photo opportunities. You can travel over the Viaduct all year round as part of a ScotRail journey along the scenic West Highland Line.
Tick off Scotland's eight cities
One of the best things about travelling by train is that you can reach areas that other modes of transport can’t, often giving views that you wouldn’t get any other way You don’t even have to be travelling remotely to enjoy unrivalled views. The routes between Scotland’s eight cities are all really scenic.
Here are a few of our favourite stretches:
- A journey from Edinburgh to Dunfermline takes you over the iconic Forth Bridge. Be sure to bag a window seat!
- Travel further from Edinburgh to Perth and enjoy gorgeous views over the Fife coastline.
- When you travel to or from Aberdeen, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins in the water near Stonehaven.
- The Highland Mainline between Perth and Inverness offers stunning mountain views, particularly through the Cairngorms National Park around Aviemore.
- The journey between Stirling and Dundee takes you through beautiful Perthshire countryside before finishing the journey along the banks of the River Tay.
Journey to the most northerly station on the UK’s mainland
For a lot of train enthusiasts, Thurso station is a must visit, simply because it’s the most northerly station in mainland Britain. But a journey there is a whole lot more meaningful than that. To get to Thurso station you first have to travel through some of the most remote and unspoiled landscapes in Europe. If you’re looking for an adventure to fill a few days, then make it this and stop off along the way. The beauty and serenity as you travel on the Far North Line from Inverness is truly unique.
