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Rail strike Scotland LIVE: Travel disruption continues following industrial action

Passengers across Scotland are warned to prepare for mass travel disruption this week as the rail strike enters its third and final day - follow along with our live blog for the latest

• Updated 10:55, 26 JUN 2022

ScotRail services will continue to be disrupted on Sunday, with services starting later than usual after the third day of RMT strike action.

This is because of the impact of the strike on shift patterns at Network Rail signalling centres.

A third planned 24-hour rail strike went ahead yesterday after a week of travel chaos for Scotland's national rail company, ScotRail.

Only 60% of trains were running across Scotland and the UK on Friday, mainly because of a delay to the start of services after signallers and control room staff did not turn up for overnight shifts.

ScotRail said services will start later than normal on Friday due to this.

Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) at Network Rail and 13 train operators went on strike on Tuesday and Thursday, and Saturday.

Passengers across the UK faced major disruption as train strikes halted thousands of services for three days.

Several events taking place over the weekend have been impacted, including Edinburgh Pride as organisers said it is “really quite sad” that thousands are expected to miss it.

Talks have been held throughout the week, but there is little sign of a breakthrough.

We will be bringing you live updates on the rail strike this week.

ScotRail offering refunds following strike action

Rail users who have bought tickets that they could not use due to recent disruption can be refunded by ScotRail.

You can do this by visiting the refunds page on their website.

ScotRail remind travellers that services will start later than usual today

The national rail operator said on Twitter: "Following yesterday's industrial action by RMT members of Network Rail, services will start later today due to the impact of the strike on shift patterns at their signalling centres."

They ask travellers to check their journey ahead of time.

More strikes to be expected if a settlement is not reached, says RMT general secretary

RMT general secretary Mick Lynch has said more strikes can be expected if a settlement is not reached with Network Rail and the UK's rail operators.

The RMT union has taken industrial action over a multi-year pay freeze and a lack of guarantee that there would be no compulsory redundancies across the network.

A UK Department for Transport spokesman said: "The Transport Secretary has consistently urged union representatives to get back around the negotiating table and agree a deal to bring our rail industry into the 21st century.

"Strikes should always be the last resort, not the first, so it is hugely disappointing and premature that the RMT went ahead with industrial action, which caused significant upheaval to the lives of those they claim to stand up for."

He said that the Government earmarked £16 billion to keep the railways running throughout the pandemic while ensuring not a single worker lost their job but that the network "remains on life support", with passenger numbers 25% down.

Lucinda Cameron and Katharine Hay, PA

Disruption likely to run into Sunday

Disruption is expected to last into Sunday, with music fans attending the Liam Gallagher gig at Glasgow's Hampden Park that evening being warned the last train from nearby Mount Florida station back into the city centre is set to leave before the end of the event.

ScotRail services today will end by 6.30pm on Saturday, and both Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverley stations would close at 7pm.

A Network Rail spokesman said: "We're serious about trying to find a solution and work out a compromise that gives our people a decent pay rise, but it has to be affordable for taxpayers and fare-payers.

"Our offers have so far been rejected, with union demands far from being affordable.

"We remain available for talks, day or night, and will do everything we can to avoid further disruption for our passengers."

Scottish RMT organiser Gordon Martin told the PA news agency that members are "resolute", and he welcomed the "overwhelming" public support for the union's industrial action.

Strikers march through Glasgow City Centre

RMT strikers, as well as other union members showing solidarity with rail workers, are marching through Glasgow streets.

Glasgow Central Station deserted as strikers march in city centre

Glasgow Central Station is almost empty amid rail disruptions due to the RMT strikes.

Strikers are currently marching in the city centre and are striking over a multi-year pay freeze and a lack of guarantee that there would be no compulsory redundancies across the network.

ScotRail reminds rail users that they are on a 'skeleton service' today

While ScotRail staff are not striking, Network Rail staff who provide signalling services are.

The national rail operator has reminded people that they will be running just five services between 7.30am and 6.30pm.

They have asked those who need to use their services to keep up to date on their website and app.

RMT rail strikes continue in Scotland for third planned day amid travel chaos

A third planned 24-hour rail strike is set to go ahead today in Scotland, with just five ScotRail services running across the country

This comes as train services across the UK have been thrown into chaos after two planned strikes took place on Tuesday and Thursday, with services running on the days in between also facing major delays and cancellations.

Train operators have strongly urged passengers to "only travel by train if necessary" this weekend and to check their journey in advance.

ScotRail has warned passengers it will have reduced services running on five railway lines between 7.30am and 6.30pm on Saturday.

Katharine Hay, PA Scotland reporter

Queues at Edinburgh Waverley after lorry crash on tracks

Commuters at Edinburgh Waverley were caught in huge queues at Edinburgh Waverely Station on Friday morning after a lorry smash on rail tracks.

On Thursday, a lorry crashed onto the train tracks in Wallyford, East Lothian as photographs from the scene showed the HGV lying in the middle of the rail line.

Passengers were caught in travel chaos at Edinburgh's busiest station after trains were cancelled due to the crash amid rail strike disruption.

Queues stretched all the way out of the station as passengers were advised to leave and return at 2pm, Edinburgh Live reports.

ScotRail warn of more 'significant disruption' today after knock-on delays from rail strike

ScotRail have warned of more ‘significant disruption’ on Scotland’s rail network today following the second day of strike action .

The rail firm told commuters to expect more disruption due to the reopening Network Rail signal boxes at different times throughout Friday.

It comes after a number of Network Rail staff took to picket lines across Scotland on Thursday as part of three days of UK -wide strike action amid a dispute over pay and conditions.

Signallers and maintenance staff were among the Network Rail workers who walked out as part of the industrial action.

ScotRail was only able to operate five services across Scotland’s central belt until 6.30pm yesterday as a result of the strikes.

Services will resume ‘later than normal’ today, ScotRail has warned.

READ MORE: ScotRail warn of more 'significant disruption' today after knock-on delays from rail strike

Union members join picket lines outside Glasgow Central Station

Union members joined the picket line outside Glasgow Central Station as the second 24-hour rail strike is under way across Scotland after the latest talks between the RMT union and railway employers collapsed.

The biggest rail strikes in 30 years started on Monday night and is continuing into Thursday, with trains cancelled across the UK for much of the week.

The action is being taken by Network Rail employees plus onboard and station staff working for 13 train operators.

Railway stations quiet as workers stage second strike of the week

Major railway stations are much quieter than normal as services were crippled by thousands of railway workers staging their second strike of the week.

Edinburgh Waverley and Glasgoq Queen Street are among the stations with much fewer passengers than a typical weekday.

Broadband provider Virgin Media O2 said it recorded an increase in usage of up to 10% on the first day of the strikes on Tuesday, indicating that “millions more people are working from home” this week.

Just one in five trains are running, and they are mostly restricted to main lines, with around half of the network closed.

ScotRail services in operation today as Network Rail workers strike for second day

ScotRail services across the country will be cancelled once again today as rail workers take to picket lines for the second day this week.

The rail firm will operate just five services in the central belt of Scotland on Thursday - with the final trains calling around 6.30pm.

It comes as Network Rail staff stage another day of walkouts amid a dispute over working conditions, potential redundancies and pay .

READ MORE: ScotRail services in operation today as Network Rail workers strike for second day

ScotRail to run extremely limited service tomorrow

Although not directly involved in the strikes, ScotRail services will be severely impacted by the strike action on Thursday and Saturday.

Only five services will remain in operation between 7.30am and 6.30pm.

ScotRail has said that the disruption is due to Network Rail signallers and maintenance staff, who are in safety critical roles, walking out as part of the industrial action.

Services in operation over tomorrow and Saturday include:

• Edinburgh to Glasgow via Falkirk High
• Edinburgh to Bathgate
• Glasgow to Hamilton/Larkhall
• Glasgow to Lanark
• Edinburgh to Glasgow via Shotts

When will the strikes resume?

The UK's largest rail strike in 30 years will resume once again later this week.

Tens of thousands of Network Rail staff and RMT members will take to Scotland's train stations to protest against conditions and pay early tomorrow morning.

Further strikes will take place on Saturday.

Commuters have been urged only to travel if neccessary on the affected days.

Boris Johnson and Keir Starmer clash over biggest rail strikes in a generation

Boris Johnson was accused of failing to lift a finger to prevent the rail strikes which have caused travel chaos.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the Prime Minister and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps had refused to meet the unions representing rail workers ahead of this week’s industrial action.

But the Prime Minister hit out at Sir Keir, saying it was a “disgrace” that Labour MPs had joined RMT members on the picket lines outside train stations.

“What we have got to do is modernise our railways,” Mr Johnson told the Labour leader.

“It is a disgrace, when we are planning to make sure that you don’t have ticket offices that sell fewer than one ticket per hour, that he yesterday had 25 Labour MPs out on the picket lines.”

Mr Johnson said Labour was “backing the strikers while we back the strivers”.

Sir Keir shot back: “The Prime Minister of this country and his Transport Secretary haven’t attended a single meeting, held a conversation or lifted a finger to stop these strikes.”

READ MORE: Keir Starmer tells Boris Johnson to 'get on with the job' over rail strikes

ScotRail warns of 'significant disruption' today following first day of rail strikes

ScotRail has warned of further ‘significant disruption’ today following the first day of strike action action on the rail network yesterday.

The rail firm advised customers of delays to the service due to the reopening of Network Rail signal boxes as many striking staff return to work today.

A spokesperson for ScotRail said: “There’ll be significant disruption across the country today, due to the reopening of Network Rail signal boxes at different times throughout the day.

“This follows today’s strike action by Network Rail RMT members, and so services will start later than normal.”

READ MORE: ScotRail warns of 'significant disruption' today following first day of rail strikes

What train services will run in Scotland on Wednesday after first day rail strike?

How many trains will run today?

Only around 60% of the 20,000 normal weekday services will be able to operate.

Why are timetables not returning to normal if there is no strike today?

Walkouts by signallers and control room staff who would usually have worked overnight from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning meant trains left depots later than normal, delaying the start of services.

Will services eventually return to normal today?

Network Rail said that “even during the day the service will stay thinner” than usual and some operators will wind down services slightly earlier than normal.

READ MORE: What train services will run in Scotland today after first day rail strike?

Rail Strike Scotland: What time will the last train depart on the five running lines on strike days?

All the latest on when you can get your last train home is available in one place.

Read more: What time will the last train depart on the five running lines on strike days?

Events and gigs in Scotland set to be impacted by walkouts

A number of events in Scotland are set to be impacted by the ongoing RMT rail strikes, national operator ScotRail has warned.

Some events that are taking part on strike days will suffer from heavily reduced services, while others on days in between strike actions may still experience disrupted rail services.

The Eagles at Murrayfield, Edinburgh on Wednesday, June 22

Liam Gallagher at Hampden Park, Glasgow on Sunday, June 26

Pride Month events in Edinburgh and Glasgow between June 24 - 26

Rail services to be impacted on Wednesday

Network Rail said that “even during the day the service will stay thinner” than usual on Wednesday.

Walkouts by signallers and control room staff who would usually work overnight from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning means trains will leave depots later than normal, delaying the start of services.

The process of taking trains out of depots will only begin when signallers on daytime shifts start work at 6-6.30am. No passenger services will run before 6.30am.

Rail strikes in Scotland 'could last months'

Tory ministers have been challenged to meet union bosses face to face in a bid to end the largest rail strike in 30 years.

The UK Government has so far refused to intervene in a dispute that caused 40,000 workers to walk out on Tuesday and around 90 per cent of passenger services in Scotland cancelled.

The RMT union has warned the row over wages and job lay-offs could last months.

Grant Shapps, the UK transport secretary, has insisted it is up to individual rail firms to settle the strike - despite Network Rail being publicly owned and funded by taxpayers.

Jenny Gilruth, Scottish Government transport minister, has today written to Shapps to claim his approach to the strike appeared to be "motivated by ideology rather than practicalities".

READ MORE: Rail strikes in Scotland 'could last months' as SNP demands UK Government takes action

Passengers hit by train disruption

Gav Nsay, 28, from Glasgow, said the strike has disrupted his plans to go by train to Edinburgh with his friend who has not been able to travel in to meet him to make the journey together.

He said: “I was meant to go to Edinburgh with my friend, unfortunately we’ve not been able to go to Edinburgh because he can’t get the train where he is coming from to Glasgow. That’s going to have a huge effect on us going to Edinburgh.”

Mr Nsay said that if his friend does manage to get into Glasgow they may end up travelling to Edinburgh by bus or taxi.

Paris Herne, 43, lives in Edinburgh but came to Glasgow for work and said his journey to Queen Street was not much affected by the strike, though some of his colleagues are working from home.

He said: “The central line is fine, I don’t use any of the district lines at all. I had to wait an extra 15 minutes but that is all.

“I came from Edinburgh and there are two trains an hour so it’s fine. But lots of my colleagues live on district lines so they are getting cabs or working from home.”

Anas Sarwar ignores Keir Starmer's rail picket ban

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar is ignoring calls by Keir Starmer to snub the rail strike pickets.

Sarwar is scheduled to attend a picket by the RMT trade union at Waverley station this morning, Tuesday, June 21.

The Labour leader is facing a backlash over his response to the biggest rail strikes in decades across the United Kingdom.

In an attempt to put distance between Labour and the strikers, an email from Starmer’s office, obtained by Politics Home, stated:

“We have robust lines. We do not want to see these strikes to go ahead with the resulting disruption to the public. The government have failed to engage in any negotiations.

“However, we also must show leadership and to that end, please be reminded that frontbenchers including [parliamentary private secretaries] should not be on picket lines.

“Please speak to all the members of your team to remind them of this and confirm with me that you have done so.”

READ MORE: Anas Sarwar ignores Keir Starmer's rail picket ban as Labour divisions on strike grow

Rail strike causes surge in heavy traffic across Scotland

Commuters forced to travel are having to contend with skeleton train timetables and increased traffic on the roads.

Photos shows heavy traffic on A90 heading to Edinburgh from north of the Central Belt as day one of UK wide three-day rail strike begins.

The AA predicted that the worst affected roads are likely to be main motorway arteries, as well as rural and suburban areas.

Drivers in Scotland are expected to face long queues as the M74, M8 and A9 could see severe traffic, according to the AA.

Many people are believed to be working from home rather than travelling to offices.

Quiet scenes at major train stations in Glasgow and Edinburgh

Train stations in Edinburgh and Glasgow were deserted this morning as commuters stayed at home amid beginning of the UK-wide rail strike.

Scotland's rail network has been heavily disrupted today, with only five services in operation across the central belt until 6.30pm tonight.

Officials have urged people to use the trains if absolutely necessary.

Rail strike explained as tens of thousands walk out in biggest train strike in decades

The UK’s train network will grind to a halt on three days this week as workers take part of the biggest rail strike in 30 years.

Staff at Network Rail and 12 train operators will walk out over today, Thursday and Saturday amid a dispute over job losses, working conditions and pay.

Commuters have been urged to only travel if necessary, with services being cancelled across the country due to the strike action.

READ MORE: Rail strike explained as tens of thousands walk out in biggest train strike in decades

Striking rail staff picket outside Glasgow Central Station

Striking rail staff picket outside Central Station on Tuesday, June 21 in Glasgow.

The biggest rail strikes in 30 years started on Monday night with trains cancelled across the UK for much of the week.

Thousands of jobs are at risk in maintenance roles and ticket office closures were planned as well as pay freezes during the cost of living crisis, says the RMT union.

Boris Johnson backs plan for strike-breaking agency workers

Boris Johnson has braced rail travellers for months of misery as he prepared to break future strikes by allowing train companies to bring in in agency staff.

Plans by Downing Street to bring forward changes to enable employers to replace employees with temporary staff have been condemned as dangerous and illegal in international law by trade unions.

The tactic was condemned by government ministers when it was deployed by P&O ferries earlier this year to replace unionised crews with cheap labour.

As 40,000 workers walked out on in the biggest railway strike in years, the Prime Minister told a cabinet meeting on Tuesday that the rail industry had to ditch outdated work practices.

READ MORE: Boris Johnson braces travellers for more misery as PM backs plan for strike-breaking agency workers

"The dispute is not going to be solved through strike action"

Nick King, a spokesman for Network Rail in Scotland, said a modernised railway could improve its pay offer for staff by passing on savings.

He told Good Morning Scotland the strike could be resolved if the union moved its position on working practices and any reduction in staff would take place on a voluntary basis.

Mr King said: "The dispute is not going to be solved through strike action. It's not going to be solved on a picket line. It's going to be solved by negotiations in a room, and negotiations have been taking place for 18 months now on this issue.

"We feel that there are clear ways in which we could modernise and change the way we currently operate and that would then enable us to free up savings that we could then use to fund a pay rise."

• Most Recent

One-week scenic Scotland by train itinerary

Posted on Last updated: June 5, 2024

Explore Scotland by train in just one week on this Scottish rail itinerary featuring castles, lochs and mountains as you travel from Edinburgh and Glasgow to the Highlands and Isle of Skye.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Travel across Scotland by train from the lowlands to the highlands, with historic cities, ruined castles, deep blue lochs, mountain peaks and wild moorland along the way. This one-week railway journey takes you from the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and heads north into the Scottish Highlands, crossing to the magical Isle of Skye before finishing in Inverness – and includes two of the UK’s most spectacular rail routes.

The Scenic Scotland by train one-week itinerary will show you which trains to take, how much they cost, how to book and what to see, do and where to stay along the way.

Day 1: Edinburgh

Start your Scotland by train trip with a full day in Edinburgh. Visit the historic highlights of the Old Town – listen to bagpipers on the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, learn about Scotland’s history at the National Museum of Scotland, hear the One O’clock Gun being fired at Edinburgh Castle, take a tour of the Queen’s Scottish residence the Palace of Holyroodhouse, or follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter on Victoria Street.

Alternatively head across to the wide Georgian streets of the New Town to admire the artworks at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, climb to the top of the Scott Monument, wander along the leafy Water of Leith or watch the sun set from Calton Hill.

Or why not check out some of Edinburgh’s more unusual attractions ? You can go underground to the buried streets of Mary King’s Close , visit the gory Surgeons’ Hall Museum (if you’re not too squeamish) or take an evening ghost tour.

Edinburgh’s an unexpected gem for foodies, with a range of food and drink tours where you can try local delicacies – from handmade chocolates and Scottish cheeses to whisky tasting at the Scotch Whisky Experience * and distillery tours at Edinburgh Gin.

Where to stay in Edinburgh: Splash out on a stay on the Royal Mile at the gloriously over-the-top Witchery by the Castle *. This 16th-century Gothic hotel has nine suites with four-poster beds and rolltop baths, eclectically decorated with antiques, artworks, gilt and velvet. It’s full of old-school glamour, with one of the city’s most romantic restaurants.

Read more: A weekend in Edinburgh: 2-day Edinburgh itinerary

Day 2: Edinburgh > Glasgow

Next morning, catch a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Central/Queen Street (a short walk from each other). The journey only takes an hour and trains run frequently, so you can decide how early you want to leave. Then spend the rest of the day in Glasgow.

Where Edinburgh is all about history, Scotland’s second city has a bit more of an edge, and has transformed itself from an industrial centre to a city of art and culture. Admire the Art Nouveau designs of Glasgow’s famous son Charles Rennie Mackintosh at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum or over afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms.

Or explore some of the city’s more contemporary artworks on the City Centre Mural Trail , a self-guided walk through Glasgow which links 25 works by different local artists.

Take a walk along the River Clyde past the modern architecture of the SSE Hydro and Armadillo to the quirky Riverside transport museum, where you can take a tour of the Glenlee , a restored tall ship that’s one of just a few built on the Clyde that are still afloat.

Or visit Scotland’s oldest museum, the Hunterian, on the campus of the University of Glasgow, and explore the city’s medieval cathedral and atmospheric hillside Necropolis.

Where to stay in Glasgow: The Grasshopper Hotel * couldn’t be better located for train travellers – right next door to Glasgow Central Station, close to Merchant City’s shops, bars and restaurants. Rooms are smart and comfortable, with penthouse views over the city and special touches like handmade wallpapers, vintage cameras and free cupcakes.

Read more: A weekend in Glasgow: A 48-hour Glasgow itinerary

Day 3: Glasgow > Fort William

Then head north on the 3 hour 45 minute journey to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands, departing Glasgow Queen Street at 08.21 and arriving in Fort William at 12.08.

The West Highland Line is one of the world’s most scenic train trips, which runs along the banks of Loch Lomond, around Horseshoe Curve at Ben Dorain, past the UK’s highest altitude train station in Corrour (as featured in the film Trainspotting ) and across remote Rannoch Moor on a line suspended above a peat bog.

Fort William is set on the banks of Loch Linnhe in the shadow of the UK’s highest mountain – Ben Nevis – making the town a real hub for hikers, bikers and other adventure-seekers. The climb to the top of Ben Nevis takes five–seven hours, weather permitting, so you might have to add in an extra day to your trip if you want to tackle the peak.

If you fancy something more sedate, it’s a pretty 1.5-mile walk along the River Lochy to the ruins of 13th-century Old Inverlochy Castle and the Ben Nevis Distillery, where you can do a tour and tasting of their whiskies. You can also learn more about the history of the Highlands (and see Rob Roy’s sporran) at Fort William’s West Highland Museum.

Where to stay in Fort William: Spend the night behind bars in former police station The Garrison * in the centre of town. Choose from a modern en-suite room, or an original cell that’s been converted into compact double or bunk room with shared bathroom.

Read more: 13 things to do in Fort William and Glencoe

Day 4: Fort William > Isle of Skye

The following day, reboard the West Highland Line for the 1.5-hour journey from Fort William to Mallaig across the curving Glenfinnan Viaduct and past lochs and the sandy beaches of Morar. If you depart Fort William at 08.15 you arrive in Mallaig at 09.38.

Or from April–October you can also ride the Jacobite steam train , better known as the Hogwarts Express (departs Fort William at 10.15 and arrives Mallaig at 12.26).

Then swap the train for the ferry to the Isle of Skye. Ferry times vary throughout the year, with 8–10 sailings a day in summer. If you have time for lunch before you sail, try locally caught prawns or fish and chips at Mallaig’s Fishmarket Restaurant.

The ferry from Mallaig takes 45 minutes to reach Armadale in Skye. From Armadale you can catch the 52 bus to Portree (changing in Broadford), but buses are slow and infrequent so it may be worth taking a taxi if there are a group of you – it takes an hour and costs around £90–£100, but you do need to book taxis well in advance.

Portree is the capital and largest town on the Isle of Skye, set around a picturesque harbour with pastel-painted houses and surrounded by hills. It’s the hub of transport and tours for the island, and a good place to shop for souvenirs, with local producers including the Isle of Skye Soap Co, Skyeskyns and Isle of Skye Distillers all having shops in town.

Where to stay in Portree: The Cuillin Hills Hotel * is half a mile outside of Portree but comes with knockout views across the Bay of Portree to the Cuillin Mountains from its 15-acre gardens. Inside are traditional Scottish touches, from tartan fabrics to local seafood in the restaurant and a malt whisky bar with over 130 varieties to choose from.

Read more: Isle of Skye itinerary: The best of the island in 3 days

Day 5: Isle of Skye

Today you have the whole day to explore the Isle of Skye – buses connect Portree with many parts of the island, but it’s easier option to either hire a car for the day (book in advance as availability’s limited) or take a guided day tour of Skye’s highlights. A small group day tour * (£80 per person) departs Portree at 9am and returns at 6pm.

The Isle of Skye is known for its magical landscapes, with dramatic rock formations around the Quiraing which look like something from another planet (and are a film location favourite). Admire the 200-foot Old Man of Storr and the steep cliffs at Kilt Rock.

Visit the lighthouse at Neist Point and look out for dolphins and whales, or tour imposing lochside Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.

Skye has plenty of myths and legends – get away with the fairies at the Fairy Glen, a grassy glen with rock spirals and ancient trees dripping with moss. Or follow the 1.5-mile path to the Fairy Pools with their clear green waters and cascading waterfalls.

Day 6: Isle of Skye > Inverness

The next day, catch the CityLink bus from Portree to Kyle of Lochalsh, where you pick up the train for the journey to Inverness. There are a couple of different options – the number 915 bus from Portree Square departs at 10.35 and arrives in Kyle at 11.36.

Or if you’d like to visit nearby Eilean Donan Castle, catch the earlier 07.30 bus from Portree to Dornie, arriving at 08.48. Spend a few hours at the castle before travelling back to Kyle of Lochalsh on the 11.44 service (which takes around 15 minutes).

Then catch the 13.46 train from Kyle of Lochalsh for the 2 hour 40 minute journey to Inverness, arriving at 16.27. The Kyle Line is another of the UK’s top scenic train routes. Opened in 1870, it runs through remote landscapes, following the coast with views of Syke, across moorland and past the Torridon Peaks – keep an eye out for deer on the way.

Spend the evening in Inverness – capital of the Highlands. Follow the path along the River Ness to the Ness Islands, a group of tree-covered islands connected by elegant Victorian footbridges. Or head up to Inverness Castle to watch the sun set over the city, before checking out some of Inverness’ live music scene at pubs like Hootananny.

Where to stay in Inverness: End your trip in style with a night at the five-star Rocpool Reserve *. This Georgian house has been converted into a lavish boutique hotel with bar and restaurant. Its luxurious rooms come with Egyptian cotton bedding, emperor-size beds and 24-hour room service – and some have outdoor hot tubs, saunas or balconies.

Read more: A weekend in Inverness: A 48-hour Inverness itinerary

Day 7: Inverness

Spend the final morning of your Scotland by train trip seeing more of Inverness. Learn about the history and culture of the Highlands at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery and shop for secondhand books at Leakley’s. Or if you have time you can take a half-day trip out to either Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle , or the battlefield at Culloden.

Then if you’re flying back home, Inverness Airport is 10 miles north of the city. The two are connected by the 11 bus, which takes around 35 minutes. Or if you’re travelling back to Edinburgh, the train journey from Inverness takes 3.5 hours. There’s also the Caledonian Sleeper overnight train which connect Inverness to London in around 11 hours.

If you have more time, you could head north to John O-Groats – most northerly point of mainland Britain – Caithness and the Cromarty Firth on a day tour * from Inverness. Or catch the train south to Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park for mountain hikes in summer, skiing in winter and the Strathspey Steam Railway. There are also plenty more Scottish cities to discover nearby, including Dundee, Aberdeen and St Andrews .

How much does it cost?

When you’re planning a Scottish rail trip, you can either book individual tickets or get a railpass, which can be a better deal if you’re under 28/over 60, want more flexibility or are booking late. Here’s how prices break down for the two different options on this route.

Individual tickets

Ticket prices depend on how early you book and if you’re booking a specific train or want to be flexible. There are three main fare categories: Advance, Off-Peak or Anytime. Advance are cheapest and can be booked 8–12 weeks in advance, but are non-transferable so you’re tied to a specific train. Off-Peak services are valid on any train outside weekday peak hours. And Anytime are most expensive but can be bought on the day and used on any train.

Using the cheapest Advance fares, the cost of trains on this route starts at £69 per person:

• Edinburgh > Glasgow: from £14.70
• Glasgow > Fort William: from £26.60
• Fort William > Mallaig: from £8.20 (£65 for The Jacobite )
• Mallaig > Armadale (by ferry): from £3.20
• Kyle of Lochalsh > Inverness: from £15.90

You can also save a third on all rail fares with a Railcard *. These cost £30 with different versions for 16–25s, 25–30s, Seniors and Disabled People. You can also get a Two Together railcard for two named adults travelling together, or a Friends and Family Railcard for up to four adults and four children. Both UK and overseas residents are eligible.

The railpass option

There are various rail passes available, and which you’re eligible for depends on where you live. If you live outside the UK, you can can get a InterRail/Eurail pass (InterRail is for European residents and Eurail is for non-European residents).

For the Scotland by train itinerary, the best InterRail / Eurail option is the One Country Great Britain pass for 4 travel days within 1 month , which costs £199 for adults, £167 for youths aged 12–27 or £179 for seniors in second class.

ScotRail also offers its own rail passes, which are available to both UK and overseas residents. The best option for this itinerary is the Spirit of Scotland Pass for 4 days within 8 days , with unlimited travel by train, ferry and coach. It costs £149 for adults and is half price for children aged 5–15, with discounts for Railcard holders.

Passholders are recommended to make seat reservations – though it’s probably only worth doing for long-distance services or at busy peak times so you’re guaranteed a seat – which you can do for free at any UK train station up to two hours before departure.

Please note The Jacobite steam train is privately owned so isn’t covered by any rail passes.

How to book

There are a variety of websites where you can book UK train journeys, but some charge a booking fee. To avoid fees you can book direct with ScotRail and either use a mobile ticket on your phone or collect them from a ticket machine or a counter at the station. Or if you have an international credit card you can book with The Trainline for a small fee.

Don’t want to do it yourself? You can also book a custom trip based on this Scenic Scotland by train itinerary through our partners Byway ,* the flight-free holiday platform. And you can save £100 off your first booking using the code LUCE100 if you book before the end of June 2024.

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Sunday 21st of January 2024

Hi Lucy, Thanks a lot for this itinerary, looks great. We are actually planning a week in Scotland in May. We are not really interested in Glasgow and we were thinking about making our first stop after Edinburgh at Tarbet (have a cruise on the Loch and walk around) Can you let me know your opinion and any suggestion ? Thanks a lot. Serge

Lucy Dodsworth

Monday 22nd of January 2024

Hi Serge, yes you could definitely swap that in. It's 2.5 hours by train from Edinburgh to Arrochar and Tarbet (with a change in Glasgow), so if you took a morning train on Day 2 you could do a boat trip in the afternoon and stay the night there, then catch the train to Fort William the next day which is 2.5 hours and carry on the itinerary from there.

Monday 15th of January 2024

Great itinerary! I am considering taking the train from Glasgow to Mallaig, ferry to Armadale and bus to Portlee in one day next month. How do the buses run from Armadale to Portlee this time of year? Are there tours of Skye running in February? I'm planning on a three day stay in Portlee. Any suggestions?

Hi Tim, there are buses Stagcoach 52 buses between Armadale and Portree but they're not very frequent this time of year to you would need to time it carefully (timetable here: https://tiscon-maps-stagecoachbus.s3.amazonaws.com/Timetables/North%20Scotland/Highlands/Skye%20Revised%202022.pdf). You would probably need to take a private tour in February – try Real Scottish Journeys who do winter tours.

Sunday 7th of January 2024

Hi, Great itinerary. Would like to go Glasgow to Oban, Oban to Fort William. What is the best way Oban to Fort William. Additionally, recommend a stop between Inverness and Edinburgh. Thanks

Sunday 4th of February 2024

@Karen, Thank you Lucy for your insight. Any thoughts on the Spirit of Scotland pass? In short,we are two seniors traveling, Edinburgh to Glasgow,train, to Oban,train,to Ft. William,bus,to Skye,train,taxi to Dorrie,bus,Kyle of Lock to Inverness,train, Inverness to Edinburgh,train. In April. I tried to add up separate fares,still confusing.Need flexibility in case of changes.Also, is it advisable to reserve a seat on the Ft. William to Mallaig , ferry section. Would appreciate your guidance

Hi, Oban to Fort William is slow by train (4 hours) but you can take the West Coast Motors 918 bus instead which is less than two hours. It does only run a couple of times a day though (https://passenger-line-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/westcoastmotors/WCMO/918-timetable-20220815-14e38acb.pdf). Between Inverness and Edinburgh you could stop off in Aviemore to see the Cairngorms, or do a short diversion to Leuchars to visit St Andrews which is a lovely city.

Saturday 6th of January 2024

Thank you for your helpful ideas. We will be touring Scotland by train in late April using a very similar itinerary. We plan to purchase the Spirit of Scotland Rail pass. Once I purchase that, am I able to reserve seats for the various legs of the train journey? We live in the US, so I need to do everything I can online. On the Scotrail website, it looks like I need to buy individual tickets in order to get a seat reservation online. If we can't make seat reservations, do we just arrive early to help guarantee we get on the desired train? Thank you for any insight on reserving seats with the Spirit of Scotland Rail pass!

Hi, you don't need to make seat reservations with the Spirit of Scotland pass, and a lot of trains don't take reservations. The ones that do on this route are Glasgow > Fort William and Inverness > Edinburgh – you can't reserve online using the pass but you can do it at stations, so could make reservations when you first get to Scotland, or call 0344 811 0141 when you arrive in the UK.

Friday 29th of December 2023

I am planning a trip from May 4-13. For now, I have a couple nights in Edinburgh, one in Glasgow, and one in Fort William.

Here are some concerns and questions I have: I booked the Jacobite on Thursday. It’s a return—so it’ll go from Fort William to Mallaig, and the back. I’m a little worried about how to get from Armadale to Portree without a vehicle. Should I just take the return train to Fort William and try to go to Iverness?

I’ve never been and we are trying to avoid renting a vehicle if possible.

Also, for the other train trips, other than Jacobite, should I try to book trains in advance?

I’m just worried and I don’t want to get stuck. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Thursday 4th of January 2024

@Lucy Dodsworth, Do you know if there are buses that run from Fort William to Inverness daily?

Saturday 30th of December 2023

Hi Maggie, for the Jacobite you have to buy a return ticket but you can get off at Mallaig and not go back to Fort William. For the journey from Armadale to Portree, I'd advise pre-booking a taxi if you're not keen on relying on the buses (Fort William to Inverness isn't really advisable by train – you have to go all the way back to Glasgow so it takes 8+ hours!). You shouldn't need to book the other trains in advance but you can do if you want to be sure of a seat – they can be booked via Scotrail normally 2-3 months in advance. Hope you have a great trip!