The Scottish rail network travels throughout the country, with most of its trains in the central belt and a few main lines in the Highlands. Many of the Highlands lines also provide links for major ferry ports to the west coast islands. With transportation available to all the major towns in Scotland, passengers can choose from a variety of scenic routes and create a customized train tour. Tickets may be purchased at ScotRail stations, from travel agents, by phone or online. Tickets may also be purchased on board from the train inspector, but the inspector may not be able to sell discounted or special-offer tickets.
Passengers can choose from various roving ticket options and travel passes. The most flexible travel pass, the Freedom of Scotland Travelpass, provides unlimited train travel within Scotland. The Freedom Travelpass also includes transportation on all CalMac ferries and select bus routes in remote regions, and offers discounts on Northlink ferries to Orkney and Shetland. The more limited Highland Rover travel pass offers unlimited travel on trains within the Highland region as well as the West Highland Line, travel between Aberdeen and Aviemore, and a few connecting bus routes.
ScotRail Customer Relations
P.O. Box 7030
Fort William, Scotland PH33 6WX
United Kingdom
+44-845-601-5929
scotrail.co.uk
Ride past dense mountain forests and mysterious lochs on your way to the historic Highlands on this luxury train tour. Transporting up to 36 guests, the train offers 16 twin and four single cabins equipped with comfortable beds and private bathrooms. Traveling only during the day, the train berths overnight so guests will have a quiet environment for sleeping. Fine wines and meals made with fresh local ingredients are served in the two dining cars. After dinner, guests are invited to gather in the Edwardian Observation Car to hear historic stories about Scotland from a Highlander.
Tours include exclusive visits to castles, distilleries and private homes. Choose from several different tours, ranging from an overnight excursion to a seven-night journey. All prices are per person and include accommodations, meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, entertainment and off-train tours, as well as the services of an on-board host.
The Royal Scotsman
800-524-2420
royalscotsman.com
These private charter train tours were developed to offer luxury travel for small groups of 10 as well as a personalized, cost-effective travel option for large groups of up to 640. The journey begins with uniformed stewards meeting guests at the departure station and providing full-service baggage handling. Customized on-board hospitality may include casual bistro-style meals or elaborate fine dining, cabaret singers or a casino carriage. The "Golf Train" theme tour is designed for a small group and includes private train transportation to the Ryder Cup and the British Open. The train departs from a station in the English countryside and travels to Leuchars, Scotland, just two miles from St. Andrews. The package includes fine dining, with meals prepared by an on-board chef, and an extensive wine list.
The Train Chartering Co.
Benwell House, Preston
Wiltshire, SN15 4DX
United Kingdom
+44-124-989-0176
trainchartering.com