Great Rail Journeys
Edinburgh, Fort William & the West Highlands
Escorted Scottish Highlands rail tour from Edinburgh with the Jacobite Steam Train
7 daysfrom $2,269
29% rail
Great Rail Journeys · Escorted tour
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
A Scottish escorted rail holiday is the perfect way to admire the beautiful natural landscapes and historical city of Edinburgh in comfort and style.
Day by day
- Day 1overnight: Edinburgh
Arriving in historic Edinburgh
Your holiday begins in Edinburgh, where you meet the Tour Manager and rest of the group at the hotel located just off Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile. After checking in, you have time to explore the Scottish capital's architecture, history and cultural scene at your own pace. You might choose to visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city, or enjoy a scenic walk up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views over the capital. The city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the Old Town's historic Royal Mile and the New Town's renowned Georgian architecture. This evening, enjoy the first dinner together as a group at one of Edinburgh's popular restaurants.
Meals: Dinner
- Day 2railovernight: Blair Atholl
The Kelpies, Falkirk Wheel and Blair Atholl
After breakfast, travel by coach to the magnificent Kelpies, two towering horse-head sculptures designed by Glasgow-based artist Andy Scott. Nearby, experience the Falkirk Wheel – the world's only rotating boat lift – with a boat trip including two full rotations and a canal ride. The journey continues to Blair Atholl with a stop in historic Stirling, where you can enjoy lunch with views of Stirling Castle or stroll the charming streets. Board the train to Blair Atholl and check in to the hotel with time to unwind before dinner. Please note: the running order of the itinerary may vary.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 3overnight: Blair Atholl
Queen's View, Pitlochry, and Blair Castle
After breakfast, visit Queen's View, one of Scotland's most famous lookouts, with breathtaking views across Loch Tummel towards the Glencoe Hills. Continue to the charming town of Pitlochry for free time to explore independent shops, cafés and Victorian architecture. Return to Blair Atholl to visit the impressive Blair Castle – a vision in white stone with grand interiors and beautifully landscaped gardens. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is free to explore Blair Atholl independently.
Meals: Breakfast
- Day 4railovernight: Blair Atholl
Journey on the incredible Jacobite steam train
A scenic journey aboard the Jacobite steam train awaits after breakfast. Travelling in beautifully restored carriages along the West Highland Line, a highlight is crossing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct with its 21 arches. The train continues towards the coast, passing through Arisaig before descending to Mallaig, a quaint fishing port overlooking the Isle of Skye. Enjoy leisure time in Mallaig before the return journey on the Jacobite. Please note: journeys are steam-hauled where possible, but some departures may use the ScotRail scheduled service. On the 7th & 21st June and 6th & 20th September departures, travel is one way on the Jacobite steam train.
Meals: Breakfast
- Day 5railovernight: Blair Atholl
Through the Cairngorms on heritage railways
After breakfast, take a memorable journey on the Strathspey Steam Railway departing from Aviemore, following the historic Highland Railway route along the River Spey. Board the Cairngorm Mountain Railway for a breathtaking ascent through the national park to the summit, with sweeping views across the Highlands. Later, continue by coach to Newtonmore to visit the Highland Folk Museum, an open-air museum paying tribute to traditional Highland life with authentic 18th-century buildings and historic artefacts. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening and the final group dinner. Please note: on the 24th May and 7th & 21st June departures, the Highland Folk Museum will not be visited.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 6
Homeward bound
After breakfast, make your way back to Edinburgh from Blair Atholl. Arriving in Edinburgh, you are free to make your way home or continue exploring independently.
Meals: Breakfast
Included
- Expertise of a UK Tour Manager from start to finish
- 5 nights' 3-star hotel accommodation
- Standard Class rail travel
- All rail and coach travel throughout the tour
- Breakfast each day
- 3 dinners
- Group luggage transfers between all hotels
- All guided tours and excursions
Not included
- Cancellation & Travel Insurance
