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Railbookers · Independent rail vacation

Edinburgh, Isle of Skye, and the West Highland Line from London

Independent 13-day rail trip from London through the Highlands to Edinburgh

Illustration of Edinburgh, Isle of Skye, and the West Highland Line from London

Railbookers operates this 13-day, 12-night independent rail vacation across the UK, running from London to Edinburgh with stops in Fort William, the Isle of Skye and Inverness. After two nights in London, travelers board the Caledonian Sleeper for an overnight rail journey in a private cabin, waking up near Fort William. From there the trip includes the Jacobite Steam Train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct, seasonal from April to October, private transfers to a three-night stay on the Isle of Skye with a full-day guided island tour, then on to Inverness for a day trip to Loch Ness. A ScotRail train carries travelers on to Edinburgh for two final nights, including a tour that takes in Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle. Guided tours are included at several points, but much of the schedule is left free. This suits travelers who want a long, varied rail-and-transfer route through Scotland's Highlands and islands rather than a single point-to-point journey.

What to know before you look closer

  • The Jacobite Steam Train, the highlight of the West Highland Line day, only runs April to October; outside that window the itinerary uses local ScotRail on the same route instead.
  • The Fort William to Isle of Skye leg on day 6 and the Isle of Skye to Inverness leg on day 9 are covered by private transfer rather than train, despite the trip's overall rail focus.
  • Railbookers lists 24 accommodation options across five cities and different price tiers, so the exact hotel depends on the tier and city combination you choose.
  • The evidence notes that public transport on the Isle of Skye can be infrequent, advising travelers to check with their hotel for the best way to get around on day 8.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: London

    Your Journey Begins in London

    Welcome to the vibrant capital city of London. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a two-night stay. Why not head out into town and enjoy a meal in one of the city's incredible restaurants, offering a wide range of international cuisine in every corner of the city. Take an evening stroll down the South Bank of the River Thames and you'll be treated to picturesque views over the London Eye, Palace of Westminster and Tower Bridge, enjoying views of historic architecture and modern skyscrapers embroidering the skyline.

  2. Day 2overnight: London

    London

    Today get the most out of London on a full-day small group tour with guide, taking in sights such as Big Ben and Westminster Abbey from the comfort of an air-conditioned coach, skip-the-line entrance to St Pauls' Cathedral and the Tower of London, watch the Changing of the Guard then relax about a cruise down the Thames River. Make sure you find the time to pop into a pub for lunch, then perhaps a show in the evening in London's famous West End.

  3. Day 3railovernight: Overnight Rail Journey

    Overnight Journey On The Caledonian Sleeper Train

    Embark on your overnight rail journey on the Caledonian Sleeper train to the beautiful Fort William, which sits among some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

  4. Day 4overnight: Fort William

    Fort William

    Take a stroll through the Glen or wander one of the many short highland walks for some truly glorious views. Be sure to keep your eye out for deer and other local wildlife along the way. If there is time you can head off to Old Inverlochy Castle for a taste of history, it's a lovely walk along the banks of the river on the Old Glen Way. After your day of sightseeing be sure to cozy up in one of the traditional pubs, grab a seat by a roaring fire and have a wee glass of whisky for the true Highland experience.

  5. Day 5railovernight: Fort William

    Jacobite Steam Train / West Highland Line

    Embark on a scenic train journey described by some as the world's most beautiful. The Jacobite winds its way through breath-taking Scottish scenery. You'll pass lochs and mountains, across the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct and on until reaching Mallaig. Explore this charming coastal community before returning to Fort William. When the Jacobite is not running enjoy this beautiful journey on the local Scot Rail service.

  6. Day 6overnight: Skye

    Fort William to Isle Of Skye

    Today you make your way via private transfer from Fort William to Portree on the magical Isle of Skye. After checking into your hotel, head into the village for a late lunch or early dinner. Be sure to sample some of the local seafood the area is famous for. With its glorious harbor, pier and views of the surrounding hills it is easy to see why Portree is considered one of the 20 most beautiful villages in the UK

  7. Day 7overnight: Skye

    Day Tour Of Isle Of Skye

    On this full day on Skye, you will get to see all the iconic sights the Island has to offer with a full day guided tour. Highlights include the Fairy Pools, Neist Point, the Quiraing and Kilt Rock to name a few. You'll be sure to create magical memories on this breathtaking tour.

  8. Day 8overnight: Isle of Skye

    Isle Of Skye

    Spend your final day on Skye at your leisure. Perhaps take the local transport to the Kyle of Lochalsh or make your way to the one of the surrounding hiking areas for some spectacular views. Transport on the island can be infrequent so be sure to speak to the hotel for the best way to get around.

  9. Day 9overnight: Inverness

    Isle Of Skye to Inverness

    Today you will depart the isle of Skye via private transfer and head to the charming Highland town of Inverness. Boasting an abundance of culture, history, a beautiful Old Town, and the 19th-century Inverness Cathedral, this city and the surrounding region was made for exploring

  10. Day 10overnight: Inverness

    Loch Ness and Glen Urquhart Castle

    Today, you head out on a remarkable journey through the Highlands that includes amazing locations such as Loch Ness and picturesque Glen Urquhart Castle.

  11. Day 11railovernight: Edinburgh

    Inverness to Edinburgh

    Today you'll board the train and head off to Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital. Along the way, relax onboard and enjoy the romantic Scottish landscape as it rolls by.

  12. Day 12overnight: Edinburgh

    Edinburgh

    Take time today to stroll Edinburgh's historic streets. Visit historic spots like Holyrood Palace on your included tour. Make your way to Edinburgh Castle perched on its rock overlooking the city and surrounding area. History lovers will relish the chance to see and learn about the castle and its place in Scottish lore. View the "Honours of Scotland" once the regalia of Scottish monarchs. To catch a glimpse of Edinburgh's medieval era, visit the city's oldest standing structure, St. Margaret's located inside the castle complex.

  13. Day 13

    Your Journey Ends in Edinburgh

    Spend one final morning in Edinburgh before heading back to your local station.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 3An overnight journey in a private sleeper cabin on the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Fort William.
  • Day 5The Jacobite Steam Train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct to Mallaig, described as one of the world's most beautiful train journeys.
  • Day 7A full-day guided tour of the Isle of Skye's sights, including the Fairy Pools, Neist Point, the Quiraing and Kilt Rock.
  • Day 10A day trip through the Highlands to Loch Ness and Glen Urquhart Castle.
  • Day 12Edinburgh Castle and the 'Honours of Scotland,' once the regalia of Scottish monarchs, on an included Edinburgh tour.

Included

  • Rail travel as per the itinerary
  • Private sleeper cabin on the Caledonian Sleeper Train
  • 2-nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast in London
  • 2-nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast in Fort William / Glencoe
  • 3-nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast on the Isle of Skye
  • 2 nights' hotel accommodation in Inverness
  • 2 nights' hotel accommodation with breakfast in Edinburgh
  • Small Group City Tour of London
  • Skip the Line: Edinburgh Castle Admission
  • Round-trip journey on the Jacobite Steam Train (April to October only)
  • Private transfer from Fort William to the Isle of Skye
  • Private transfer from the Isle of Skye to Inverness

Questions travellers ask

Is the train travel included?
Yes, for the rail legs: a private cabin on the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Fort William, the Jacobite Steam Train (or ScotRail outside April to October) from Fort William to Mallaig, and ScotRail from Inverness to Edinburgh. The Fort William to Skye and Skye to Inverness legs use private transfer instead of train.
Is it escorted or independent?
The evidence describes it as 'Independent, with guided tours included,' meaning travelers move through the trip on their own but join scheduled guided tours in London, on Skye and in Edinburgh.
Which trains are used?
The Caledonian Sleeper, the Jacobite Steam Train (seasonal, with a ScotRail alternative outside April to October), and ScotRail from Inverness to Edinburgh.
What hotels are included?
Railbookers lists 24 accommodation options across London, Fort William, Skye, Inverness and Edinburgh, including the Kimpton Fitzroy London, the InterContinental London Park Lane and The Garrison in Fort William.
How much walking or hiking is involved?
Day 4 near Fort William includes short highland walks, and day 8 on Skye points travelers toward hiking areas for scenic views, though both are described as optional, at-leisure activities.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from 2,899 US dollars per person.

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