Review of the Year 2024
20/12/2024 · By Dave Riley, CEO
From all of us at Great Rail Journeys, we wish you a wonderful festive period. Take a look back at 2024 and get a glimpse at our new holidays for 2025.
Read moreScotland doesn't waste an inch of its mountainous area in order to delight and impress visitors. The space between beautiful and historic cities such as Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Dundee is filled with the breath-taking mountains, lochs, glens and valleys that have inspired poets, artists and visitors for hundreds of years.
Wild and unspoilt, Scotland's landscapes are timeless, and few pleasures can compare with stepping aboard a magnificently-restored steam train and gently rolling through the dramatic heather-clad hills of the Scottish Highlands.
In truth Scotland is packed with unique and unforgettable experiences. Here you can search for a pre-historic monster that lurks beneath the placid surface of Loch Ness. You can visit one of Scotland's iconic distilleries and sample the finest single-malt whiskies in the world. Take a cruise to the ruggedly pretty Hebridean Islands, Orkney or Shetland. Witness the spectacle of the world-famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These are just a few of the countless pleasures that are you'll enjoy on an escorted rail holiday in Scotland with Great Rail Journeys.
Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.
From Inverness, the gateway to our Highland adventure, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard magnificent mainline and steam railways, including the legendary Jacobite Steam Train and charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs,...
Majestic lochs and glens await on this Scottish escape as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Travelling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle railway lines, we discover historic castles, sail along glistening lochs, and stay in vibrant cities. Wander the rainbow streets of delightful Tobermory, stand at the foot of Neptune's Staircase,...
Journey through the iconic landscapes and culture of Scotland aboard the country's spectacular railways. From the city of Edinburgh to the Cairngorm Mountain, every day is a new experience on this five-day tour. Explore towering sculptures, discover towns and castles, journey on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train, and experience the...
A fantastic short break culminating in the iconic extravaganza of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. Based in charming Dunblane, peacefully situated in the Perthshire countryside, this wonderful Scottish holiday also includes a heritage steam train journey through the Cairngorms, a...
Experience the beauty of Scotland and its amazing culture. Travelling aboard the famous Jacobite train on the scenic West Highland Line, we discover sensational Scottish landscapes, see the mighty Kelpies, and explore Edinburgh. Staying in historic Fort William, wander the rainbow streets of Tobermory, stand at the foot of Neptune's Staircase,...
From Glasgow, journey through stunning landscapes and historic sites to Scotland's mystic North. An island tour of the Orkney Islands reveals ancient Neolithic sites including Skara Brae, the Standing Stones of Stenness, and the Ring of Brodgar. Explore the capital, Kirkwall, before we discover the great houses and gardens of the Northern...
Wild beauty and ancient wonders await on this holiday to Scotland's Outer Hebrides - also known as the Western Isles - and the dramatic Scottish Highlands. From the dynamic city of Glasgow, we travel on the world-renowned West Highland Line to Fort William, as a moving picture of mountains, lochs and heather-clad moors unfolds. Set sail on a sea...
Attend the sensational Edinburgh Tattoo display, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. From our base in Peebles, enjoy a heritage journey on the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway, visit Floors Castle for a traditional afternoon tea, and see the Kelpies. Each moment on this Edinburgh Tattoo holiday is designed to leave you...
Discover the wild charm of the Outer Hebrides and The Highlands. On this culture-packed eight-day tour, explore the city of Edinburgh, witness the wonder of modern engineering at the Falkirk Wheel, and experience one of the world's most beautiful train lines on the Jacobite Steam Railway. As we journey through the stunning landscapes of Scotland,...
Journey to the heart of the Scottish Highlands, taking in the marvellous lochs and glens this part of the world is famous for. Our holiday begins amongst the cultural richness of Glasgow before we traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands aboard the West Highland Line and set sail on stunning Loch Lomond. Staying in the...
We visit three of Scotland's most charismatic cities, experiencing the local culture of Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee. Visit Glamis Castle and journey along the banks of the River Dee aboard the Royal Deeside Railway. This five-day holiday is scattered with unique excursions. Meet iconic Highland coos, savour the craft of gin at the Lost Loch...
Make it a truly merry Christmas on this festive Scotland holiday. Celebrate in Inverness with hearty food, warming drinks, traditional entertainment and seasonal cheer. Explore Edinburgh, aglow with Christmas spirit, travel through winter scenery aboard the heritage Kyle Line and visit legendary Loch Ness, home to the mysterious Nessie. With...
The Scottish Highlands boast some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Towering mountains, serene lochs, and ancient castles characterise this region. Journey through remote beauty on the North Coast or explore the Cairngorms National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning nature and amazing wildlife.
Unearth the magic of the Isles. The Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands on the western edge of Scotland, offer a remote and mystical experience. Discover ancient standing stones, pristine beaches, and Gaelic culture in places like the Isle of Lewis and Stornoway.
Step into a city steeped in history. Edinburgh, the capital city, is a captivating blend of ancient and modern. Wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town, dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Explore the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town and visit the Royal Mile, where you'll find shops, cafes, and street performers.
Escape to island tranquility. Scotland is adorned with picturesque islands, each offering a unique escape. Visit the Isle of Skye for its rugged beauty or the Orkney and Shetland Islands for a glimpse into Norse history and stunning coastal landscapes.
In Scotland, you'll find hearty, traditional dishes reflecting the country's rich agricultural and coastal resources. From the iconic haggis, a savoury blend of spices and meats. to exquisite Scotch whisky, Scotland offers flavours like no other. Sample locally sourced salmon, celebrated for its pristine taste, or indulge in the buttery allure of traditional shortbread - a sweet homage to Scottish hospitality. Whether you're exploring charming pubs or upscale restaurants, Scotland's culinary landscape promises a delightful fusion of heritage and innovation.
Discover the fantastic railways of Scotland. It should come as no surprise that we love railways and we know many of you do too! That's why our tours feature some of the most iconic railways and trains on the continent.