Clans, Castles and Isles
The Route
Welcome aboard Royal Scotsman to explore the legends and elements of Scotland in motion. Myths and tales of the landscape come alive as the spectacular scenery unfolds on a journey embracing famous battlegrounds, glorious waterfalls and captivating islands.
Estimated departure: 13:56 – arrival: 09:40
Our train is subject to national railway constraints and timings are purely indicative. Please check your final itinerary for confirmed timings.
Clans, Castles and Isles
5 Nights
Discover Scotland through the ages with unique sceneries and intriguing experiences
Depart from Edinburgh and travel north to the 'Fair City' of Perth. Admire the rolling hills of Perthshire, the dramatic valleys of the Highlands and the stunning views of Ben Nevis.
Check availabilityIncludes
Luxury Accommodation
Five nights aboard the Royal Scotsman luxury train with 24-hour steward service
Fine Dining
All meals aboard the train: full Scottish breakfast, two-course lunch, three-course dinner including cheeseboard, coffee, tea and petit fours. All beverages including alcoholic drinks
Historical Tours
A visit to the Oban distillery, a visit to a local family-run sustainable cheese farm, and a day trip to Rothiemurchus Estate
Onboard entertainment
Traditional ceilidhs, informal dinners, evening entertainments in the Observation Car and a formal dining experience
Day One
Edinburgh – Spean Bridge
The train departs Edinburgh in the afternoon, travelling west through Falkirk, Clydebank and Dumbarton to skirt Glasgow before reaching the northern bank of the Clyde. Settle into your luxury cabin and savour the cinematic views as we make our way to Spean Bridge, our stabling point for the night.
As evening sets in, enjoy a superb informal dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car. Musicians and performers join the train, blending sweet, slow Gaelic songs with lively folk melodies.
Day Two
Spean Bridge – Fort William – Oban
Your itinerary continues west, sweeping past Britain’s highest mountain — look out for majestic Ben Nevis. Disembark at Arisaig for a morning stroll along the silver sands of Morar and marvel at soft white beaches and breathtaking views of the Cuillin mountain range. Lunch is served as the train travels back to Fort William crossing over the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
This afternoon presents two choices. Join our local guide to explore Glenfinnan and discover the lively stories of great Scottish heroes, or accompany our mountain guides for a hike through stunning Glen Nevis to the Steall Waterfall. An informal dinner, followed by an evening of spirited Scottish music in the Observation Car, awaits on the train.
Day Three
Oban – Kilmarnock
As you arrive in Oban, the gateway to the Western isles, take the ferry crossing to the Isle of Mull. Visit Tobermory Distillery for a private tour and tasting. Located in the heart of Mull’s capital, the distillery is one of the oldest in Scotland.
Alternatively, head to a small family-run sustainable cheese farm on the outskirts of Tobermory and learn about the traditional cheesemaking process. After lunch, explore at your leisure the scenic harbour village of Tobermory. Back on the train, prepare for tonight’s wonderful formal dinner as you head towards Kilmarnock for overnight stabling.
Day Four
Kilmarnock – Wemyss Bay – Aviemore
This morning, travel to Wemyss Bay on the Firth of Clyde and board the ferry for the short sail to the Isle of Bute. Spend an intriguing morning at Mount Stuart House, one of Britain's most astonishing Victorian Gothic houses surrounded by expansive landscaped gardens and wild woodlands. Back on board, indulge in an informal dinner followed by traditional entertainment.
Day Five
Aviemore – Stirling – Dundee
Savour a leisurely breakfast aboard and travel the short distance by coach to Rothiemurchus Estate, set in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. Return to the train in Kingussie and savour a leisurely lunch as you journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry. On reaching Stirling, disembark to visit Stirling Castle, which dominates a vast volcanic rock above the River Forth. The childhood home of monarchs such as Mary Queen of Scots and James VI, it has variously served as a great royal residence, a powerful stronghold, military base and seat of government. You are invited to a private champagne and canapé reception, followed by a fascinating tour of the castle.
Rejoin the train in Stirling and as it makes its way to Dundee, conclude your day trip with a final gala dinner on board — a formal affair and a gastronomic treat. Finally, make your way to the Observation Car for a musical farewell.
Day Six
Dundee – Edinburgh
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the dining cars and make your way back to Edinburgh aboard Royal Scotsman. For transportation after your journey or to book a reservation in one of Edinburgh’s finest accommodations, please speak to your Train Manager.