News & Blog

At the RSNO, we’re big fans of travelling by train. There’s nothing better than sitting back and watching the world go by. Pop your headphones on and have your main character moment with our playlist for Scottish train journeys featuring a mix of the ultimate classics, movie and videogame soundtracks and more, all recorded by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Best of the West

Considered to be the most scenic railway in Scotland, the views on the West Highland Railway Line will not disappoint as you head into the wilds of the West Coast. The line splits in Crianlarich, with one half travelling to Oban along the shores of Loch Awe and the other taking you across the wilderness of the Great Moor of Rannoch to Fort William, and on to Mallaig over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. Listen to ScotRail’s guided audio tour along your journey to find out more about what you can see.

Places to Stop Along the Way:

Arrochar & Tarbet – jump off here for a hill walk up The Cobbler. Make sure to take your waterproofs, a good pair of walking boots and maybe some suncream!

Falls of Cruachan – take a tour into the unique power station in the heart of Ben Cruachan, The Hollow Mountain.

Oban – Gateway to the Isles – before hopping on a ferry to the Hebrides, why not stop in Oban for some world-class seafood, a delicious treat from Oban Chocolate Company and a spot of ferry-watching from McCaig’s Tower which sits atop Battery Hill.

Corrour – famous for not only featuring in the iconic Danny Boyle film Trainspotting, this station is also the highest and most remote in the UK and not accessible by road. Stay the night in Loch Ossian Youth Hostel and experience the wilderness of Rannoch Moor? On a clear night, you’ll be able to see just about the whole galaxy!

Fort William – sitting at the foot of the UK’s highest mountain Ben Nevis, Fort William is an outdoor enthusiast’s idea of heaven. If you don’t fancy the 1344 metre climb up the Munro, treat yourself to a ride in the UK’s only mountain gondola which takes you up the slopes of Aonach Mòr to a height of 650 metres – the panoramic views of the Great Glen, Ben Nevis, Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil are definitely worth it.

Arisaig – the most westerly station in the UK as well as arguably one of the best beaches, if you fancy a dip in the sea or a wander along the machair, this is the perfect place.

Mallaig – the end of the line and the beginning of your adventure onto the Isle of Skye as you take the ferry across to Armadale if you fancy exploring the Misty Isle.

Whatever you choose to do and wherever you decide to go, we hope you have a great time!

Best of the East

From Edinburgh you can head up the East Coast crossing over the iconic Forth Rail Bridge then the Tay Bridge and on to Aberdeen with views over the dramatic North Sea! Plus keep your eyes open for the beautiful beach at Lunan Bay as well as the historic Dunnottar Castle.

Places to Stop Along the Way:

Leuchars – hop off the train and onto a bus to the world-renowned St Andrews. Take a walk along West Sands beach, marvel at the historic ruins of St Andrews Cathedral or savour the icy delights from Jannettas Gelateria.

Dundee – famous for the three Js – jam, jute and journalism – Dundee has much to offer. Spend the day in the V&A or, for those of you with a more adventurous inclination, jump aboard the RRS Discovery and find out about her Antarctic expedition with Captain Scott! Go for a walking tour with Open/Close Dundee to dive into the world of street art. While you’re on your travels, keep your eyes peeled for the statues of the Beano characters – the much-loved comic is published by DC Thompson who have their HQ in Dundee.

Carnoustie – it’s tee-time in Carnoustie! Golf has been played here for over four centuries, so it’s about time you hit the fairway too. There is also a spa for those of you who’d rather a body wrap than a round.

Stonehaven – alight here for the breathtaking Dunnottar Castle which juts out into the wild North Sea. If you come over New Year, prepared to be blown away by Stonehaven’s Hogmanay celebration – The Fireball Ceremony. Enough said.

Aberdeen – you’ve made it to the Granite City! Relax in the peace and quiet of Johnston Gardens or wander along the beach with a coffee from Cairn Coffee Hut. If you fancy heading northwards to Orkney or Shetland – ferries depart from Aberdeen daily.

Into the Heart of Scotland

From Edinburgh or Glasgow, you can head into the heart of Scotland through Highland Perthshire and the Cairngorms National Park towards Inverness. With plenty to do all the way up the railway line, here are a few recommendations of places to jump off and explore.

Places to Stop Along the Way:

Stirling – historic capital of Scotland, Stirling is steeped in a vibrant heritage. See it for yourself at Stirling Castle or take in the magnificent views from the Wallace Monument.

Dunkeld & Birnam – welcome to Big Tree Country. The giant Douglas firs of The Hermitage certainly justify this nickname, and with Ossian’s Hall overlooking Black Linn Falls, you’ll be swept up in the magic of the place. Pop across the bridge over the River Tay for a sweet treat at ARAN Bakery or listen to the traditional music session at The Taybank on Thursday nights.

Kingussie – just a short bus ride from Kingussie is the Highland Wildlife Park. Home to more than 200 animals, from wolverines to wildcats and red squirrels to arctic foxes, this is the perfect day out for the whole family.

Aviemore – hop off the train and onto a bike (if you’ve not got your own, there are plenty of bike hire companies to choose from). Head out east along the gravel paths towards Glenmore and Loch Morlich, perhaps a pitstop at TreeZone for a shift in perspective or at The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd to meet some of the 150 strong free-ranging herd.

Inverness – often referred to as the gateway to the Highlands, Inverness is perfectly located to head further north into Caithness and Sutherland or west into Ross-shire either by train or on the famed North Coast 500, but why not stay a while in the city and explore. Spend a few hours hunting through the stacks at Leakey’s Bookshop, re-energise at Perk Coffee + Doughnuts, have a wander round Ness Islands and round off your day with live music, a show or a film at Eden Court.

The Perfect Day Out in Glasgow

Start the day out right with a delicious coffee and a pastry from Burnfield Bakery on your way to Pollok Country Park (a 20-minute bus ride). This beautiful expanse of nature is nestled right in the heart of Glasgow’s southside and will make you feel like you’ve truly escaped the hustle and bustle of the city. As Glasgow’s largest greenspace, a wander through the woods and a breath of fresh air will leave you feeling invigorated for the rest of your day (keep your eyes peeled for Highland cows as well!).

Don’t worry if the rain is on, duck into the magnificent Burrell Collection situated in the middle of Pollok Park. This newly renovated museum houses over 9,000 items, you’ll be entranced by all there is to see.

Jump on a train from Pollokshaws West to take you back into the city centre for a spot of lunch at Wilson Street Pantry. There’s nothing better than an afternoon’s potter around the West End with lots to see and do. Catch the train from Glasgow Central to Exhibition Centre and walk along the river to Clydeside Distillery for a whisky tasting and tour of the stills. Make sure to look out for the icons of the Glasgow skyline whilst you’re there including the Finnieston Crane, SEC Armadillo, and Riverside Museum.

If whisky isn’t your thing, wander around the historic campus of Glasgow University or look around the shops in the Hidden Lane. If coffee and a sweet treat is more up your street, the West End is bursting with cafes waiting for you – our favourites include: Kelvin Pocket, The Alchemy Experiment, 1841 and Cottonrake.

As a UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow’s music scene is legendary. With an average of 130 music events happening across the city each week, including the RSNO’s concerts at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, you’re spoilt for choice of an evening activity! But first, don’t forget about your pre-concert meal. The city centre has much to choose from – if you’re looking for a sophisticated, delicious meal, why not make a reservation at The Ivy or Ardnamurchan. If you’re in more of a hurry, try Paesano for a quick Neapolitan-style pizza, Stereo if you’re looking for something a bit different or Ting Thai for a spot of Pan-Asian fare.

The Perfect Day Out in Edinburgh

Kick off your day in Edinburgh’s historic Stockbridge with a delicious brunch in The Pantry or a pastry from Lannan Bakery – but make sure you get there early to secure the goods! After you’ve fuelled up, have a wonder round the beautiful shops and admire the architecture the New Town has to offer (look out for Rare Birds Books, a gorgeous bookshop dedicated to women’s writing).

Time to head up the hill towards the Royal Mile with lots of places to take a pit stop along the way, such as the National Gallery of Scotland, The Scott Monument and Edinburgh Castle. While you’re there, head down Castle Wynd and into the Grassmarket to immerse yourself in the literal layers of Edinburgh’s history with the two levels of the Old Town surrounding you. It’s lunch time and there are lots of options waiting for you. How about Hideout Cafe or Thomas J Walls Coffee? Maybe Civerino’s if you fancy a slice of pizza or MUMS for some indulgent comfort food?

Post lunch, treat yourself to a tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse where Mary Queen of Scots experienced some of the most important moments of her life and where the King (the RSNO’s Patron) stays when he is in Scotland. If gin is more your thing, head over to Holyrood Distillery for a tour and a whisky or gin tasting experience! Maybe you’d prefer a more active afternoon, if so, you’re in the right place. Holyrood sits right at the foot of Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags which boast views over the whole city (and beyond) if you make it to the top.

You’re spoilt for choice for your dinner in Edinburgh – Valvona & Crolla, DINE and The Bon Vivant spring to mind for a classy evening on the town. Or head to Fava for Greek food, Kanpai for sushi or Dulse if you fancy some Scottish seafood. Famed for its world-class festivals including Edinburgh International Festival and the Fringe, there’s no shortage of things to do of an evening in Edinburgh – perhaps some live music at the Usher Hall, a comedy night at Monkey Barrel or a show at Festival Theatre? The choice is yours!

If you’re looking for further ideas or activities for your next day out, check out ScotRail’s new Inspiration Hub which includes blogs, upcoming events and offers across Scotland!