Trains

Scotrail operate most rail network and train services within Scotland. Inverness is the main transport hub for the Highlands & Islands. The popular ski resort at Aviemore is on the line between Inverness, Perth, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Great North Eastern Railway Ltd. and Virgin run Intercity trains between Scotland and stations across England.

Scotrail also run the Caledonian Sleeper overnight trains between London and Scotland. The overnight trains are popular and tickets and berths must be bought before boarding.

One of the most scenic train journeys in the Highlands & Islands is between Inverness & the Kyle of Lochalsh. The route travels between east and west coast Scotland, past Loch Ness, castles, glens, forests and mountains. To travel to the Hebrides and other west coast islands, trains go north and west from Glasgow. Trains to Thurso for the Shetland islands travel north via Inverness. Cairngorm Mountain Railway This is a funicular railway serving the Cairngorm mountain near Aviemore. Buses run to Cairngorm from Aviemore Railway Station. In winter the train travels as fast as possible, about 10 mph, taking five minutes to take skiers to the summit. In summer the journey is slowed down, taking about 15 minutes, to let passengers take in the views.

Opening Times

Summer - open 10:00 to 17:30 everyday, depending on the weather Winter - varies with hours of daylight and weather conditions

Train journey times*

Aviemore Railway Station to London, Kings Cross - 7 hours 30 mins direct Inverness to London, Kings Cross - ScotRail train to Edinburgh, change to GNER train to London Inverness, change Edinburgh; to Kings Cross journey takes minimum 8 hours 40 mins ScotRail sleeper service to London Euston, dep 20:40, arrive 07:52 - 11 hours 12 mins overnight Train Stations for Island Ferries

Thurso - Stromness, Orkney Islands Kyle of Lochalsh - Isle of Skye Mallaig - Eigg & Rum, Inner Hebrides Ullapool - Stornaway, Lewis, Outer Hebrides Oban - Mull, Islay & Jura

*Journey times are approximate & depend on route, day & time