Credit: Getty
Travel
Embrace eco-friendly slow travel with this rail route guide to seeing Scotland’s 8 cities
By Aidan Milan
2 years ago
5 min read
Calm down, relax and see Scotland’s beautiful landscapes through your window with this guide to visiting its cities by train.
Train travel might not sound as glamorous as flying to some, but what with the scenic views and the environmental benefits, there’s a lot to be said for it.
There’s something so luxurious about slow travel. Maybe it’s to do with skipping those airport security queues, or watching the world go by from those massive train windows. If you do it right, travelling by railway is a great way to enjoy the journey as well as the destination.
Government data shows that there was a whopping 155% increase in passenger rail journeys last year, and other research has found that 64% of UK travellers are on the hunt for greener alternatives to help them make their trekking more environmentally friendly.
That’s why VisitScotland has launched a new City Hoppers Guide that promotes rail routes connecting all of Scotland’s 8 historic cities.
Vicki Miller, VisitScotland’s Director of Marketing and Digital, said: “We know many visitors are becoming more conscious of their impact on the world. Our hope through this campaign is to demonstrate how easy it is to explore Scotland’s historic cities in a sustainable way. From our ancient capital Edinburgh to our newest city Dunfermline, Scotland’s cities offer the very best of our country’s history, heritage and culture, boasting some of the finest eateries, world class attractions, unmissable experiences and of course, our welcoming people.”
Scotland’s railway takes you through some absolutely stunning scenery. The rolling hills, mountains and other-worldly lochs can all be taken in from your seat window as you make your way towards the hustle, bustle and gorgeous architecture of these 8 historic cities.
Of course, you don’t have to stop by every single place on the list to enjoy the City Hoppers Guide. Whether you’re after a weekend jaunt or planning a longer stay to really sink your teeth into Scotland, this route can be tailored to your schedule.
The City Hoppers Guide
Glasgow to Edinburgh
Start your journey in Glasgow to take in the city’s museums, galleries and parks. There’s the trendy West End, where you’ll find the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and The Burrell Collection over in Pollok Country Park.
When you get to Edinburgh, you’d be well-advised to head to the Port of Leith Distillery to get your fill of Scotland’s national spirit, while art lovers can visit the National Galleries of Scotland with its newly refurbed Scottish gallery.
Edinburgh to Dunfermline
From the capital you can make your way to Scotland’s newest city, Dunfermline, where you can get a load of such ancient landmarks as Dunfermline Abbey and Palace and the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum. There’s also plenty of outdoor spaces like Pittencrieff Park and the Fife Pilgrim Way to enjoy.
Credit: Getty
Dunfermline to Perth
Now it’s time to head to the Fair City, which is positioned along the River Tay and surrounded by a hilly landscape that will take your breath away. Speaking of the river, more adventurous travellers can try kayaking on the Tay, while nature-lovers can go beaver-watching. You can also explore Scone Palace, while the new Perth Museum will open in 2024, following a £26.5 million redevelopment project
Perth to Dundee
After Perth, it’s time to hop on the rails again for a short trip to Dundee. As you approach the city, lush landscapes will give way to the silhouettes of the Tay Rail Bridge and the Tay Road Bridge and, finally, Dundee Station. Once you get to the city, you’ll be able to head to the V&A Dundee and the RRS Discovery — the ship that made the famous journey to Antarctica in 1901.
Dundee to Aberdeen
You won’t be leaving the River Tay behind just yet as the train journey to Aberdeen offers even more views of this magnificent waterway. When you get to the city, try to squeeze in a stop by Stonehaven and visit Dunnottar Castle, which is perched on a 160-foot rock surrounded by the North Sea. As for the city itself, it’s best taken in on foot since there’s a heady mix of attractions, shops and eateries to explore. A stop by the award-winning Aberdeen Art Gallery is also highly recommended.
Aberdeen to Inverness
The train ride to Inverness takes you through quite a few lovely little towns, like Elgin, which is known for its historic cathedral, and Nairn, famous for its beaches. Both are well worth a visit, if you have the time. Once you get to Scotland’s most northerly city and the Highlands’ capital, you’ll get to enjoy Inverness’ heady mix of city culture and striking nature, with the world-famous Loch Ness well within reach.
Credit: Getty
Inverness to Stirling
When you depart from Inverness, you’ll be treated to scenic views of the Scottish Highlands, with lochs and mountains in abundance, as the train journey cuts through the Cairngorms National Park. As Stirling comes into view, you’ll be able to see the historic Stirling Castle. Using the city as a base, you can also venture out to the beautiful Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
Stirling to Glasgow
Before your journey back to Glasgow comes to a close, you could stop off at Croy and take a stroll over to Croy Hill, which is one of the remaining sites of the Antonine Wall, a UNESCO world heritage site. Even once you’re back in Glasgow, there’s nothing to stop you exploring further. This UNESCO ‘City of Music’ has events taking place in its many theatres, concert venues, bars and boutiques every night, so there’s no shortage of things to do.
Image: Getty
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