The Grand North Western Journey (7 Nights)
A combination of the Classic and Western journeys.

Day One - The train pulls out of the station in the early afternoon and travels north, crossing the Firth of Forth via the magnificent, 1.5-mile long Forth Railway Bridge, which was built by Benjamin Baker in the 1880s and is considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world. It then proceeds through Fife and across the Tay Bridge – during which you are served a leisurely afternoon tea – passing Arbroath, Montrose and Aberdeen before arriving in Huntly, a town with its origins in the 12th century. You then rejoin the train in the market town of Keith for an informal dinner and perhaps a nightcap with your fellow guests in the Observation Car.

Day Two - As the train leaves Keith you'll be enjoying a delicious breakfast. The next landmark is the Highlands' capital, Inverness, which you pass through before heading on to Muir of Ord where you disembark to visit Glen Ord distillery. Guests are treated to a private tour and a tasting, before returning to the train for another spectacular highlight – a delicious lunch, as the train heads towards Kyle of Lochalsh on what is arguably one of the most scenic routes in Britain. The line passes Loch Luichart and the Torridon mountains, which geologists believe were formed before life began. The train then climbs to Luib summit and Achnashellach forest, descends to Strathcarron and runs along the edge of stunning Loch Carron. Guests alight in Plockton to explore at will; perhaps take a boat trip to see wild seals or walk through the woodland to a viewpoint overlooking the loch, after which there is time to enjoy a dram or two in the Plockton Hotel, or choose to simply have a wander through this charming village. Spend the night on board in Kyle of Lochalsh. Dinner is formal and afterwards there is entertainment in the Observation Car, which offers mesmerising views over Loch Alsh to the Isle of Skye. 

Day Three - After breakfast the train heads back towards Dingwall, skirting the Beauly Firth and crossing the top of the Caledonian Canal, north of Loch Ness, before reaching Inverness. The train continues south to Carrbridge where guests disembark to visit the romantic Ballindalloch Castle with its wonderful gardens. Golfers can play on the estate's course; clubs are available to hire. The night is spent on board at Boat of Garten on the private Strathspey Railway. After a formal dinner, Highlander Ray Owens regales guests with stories of local heroes and their derring-dos, even demonstrating some authentic weaponry.

Day Four - The day begins with an excursion to Rothiemurchus Estate, where guests can choose from activities such as fishing, clay pigeon shooting, a guided walk through the stunning landscape or simply relax with a warming dram by the fire. Rejoin the train at Kingussie where lunch will be served as you journey south through Blair Atholl and Pitlochry to Dunkeld, where you disembark for your visit to Glamis Castle, Seat of the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, and childhood home of the late HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother.  After rejoining the train in Perth, relax and enjoy an informal dinner onboard.

Day Five - After breakfast the train wends its way back through the former Kingdom of Fife to Edinburgh where the first part of your journey ends. Take the opportunity to discover the beautiful city of Edinburgh - explore the historic Royal Mile, visit the Castle, take in an art gallery or simply relax with a coffee. You rejoin the The Royal Scotsman early afternoon and head west through Falkirk, skirting Glasgow to reach the northern bank of the Clyde. Craigendoran is the starting point for the West Highland Line, while guests enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea. Spot the distinctive peak of Ben Arthur (also called The Cobbler) on your left, a favourite with climbers. Soon you also catch a first glimpse of Loch Lomond, followed by a closer view as the train descends almost to the water's edge at Ardlui. After climbing up the waterfall-rich Glen Falloch, the train continues north to the village of Spean Bridge for the night. Enjoy a splendid dinner and entertainment in the Observation Car.

Day Six - As the train continues west, passing through Fort William, soak up the views of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Disembark at the most westerly station in Britain, Arisaig, for a romantic stroll along the gleaming expanse of Morar Sands, marvelling at the views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle of Skye's majestic Cuillin Mountains. Lunch is served on board as The Royal Scotsman retraces its route back to Fort William, the largest town in the West Highlands. After lunch, Highlander Ray Owens joins you to Glenfinnan Monument to explain the history of the area before tea is served at the Factors Inn. Energetic guests can choose instead to walk to beautiful Steall Waterfall, the second highest in the UK. Return to the train for an informal dinner, musical entertainment and overnight stabling at Bridge of Orchy.

Day Seven - Today's destination is the charming Isle of Bute, reached by ferry from Wemyss Bay. The island is rich in geology, history and wildlife, with abandoned townships, an ancient chapel and varied landscape to explore. Guests enjoy a fascinating visit to Mount Stuart, a Victorian Gothic house with arguably the finest privately held collection of family portraits in Scotland. The stunning interiors reflect the 3rd Marquess of Bute's passion for art, heraldry, astrology and mythology. The house also boasts magical gardens and a secluded beach. Return to Wemyss Bay for a formal dinner and overnight on board.

Day Eight - Soak up the last of the scenery as the train travels back to Edinburgh and journey's end.

TIMINGS
The Royal Scotsman departs Edinburgh at 1.21pm on day one and arrives back in Edinburgh at 9.43am on day four.

Please note: Itineraries are subject to change and all timings shown are for your guidance only. Confirmed itineraries and timings will be supplied with your travel documents.