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Experience the best of stunning Scotland

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Edinburgh Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
4 days£749 pp £649 pp
  • Experience the famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle
  • Discover the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, based in a 4-Star hotel
  • Enjoy a heritage steam train journey and a tour of the Kinrara Gin Distillery
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Scottish Highlands
Loch Lomond & The Scottish Highlands
6 days£999 pp £899 pp
  • Journey to the heart of the Highlands and ride the legendary Jacobite Steam Train
  • Set sail on a Loch Lomond cruise, and enjoy a journey on the scenic West Highland Line
  • Stay in the serene village of Crianlarich, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes
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Highland Adventure
Highland Adventure
5 days£1,149 pp £1,049 pp
  • Explore the beautiful Scottish Highlands, staying in luxurious 4-Star hotels
  • Board the famous Jacobite Steam Train for a scenic journey to Mallaig
  • Enjoy a trip along the stunning Kyle Line to view Eilean Donan Castle
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Scotland holidays

Scotland doesn't waste an inch of its mountainous area in order to delight and impress visitors. The space between beautiful and historic cities such as Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Dundee is filled with the breath-taking mountains, lochs, glens and valleys that have inspired poets, artists and visitors for hundreds of years.

Wild and unspoilt, Scotland's landscapes are timeless, and few pleasures can compare with stepping aboard a magnificently-restored steam train and gently rolling through the dramatic heather-clad hills of the Scottish Highlands.

In truth Scotland is packed with unique and unforgettable experiences. Here you can search for a pre-historic monster that lurks beneath the placid surface of Loch Ness. You can visit one of Scotland's iconic distilleries and sample the finest single-malt whiskies in the world. Take a cruise to the ruggedly pretty Hebridean Islands, Orkney or Shetland. Witness the spectacle of the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. These are just a few of the countless pleasures that are you'll enjoy on an escorted rail holiday in Scotland with Great Rail Journeys.

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Holiday Ideas for Scotland

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The Outer Hebrides
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The Outer Hebrides & the Highlands
3.9 stars(235 reviews)
2025AugSep
8 days from
£1,599 pp £1,499 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
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Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(274 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
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Edinburgh
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Edinburgh, Fort William & the West Highlands
4.2 stars(25 reviews)
2025Sep
7 days from
£1,699 pp £1,599 pp
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Edinburgh Tattoo
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The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
4.4 stars(72 reviews)
2025Aug
2026Aug
4 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
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Scottish Highlands
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
4.3 stars(542 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
£2,199 pp
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Scottish Highlands
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Loch Lomond & The Scottish Highlands
4.1 stars(130 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunSep
6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
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Highland Adventure
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Highland Adventure
4.3 stars(335 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,149 pp £1,049 pp
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Ring of Brodgar
Orkney & the Shetland Isles
4.1 stars(79 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
8 days from
£2,599 pp
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Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Ring of Brodgar
Orkney
Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan Castle
Shetland
Shetland

20 results matching: Scotland

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ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
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Highland Adventure
4.3 stars(335 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

From Inverness, the gateway to our Highland adventure, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard magnificent mainline and steam railways, including the legendary Jacobite Steam Train and charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs,...

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5 days from
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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
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Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(274 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Journey through the iconic landscapes and culture of Scotland aboard the country's spectacular railways. From the city of Edinburgh to the Cairngorm Mountain, every day is a new experience on this five-day tour. Explore towering sculptures, discover towns and castles, journey on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train, and experience the...

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6 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
4.3 stars(542 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Majestic lochs, glorious glens and a rich tapestry of history await as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Travelling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle railway lines, we discover ancient castles, sail across glimmering lochs, and stay in historic cities. Wander the fascinating streets of Edinburgh, stand at the foot of Neptune's...

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9 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
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The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
4.4 stars(72 reviews)
2025Aug
2026Aug

Attend the sensational Tattoo display, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. From our base in Peebles, enjoy a heritage journey on the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway, visit Floors Castle for a traditional afternoon tea, and see the Kelpies. Each moment on this Edinburgh Tattoo holiday is designed to leave you with...

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4 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
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The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
4.5 stars(39 reviews)
2025Aug
2026Aug

A fantastic short break culminating in the iconic extravaganza of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. Based in charming Dunblane, peacefully situated in the Perthshire countryside, this wonderful Scottish holiday also includes a heritage steam train journey through the...

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4 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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Christmas in the Glens – A Festive Scottish AdventureChristmas in the Glens – A Festive Scottish AdventureChristmas in the Glens – A Festive Scottish AdventureChristmas in the Glens – A Festive Scottish AdventureChristmas in the Glens – A Festive Scottish Adventure
Christmas in the Glens – A Festive Scottish Adventure
3.8 stars(5 reviews)
2025Dec

Experience a festive holiday in Edinburgh and the beautiful Scottish Highlands. With Christmas lights and decorations illuminating the city, soak up the enchanting atmosphere of Edinburgh. Discover the Kelpies, stay in peaceful Glencoe, and visit the Loch Ness, Glenfinnan Viaduct and Neptune's Staircase. Spend Christmas Day relaxing in the...

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7 days from
£1,799 pp
per person
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EdinburghEdinburghEdinburghEdinburghEdinburgh
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Edinburgh, Fort William & the West Highlands
4.2 stars(25 reviews)
2025Sep

Experience the beauty of Scotland and its amazing culture. Travelling aboard the famous Jacobite train on the scenic West Highland Line, we discover sensational Scottish landscapes, see the mighty Kelpies, and explore Edinburgh. Staying in historic Fort William, wander the rainbow streets of Tobermory, stand at the foot of Neptune's Staircase,...

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7 days from
£1,699 pp £1,599 pp
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The Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish Stones
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Lewis, Skye & the Highlands of Scotland
4.1 stars(47 reviews)
2025Sep
2026AprJulSep

Discover the wild charm of the Outer Hebrides and The Highlands. On this culture-packed eight-day tour, explore the city of Edinburgh, witness the wonder of modern engineering at the Falkirk Wheel, and experience one of the world's most beautiful train lines on the Jacobite Steam Railway. As we journey through the stunning landscapes of Scotland,...

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8 days from
£1,699 pp £1,599 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
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Loch Lomond & The Scottish Highlands
4.1 stars(130 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunSep

Journey to the heart of the Scottish Highlands, taking in the marvellous lochs and glens this part of the world is famous for. Our holiday begins amongst the cultural richness of Glasgow before we traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands aboard the West Highland Line and set sail on stunning Loch Lomond. Staying in the...

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6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
per person
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The Outer HebridesThe Outer HebridesThe Outer HebridesThe Outer HebridesThe Outer Hebrides
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The Outer Hebrides & the Highlands
3.9 stars(235 reviews)
2025AugSep

Wild beauty and ancient wonders await on this holiday to Scotland's Outer Hebrides - also known as the Western Isles - and the dramatic Scottish Highlands. From the dynamic city of Glasgow, we travel on the world-renowned West Highland Line to Fort William, as a moving picture of mountains, lochs and heather-clad moors unfolds. Set sail on a sea...

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8 days from
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New Year in the Glens – A Festive Scottish AdventureNew Year in the Glens – A Festive Scottish Adventure
New Year in the Glens – A Festive Scottish Adventure
2025Dec

Experience a memorable festive break in Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands. Your holiday starts and ends in the Scottish capital where you can soak up the enchanting atmosphere of Edinburgh, illuminated for the festive season. We discover the captivating Kelpies statues, enjoy the tranquil setting of Glencoe and visit the legendary Loch Ness on...

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6 days from
£1,499 pp
per person
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The Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan Weaver
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Royal Deeside & Glamis Castle
3.7 stars(45 reviews)
2025Sep

We visit three of Scotland's most charismatic cities, experiencing the local culture of Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee. Visit Glamis Castle and journey along the banks of the River Dee aboard the Royal Deeside Railway. This five-day holiday is scattered with unique excursions. Meet iconic Highland coos, savour the craft of gin at the Lost Loch...

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5 days from
£1,199 pp £1,099 pp
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Our customers love our Scotland tours
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
15/Jul
Mrs Irene Thompson
5 stars
“Excellent guide. Well organised days full of tourist locations. Also balanced free time.
Collected by Trustpilot
Loch Lomond & The Scottish Highlands
14/Jul
Chris Shaw
5 stars
“5 star, loved the sceneries from boat, coach and train. All carefully planned & well led by Hamas, circulating photos & info. Only negative - would have appreciated more space to stroll around beauty spots after long seatings on transports.
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
13/Jul
C P Yates
5 stars
“It was a lovely holiday from start to finish. We went to beautiful places by steam train and by coach. Veronica was an excellent guide, giving us just enough information to make the places we visited more interesting and managing to herd us together so we were never late...The hotel...
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
29/Jun
Alan Cleghorn
5 stars
“Very well organised and the tour guide was brilliant
Collected by Trustpilot
Orkney & the Shetland Isles
15/May
Gloucester Customer
5 stars
“A well organised trip. One the down side a little more free time would be good. The average of our group was in the mid seventies.
Collected by Trustpilot
A Scottish Christmas
4/Jan
Frederick
5 stars
“Beautiful hotels. A great tour manager, and lovely group of people. Overall a lovely experience.
Collected by Trustpilot
Royal Deeside & Glamis Castle
16 Sep 2024
Doreen Guest
5 stars
“The tour was very well organised and ran very smoothly, helped by an extremely good friendly guide who engaged fully with all the group. The visits were very good particularly Glamis Castle and also the Highland cow farm and the gin distillery. The only disappointment was the failure of Tornado...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Outer Hebrides & the Highlands
08 Sep 2024
PETER Ramsbottom
5 stars
“Shame about Skye but overall a great trip. Good Hotels and food
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
06 Sep 2024
Gordon Howat
5 stars
“Very good trip
Collected by Trustpilot

Scotland holiday experiences

The Highlands

The Scottish Highlands boast some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Towering mountains, serene lochs, and ancient castles characterise this region. Journey through remote beauty on the North Coast or explore the Cairngorms National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning nature and amazing wildlife.

Outer Hebrides

Unearth the magic of the Isles. The Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands on the western edge of Scotland, offer a remote and mystical experience. Discover ancient standing stones, pristine beaches, and Gaelic culture in places like the Isle of Lewis and Stornoway.

Edinburgh

Step into a city steeped in history. Edinburgh, the capital city, is a captivating blend of ancient and modern. Wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town, dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Explore the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town and visit the Royal Mile, where you'll find shops, cafes, and street performers.

Serene Isles and Coastlines

Escape to island tranquility. Scotland is adorned with picturesque islands, each offering a unique escape. Visit the Isle of Skye for its rugged beauty or the Orkney and Shetland Islands for a glimpse into Norse history and stunning coastal landscapes.

Scottish Cuisine

In Scotland, you'll find hearty, traditional dishes reflecting the country's rich agricultural and coastal resources. From the iconic haggis, a savoury blend of spices and meats. to exquisite Scotch whisky, Scotland offers flavours like no other. Sample locally sourced salmon, celebrated for its pristine taste, or indulge in the buttery allure of traditional shortbread - a sweet homage to Scottish hospitality. Whether you're exploring charming pubs or upscale restaurants, Scotland's culinary landscape promises a delightful fusion of heritage and innovation.

Scotland's Heritage Trains

Discover the fantastic railways of Scotland. It should come as no surprise that we love railways and we know many of you do too! That's why our tours feature some of the most iconic railways and trains on the continent.

Jacobite Steam train
The Jacobite
West Highland Line
West Highland Line
The Kyle Line
The Kyle Line
Strathspey Steam
Strathspey Steam

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Scotland for a holiday?

The summer months, from June to August, are generally the best time to visit Scotland. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind cooler weather, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) can also be delightful.

What should I pack for a trip to Scotland?

Pack layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Include waterproof clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a power adapter for your electronic devices. Don't forget essentials like a sturdy umbrella, and a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

What are some must-visit attractions in Scotland?

Scotland offers a range of attractions. Some must-visit places include Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, the Scottish Highlands, and the historic city of Stirling. Each region has its unique charm and attractions.

What is traditional Scottish cuisine like?

Traditional Scottish dishes include haggis, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), Scotch broth, and, of course, the famous Scotch whisky. Scotland also offers a variety of seafood, including salmon and haddock. Don't miss trying a traditional Scottish breakfast with black pudding and tattie scones.

Are there any cultural events or festivals worth attending?

Scotland hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August is one of the largest arts festivals globally. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, held in August, showcases, military music and performances against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

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