About the Belmond Royal Scotsman

You will be taken into the heart of Scottish history on an exclusive round trip where exquisite hospitality awaits in castles, distilleries and grand country houses. Sit back, relax, and let the staff of the Belmond Royal Scotsman look after your every need.

Your journey on board this luxury Scottish train offers exclusive visits to romantic castles, distilleries and private homes. Feast on gastronomic delights prepared on board using the freshest local ingredients, accompanied by fine wines, served in one of the two Dining Cars. Travelling at a leisurely pace so you miss none of the splendour outside your window, you wind your way through beautiful glens, around stunning lochs and along mile after mile of unspoilt coastline.

Considered to be one of the world's most luxurious trains, you will be joined by a maximum of just 35 other guests as you explore the magnificent scenery of Scotland, visiting places unseen by most visitors. Unwind in one of the most unique spas that Scotland has to offer, with two serene treatment rooms providing a haven of peace and an exceptional menu of all-natural therapies to rejuvenate body and mind.

All prices are per person and fully inclusive of accommodation, meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, entertainment and off-train visits, as well as the services of your on-board host.

Watch the Belmond Royal Scotsman

Whisky tasting on board the Royal Scotsman
Whisky Tasting
Drinks served on re-boarding the Royal Scotsman
Welcome Back on Board
A local Highlander in the Royal Scotsman Bar Car
The Observation Car

Fine Dining on the Royal Scotsman

Dining on board this luxury Scottish train is an exquisite experience. The fixed menus reflect the seasonal changes and are consistently regarded as among the finest in any hotel in Britain, moving or otherwise. Scotland's famous natural larder provides the foundations: salmon, shellfish, game and Aberdeen Angus beef, all used with verve and imagination by the award-winning kitchen team.

The extensive cellar provides a range of fine wines to accompany lunch and dinner, and a fine range of liqueurs and malt whiskies are offered throughout. The choice of a full Scottish cooked breakfast or a continental breakfast is available every morning.

Both Dining Cars are beautifully decorated with rich mahogany panelling and luxurious fabrics. Victory provides sixteen elegant settings grouped in twos and fours, while Raven has larger tables for six or eight, giving you the chance to make new friends with fellow guests or simply enjoy the company of the one you are with. After dinner, the stunning Edwardian Observation Car awaits, where a local Highlander regales you with stories of life in Scotland in centuries gone by over a rare Scotch malt whisky.

Formal and Informal Dinners

There are formal and informal dinners aboard the Royal Scotsman, usually on alternate nights. For formal dinners, a tuxedo or kilt is encouraged for gentlemen, with a cocktail dress or similar evening wear for ladies. For informal dinners, a jacket and tie is the norm for gentlemen. Please check your specific journey itinerary for details.

Sample Menus

Lunch

Chicken and langoustine salad with baby squash and queen scallops, followed by bitter chocolate tart with kumquat marmalade.

Dinner

Seared scallops with sauce vierge, roast loin of lamb with wild mushrooms and truffle risotto, iced hazelnut parfait with raspberry coulis.

There is a fixed menu for each meal, but please request an alternative if the posted menu does not suit you. Special diets can be arranged with the Chef on board — just advise us in advance.

Superb dining on board the Royal Scotsman
Superb Dining on Board
Dinner is served on board
Dinner is served
Local Scottish produce served on board
Local Scottish Produce

Service on Board

The secret of the Royal Scotsman's success is the service guests receive. So attentive is it that all you have to do is simply arrive, unpack and relax. Everything else is taken care of. You can even leave your wallet tucked safely away, as all meals, drinks, entertainment and excursions are included.

The Observation Car

An Edwardian masterpiece of refined, relaxed elegance. Relax on a large sofa or comfortable armchair and take in the ever-changing scenery outside your window. The verandah at the rear of the train is an exhilarating spot to catch the air as it swishes gently past, with the Highland landscape receding behind you.

The Spa Car

The Spa Car adds another unexpected level of extravagance. Unwind in one of the most unique spas that Scotland has to offer, where two serene treatment rooms provide a haven of peace. Relax with an indulgent massage, facial or manicure as the rugged Highland scenery passes gently by.

The Bamford Spa on board the Royal Scotsman
The Spa Car
Royal Scotsman Grand Suite
Grand Suite
Royal Scotsman Twin Cabin
Twin State Cabin

State Cabins

The Sleeping Cars provide fourteen twin, two double and four single State Cabins, beautifully fitted out in rich marquetry. Each provides a comfortable and intimate area to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery of Scotland. Every cabin has its own private bathroom with shower, wash-basin and toilet, constant hot water, high quality toiletries and fresh towels every day.

Grand Suites

Two exceptional Grand Suites joined the rake from May 2024, complementing the existing Twin and Double cabins. The Grand Suites signal the start of a new age of indulgent Highland adventure. The spacious interiors are rich in references to Scottish culture and reflect the passing landscapes: Pictish stones, dark woods and local stones sit side by side with rich and sophisticated tweeds, while decorative elements in carved pewter adorn the lamps and tables.

The design of the furniture and lighting is directly inspired by the Scottish islands, conjuring a sense of enrapturing myth and cinematic drama while fostering the feel of a private club where members join together in a convivial spirit.

Download Grand Suites Brochure

General Information

Check-in Procedure

All tours depart from Edinburgh Waverley Station. Check-in is at least 40 minutes prior to departure at The Balmoral Hotel, after which your Host and Crew will escort you and your luggage onto the train.

All Inclusive Prices

Fares include luxury cabin accommodation with en suite bathroom, all meals, wines, all alcoholic and other beverages, visits and entertainment.

Clothing

Casual comfortable clothing for daytime excursions and relaxing on board. In the evening, a jacket and tie for informal dinners and black tie, tuxedo or kilt for formal dinners.

Luggage

Cabins have limited space. We recommend one suitcase and one carry-on bag per guest. Twin State Cabins have storage under each bed measuring 71cm x 23cm.

Special Diets

Can be arranged with the Chef on board. Please advise us at the time of booking of any allergies or dietary requirements.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential. All clients are required to read the Booking Conditions before travelling.

Children and Pets

Pets are not permitted on the train. Children under 12 may be permitted — please contact us for details.

Smoking

In accordance with Scottish Law, smoking is not permitted on board the train at any time.

Electricity

Electrical outlets are available in all cabins. UK electricity runs on 220/240 volts. You may wish to bring an adapter for electrical appliances.

Wheelchair Access

Guests with restricted mobility or those confined to a wheelchair are asked to contact us to discuss the suitability of a journey aboard the Royal Scotsman.

Wi-Fi

Basic Wi-Fi is provided in public cars, dependent on signal. Due to the remote locations the train travels through, an internet connection may not always be available.

Best Time to Travel

April to October offers the best Highland scenery and milder weather. Each season brings its own character to the landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

The fare includes comfortable State Cabin accommodation, daily table d'hôte meals, and a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, onboard entertainment, outdoor activities and sightseeing excursions as outlined in your itinerary. The price does not cover insurance, gratuities or souvenirs.
For daytime excursions, a warm waterproof jacket and sturdy walking shoes are essential. In the evenings, smart casual attire is suitable for informal dinners. For formal dinners and gala events, gentlemen are advised to wear a dark suit and tie, tuxedo or kilt. Ladies are recommended to wear a cocktail dress, tartan or similar elegant attire.
Yes. Each cabin is private and climate-controlled, with your own en suite facilities and wardrobe space.
Yes — select from 2- to 7-night itineraries or work with our team to tailor private charter departures.
Due to limited space in the cabins, we advise each guest to bring only one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Twin State Cabins have storage under each bed measuring 71cm x 23cm. The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh offers luggage storage facilities during your journey. Please attach a Royal Scotsman luggage tag to each piece before boarding.
April to October offers the best Highland scenery and milder weather. The summer months bring long evenings and vivid green landscapes, while early autumn adds dramatic colour to the glens and hills.