Explore scenic Scotland this Burns Night
31 December 2023
Burns Night, a much-loved Scottish tradition that takes place on 25 January, pays tribute to the life and cultural legacy of Robert Burns, not just in Scotland but all over the world.
This year to celebrate, we're taking you on a special online tour across 8 scenic Scottish railways from the impressive Highlands to the fascinating birthplace of Robert Burns himself. So grab a cuppa, get cosy and let us inspire you to take a journey through the beautiful landscapes of Scotland.
Far North Line
Far North Line
To kick off our Burns Night tour, we start in the far north of Scotland with the aptly named Far North Line. This scenic route follows the North Sea coast from Inverness passing distilleries, salmon rivers and golf courses. The journey leads you to Thurso, the northernmost town on the British mainland and then onwards to the historic fishing port of Wick.
Borders Railway
Borders Railway
The next stop on our special Burns Night tour is the beautiful Borders Railway. Take a trip along this line to explore historic mining villages and peak into Scottish mining history with a visit to the National Mining Museum. As the line stretches further from the capital, the train passes through the picturesque rolling hills of the Scottish Borders that was once home to historic novelist, Sir Walter Scott.
South West Scotland
South West Scotland
It wouldn't be a Burns Night tour without including the South West Scotland Line. Travel across the landscapes that inspired the famous poet as you journey from Gretna Green to Kilmarnock. Stop off at Dumfries to explore Robert Burns House and then catch the local bus from Ayr to visit Burns' Birthplace Museum.
Highland Main Line
Highland Main Line. Photo: Jules Akel
We're headed to the Scottish Highlands for our next Burns Night online tour stop. Explore the majestic Highland Perthshire hills, the spectacular Cairngorms National Park and the sparkling Spey Valley as you journey along the Highland Main Line. You'll want your camera at the ready for this route!
Strathallan Line
Perth, Strathallan Line
See the Scottish landscape like never before as you pass historic towns and pretty villages following the peaceful riverbanks of Allan Water as you journey by train along the Strathallan Line. Keen walkers will enjoy exploring Gleneagles, famous for its golf courses but it also boasts plenty of walking options into the glens and peaks of the Ochils.
Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Line
Plockton, Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Line
We head to the coast for the next stop on our Burns Night online tour. Sit back and enjoy the beauty of the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh Line, travelling coast to coast across the Highlands, in the shadows of mountains and forests, beside bright lochs and wide open moors.
East Lothian Line
East Lothian Line
Onwards with our tour as we take a scenic trip along the East Lothian Line connecting the cultural Edinburgh to the charming seaside town of North Berwick. This route provides some picturesque scenery from the train window and makes a great day trip from the capital. Within 35 minutes you'll be exploring North Berwick with its award-winning beaches, vibrant high street and bustling harbour.
West Highland Line
West Highland Line
As we approach the last stop on our special Burns Night online tour, we sense magic in the air! Some of you may recognise part of this railway being featured in films and tv, most notably it's used as the journey to Hogwarts in Harry Potter. However there's lots more to explore along the West Highland Line with picture-perfect panoramic views of sparkling lochs and majestic mountains. Be sure to bring your hiking boots and camera along for this ride!
Thank you for joining us on our special Burns Night online tour of Scottish railways. Did we feature your favourite?
Make sure you're following us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to get daily ideas for greener day trips, short breaks and longer stays straight to your feed.
More from our blog
DIRECT TO YOUR INBOX
Subscribe to our blog posts. We are planning to post about once a month. We will never share your details and you can unsubscribe with a single click.
