Adventures by Train in Scotland - Stunning Landscapes, Thrilling Stories, and Exciting Destinations

29.07.2024 - 07:48 / breakingtravelnews.com / Agatha Christie

Sometimes all that is needed to switch-off from the daily grind is a journey by train to a new destination: getting settled in a seat with a good book, with views to admire out of the window, and perhaps a soundtrack on the ears, with plenty of time to relax, daydream, and to ponder what the destination has in store. According to a recent survey by VisitScotland, 1 in 4 visitors used rail travel when they were in Scotland, with 1 in 3 stating they chose public transport as they felt it would enhance their holiday*. This summer, visitors to Scotland can have a train journey to remember including some brand-new routes such as the Levenmouth rail link direct from Edinburgh.

From overnight journeys to cities, to round-trips perfect for all the family, Scotland’s railways offer dozens of options with great service and amazing experiences for everyone. Train fans can pretend they’re on an adventure like the hero of a classic noir novel along the lines of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express or Patricia Highsmith’s Strangers on a Train. 

Levenmouth Rail Line ***New for 2024

Having first opened in 1854, the Leven Railway in Fife helped to establish the region as a tourist hotspot with visitors from the west of Scotland. Scotland is celebrating the reopening of the new railway line at Levenmouth this summer. The reopened line – which connects Leven and Cameron Bridge to the Fife Circle and East Coast Mainline - provides a direct link to the coast and plenty to see and do. For example, hop on the train in Edinburgh, disembark at Leven, and explore walks, trails and great food and drink.  Alternatively, head straight for the beach, amusement arcade or Leven Leisure Pool for a brilliant family day out. Those looking to enjoy the outdoors can revel in local golf courses or join the Fife Coastal Path on foot, do a circular trip, by taking the train to Leven and walking along the Fife Coastal Path to the next station at Kirkcaldy or even Kinghorn (if you’re feeling fit). Those looking for a long-distance path, can join the Fife Pilgrim Way at Markinch railway station and walk on to St Andrews (train station Leuchars).

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Where to stay: Silverburn Park in Leven has glamping eco-pods, a café and the historic Flax Mill is currently being redeveloped. See www.silverburnpark.co.uk for more information. A stay in one of the eco-pods costs £85 per night and sleeps four people. One of the pods is wheelchair accessible.  Silverburn also offers free bikes and beach wheelchairs for hire to explore the local area.

A return train ticket from Edinburgh to Leven costs £13.60 for an adult, standard class, off-peak day return**. Up to four children can travel for just £1 return each with an adult***. Check out: