The Royal Scotsman
Unveil the spirit of Scotland aboard the celebrated Royal Scotsman which will take you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Scottish Highlands. Complete with beautifully decorated vintage carriages, be transported back to the Golden Age of Travel as you delve into a land of glistening lochs, narrow glens and looming castles.
Getting to know you
A crucial part of our process, discuss your plans with us either by phone, video or in person.
Helping you to design your trip
Entirely tailor-made, there is complete flexibility to incorporate all your requirements.
On-hand support, when you need it
Our team are on hand to answer any questions and ensure you are fully ready, and excited, for your trip.
Full confidence whilst you are away
Enjoy full support from our UK team and trusted local partners throughout your journey.
We’re pleased to confirm that Pettitts Travel will not apply any surcharges to our package holidays when we are operating as a tour operator, regardless of changes in global costs. The price you agree at the time of booking is the price you will pay, a commitment we have proudly upheld for the past 38 years.
Train & Cabin Information
Unveil the spirit of Scotland aboard the celebrated Royal Scotsman, a luxurious sleeper train that first swept across the spectacular Scottish Highlands in 1985.
The signature red and gold exterior gives way to dark wood-panelled corridors and warm tonal and tartan furnishings which echo the spirit and folklore of Scotland. Nestled within the opulent carriages guests will find exquisite cabins featuring beautiful interiors that will transform into cosy sleeping quarters. During the day guests can enjoy stunning Scottish scenery from the comfort of their private lounge.
The Royal Scotsman offers two types of cabins: Standard Cabins and Grand Suites. The Standard Cabin come in three configurations; Single, Double or Twin, all which emulate vintage charm with mahogany panelling and tartan furnishings. During the evening, all beds in the standard cabins sit at floor level. The Grand Suite is spacious and indulgent which offers guests a separate bedroom and lounge area as well as extra benefits such as a complimentary spa treatment, private arrival and departure transfers and a personal butler.
The train also boasts two beautifully crafted dining cars where guests can enjoy exquisite gastronomy as well as the Observation Car which offers wonderful views of the ever-changing Scottish countryside. The Royal Scotsman also boasts a unique spa on rails – indulge in a cocoon of serenity with a therapeutic massage or facial.
Train Routes
The Royal Scotsman offers several routes throughout Scotland which vary in duration between two and seven nights. Whether it is a classic journey through the spectacular Scottish Highlands, an adventure through the rugged West Coast or a whisky tour stopping at world-class distilleries, the Royal Scotsman will certainly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Classic Journeys:
- Taste to the Highlands (2 nights)
- Western Scenic Wonders (3 nights)
- Wild Scotland (3 nights)
- Scotland's Classic Splendours (4 nights)
- Grand Western Scenic Wonders (7 nights)
Signature Journeys:
- Scotch Whisky Tours (3/4 nights)
- Clans, Castles & Isles (5 nights)
Dinner & Dining
The Royal Scotsman offers guests a unique fine dining experience where culinary delights take centre stage. An ode to Scottish flavours, enjoy sumptuous meals as you pass rolling highlands, glistening lochs, and sleepy villages. Experience haute cuisine which is created using the finest produce sourced fresh from local suppliers and with a contemporary twist. Specific dietary requirements can be catered for with notice at time of booking.
The train offers two luxurious dining carriages – Raven and Swift. Both cars are beautifully decorated ensuring that regional culture is always reflected, expect Scottish thistles, heritage marquetry and mahogany panels, all which create an intimate and elegant dining space.
At the rear of the train lies the Observation Car, which not only offers the best vantage point on the train but is also home to the Royal Scotsman’s bar where guests can enjoy an aperitif or after-dinner dram whilst admiring the starry sky and listening to local entertainment.
Your journey aboard the Royal Scotsman will include a sumptuous four-course dinner each first evening, a hearty breakfast served daily and a delicious three-course lunch and afternoon tea each day.
A selection of wines, liqueurs, malt whiskies and hot beverages will be included throughout your journey on the Royal Scotsman. Premium drinks such as signature cocktails and drinks ordered to your cabin will incur an additional charge. Complimentary tea and coffee will be available at all times.
Dress Code
A holiday on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers the perfect opportunity to don your finery and dress to impress.
During the day the dress code is smart-casual, with the exception of jeans which are not allowed at any time. At lunch men will typically wear a jacket and tie and women will wear a smart ensemble.
For dinner women typically wear evening gowns and for men, black tie.
When does the Royal Scotsman run?
The Royal Scotsman runs between May and October. Different tours will vary with departure dates and there are also unique ‘one-of-a-kind’ journeys available.
What sort of service can I expect onboard the Royal Scotsman?
You will have a dedicated 24-hour steward service. The cabin steward will change your cabin from day to night configuration and serves your breakfast and other refreshments. The maître d’ will help you with lunch and dinner reservations and the train manager is also on hand throughout the journey to help with any queries.
What is the sleeping accommodation like onboard the Royal Scotsman?
You are allocated a private cabin which serves as a lounge during the day and is transformed into a bedroom at night. The Twin and Double Cabins are the entry-level category which features either twin beds or a double at floor level. The Grand Suites offer a spacious cabin with separate bedroom and lounge area.
Is there WiFi on the Royal Scotsman?
WiFi is available in the Observation Car, however due to the remote locations of where the Royal Scotsman travels, the connection is only available for portions of the journey.
Are all meals and drinks included on the Royal Scotsman?
Yes all meals are included in your journey including a daily breakfast, two-course lunch and three-course dinner including a cheese board, coffee and petits fours. A selection of wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks and hot drinks will be included throughout your journey on the Royal Scotsman. Premium drinks and drinks ordered to your cabin will be charged additionally.
Does the Royal Scotsman cater for dietary requirements?
The Royal Scotsman endeavours to cater for special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free diets etc, provided a detailed request has been provided at the time of booking. If, prior to departure, we have not received your dietary or food allergy requirements, your specific needs may not be catered for.
Are guests requiring special assistance able to travel on the Royal Scotsman?
If you or your travel companion(s) have reduced mobility or require special assistance, please speak to your Travel Consultant who will get in touch with Belmond to see which journeys would be possible.
What is the check-in procedure for the Royal Scotsman?
The Royal Scotsman departs from Edinburgh Waverley Station and check-in takes place at the Balmoral Hotel which is located adjacent to the station. Luggage should be deposited with the concierge team between 11:00 and 12:15 to allow adequate time for your luggage to be transferred to the train.
Is there room for luggage in my room on the Royal Scotsman?
It is recommended each guest travels with one suitcase and one carry-on-bag due to limited space in cabins.
Are visas required when travelling on the Royal Scotsman?
All passengers travelling from outside of the UK must be in possession of a full passport with a minimum six months validity from the date of your return. It is the passenger’s own responsibility to ensure that they comply with visa or vaccination requirements.
Is travel insurance required when travelling on the Royal Scotsman?
As with all holidays arranged by Pettitts Travel, it is a requirement to have adequate travel insurance.
