Many of our guests book to stay at Distant Hills Guest House to take a trip of a lifetime on the nearby Jacobite Steam Train. The train journey starts in Fort William and travels on an 84-mile round trip through breathtaking scenery past the UK’s most westerly train station at Arisaig to the fishing village of Mallaig.
Billed as one of the greatest train journeys in the world, the steam train rhythmically chugs its way past several stunning lochs, islands and rugged mountains as well as the beautiful white sandy beaches of Arisaig and Morar. Special points of interest along the journey include Neptune’s Staircase, which is a series of 8 canal locks on a section along the Caledonian Canal, views of Ben Nevis, the Glenfinnan Monument, where Bonny Prince Charlie raised his standard to mark the start of the Jacobite Uprising in 1745 and of course the infamous 21 arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is featured in the Harry Potter films.
Booking Tickets
Tickets can get booked up at least 6 months in advance so it’s best to book early to avoid disappointment. There are a limited number of tickets kept to one side for people booking on the day. To stand the best chance of getting one of these tickets, we advise you to be at the train station and start queuing at least one hour before the train is due to depart. You will need cash to pay for your ticket, so make sure you have this ready.
Travel in Style
To celebrate a special occasion, you may like to travel first class and splash out on a cream tea. We travelled in standard class, and ironically, we had more vacant seats in our carriage; however, we did the journey in 2021 when certain travel restrictions were still in place.
What to do in Mallaig
The train stops in Mallaig for a little over an hour and a half giving you time to get off and explore the little fishing village. Some guests can feel a little underwhelmed by Mallaig as there really isn’t too much to see or do. Essentially, our advice would be to either head for one of the cafes or restaurants and have a bite to eat or take the one-hour Western Isles wildlife boat ride. Do not panic, the boat trips are timed perfectly to get you back for the train, so there’s no need to worry that you’ll miss your return journey.
Top Tips
If you have a choice, sit on the left-hand side of the train as you will be closer to the views. If you’re able to choose your carriage, choose one as far back from the steam engine as possible. This way you will get better photographs as you travel over the Glenfinnan viaduct. The train will stop for a minute or two as you approach the viaduct to give you time to get your camera poised for that perfect shot, and to take in the stunning views of course.
The fish and chip restaurants tend to close on Mondays, so avoid booking your trip for a Monday if you are hoping for a traditional seaside fish supper from a ‘chippie’.
When does the train run?
The Jacobite Steam train runs from mid-April to mid-October. To check train times, prices and to book, visit https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/jacobite/steam-train-trip
Looking for accommodation?
Check out our stylishly comfortable rooms at Distant Hills Guest House in Spean Bridge. We are just a 15-minute drive from Fort William and serve a delicious, cooked breakfast from 7.45am onwards leaving you plenty of time to park your car and head to the train relaxed and ready to start your adventure! Visit our website
Join one of our Walking Holidays in 2022…
If you love hiking and you love being among nature and stunning scenery, you will love walking in the Scottish Highlands. Combine that with beautifully decorated and comfortable accommodation, wholesome and delicious meals, fabulous company and expert guides, you have the perfect walking holiday package. Take a quick look at the short video to whet your appetite.
0 Comments