From London: 3-Day Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness Rail Tour

Set out on a captivating 3-day journey from London to the enchanting city of Edinburgh and the legendary Loch Ness. This rail tour offers an immersive experience, blending the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle with the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Priced from $710.05 per person, this adventure promises unforgettable memories. Explore the historic sites, indulge in local cuisine, and uncover the rich cultural heritage that make this destination truly remarkable.

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Key Points

This 3-day rail tour from London includes admission to Edinburgh Castle, a guided day trip to Loch Ness, and two nights’ accommodation with breakfast.
The tour is priced from $710.05 per person and includes round-trip first-class rail travel, a hop-on hop-off bus tour in Edinburgh, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Travelers have free time to explore Edinburgh’s Old Town, New Town, and Carlton Hill on Days 1 and 3, with a guided excursion to the Scottish Highlands on Day 2.
The tour is wheelchair-accessible but not suitable for children under 5 years old, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing, as smoking is not allowed in the vehicle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 3-day Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness Rail Tour from London offers an immersive experience for travelers.

Priced from $710.05 per person, the tour includes round-trip rail transportation in first-class, entry to Edinburgh Castle, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, and two nights’ accommodation with breakfast.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, and enjoy a full refund with 24-hour advance cancellation.

This wheelchair-accessible tour isn’t suitable for children under 5.

The itinerary covers Edinburgh’s historic sites and a guided day trip to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness, providing an unescorted exploration on days one and three.

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Itinerary and Highlights

On the first day, travelers depart from London Kings Cross Station and arrive in Edinburgh in 4.5 hours. They’ll explore historic Edinburgh, including the 1,100-year-old Edinburgh Castle and the Stone of Destiny.

| Day | Destination | Activities |

| — | — | — |

| 1 | Edinburgh | Explore Edinburgh Castle and the Stone of Destiny |

| 2 | Loch Ness and Scottish Highlands | Boat trip on Loch Ness, views of Stirling Castle, Trossachs, Glencoe, and Fort William |

| 3 | Edinburgh | Free time to explore Old Town, New Town, and Carlton Hill |

The tour includes a full-day guided excursion to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands on the second day, with a boat trip and scenic viewpoints.

Inclusions

The tour package includes round-trip rail travel in First Class with free Wi-Fi, guaranteed admission to Edinburgh Castle, and an all-day hop-on hop-off bus tour in the city.

Two nights’ accommodation in a centrally located 3-star hotel with breakfast are also provided. Guests will enjoy a guided day tour to Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands, including a boat trip on the loch.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless travel experience. With these inclusions, travelers can fully enjoy the history and natural beauty of Edinburgh and the surrounding region.

Travel Information

The tour begins at London Kings Cross station, where the outbound train departs at 07:00 and arrives in Edinburgh at 11:20 (11:28 on Saturdays).

On the return journey, the train leaves Edinburgh at 14:30 and reaches London at 18:49.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, but those aged 5-15 are welcome.

Participants will be unescorted on Days 1 and 3, with a guided excursion on Day 2.

Seating requests on the train can’t be guaranteed, and the cancellation policy allows for a full refund or date change up to 7 days before travel.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing for the tour.

Smoking isn’t allowed in the vehicle.

Pricing is based on double occupancy, and single occupancy may vary.

Seating requests on the train can’t be guaranteed.

The cancellation policy allows for a full refund or date change up to 7 days before travel, but a 100% charge applies for cancellations within 7 days.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old, with the child age range being 5-15 years inclusive.

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Exploring Edinburgh Castle

As visitors approach the imposing ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, they’ll be struck by its long and tumultuous history.

The castle sits atop an ancient volcanic crag, offering panoramic views of the city.

Perched atop an ancient volcanic crag, Edinburgh Castle commands sweeping vistas over the enchanting Scottish capital.

Once inside, guests can:

Explore the impressive State Apartments, where Scottish kings and queens resided.
Marvel at the Crown Jewels of Scotland, including the iconic Stone of Destiny.
Witness the famous One O’Clock Gun firing, a time-honored tradition dating back to 1861.

The castle’s rich history and impressive architecture make it a must-see for any visitor to Edinburgh.

Discovering Loch Ness and the Highlands

On the second day, a guided tour whisks travelers through the captivating landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

The first stop is the legendary Loch Ness, where a boat cruise offers the chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Gazing upon the deep, murky waters, one can’t help but feel a sense of mystery.

The tour then moves on to Stirling Castle, a magnificent fortress perched atop a rocky outcrop.

Passing through the Trossachs, a region of wooded hills and lochs, the tour arrives at Glencoe, a dramatic glacial valley known for its rugged beauty.

Panoramic Views of Edinburgh

What better way to conclude this Edinburgh and Loch Ness adventure than by exploring the city’s breathtaking panoramic viewpoints?

On the final day, visitors can soak in the stunning vistas from three distinct vantage points:

Carlton Hill – Offering a sweeping vista of the Old Town, the iconic Edinburgh Castle, and the Firth of Forth beyond.
Calton Hill – Providing a panoramic view of the New Town, Princes Street, and the Pentland Hills in the distance.
Arthur’s Seat – A short hike to the summit of this ancient volcano rewards guests with a bird’s-eye view of the entire city.

Things To Know

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention a senior citizen discount. However, some tour operators may offer discounted pricing for seniors upon request. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider about any available age-based discounts.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Hotel Room?

Yes, you can request a specific type of hotel room, such as a single, double, or twin room. However, specific room requests can’t be guaranteed and may incur an additional cost, depending on availability.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Train?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the train for this tour. However, consumption of alcohol brought from outside is typically prohibited. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific rules.

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

Passengers can bring standard luggage and a small carry-on bag on the tour. The specific luggage allowance may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator before the trip to ensure any restrictions.

Is There an Option to Extend My Stay in Edinburgh?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the stay in Edinburgh. However, travelers can book additional nights independently after the 3-day tour ends, subject to availability and additional costs.

Sum Up

This Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness Rail Tour from London offers an unforgettable 3-day adventure. Visitors can enjoy Scotland’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes, from the iconic castle to the legendary Loch Ness. With convenient rail transportation, guided excursions, and ample free time, it’s an ideal way to experience the enchanting beauty of this remarkable destination.