Train companies that operate in the Highlands are ScotRail, LNER (London Kings Cross and Inverness), Caledonian Sleeper Ltd (between London Euston and Inverness and between London Euston and Fort William) and West Coast Railways (for the Jacobite Steam Train).
There are good links with other modes of transport including buses, ferries and planes.
All trains in the Highlands have standard class seats which are laid out with two on either side of a central aisle. They also all have toilets (some suburban trains don't!).
Most longer distance trains in the Highlands have a trolley serving snacks, although some trains especially those early in the morning might not, and sometimes although it's scheduled to be provided it may not be.
It is possible to reserve a seat on all of the longer distance trains in the highlands.
Rural railways often have what are known as ‘request stops’. These are most often found on the routes to Kyle of Lochalsh, Thurso, Wick and the West Highlands.
At these stations the train will not stop unless you specifically request to alight or board. If you are on the train, just ask the conductor when you board, and they will make arrangements for the train to stop.
If you wish to join the train, check at the station whether you need use an electronic device to let the train know or whether you should signal to the train by clearly holding your hand out to board.
These stops are marked as ‘request’ in timetables and at the station, and once you know how they work, you will have no trouble using them.
You can take your bike or folding bike on almost any rail service. However, the space available on trains for bikes is often limited so it’s a good idea to book a bike reservation in advance where permissible.
On some services reservations are compulsory. When your train arrives, look out for the bike symbol on coaches to know where to load your cycle.
Folding bikes may be taken on any service and do not require a reservation.
Find out more about Train Travel with Bicycles including train companies' cycle policies.
On the West Highland Line some trains have special Highland Explorer carriages which have been especially designed to transport bicycles and other large sporting equipment.
Page last updated 23 September 2025