Inside the Royal Scotsman
Up to 36 guests, cabins with private bathrooms, dining cars and the Observation Car, where the evenings end with music and a dram.
Where you sleep
Cabins come as Twin Cabins with two beds, Double Cabins with a double bed, Single Cabins and the larger Grand Suites. Every cabin has a private bathroom and dedicated cabin service throughout the journey. Which cabin types are open differs by departure — the booking page for each journey shows what is available on each date.
Cabins are compact, so one suitcase and one carry-on per guest is the recommendation; larger cases can stay at The Balmoral in Edinburgh until you return.
A day aboard
Days follow an unhurried rhythm: a full Scottish breakfast, a two-course lunch and afternoon tea on scenic runs, then a three-course dinner with cheeseboard, coffee and petits fours. Dinners alternate between informal evenings (smart casual) and formal or gala nights, when a dark suit, tuxedo or kilt is customary for gentlemen and a cocktail dress or tartan for ladies. All meals, all drinks — including an extensive whisky selection — excursions and nightly entertainment in the Observation Car are included in the fare. Most evenings the train stables in a quiet country station, so you sleep to stillness rather than motion.
Know before you go
- Boarding
- Every journey departs from and returns to Edinburgh Waverley. Check-in is at The Balmoral Hotel beside the station: leave your luggage with the concierge between 11:00 and 12:15 and it is taken to your cabin for you.
- Luggage
- Cabins are compact — one suitcase and one carry-on per guest is recommended. Under-bed storage is roughly 71 × 23 cm; larger cases can be stored at The Balmoral for the duration of the journey.
- Packing
- A warm waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes for Highland excursions, comfortable clothing for the train, and formal wear for gala evenings. UK electricity is 220/240V.
- Wi-Fi
- Available in the Observation Car, though coverage drops in the remoter stretches of the Highlands.
- Mobility & health
- Excursions involve coach transfers, uneven ground and some walking; optional guided hikes need a reasonable level of fitness. There are no medical facilities on board. If you need special assistance, contact us before booking.
- Children & pets
- Children may travel at the Train Manager's discretion; the atmosphere is geared to adults. Pets are not permitted, except assistance dogs.
- Dietary requirements
- Vegetarian, vegan and allergy-aware menus are available when requested at the time of booking.
- Smoking
- Not permitted anywhere on board, including electronic cigarettes.
- Documents & insurance
- Overseas visitors need a passport valid for at least six months beyond the journey; check UK visa requirements for your nationality. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Fares do not include gratuities or insurance.
Plan your Royal Scotsman journey
Tell us which journey interests you and when you would like to travel. A Palace Tours specialist will confirm live availability, hold a cabin while you decide and arrange your nights in Edinburgh.