Kyle Line (Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh)
Kyle Line (Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh)
Kyle Line (Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh)
4.5
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About
Travel coast to coast across the Highlands, in the shadows of mountains and forests, beside bright lochs and wide open moors. The Kyle line draws a wide arc from Inverness to the shores of Loch Alsh, taking in spectacular Highland scenery – and finishing with magnificent views of Skye. Just outside Inverness lies Dingwall, a pretty market town that’s perfect for a stop off or a connection to the Far North Line. From there, the train takes you past lochs and moors as you travel through the Highlands. Keep an eye out for one of the most distinctive mountain ranges in Scotland, the Torridon Peaks, looming out of the north. On the final stretch of the journey, the train picks its way along the coast south to Loch Alsh.
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Kyle Line (Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh)
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4.5
330 reviews
Excellent
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Very good
56
Average
11
Poor
1
Terrible
3
davidandshona
Dumfries, UK3,510 contributions
Mar 2022
We were based in Plockton for a week and could regularly see and hear the trains on the line just across the bay from the village. We would also often hear the horn sound just before the trains passed Duncraig Station at Duncraig Castle.
We decided to drive to Kyle of Lochalsh and take a return trip to Strathcarron.
It was lovely to see the coastline and villages from a different viewpoint as we passed through Duirinish, Plockton, Duncraig, Stromeferry and Attadale before arriving at Strathcarron.
Alighting at 1428 gave us just over an hour to visit the Strathcarron Hotel. It was our dog Glen's first train journey, which he enjoyed on the whole, although the broom branches hitting the windows from time to time gave him a bit of a fright. As we had Glen with us we messaged ahead and were pleased to be informed that if dogs are permitted inside. All in all a brilliant way to spend an afternoon with lots of photo and video opportunities along the way.
We decided to drive to Kyle of Lochalsh and take a return trip to Strathcarron.
It was lovely to see the coastline and villages from a different viewpoint as we passed through Duirinish, Plockton, Duncraig, Stromeferry and Attadale before arriving at Strathcarron.
Alighting at 1428 gave us just over an hour to visit the Strathcarron Hotel. It was our dog Glen's first train journey, which he enjoyed on the whole, although the broom branches hitting the windows from time to time gave him a bit of a fright. As we had Glen with us we messaged ahead and were pleased to be informed that if dogs are permitted inside. All in all a brilliant way to spend an afternoon with lots of photo and video opportunities along the way.
Written 5 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
eyupmikethetyke
Bridlington, UK125 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
we took a ride on this very scenic train journey from Inverness to the terminus at Kyle of Lochalsh and back on a fine weather Valentines day. Left bang on time at 10.56 on a 2 coach class 170 DMU which had clean windows on the north facing (more scenic) side of the coach which had been washed whilst the train was being prepared at the platform 10 minutes before we left.
The first 10 miles aren't to scenic but then the Highlands unfold and there are lots of great views to be had all the way along the line which takes around 2 hours 30 minutes to reach the terminus at Kyle of Lochalsh where there is a 10 minute stop to stretch your legs and take a few pictures of the nearby Ilse of Skye road bridge/views and the station buildings. Top tip, be sure to take food and drinks as there isn't a refreshment trolley on the train.
We opted to return on the same train but there is the option of a 2+ hours stay and catching a later train, but check the times as it's a long way back by road/taxi if you miss it.
The waterside views are really memorable and the early morning stillness provides a mirror image reflection of the mountains that just made our day.
For around £20 each this trip provided us with over 5 hours of the most wonderful scenery Scotland has to offer, a truly great British railway journey through the scenic Highlands.
The first 10 miles aren't to scenic but then the Highlands unfold and there are lots of great views to be had all the way along the line which takes around 2 hours 30 minutes to reach the terminus at Kyle of Lochalsh where there is a 10 minute stop to stretch your legs and take a few pictures of the nearby Ilse of Skye road bridge/views and the station buildings. Top tip, be sure to take food and drinks as there isn't a refreshment trolley on the train.
We opted to return on the same train but there is the option of a 2+ hours stay and catching a later train, but check the times as it's a long way back by road/taxi if you miss it.
The waterside views are really memorable and the early morning stillness provides a mirror image reflection of the mountains that just made our day.
For around £20 each this trip provided us with over 5 hours of the most wonderful scenery Scotland has to offer, a truly great British railway journey through the scenic Highlands.
Written 16 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sara0H
Hereford, UK63 contributions
Mar 2022 • Solo
Listed in Top Ten Scenic Train Journeys in UK & it certainly deserves the placing without a doubt. We followed on Google Maps the two & half hour journey from Inverness so we knew which of the six, seven or eight lochs we were passing along the way. By far the biggest & for us the most spectacular, was almost at the end of the journey - Lochcarron.
With just over two hours in Kyle before the return train it gave us ample time for a light lunch at Hector's Bothy, an ice cream & a stroll around the harbour.
Boat trips open from April 1st so more to do from Kyle then
A return journey is on my bucket list
With just over two hours in Kyle before the return train it gave us ample time for a light lunch at Hector's Bothy, an ice cream & a stroll around the harbour.
Boat trips open from April 1st so more to do from Kyle then
A return journey is on my bucket list
Written 29 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TJA950
Gillingham, UK1,598 contributions
Sept 2021
There can be no doubt that there is some beautiful scenery along this route but at the Kyle of Lochalsh, there is little for the tourist. It is effectively a ferry connection. During the tourist season, this is a very busy line and the carriages are packed. The railway itself gives little assistance or acknowledgement to this being only a two-car train. The time table too does not help and gives little scope for exploring or having a walk. It is a short wait or a very long wait for your return journey. No refreshments, just run of the mill carriages and if you pick the wrong time, you will be packed in like commuters. Choose the right side of the train for your journey or you will miss most of the views. Don’t you just love our railways!
Written 26 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LouB
12 contributions
Jun 2022 • Solo
Travelled on 7/6/22 on the 13:46 from Kyle. Carriage A The weather was nice but not wall to wall ☀️ And the views were amazing, however this was really spoilt but the but the heat on the train which was unbearable, like most trains you can’t open a window.
To make matters worse, part way along the journey there was a strong smell of fuel fumes, which when we were informed that someone was travelling with a strummer and it had leaked!! Personally I didn’t think that kind of item (something with fuel) should even be on the train!!?
So what could have been a really enjoyable ride to Inverness ended up being awful. The horrendous heat combined with the fuel fumes meant I got off at Inverness feel dreadful and suffering a terrible migraine and literally went straight to bed in the Royal Highland.
I have emailed Scotrail directly about this.
Although the train ride was really uncomfortable, the customer service received following my complaint was dealt with and resolved extremely quickly and professionally.
To make matters worse, part way along the journey there was a strong smell of fuel fumes, which when we were informed that someone was travelling with a strummer and it had leaked!! Personally I didn’t think that kind of item (something with fuel) should even be on the train!!?
So what could have been a really enjoyable ride to Inverness ended up being awful. The horrendous heat combined with the fuel fumes meant I got off at Inverness feel dreadful and suffering a terrible migraine and literally went straight to bed in the Royal Highland.
I have emailed Scotrail directly about this.
Although the train ride was really uncomfortable, the customer service received following my complaint was dealt with and resolved extremely quickly and professionally.
Written 10 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
capelbond
Coventry35 contributions
Sept 2021 • Couples
We travelled on a hot day in July. Obviously the scenery is fantastic but the journey on a 156 Sprinter is not. It was hot and noisy and as a result not as enjoyable as it could be with a proper carriage and loco. We were spoiled by doing the Fort William to Mallaig run with exactly that a few days earlier. If ever a line cries out for a proper tourist train once a day, the Kyle of Lochalsh line is one.
Written 9 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RobertFGCarter
Fareham, UK1,480 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
The timetable is not kind for a trip from Inverness with a look round and return. Either too little or too much time. The sole train on Sundays works though so I suggest this one. Due to Covid regulations you will have to wear a face mask for over 5 hours though. Scenery is worth it.
Written 3 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jb-tb
Rotterdam, The Netherlands200 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
We traveled from Kyle to Inverness in mid August and we thoroughly enjoyed the scenery, especially the bit between Kyle and Strathcarron. The countless amount of tiny islands covered by different kinds of trees are just breathtaking to watch. The eastern bit until Inverness is alright, but can't quite compete with the first half of the journey, in our opinion.
The train journey itself, admittedly, wasn't too comfortable, as the train was completely packed and rather noisy. However, the available infrastructure simply doesn't allow for more or longer trains, as we were being told by the (very friendly) train manager. Most of the line is single-track and unelectrified.
It's also worth reading about the history of this line: some sections date from the second half of the 19th century. A remarkable engineering achievement, given the fact how remote and rough this part of the country is.
The train journey itself, admittedly, wasn't too comfortable, as the train was completely packed and rather noisy. However, the available infrastructure simply doesn't allow for more or longer trains, as we were being told by the (very friendly) train manager. Most of the line is single-track and unelectrified.
It's also worth reading about the history of this line: some sections date from the second half of the 19th century. A remarkable engineering achievement, given the fact how remote and rough this part of the country is.
Written 24 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
global-traveller48
London, UK545 contributions
Jul 2021
This is one of the iconic trains of Scotland, and it is a delightful journey - 2.5 hours each way. It is a remarkable bargain pricewise.
Before you go, it is well worthwhile to download a (free) guide from the internet as it is really helpful to know where you are and what to look out for. To Kyle, the best views are from the right hand side.
There is no catering trolley, so come prepared! For the return journey thre is a well equipped Morrison's a 5 minute walk from the station
Before you go, it is well worthwhile to download a (free) guide from the internet as it is really helpful to know where you are and what to look out for. To Kyle, the best views are from the right hand side.
There is no catering trolley, so come prepared! For the return journey thre is a well equipped Morrison's a 5 minute walk from the station
Written 13 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
johnwadman
Birmingham, UK21 contributions
Mar 2024 • Friends
This was part of a coach holiday in the Highlands and what a great experience it was too. Passing through some stunning scenery lochs and mountains from Inverness to Lochalsh a very pleasant way to spend an afternoon. A couple of tips for those intending to take this trip. If you get on at Inverness try to nab a window seat on the right side of the train as this is where you get the best views. Also take a packed lunch with you as there weren't any onboard catering facilities the day I caught it. Take your camera with you and enjoy!
Written 17 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We will be doing the train trip from dingwall to kyle of lockalsh as part of a holiday with loch and Glenn’s - There is also an option to do a different holiday which goes on the jacobite steam - any thoughts on which is better ?
Just want to see some stunning views etc. Thanks
Written 3 March 2021
Are dogs allowed on the train please? Thanks :)
Written 24 January 2020
Hi. We are staying outside Dingwall over Christmas and I'm hoping to take the Kyle Line and back in a day. Is this a bonkers idea?
Written 15 December 2019
It's a long but beautiful day. Have a beautiful meal at the Kyle Hotel, but why not stay one night and take the local bus out to Eilean Donan Castle for a truly remarkable view. (Excuse the spelling)
Written 17 December 2019
Planning to take Inverness - Kyle of Lochalsh trip on a Monday in September. Is it essential to book before the day (although it would presumably be cheaper?) Also, can you get off, say at Plockton, and on again on any type of ticket?
Many thanks.
Written 26 August 2019
Hi, it’s almost a suburban service. We purchased at tick at the station on the day. Stopping and getting on and off is possible but something you can sort at the station when you purchase the tickets. Cheers Iaen
Written 27 August 2019
Planning to take Inverness - Kyle of Lochalsh trip on a Monday in September. Is it essential to book before the day (although it would presumably be cheaper?) Also, can you get off, say at Plockton, and on again on any type of ticket?
Many thanks.
Written 26 August 2019
Hi, I booked in advance simply because it was cheaper, I think they would allow you to get on and off the train but perhaps best to call Scot Rail about that. It is a very impressive trip - equal to the Glenfinnan Viaduct .
Written 27 August 2019
Standard day return tickets from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh are £27.10.
You can find more information and options on the ScotRail website.
Written 16 August 2019
railmade
Brisbane, Australia
Is it possible to travel by rail (Kyle Line) from Kyle of Lochlash , north- east, via Plockton to Dingwall, then Inverness during September. I can't book on the Scotrail site as it doesn't display the timetable or calendar for September 2018. Any advice how best to do this rail trip would be appreciated. Thank you Suzanne, Brisbane Australia
Written 5 June 2018
Yes very much. Amazing views en route
Written 12 August 2018
Can you make seat reservations? Comments on here appear to suggest you can, but the ScotRail website does not seem to reserve seats
Written 10 March 2018
You can essentially request a seat if you make a higher class reservation. That seat is not guaranteed, but is likely your seat reservation. It would be confirmed closer to the journey.
Some rail journeys don't take reservations and you just have to claim a seat, but I claimed my seat on this journey I believe.
Written 2 April 2018
Can you make seat reservations? Some comments here appear to suggest you can but the ScotRail website did not seem to reserve seats
Written 10 March 2018
When I went on the train we had our seats booked by the travel company we were travelling with, so yes you can book seats. many other people not in our party also had reserved seats. Hope this helps
Written 11 March 2018
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