Strathspey Railway

Strathspey Railway is a volunteer-run heritage line from Aviemore to Boat of Garten and Broomhill, following part of the old Highland Railway through Speyside. It usually runs steam trains, with a heritage diesel sometimes substituted. Allow about 1 hour 40 minutes for the 20-mile return journey. Go for the old locomotives and coaches as much as the landscape; this is a proper outing, not a quick photo stop.

Departures leave from Platform 3. For the step-free route, use the free railway car park on Dalfaber Road behind the main station, then cross to the platform by the level crossing and ramp. The Grampian Road entrance reaches the main station platforms by footbridge and has no accessible route to Platform 3. Aviemore Platform 3 has a wheelchair-accessible toilet, and the railway offers an adapted carriage with space for two wheelchair users and companion seats.

The train passes the River Spey, woodland and open moorland, with Cairngorm views opening up along the way. It is not a continuous mountain panorama: much of the line feels wooded or settled, and low cloud can hide the distant hills. The best reason to go is the combination of the railway itself and a relaxed look at the valley.

The regular journey pauses at Boat of Garten and Broomhill, but the station stops are brief. If you want longer off the train, Boat of Garten is the practical choice: standard passengers can break their journey and catch a later service on eligible operating days. Broomhill is remote, so check the day’s timetable before planning a longer wander there.

The line follows part of the old Highland Railway main route. A volunteer preservation effort began in 1971, and its first restored steam service ran from Aviemore to Boat of Garten on 22 July 1978. Today’s ride keeps that working-railway history close: you travel in restored coaches behind locomotives that still run on the old line.

Broomhill station stood in for fictional Glenbogle in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen. The railway has also appeared in The Traitors. If that connection is part of your interest, Broomhill is the place to look around, though the scheduled stop is short unless you break your journey.

One of the railway’s special vehicles is a restored 1937 streamlined observation carriage with an Art Deco interior. It once ran on LNER’s London–Edinburgh Coronation service and later on the West Highland line. Carriage availability depends on the service, so check before choosing a particular ticket.

A trolley offers snacks and drinks, while selected departures have prebooked light meals and afternoon tea. The tea includes sandwiches, home-baked scones and cakes with tea or coffee, so there is a proper meal option without leaving the train. Book the dining experience ahead.