I’ve ridden the world’s railways – here’s why Scotland’s are the best (and now even cheaper)

The Glenfinnan Viaduct is part of the spectacular West Highland Line Extension in Scotland - (Robin McKelvie/The Independent)

If train travel to you means paying exorbitant prices for the privilege of being jam-packed alongside commuters, then the idea of a rail holiday might sound like a nightmare.

But Scotland might be the exception to the rule. Its railways snake around some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. And they are owned by the Scottish government, which has not only introduced new lines, but from 1 September 2025 has cancelled all peak fares. For good.