NationalRail.com’s tribute to tracks less travelled is called #OfftheBeatenTrack.
We research the most historical, rare or decorative train stations around the UK, and help you get there.
In this segment of Off the Beaten Track, we’ll explore the area around one of the stateliest stations in Scotland (say that five times fast!).
Dunrobin Castle railway station is just North of the village of Golspie – which is a picturesque area to have a quiet, yet entertaining visit.
Town/city: Golspie
Population: 1,650
By train:
Originally a private station for the castle of the Dukes of Sutherland, this gorgeous station features an Arts and Crafts style waiting room.
It has just one platform, but it’s quite a spacious station, with room for up to 400 guests. It’s also a category B listed building!
Dunrobin Castle railway station is on the Far North Line and manged by the Abellio Scotland rail service. Last year, only 822 passengers disembarked at this station!
Things to do:
Climb the nearby Ben Bhraggie (397 metres above sea level) to view the 100-foot-tall statue of George Leveson-Gower, the first Duke of Sutherland.
If you are visiting this summer, schedule your holiday for the Golspie Gala Week (30 July to 6 August 2016). Featuring traditional events like ceilidhs and Highland Dancing, a golf tournament, fancy dress parades and more, this would be an incredible time to immerse yourself in the culture of the Scottish Highlands!
Popular/famous tourist spots:
A quite obvious site to see is the castle the train station is named after.
Dunrobin Castle, located near the station, boasts 189 rooms, making it the largest of Scotland’s great houses located in the Northern Highlands. It’s also one of Britain’s longest inhabited houses, with Dukes living in the castle since the 1300s.
Opening on 25 March, 2016, the castle also features a falconry display, gorgeous grounds and gardens and of course a great history lesson at the castle museum! Plan your visit here.
Whisky fan? The Dornoch Castle Hotel (and Whisky Pub of the Year) in nearby Dornoch features whisky tasting sessions. Or try a private tour of Clynelish Distillery, also located in Dornoch.
Clynelish Distillery
Want to relax? Spend time enjoying the beautiful beaches, golf courses, walks and wildlife of the Highlands.
Did you know?
The Gospie railway station, built in 1874, is now closed, but has apparently been converted into a holiday let! Rail enthusiasts, this trip is for you, complete with a stay at a historical railway station!
Ready to head North to Golspie, and the amazing train station destinations in the Scottish Highlands? Get your tickets at nationalrail.com!
