Planning to be in Scotland in June. Want to ride the West Highland train. Is it possible to ride from Glasgow Queen street station to Oban and back in one day?
Posted by
Lake District, England
5758 posts
Yes, leave at 0821 from Glasgow queen street, gives you a whole afternoon in Oban, not Sundays.
Come back at 1811 or 2039.
There is also a very early train at 0520.
Posted by
Duluth 🛶
6323 posts
bcmyers, it's a long ride (over 3 hours each way) but as isnc31b said, it's doable. Here's the website that should give you more information. https://www.scotrail.co.uk/inspiration-hub/great-scenic-rail-journeys/west-highland-line-glasgow-oban-and-fort-williammallaig
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Thank you for your replies. One further question concerning the train ride. I want to book the trip for 4 adults now but the website seems open only until April 2. Does that seem reasonable?
Posted by
Falkirk, Scotland
13 posts
ScotRail only lets you book so far in advance- about 3 months. June dates should open up in March 😊
Posted by
Lake District, England
5758 posts
Also bear in mind that the 0822 train divides en route at Crianlarich-the back part goes to Fort William and Mallaig, the front part to Oban. The relevant cars are marked as to where they go to, and there will be lots of announcements, but just be sure you are in the right part.
On the way back you attach to that Mallaig section again at Crianlarich.
The size of each part- as in number of cars varies. Usually 2 cars to Oban and 4 or 5 to Mallaig. The 5th car being a dedicated cycle car.