Easy Escapes from Glasgow and Edinburgh

Scotland is full of beautiful places, but some of its best spots are the ones that do not always make the top of the travel lists. Away from the busy crowds of Edinburgh and Glasgow, there are small towns and quiet corners that show a different side of the country. These places are easy to reach by train, making them perfect for travelers who want to see more without needing a car. Whether it's a peaceful village in the Highlands, a coastal town with sea views, or a city full of history and green spaces, each stop has its own special charm.

The train journeys themselves are part of the fun, often passing through forests, hills, and lochs. Travel is slower this way, but it gives time to enjoy the views and feel more connected to the land. This guide covers some top hidden gems in Scotland that are perfect for short trips or weekend escapes. These spots are ideal for travelers who want nature, good food, and local vibes — all without going too far from the main cities. They are simple to reach, easy to explore, and full of the kind of beauty that stays with you long after the trip is over.

Stirling

Stirling - Clément Proust

Stirling is one of those places in Scotland that feels like a perfect mix of history and nature. The city is small but full of charm. Stirling Castle sits on top of a hill and gives amazing views over the countryside. The streets are peaceful and easy to walk, and the whole place has a relaxed vibe. For anyone looking to explore Scotland beyond the big cities, Stirling offers a great balance of quiet beauty and rich culture.

Getting to Stirling is simple. From Glasgow Queen Street or Edinburgh Waverley, direct trains leave every 30 minutes. The journey takes around 40 minutes from Glasgow and just under an hour from Edinburgh. Tickets are usually affordable, especially with an off-peak return. Stirling Station is right in the city center, so everything is within walking distance as soon as you arrive.

One of the most special things about Stirling is its deep connection to Scottish history. The Wallace Monument is a must-see. It stands tall on a hill just outside the city and honors William Wallace, a key figure in Scotland’s fight for independence. Climb to the top for a stunning view of the Highlands. Stirling Bridge, where Wallace won a major battle, is also close by. These spots bring history to life without feeling too touristy.

Pitlochry

Pitlochry - volganne

Tucked into the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Pitlochry is a charming town that feels like stepping into a postcard. Surrounded by hills, forests and rivers, it offers a peaceful break from busy city life. It is the kind of place where time slows down, perfect for those who want to recharge while still discovering something new. The town is small but full of character, with stone buildings, independent shops and cozy cafes. Nature is everywhere, and the fresh air feels cleaner than anywhere else.

Getting to Pitlochry by train is simple. Trains leave daily from both Glasgow and Edinburgh, and the journey takes about two hours. The ride itself is part of the experience, passing through beautiful landscapes, green valleys and quiet villages. There is no need to change trains, and Pitlochry Station is just a short walk from the town center. ScotRail runs frequent services, and tickets are best booked in advance for good prices. For rail pass holders, this is an easy and worthwhile stop on any Scottish route.

One of the most unique things about Pitlochry is the combination of nature and culture. The town is home to the famous Pitlochry Festival Theatre, known as the Theatre in the Hills. It offers shows from spring to autumn and has a riverside setting that makes it special. Just a short walk from town, the dam and fish ladder are also worth seeing. Here, salmon can be spotted jumping upstream in the right season. There are hiking trails for all levels, and the views from nearby hills like Ben Vrackie are stunning. Pitlochry also has distilleries where visitors can learn how whisky is made and taste it too. It's a mix of adventure, culture and calm, all in one lovely place.

North Berwick

North Berwick - espy3008

North Berwick is a small coastal town in East Lothian, just outside of Edinburgh. It offers a peaceful break from busy city life, with fresh sea air, sandy beaches, and beautiful views. The town is full of charm with local shops, seaside cafes, and historic spots. Perfect for slow travel, it gives visitors a mix of nature, history, and a laid-back vibe. The relaxed pace makes it ideal for a day trip or a quiet weekend.

Getting to North Berwick by train is easy and quick. Direct trains leave from Edinburgh Waverley Station about every hour. The journey takes around 30 minutes. For travelers coming from Glasgow, take a train to Edinburgh first, then switch to the North Berwick line. The town’s train station is just a short walk from the beach and main streets, so there’s no need for a car.

One unique highlight is the Scottish Seabird Centre. This award-winning eco-friendly center lets visitors explore marine life and local bird colonies. Live cameras give close-up views of puffins and gannets on nearby islands like the Bass Rock. For those who enjoy being outdoors, there are cliffside walks and boat trips to see the wildlife up close. The town is also known for its fish and chips, local ice cream, and quiet beach cafes where it’s easy to relax and watch the waves.

Oban

Oban - IanGoodPhotography

Oban is a small coastal town on the west coast of Scotland. It has a relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and stunning sea views. The town is known as the “Seafood Capital of Scotland” and offers fresh catches from the nearby waters. Oban is also the perfect mix of quiet charm and outdoor adventure. Whether it’s walking along the harbor, hiking nearby hills, or catching the sunset from McCaig’s Tower, there is something here for every kind of traveler.

Getting to Oban by train is easy and beautiful. From Glasgow, the journey takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes. Trains leave from Glasgow Queen Street Station and run several times a day. The route passes through scenic parts of the Highlands, with views of lochs, forests, and hills. It’s one of the most peaceful train rides in Scotland.

What makes Oban special is that it’s the main port to the Inner Hebrides islands. From here, ferries go to Mull, Iona, and other islands. Many travelers use Oban as a base to explore these remote places. It’s also home to the Oban Distillery, one of the oldest in Scotland. A tour of the distillery is a great way to learn about whisky making in a small-town setting. For food lovers, the seafood huts on the pier serve fresh, local meals at fair prices. Don’t leave without trying the smoked salmon or crab sandwich. Oban offers a great mix of nature, culture, and local taste, all within reach by rail.

Fort William

Fort William - Lauren Brunk

Tucked at the foot of Ben Nevis, Fort William is a small town with big views and even bigger adventures. This is where green hills, deep lochs and the tallest mountain in the UK come together. It is the kind of place that feels far away from city life but still has what you need to enjoy a few relaxing or active days. For those who love nature, walking, and cozy evenings with local food, Fort William is a solid choice.

Traveling here by train is part of the fun. From Glasgow, take the scenic West Highland Line. The ride takes about four hours, but the views are worth every minute. Expect wide moors, quiet lochs, and mountains rolling past your window. There are a few direct trains every day. From Edinburgh, change trains in Glasgow to connect to the same line. Booking early is a good idea, especially during summer or holidays.

What makes Fort William special is the mix of outdoor adventure and calm Highland charm. For tourists, one big draw is the Jacobite Steam Train. This is the famous train from the Harry Potter films, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Even for non-fans, it is a fun ride with great views. Hiking lovers can try trails around Glen Nevis or, for the brave, a climb up Ben Nevis itself. Local restaurants serve fresh fish, venison, and warm stews, perfect after a day outside.

Inverness

Inverness - Derek Rau

Inverness is a small, calm city in the north of Scotland. It sits beside the River Ness and has a relaxed, friendly vibe. The air feels fresh and the views are often green and wide. This city is often called the capital of the Highlands. It is a good base for those who want to explore nature, castles and history. The city itself is quiet but full of charm. There are cosy cafes, riverside walks, and local shops that offer handmade goods and warm service. It is a good place to slow down and enjoy the simple things.

Getting to Inverness by train from Edinburgh or Glasgow is easy and scenic. The train ride takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. Trains leave often, especially from Edinburgh Waverley or Glasgow Queen Street stations. The route goes through beautiful parts of Scotland, with hills, lochs, and forests along the way. It is a peaceful ride, and there are places to sit with a view. Booking in advance is often cheaper, and there are flexible rail passes for longer trips in Scotland.

Inverness is known for its closeness to Loch Ness, home of the world-famous legend of the Loch Ness Monster. A short bus or boat trip takes visitors to the loch, where they can enjoy the deep waters and green hills. Urquhart Castle, which sits on the edge of the loch, is also a popular stop. It gives a real sense of old Scotland and its long history. For a more local feel, the Victorian Market in Inverness has small shops selling food, gifts, and crafts. It is a great spot to find something special and support local makers.

Happy traivels! 🌿🚅

08.08.2025