History
The Royal Scotsman debuted in May 1985, as a collection of leased carriages put together by its owner. The initial carriage leases lasted for a term of five years, and the train performed so well that it was awarded the coveted Queen’s Award for Export.
In May of 1990 when the carriage leases expired, the train’s owners decided to revamp the line up. So they acquired ten Pullman carriages, designed by Jame Park according to the owner’s exacting design standards. There were a number of improvements in the carriages in terms of both form and function. For example, the interior was spruced up with custom woodwork, and modern electric heating replaced the original steam heating. Each cabin had its own private facilities, and additional seating capacity was added to the observation and dining cars, which could now hold 32 guests. In 1997, even more seating was added, bringing the total seating capacity to 36. The train now featured 16 twin cabins along with 4 single state cabins.
Travel on the Royal Scotsman
Guests on the Royal Scotsman travel to the heart of the Scottish Highlands, whilst dining on the best quality of produce found locally. On some evenings, a local clansman will come aboard to retell stories of Scottish history in a way that it makes it come to life. The guests also enjoy the sights of mountains shrouded in mist and dotted with ancient castles.
Another point of interest for guests on a Royal Scotsman voyage is Kyle of Lochalsh, where fresh oysters are harvested right next to the train’s platform. Guests feast on these fine, fresh oysters as their journey continues.
When it comes to dining, the fare aboard the Royal Scotsman is simply superb. The menu includes fresh, local food that provides seasonal delights. The food served on the train is some of the best in all of Britain. The Royal Scotsman also features an incredible selection of wines so that guests can always find the perfect complement to a meal. Breakfast options include a continental breakfast, or a traditional full-cooked Scottish meal.
The train features many fine foods, including Aberdeen Angus beef and game, salmon, shellfish, and a wide variety of fresh local produce. The train boasts a number of top-notch chefs that have received training from the likes of Raymond Blanc, Michel Roux, and Charlie Trotter. For those guests who may have special dietary restrictions, it’s important to speak with the head chef before starting out on the trip.
The dining cars are decorated lavishly with rich fabrics and deep Mahogany panelling. One of the cars is designed to accommodate larger parties with tables seating from 6 to 8 people, while the other car has intimate and elegant place settings for parties of 2 to 4 people. Some nights are designated as formal affairs, with the attire of the evening including tuxedos or even kilts, and other nights are casual coat-and-tie affairs.
The sleeping accommodations are wonderfully extravagant and comfortable, with 4 single state cabins and 16 twin cabins. The cabins provide a wonderful way for guests to relax and escape from the commotion, as well as watch the beautiful scenery of the Scottish countryside. The observation car is also specially designed for guests to lounge and take in the sights of the Scottish landscape.
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