It may surprise you to learn that there’s a direct train from London to a remote part of Scotland that’s quite literally in the middle of nowhere.
The highest railway station in the UK at an elevation of 1,340 ft (408 m) above sea level, Corrour is only accessible by train or by hill track. The station is situated in the 57000 acre Corrour Estate on the edge of Rannoch Moor by Loch Ossian and is a favourite of hillwalkers and Munro baggers (people who climb mountains in Scotland over 3,000 feet).
Yes, you read that right. Corrour station, nestled in the Western Scottish Highlands and a ten-mile hike from the nearest road, has a direct link to London Euston. The service takes between 11 and 12 hours. It’s served by the Caledonian Sleeper train, which pre-pandemic would ferry between 12,000 and 14,000 passengers annually from Corrour to London. To put that into perspective, the yearly footfall at Corrour equals what London Waterloo station sees in just one hour.
But why would anyone want to visit Corrour?
Well, it’s home to the UK’s most remote restaurant, The Corrour Station House, (usually open between end of March and end of October) and located in the former station building. All supplies are sourced from the surrounding wilderness and transported via off-road vehicles.
A historic railway station located in the remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands, the station house serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures and draws customers from all over and making Corrour one of the busiest stations on the rural West Highland railway line between Glasgow and Mallaig via Fort William.
The station is surrounded by natural beauty, with Loch Coir and Loch Ossian offering stunning views, and untouched landscape. The seclusion of the area attract tourists who stay at holiday accommodations around the two lakes. Despite its remote location, the area isn’t completely cut off – there’s a telephone box with an Internet connection near the station.
With its stunning landscapes, rich history, or unique charm, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the heart of Scotland.