Fort William 2040 (FW2040) projects - Bike Carriage by Rail - local use of rail coaches that can accommodate bikes

ScotRail ran the first of its Highland Explorer carriages, which have twenty cycle spaces and were a UK first, on the Mallaig branch of the West Highland Line on 19 April 2023. The carriages operate on two services each day the early morning service from Mallaig to Glasgow Queen Street  and the evening Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig. Northbound services run Monday to Friday while south bound run Tuesday to Saturday.

The carriages mean customers benefit from 15% more seats, more luggage space and access to an additional toilet on board. The carriages also feature table maps detailing the route, with recommendations on where to walk, cycle and visit. Scotrail have also removed the additional charge for its Highland Explorer ticket. Customers can now purchase a Highland Explorer ticket for the price of a standard class fare. 

FW 2040 Project Manager

Work is complete.

Seek annual update as to uptake of this provision. 

On board the Highland Explorer – Bus and Train User