On April 19th, ScotRail introduced the first of its Highland Explorer carriages, which have 20 cycle spaces and are a first for the UK.

The carriages are converted class 153 units and will operate on two services per day – the early morning service from Mallaig to Glasgow Queen Street and the evening Glasgow Queen Street to Mallaig. Northbound services will run from Monday to Friday, while Southbound services will run from Tuesday to Saturday.

This move will benefit local communities and cyclists, as the addition of the carriages on the route means customers will benefit from 15% more seats, more luggage space, and access to an additional toilet onboard.

The Highland Explorer carriages have larger cushioned seats, USB and plug charging points, and feature table maps detailing the route, with recommendations on where to walk, cycle, and visit. QR codes at each table also provide links for further inspiration on places to visit in Scotland. The carriages are easily recognisable in their distinctive livery depicting iconic views from the West Highland Line.

The early morning service from Mallaig to Glasgow Queen Street calls at Fort William during the morning peak, providing more seats for commuters. To support active travel, ScotRail removed the additional charge for its Highland Explorer ticket earlier this month, which means customers using the service on the Mallaig line can now access the active travel carriage without having to pay the £10 supplement.

This repricing means that customers can purchase the Highland Explorer ticket for the price of a standard class fare. The repriced ticket will provide customers with guaranteed access to the carriage, allowing them to sit closer to their cycle or other large item of luggage.

More information is available on the ScotRail website at scotrail.co.uk/scotrail-highland-explorer.

Scott Prentice, ScotRail Head of Business Development, said: “The changes we’ve made – by introducing the carriages to the Mallaig line and by removing the additional fare for our Highland Explorer service – proves that we’ve been listening to feedback from both customers and stakeholders on how make the most of these fantastic carriages and deliver the best service possible.

“With more available seats and no additional charge for customers sit with their bikes, it allows more people before to enjoy the iconic scenery the West Highland Line has to offer.

“These changes help to make the service a more attractive option, while supporting active travel and our continued recovery from the pandemic.”