GETTING TO MALLAIG/ ARISAIG

Public Transport links to Mallaig / Arisaig

You can travel to both Mallaig and Arisaig by bus or train on the famous Road to the Isles.

TRAVEL BY TRAIN TO MALLAIG/ ARISAIG

Mallaig and Arisaig are well served by trains. The Scotrail timetable for the West Highlands can be viewed here. (Average price £10 one way).

Caledonian Sleeper to Fort William

The Caledonian Sleeper departs from London Euston to Fort William every day except Saturday. From there it’s just a quick hop onto another train for a trip along one of the most beautiful routes in the world - the scenic West Highland Line from Fort William to Mallaig (which stops at Arisaig on route). This train journey, noted as one of the Great Railway Journeys of the World and made famous in the Harry Potter franchise, is definitely part of the experience of travelling to the Small Isles.

The Jacobite

For an extra special experience you may wish to book The Jacobite for the final stretch of the journey from Fort William to Mallaig. It is not possible to purchase a single ticket or different day return. You can only purchase a same day return ticket for this service. Available from April to October, the Jacobite trip has been described as one of the greatest railway journeys in the world. Please check ahead for luggage bookings/ requirements.

Good to know

  • It’s a short 5 minute walk to the ferry terminal in Mallaig from the train station.

  • It’s a 15 min walk from the train station to Arisaig Marina - the departure point for the Sheerwater boat.

  • You must reserve a cycle space for your bike prior to travelling. Some routes can be very busy so it is worthwhile doing this as far in advance as you can. (No bikes on The Jacobite) (Please note that reservations are also required on the ferry/ boat trip).


TRAVEL BY COACH/ BUS TO MALLAIG/ ARISAIG

CityLink runs daily bus services between Fort William and Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Shiel Buses operate a service between Fort William and Mallaig (including a stop at Arisaig). They also offer combined bus and boat tickets. See their website for more details. Buses stop close to ferry/ boat departure points. Please ask the bus driver where to alight if unsure.


TRAVELLING BY CAR TO MALLAIG/ ARISAIG

  • Edinburgh - Mallaig 4hr 4 min (186.4miles) via A9

  • Glasgow to Mallaig - 3hr 31 min (150.3miles) via A82 & A830

  • Inverness to Mallaig - 2hr 33 min (105.3miles) via A82 & A830

(Arisaig is on route to Mallaig - about 10 mins prior).

You may wish to build in extra time for sightseeing/ delays.

Good to know

  • Visitors are not allowed to take cars to the Small Isles without a permit which is only given in exceptional circumstances. More information available here.

  • In Mallaig, long term parking is available at the West Bay car park just 5 minutes away from the terminal. Additional parking is available at the East Bay car park which is around a 10-15min walk away from the ferry departure point.

  • In Arisaig, parking is available at Arisaig Marina which is free for day trippers or £2.50/day £15/week for longer term stays. Please check their website for any changes.