In Train Simulator Classic, the West Highland Line is a masterclass in atmospheric, rural railroading. As of 2026, the definitive experience is achieved by merging two core official routes to create a continuous journey from the Clyde to the Atlantic.
📍 The Primary Route Add-Ons
To experience the line in its entirety, most enthusiasts own both of the following official expansions:
- West Highland Line (South) [Milepost Simulations]: Covers the 98-mile southern section from Helensburgh Upper to Fort William. Set in the early 1980s, it features classic mechanical semaphore signaling and takes you over the desolate Rannoch Moor and the 1,350-ft Corrour Summit.
- West Highland Line Extension [Thomson Interactive]: Covers the 41-mile run from Fort William to Mallaig. This route is famous for the Glenfinnan Viaduct and features the modern Radio Electronic Token Block (RETB) signaling system.
🚆 Rolling Stock & Modern Variety
The default packs center on the legendary Class 37, but the community has expanded the roster significantly:
- Class 37/0 & 37/4: The “tractor” of the Highlands, included in both BR Blue and ScotRail liveries. The extension pack even includes a functional hotplate in the cab to “warm your soup” during winter runs.
- The Jacobite Steam: Utilizing the BMG Black 5 DLC, players can recreate the world-famous steam service over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
- Modern Era: Third-party scenario packs (such as those from Alan Thomson Simulation) add the Class 156 ScotRail Sprinter and the Caledonian Sleeper (Class 73 or Class 92) for a contemporary experience.
🛠️ The “Full Line” & Visual Upgrades
Because the base routes are separate products, experienced users often apply these enhancements to unify the experience:
- “West Highland Line Full” (Steam Workshop): A popular community merge that combines South, Extension, and often Suburban Glasgow Northwest into one seamless route.
- AP Track Patch v2.0: Highly recommended for 2026. This patch from Alan Thomson Simulation replaces the legacy tracks with high-definition textures and improves the “track rumble” audio.
- Sky & Weather Enhancement: Many modern scenarios require the AP Sky & Weather Enhancement Pack 2.0 to capture the shifting, misty atmosphere of the Scottish Highlands.
🎮 Platform Status & Requirements (2026)
| Feature | Train Simulator Classic (2026) | Train Sim World 6 |
| Availability | Available (Multiple DLCs) | Not available (Requested) |
| Full Line Coverage | Yes (via Workshop Merge) | N/A |
| Steam Operations | Yes (High Detail) | N/A |
| RETB Signaling | Fully Functional | N/A |
Standard Price: The South and Extension routes are typically $19.99 each on Steam, though they frequently appear in sales for $9.99.
