Hi Harkand

In sorting out how to get to JOG to start my walk, the best way I could find was using Scotrail and Stagecoach. Just reverse my notes.

Train from Inverness to Thurso
3.75 hrs from Inverness (4 per day)
8 hrs from Edinburgh/Glasgow
Then bus from Thurso to JOG
Bus Stagecoach route 77 - 1 hour
from Olrig St Thurso
Also route 80 - some from station.

Hope this helps.

PS Scotrail seems to have relatively sensible prices that are generally available rather than having to pick the 2 days that specials are available on most UK rail services or else pay astronomic prices.

I'm guessing you've already checked the prices on National Express buses south from Wick? I found them cheap and comfortable. (don't know your age, but if 60+ then they'll be at least half price) I was extremely lucky on the leg from JoG to Wick as while waiting for the local bus at JoG, a taxi driver stopped and gave me a free lift all the way to Wick - and then once there went out of his way to try and locate an old shipmate of mine that had lived there. When you meet folk like that you kind of wish you were a secret millionaire!

If anyone is interested I have drawn up a 17 page list of accommodation on LEJOG from the internet etc (B&Bs, YHAs, Camp Sites, Bunkhouses, Other Hostels). Rather then put it on here if anyone wants a copy then send me a message and I'll forward it to you. Make sure you ask by the end of next week as I am then off on my walk so I'll be away for a couple of months - I hope!

I worked as a "trade-plate" driver a couple of years ago...
you've seen them... they are the guys stood at the side of
the road holding out a RED number plate...
It was hard enough getting a lift then, even with no luggage
and clearly a professional person....

i really wouldn't like to try it with a full kit back-pack
and looking like ive spent the last couple of weeks under canvas

I wouldn't look like I had spent the last couple of weeks under canvas - it would be 2 months! Thanks for responding I'll try chatting up someone in JOG otherwise it will be bus then train.

My experience in "hiking" areas is that you are likely to get a lift whereas in the rest of the country you are seen as too much of a risk.
I struck lucky twice last week when I misread a bus timetable in Wharfedale, so you could find someone who's prepared to listen to your story of achievement while you reek contentedly in the passenger seat.

It is generally easy to thumb a lift in Scotland once out of town, if you look anything like a walker or backpacker. If fact during our recent visit there we stopped and gave a lift to a young chap, who was out for a days walk, but being in a remote region had to walk or get a lift several miles down the road to the start of the path.
Dave.

Thanks I may try it. Do you fancy popping up to Scotland in a couple of months?