Humphrey,
You’re absolutely right - i’ve booked that train, a night in an Inverness guest house then early morning bus to Dornie the next day - walking before 11.00am - at least I’ll start the walk well rested and well fed!

Return from Montrose is equally good, the 10.33 on Friday 24th takes me direct to London for £53.45 with a senior railcard.

If I eat and drink enough on each journey, it will be cheaper than standard class.