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Aberdeen to Elgin train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Aberdeen to Elgin with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Onboard experience from Aberdeen to Elgin with ScotRail
Travel from the mouth of the River Don to an historic Moray town on one efficient train operated by ScotRail. What is the onboard experience like? How many bags can I bring on ScotRail? Find out the answers to these and other key travel questions below.
Is ScotRail a good operator?
ScotRail is a publicly owned Scottish rail operator, popular with travellers around the Lowlands and Highlands. Expect a comfortable onboard experience, affordable advance fares, and a warm welcome from rail staff.
How many bags fit on ScotRail trains?
Passengers with ScotRail have plenty of space to store bags. Each traveller can bring a maximum of three pieces of personal luggage onboard for free. Store small bags under your seat, or in overhead luggage compartments, and place larger items in end-of-aisle luggage racks.
Can I buy food and drinks on ScotRail?
Absolutely! Never go hungry on a ScotRail train: the onboard trolley service offers snacks like biscuits, crisps, and cakes, as well as juices, tea, hot chocolate, and coffee (all hot drinks can be served with oat milk). For great savings, buy a hot drink with a cake in a £4 combo deal, or combine two wines and two bags of crisps for £13.
Is it worth upgrading to ScotRail First Class?
The answer depends on your budget and travel priorities. Certainly, a ScotRail First Class upgrade guarantees passengers a comfy reclining seat in a quieter carriage, a free hot drink or bottle of water, and complimentary shortbread. Throughout your journey, you’ll also access free Wi-Fi and individual sockets or USB ports for charging.
Train travel from Aberdeen to Elgin
Your route up from Aberdeen to Elgin is simple and enjoyable with ScotRail and our local station secrets. From boarding in the buzzing port city to stepping out into the former cathedral city, here’s what you need to know.
Getting to the platform: Aberdeen
- Station Road entrance: Located next to Union Square, on Guild Street, enter Aberdeen Station via Station Road. Alternatively, access the main concourse from the Union Square shopping complex.
- Shopping and Dining: The main concourse features a waiting area and a WHSmith store selling books, magazines, stationery, and confectionery. Union Square, with various shops and restaurants, connects directly to the concourse.
- Six or seven?: Trains to Elgin usually leave from platforms 6 or 7. Head there from the main station concourse, using stairs down from the bridge (or lifts for step-free access).
Onboard trains from Aberdeen to Elgin
A scenic route north west starts from the coastal location of Aberdeen and takes you up to Elgin along a predominantly rural route.
- Key Landmarks: Pass landmarks like Dunnideer Castle, Leith Hall, and Huntly Castle, before you track the path of the River Deveron, and finally bend west towards Elgin.
- The View Alert: More landmarks are available to passengers with a seat on the Left-Hand Side of the carriage (facing North).
Arriving at Elgin
Elgin Station has excellent onward access to the town centre. Managed and served by ScotRail, the station itself is basic but practical.
- Getting out: A two-platform station with decent facilities, including accessible toilets on platform 1, you’ll be sure of a comfortable arrival in Elgin. Exit the station north onto Station Road.
- Stagecoach: Elgin buses are operated by Stagecoach. Board from directly outside the station, with routes taking you all around the town centre, including the number 36, which stops at Elgin Cathedral. On foot, the route to Elgin Cathedral, and nearby Cooper Park, and the River Lossie takes around 20 minutes from the station.
Aberdeen to Elgin train travel guide
Taking the train from Aberdeen to Elgin is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Aberdeen, you can arrive at Elgin in just 1h 24m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Aberdeen to Elgin?
Ticket prices from Aberdeen to Elgin average around €6.03, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from Aberdeen to Elgin by train?
What is the fastest train from Aberdeen to Elgin?
The fastest train journey time from Aberdeen to Elgin is 1h 24m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Aberdeen to Elgin?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Aberdeen to Elgin. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Aberdeen to Elgin?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Aberdeen to Elgin train timetables?
Aberdeen to Elgin trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do Aberdeen to Elgin trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Aberdeen to Elgin route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Aberdeen to Elgin route?
The train from Aberdeen to Elgin is operated by ScotRail. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
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Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Aberdeen to Elgin train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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