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Edinburgh to Glasgow train ticket prices
€14.67
On Thu 30 Apr
Edinburgh to Glasgow train timetable
Travelling from Edinburgh to Glasgow, the fastest train takes 44m with an average travel time of 1h 3m. 136 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:27 and the last at 23:45. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
13:45 Waverley | 49m, Direct | 14:34 Glasgow Queen Street | ScotRail | Find tickets |
13:49 Edinburgh Park | 1h 11m, Direct | 15:00 Glasgow Queen Street | ScotRail | Find tickets |
13:51 Waverley | 1h 12m, Direct | 15:03 Glasgow Central | ScotRail | Find tickets |
13:56 Waverley | 1h 16m, Direct | 15:12 Glasgow Central | ScotRail | Find tickets |
14:15 Waverley | 50m, Direct | 15:05 Glasgow Queen Street | ScotRail | Find tickets |
Edinburgh to Glasgow train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow 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.
ScotRail v CrossCountry – which is best?
When choosing between the main operators on Edinburgh to Glasgow routes, the best choice for you will depend on whether you most value flexibility, affordability or service.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|
ScotRail | 1h | Frequency and flexibility | Shuttle service from Edinburgh to Glasgow, departures every 15–30 minutes |
49m | Students, Budget / Eco | 100% electric, usually the cheapest advance fares. | |
CrossCountry | 1h 6m | Business, Speed & First Class | First Class seating, hot food and more luggage space |
- ScotRail: A highly frequent service – choose this if you prioritise flexibility. Operates on a ‘turn-up-and-go’ basis. No advance discounts or seat reservations. Choice of trains to Glasgow Queen Street (the faster route) or Glasgow Central.
- Lumo: Best option for budget-conscious travellers. One direct service a day. Cheapest fares for advance booking. Single-class service.
- CrossCountry: Choose for First Class service, spacious luggage racks and a trolley service. Limited departures, but Advance tickets are often cheaper on ScotRail.
Train travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow
Edinburgh Waverley station: Getting to the platform
- Glasgow Queen Street: Typically depart from the west-facing platforms 12-16. These are located directly off the main central concourse behind the ticket barriers. These platforms are just a quick 1–3 minute walk from the main shopping area.
- Glasgow Central: Often depart from platform 9W, or occasionally 11 or 19. If you enter from street level (Market Street or Princes street), there is a dedicated lift and stairs to take you directly to Platform 9. 9W (west) is the section to your right.
- Platform 1: Trains to Glasgow Queen Street always depart from Platform 1, the Westbound Platform.
- Food options: Food options at the station are limited, with a small kiosk and vending machines doing most of the heavy lifting. However, there are plenty of nearby cafes and shops in the business park – such as Patina Bakery – and in the Gyle Shopping Centre.
Onboard trains from Edinburgh to Glasgow
Your onboard experience will vary greatly depending on which route you are taking. There are four routes from Edinburgh to Glasgow: via Falkirk High, via Bathgate/Airdrie, via Shotts and via Motherwell.
- The Falkirk route is the most scenic, as well as being the fastest route. If you sit on the right, you can see Linlithgow Palace as you pass through Linlithgow. You may also get views of the Ochil Hills and the Highlands on clear days.
- The Bathgate/Airdrie route is more suburban, but sitting on the right will offer you views of the Glasgow skyline as you approach the city.
- The Shotts route travels through industrial heartlands and offers rural views of moorland. If you sit on the left, you might catch glimpses of the Pentland Hills as you leave Edinburgh.
- The landscape is largely functional on the Motherwell route, but the left-hand side will give you more varied views of the rolling countryside before hitting industrial hubs.
Arrival at Glasgow Queen Street
Glasgow Queen Street station is quite compact, making it easy to navigate. The station is split into two areas: the high level and the low level. You will most likely arrive on the high level, but if your train pulls into the low level, you will need to take a lift or stairs to reach the main concourse and exits.
There are three exits at Glasgow Queen Street:
- George Square Exit: This is the main exit, and is best for reaching the City Chambers, the Gallery of Modern Art or for accessing the taxi rank, which is just outside to the left.
- Dundas Street Exit: This exit is on the right side, near the M&S Simply Food. This is best for heading to the Buchanan Street shopping district and the Glasgow Subway. You’ll find a direct moving walkway to take you to the Buchanan Street Subway Station.
- North Hanover Street Exit: This exit is on the left side, and offers access to the University of Strathclyde and the Buchanan Bus Station.
- Gordon Street Exit: The main exit, which leads right to the city’s main shopping district and George Square.
- Hope Street Exit: On the west of the station, provides most direct access to pickup points and local bus stops.
- Union Street Exit: Found on the east side, take this exit to get to the Union Street taxi rank and Argyle Street shopping.
Edinburgh to Glasgow train travel guide
Taking the train from Edinburgh to Glasgow is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can arrive at Glasgow in just 44m, 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 Edinburgh to Glasgow?
The average ticket fare from Edinburgh to Glasgow is about €14.67, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from Edinburgh to Glasgow?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to Glasgow?
The quickest train journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow takes 44m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from Edinburgh to Glasgow?
No, there are no direct trains from Edinburgh to Glasgow. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Edinburgh to Glasgow?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Edinburgh to Glasgow train timetables?
While Edinburgh to Glasgow trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do Edinburgh to Glasgow trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Edinburgh to Glasgow 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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Edinburgh to Glasgow route?
The train from Edinburgh to Glasgow is operated by CrossCountry. 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
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Edinburgh to Glasgow 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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