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Edinburgh to Glasgow train ticket prices

Travelling from Edinburgh to Glasgow by train? Find fares from as low as £12.10. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

£12.10󰄽

On Fri 08 May

  • £16.20󰄽
    Mon04 May
  • £12.59󰄽
    Tue05 May
  • £12.59󰄽
    Wed06 May
  • £17.27󰄽
    Thu07 May
  • Fri08 May
  • £17.27󰄽
    Sat09 May
  • £17.27󰄽
    Sun10 May

Edinburgh to Glasgow train timetable

The journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow on the fastest train in 44m, usually 1h 3m. Each day, 135 trains leave from Edinburgh, starting at 05:27 and ending at 23:45. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

21:50

Edinburgh Park
1h 4m, Direct

22:54

Glasgow Queen Street
ScotRail
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22:00

Waverley
48m, Direct

22:48

Glasgow Queen Street
ScotRail
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22:30

Waverley
48m, Direct

23:18

Glasgow Queen Street
ScotRail
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22:49

Edinburgh Park
1h 5m, Direct

23:54

Glasgow Queen Street
ScotRail
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23:00

Waverley
48m, Direct

23:48

Glasgow Queen Street
ScotRail
Find tickets
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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.

Price
From £12.10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
42 miles (67km)
Journey time
44m
First train
05:27
Last train
23:45
Frequency
135
Train operators

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

Getting the train from Edinburgh to Glasgow can present some challenges for new visitors: from the scale of Edinburgh Waverley to the different routes to choose from, it can seem daunting. Luckily, our tips will have you fully prepared before travelling, so you can be on your way without a hitch.

Edinburgh Waverley station: Getting to the platform

Edinburgh Waverley station is the second-largest station in the UK by area, so navigating it can be overwhelming. When taking the train from Edinburgh to Glasgow, your platform will depend on which Glasgow station you’re headed to: Glasgow Queen Street or Glasgow Central.
  • 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.
If your train is from Edinburgh Park, you’ll be departing from the city’s business district, quite close to the Gyle Shopping Centre. The station just has two platforms, making navigation quite straightforward.
  • 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.
If your train is to Glasgow Central, you’ll have plenty of options for onward travel from the stations three exits:
  • 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.
Longer-distance buses depart from Buchanan Bus Station, about a 10-minute walk north of the station, and the closest Glasgow Subway stop is St Enoch, about a 5-minute walk from the Union Street exit.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

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

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Edinburgh to Glasgow?

Ticket prices from Edinburgh to Glasgow average around £12.10, 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.

How do I find the best train route from Edinburgh to Glasgow?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Edinburgh to Glasgow train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to Glasgow?

The fastest train journey time from Edinburgh to Glasgow is 44m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

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 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?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Edinburgh to Glasgow train timetables?

Edinburgh to Glasgow trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.

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 Edinburgh to Glasgow trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Edinburgh to Glasgow are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

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?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

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 Edinburgh to Glasgow route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.

  • Bicycle

    You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.

  • 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.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • 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 Edinburgh to Glasgow train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.