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Edinburgh to Inverness train ticket prices
£28.80
On Sat 02 May
Edinburgh to Inverness train timetable
Travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness, the fastest train takes 3h 18m with an average travel time of 3h 54m. 13 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 09:25 and the last at 22:39. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
13:53 Waverley | 3h 32m, Direct | 17:25 Inverness | ScotRail | Find tickets |
14:14 Edinburgh Park | 3h 31m, 1 change | 17:45 Inverness | ScotRail | Find tickets |
15:52 Waverley | 3h 18m, Direct | 19:10 Inverness | ScotRail | Find tickets |
16:32 Waverley | 3h 38m, Direct | 20:10 Inverness | LNER | Find tickets |
17:25 By Bus or Tram | 4h 1m, 1 change | 21:26 Inverness | ScotRail | Find tickets |
Edinburgh to Inverness train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh to Inverness 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: Edinburgh to Inverness trains
Getting from Edinburgh to Inverness with ScotRail takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. The first train departs at 6.48 am and the last train leaves Inverness at 11.10 pm. There’s plenty of time to get back in time for a day trip, or travel at your own pace if you’re staying longer.
On your journey, you’ll encounter the stunning natural beauty of Scotland – think wild, untamed moors and scenic mountain vistas as your train races you to Inverness. If you’re lucky, you might even see a dear or two!
ScotRail operates most rail services in Scotland, linking major cities such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Inverness to smaller towns and cities across the country. It also provides cross-border services to destinations in Northern England.
Departing from Edinburgh(Waverley)
Edinburgh Waverley is located directly in the centre of Edinburgh, between the ‘old’ and ‘new’ towns, on Princess Street. Overall, the station has four entrances: Market Street, Carlton Road (via lift), Waverley Bridge (via ramp), and, of course, Princess Street.
The station is easily accessible, being right in the centre of the Scottish capital. Market Street has a taxi rank, and public buses are available on Princess Street and North Bridge. Plus, if you need an airport bus, they are available throughout the day on Waverley Bridge.
Edinburgh Waverley is the end of the electrified East Coast Mainline's northern terminus, making it a very popular station with other UK train operators, such as LNER, Lumo, TransPennine Express, and the Caledonian Sleeper.
Main stops
There are eight stations between Edinburgh Waverley and Inverness. They are: Edinburgh Haymarket, Falkirk Grahamston, Stirling, Gleneagles, Perth, Pitlochry, Kingussie, and Aviemore.
Nevertheless, these may change due to various factors like engineering works or scheduling issues. It’s best to check which stations you’ll stop at before you travel.
Booking early also helps you buy cheap train tickets. Sites like TrainPal can help you secure the cheapest fares. Add a Railcard for an even larger discount.
Arriving at Inverness
Inverness train station is located in the heart of the city along the banks of the River Ness, near the famous Loch Ness, where the eponymous monster is said to be found.
The station can be found between Academy Street and Falcon Square. The station is centrally located, so you’ll find buses and taxis nearby. A bus service also operates between the station and Inverness Airport. ScotRail, LNER, and the Caledonian Sleeper all operate from Inverness. Providing rail links to the rest of the UK.
ScotRail train classes
- Standard Class: Passengers benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi and convenient plug sockets for all devices.
- First Class: ScotRail offers a First Class ticket from Edinburgh to Inverness. Every seat has a table, a dedicated charging station, and Wi-Fi.
ScotRail train travel advice
- Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Reservations are highly recommended, as each train has only two cycle spaces. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book early.
- Children: Offer allows children aged 5 to 15 to travel for £1 each when accompanied by an adult. Children under five can travel for free.
- Passenger Assist: Boarding and alighting assistance, luggage carrying, and support for station issues ensure a smooth and successful trip.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Edinburgh to Inverness train travel guide
Travelling by train from Edinburgh to Inverness is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can reach Inverness in just 3h 18m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Edinburgh to Inverness?
The average ticket fare from Edinburgh to Inverness is about £28.80, 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 Inverness?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to Inverness?
The quickest train journey from Edinburgh to Inverness takes 3h 18m . 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 Inverness?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Edinburgh to Inverness?
Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
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 Edinburgh to Inverness train timetables?
Edinburgh to Inverness 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?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do Edinburgh to Inverness trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Edinburgh to Inverness 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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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?
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 Edinburgh to Inverness route?
The route from Edinburgh to Inverness is operated by ScotRail. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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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.
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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
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Edinburgh to Inverness 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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