Edinburgh to Inverness Trains From £21.70*

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.