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Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness train ticket prices
€20.35
On Sat 16 May
Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 vs LNER
Train operator | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Featured services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ScotRail | 3h 45m | Edinburgh Waverley | Flexibility | 5 daily direct trains; HST & Class 170 units |
LNER | 3h 32m | Edinburgh Waverley | Premium comfort | Modern Azuma trains; enhanced First Class dining |
- Frequency: ScotRail runs upto five direct trains daily, while LNER typically operates one direct train per day.
- Speed: LNER is marginally quicker, but the difference is usually under 15 minutes.
- Comfort: LNER’s Azuma fleet offers more consistent power access and a quieter First Class environment. ScotRail uses refurbished InterCity 125 (HST) sets and Class 170s.
Train travels from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness
Departure from Edinburgh (Waverley)
Specific transport links
- Edinburgh Trams: Closest stop is St Andrew Square (2-minute walk from the north exit). Trams run every 7–10 minutes to Edinburgh Airport and Newhaven.
- Lothian Buses: Major routes and the Airlink 100 depart from Waverley Bridge, directly outside the main entrance.
- Taxi rank: Located on Waverley Bridge and at the Calton Road entrance.
- No underground: Edinburgh has no metro; all public transport is above ground.
Station layout
- Main concourse: Central island area with ticket machines, information desk and large departure boards.
- Long-distance platforms: Inverness services commonly depart from through platforms 7–11 or 19–20, occasionally west-facing bays 12–18.
- Entrances: Waverley Bridge (main), Market Street (east), Calton Road (upper level access).
Pre-departure essentials
Onboard trains from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness
The scenic side
- Left-hand side (leaving Edinburgh): Best views crossing the Forth Bridge and out across the Firth of Forth.
- Right-hand side (north of Perth): Better views through the Cairngorms, especially approaching Drumochter Pass.
Key landmarks
- Forth Bridge: UNESCO-listed red steel cantilever bridge, crossed within 15 minutes of departure.
- Pass of Drumochter: Highest point on the UK rail network (approx. 1,484 feet above sea level).
- Cairngorms National Park: Expansive moorland, forests and mountain backdrops between Blair Atholl and Aviemore.
Arriving at Inverness
The correct exit
- For the city centre: Walk straight through the main ticket hall onto Academy Street, and this will place you immediately in the shopping district.
- For taxis: Follow signs left from the concourse towards Falcon Square; the taxi rank is directly outside.
- For Eastgate Shopping Centre: Use the Falcon Square side exit.
Onward travel
- Inverness Bus Station: 3-minute walk via Academy Street towards Farraline Park.
- Local buses: Operated by Stagecoach Highlands, departing from the nearby bus station.
- Car hire: Several providers within a 5-minute walk; some offer airport depot shuttles.
- Loch Ness connections: Regular buses depart from the bus station.
Walkability
Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness train travel guide
Travelling by train from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Edinburgh (Waverley), 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 (Waverley) to Inverness?
Ticket prices from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness average around €20.35, 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 (Waverley) to Inverness?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness?
The fastest train journey time from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness is 3h 18m . 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 Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness?
No, there are no direct trains from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness. 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 (Waverley) to Inverness?
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?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 (Waverley) to Inverness trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness 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?
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?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness route?
The train from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Inverness 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 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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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
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 (Waverley) 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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