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Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices
£12.10
On Wed 25 Mar
Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) train timetable
Travelling from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley), the fastest train takes 1h 1m with an average travel time of 1h 25m. 42 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 06:07 and the last at 23:08. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
15:34 Glasgow Central | 1h 30m, Direct | 17:04 Waverley | ScotRail | Find tickets |
16:04 Glasgow Central | 1h 7m, Direct | 17:11 Waverley | ScotRail | Find tickets |
16:17 Glasgow Central | 1h 36m, Direct | 17:53 Waverley | ScotRail | Find tickets |
17:03 Glasgow Central | 1h 7m, Direct | 18:10 Waverley | ScotRail | Find tickets |
17:19 Glasgow Central | 1h 25m, Direct | 18:44 Waverley | ScotRail | Find tickets |
Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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: Glasgow Central to Edinburgh(Waverley) trains
A trip from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh(Waverley) should take around one and a half hours with ScotRail, travelling directly between the two cities.
As you travel, you’ll travel all the way from Glasgow city, across central Scotland, to reach Edinburgh – the Scottish capital.
ScotRail manages most rail services across Scotland. It links major Scottish cities such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Inverness with smaller towns and villages, too. It also provides cross-border services to North England destinations, including places like Carlisle, Berwick-Upon-Tweed, and Newcastle.
Departing from Glasgow
Glasgow Central Station is situated on Gordon Street, between Hope Street and Union Street, in the heart of Glasgow’s city centre. Taxis are available opposite the station’s Gordon Street exit, and a public bus network operates nearby providing convenient access to the rest of the city.
Glasgow is the fourth most populated city in the UK—bigger than Edinburgh—so, consequently, its largest train station is gigantic. Glasgow Central is the third busiest railway station outside of London, behind Birmingham New Street and Manchester Piccadilly, where it ferried 25 million passengers between 2023 and 2024. It is the northern terminus of the West Coast Mainline.
Plenty of UK train operators run from this station because of its size and its handy geographical location at the top of the West Coast Mainline. These include CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, ScotRail, and the Caledonian Sleeper.
Main stops
There are five stops from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh Waverley. They are: Motherwell, Wishaw, Carluke, Carstairs, and Haymarket. However, these may change due to scheduling or unpredictable factors like the weather. It’s best to check before you travel.
Adding a Railcard to your fare will net you a handy discount. But if you want to buy cheap train tickets, booking early on sites like TrainPal for an even better discount is also a good idea.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley
The Scottish capital’s primary train station, Edinburgh Waverley, is one of the most beautiful in the UK. Dating back to the 1840s, its Victorian design, mixed with modern amenities, makes for a wonderful place from which to depart.
It’s usefully connected to taxis outside of the station, plus trams and buses along Princes Street. An airport shuttle bus stops just outside the station.
The historic ‘old’ town has a medieval street layout and contains the city’s oldest structures. It includes well-known sites like Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland. The Royal Mile stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, providing an excellent avenue for tourists to explore, enjoy local pubs, hop on a ghost tour, and immerse themselves in the city’s rich history.
On the other hand, while still featuring historical gems like The Georgian House, the ‘new’ town has plenty of modern shops, restaurants, pubs, cafes, and other places to explore.
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 Glasgow to Edinburgh. 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.
Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide
Travelling by train from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Glasgow Central, you can reach Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 1h 1m, 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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
The average ticket fare from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) is about £12.10, 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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
What is the fastest train from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
The fastest train journey time from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) is 1h 1m. 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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley). 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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
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?
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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?
The Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) route is operated by ScotRail. 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
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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.
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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
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
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
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 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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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