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Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices
£16.24
On Mon 10 Aug
Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) train timetable
Travelling from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley), the fastest train takes 3h 21m with an average travel time of 3h 55m. 15 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:54 and the last at 21:30. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
10:50 Inverness | 3h 40m, Direct | 14:30 Edinburgh (Waverley) | ScotRail | Find tickets |
10:56 Inverness | 5h 28m, 1 change | 16:24 Edinburgh (Waverley) | ScotRail | Find tickets |
12:48 Inverness | 3h 45m, Direct | 16:33 Edinburgh (Waverley) | ScotRail | Find tickets |
14:50 Inverness | 4h 1m, 1 change | 18:51 Edinburgh (Waverley) | ScotRail | Find tickets |
15:44 Inverness | 3h 59m, 1 change | 19:43 Edinburgh (Waverley) | ScotRail | Find tickets |
Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Inverness 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 vs LNER: Which should you choose?
ScotRail handles most departures on this route, but you can also choose to travel with LNER. Below we break down why you might choose one operator over the other so you can ensure the best experience for you.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure stations | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ScotRail | 3h 34m | Inverness | Flexible day-trippers | High frequency, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating |
LNER | 3h 21m | Inverness | Luxury travellers, business travellers | Fast, reliable Wi-Fi; hot food in First Class |
Train travel from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley)
Sail through your stunning train journey from Inverness to Edinburgh with our top station tips for finding your platform before you leave and choosing the right exit when you arrive. We’ve also highlighted the top views to look out for along the way.
Departing from Inverness
- Platform for Edinburgh: As this journey requires longer trains, you’ll usually depart from the longest platforms: Platform 1 or 2 for LNER and Platform 3 (and sometimes 4) for ScotRail services.
- Grab a bite: In addition to familiar chains like Costa and Starbucks, you’ll find a traditional station pub called The Ness & Thistle Bar for pub grub and local tipples before you depart. If that’s not your vibe, you’ll find more cafes and food halls in Falcon Square right outside the station – we recommend Charlie’s Cafe for some classic comfort food.
Onboard trains from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley)
Arriving at Edinburgh (Waverley)
- Princes Street Exit: Head this way to get to the New Town, local city buses and the tram network. You’ll emerge right onto Princes Street next to the Waverly Market shopping centre.
- Market Street Exit: This south-side, street-level exit is best for accessing the Old Town and for finding a taxi.
- Calton Road Exit: This exit is much quieter and is located in the northeast corner of the station near Platform 2. Take this exit to reach Calton Hill, the St James Quarter shopping district, and to find any pre-booked private hire pick-ups.
- Waverley Bridge Exit: You can access this exit via pedestrian ramps at the western end of the concourse, and it allows you to cross between the Old and New Towns on foot. It’s also best for getting the Airlink 100 bus to Edinburgh Airport.
Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide
Taking the train from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Inverness, you can arrive at Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 3h 21m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
The average ticket fare from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) is about £16.24, 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.
What is the best way to travel from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train?
What is the fastest train from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
The fastest train journey time from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) is 3h 21m. 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 Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley). Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
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?
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
Are Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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?
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 Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Inverness 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?
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 Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?
The route from Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 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
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 Inverness 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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