Inverness to Edinburgh (Waverley) Trains From £7.65*

Set off from Inverness and reach Edinburgh Waverley in just over three hours with a direct ScotRail train, linking the Scottish Highlands with Scotland’s vibrant capital in comfort and ease.

Enjoy magnificent views as your Inverness to Edinburgh Waverley train glides through sweeping Highland plateaus, ancient Caledonian pine forests and the striking peaks of the Cairngorms before descending into the capital.

ScotRail operates the majority of train services in Scotland, linking key cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness, while also running some of the country’s most scenic rural routes through the Highlands.

Departing from Inverness

Situated in the heart of the city centre, Inverness station is easily accessible on foot, as well as local bus services and taxis, making it simple to reach from anywhere in the city.

From Inverness, you can hop on regular ScotRail services to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Perth, Manchester and more, or head further afield to London via the Caledonian Sleeper or LNER’s Highland Chieftain. Inverness is also the starting point for many of Scotland’s most spectacular rail journeys, including the Highland Main Line, Far North Line, Kyle of Lochalsh Line and Aberdeen-Inverness Line.

Managed by ScotRail, Inverness station offers step-free access to all platforms, accessible ticket machines and waiting areas, along with shops, cafés, and public Wi-Fi to make your Inverness to Edinburgh Waverley journey even smoother. 

Main stops

Journey through the majestic Highlands from Inverness to Edinburgh Waverley with stops at Aviemore, Pitlochry, Perth and Stirling before arriving in the Scottish capital.

Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley

Arriving into Edinburgh Waverley places you at the heart of Scotland’s capital, nestled between the atmospheric Old Town and the elegant, neoclassical New Town. A short walk from Market Street up Fleshmarket Close leads you to the iconic Royal Mile in under five minutes.

Edinburgh Waverley is also the launchpad for scenic rail travel right across Scotland. There are direct services back up north to Stirling, Perth, Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen or you can travel west to Glasgow Central, from where you can connect to coastal routes and island ferries.

Step off the train and into the heart of Edinburgh’s top sights. Wander the Royal Mile to the majestic Edinburgh Castle, soak in panoramic views atop Calton Hill or explore the spooky side of town with Greyfriars Kirkyard or the immersive Edinburgh Dungeon.

ScotRail train classes 

• Standard Class: Travel in comfort with ScotRail’s standard class, complete with redesigned roomier carriages, complimentary Wi-Fi, and convenient power outlets. Every service also includes upgraded accessibility features, including wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets.
• First Class: Upgrade to ScotRail First Class on InterCity, Class 170, and eXpress 385 services for a quieter, more comfortable journey, complete with reclining seats, onboard charging, free Wi-Fi and complementary drinks and snacks on select routes.

ScotRail train travel advice

Set off on your Inverness to Edinburgh Waverley journey fully prepared with this handy guide to bike storage, accessibility support, and tips for travelling with luggage, children or pets.

• Luggage: You can travel with a fair amount of luggage on ScotRail trains at no extra cost. Use the overhead storage, under-seat space, or designated racks and avoid blocking doors and aisles.
• Bicycles: Folding bikes are permitted on all ScotRail services when folded and stowed as luggage. Standard bikes are also welcome, space permitting. However, on busy routes, you may need to book in advance.
• Children: Kids under 5 can travel free of charge, while kids aged 5-15 are eligible for half-price fares when accompanied by an adult. Teens and students aged 16 to 25 can get a third off standard fares with a railcard.
• Pets: Dogs and small pets travel free. Dogs should be kept on a lead at all times, while smaller animals must be kept in a secure carrier. Please keep all pets off the seats.
• Passenger Assist: Assistance is available for boarding, navigating stations, handling luggage and accessing wheelchair spaces. For peace of mind, book in advance – or ask for help at a staffed station on the day of travel.

Departing from Inverness, hop aboard a direct LNER service and arrive in Edinburgh Waverley in just over three hours, enjoying a scenic, stress-free journey en route between the Highland capital and Scotland’s historic heart.

As you journey from Inverness to Edinburgh, your train will weave through quiet glens, historic villages and the wild beauty of the Cairngorms before delivering you into the Scottish capital.

Travel quickly and comfortably with London North Eastern Railway, connecting London King’s Cross via the East Coast Main Line to major destinations, including Peterborough, York, Leeds, Newcastle and Scotland.

LNER train classes 

• Standard Class: Enjoy a relaxing ride from Edinburgh to Inverness with 7cm more legroom, supportive seats and ample space for luggage. With free Wi-Fi, at-seat power and easy ordering from the restaurant menu via your window blind QR code, it’s a modern take on classic rail comfort.
• First Class: Travel from Edinburgh to Inverness First Class and in comfort with spacious reclining seats, high-speed Wi-Fi, charging ports and complementary local snacks and drinks.

LNER train travel advice

Get ready for your Inverness to Edinburgh train with all the essentials covered – from bringing your bike and bags on board to travelling with children and pets.

• Luggage: You’re welcome to bring three items of luggage on LNER services free of charge, including large bags, smaller carry-ons and personal items. Please use designated storage areas or keep bags at your feet to keep aisles clear.
• Bicycles: Bikes and e-bikes can be brought on board with a reservation, though space is limited, especially during peak hours.  Folding bikes are welcome on LNER trains, as long as they remain folded throughout the journey. Please note, e-scooters are not permitted.
• Children: Under-fives can travel for free, and children aged between 5 to 15 are eligible for half-price fares in all classes. The 16-17 Saver railcard offers teenagers 50% off too. For added convenience, you’ll find baby-changing areas and dedicated family seating on board and at major stations.
• Pets: Passengers can bring up to two pets on board for free. Dogs must remain on a lead or travel in a secure carrier, and pets are not allowed on seats.
• Passenger Assist: If you require assistance with boarding, handling luggage, navigating stations or reserving a wheelchair space, you can request help through Passenger Assist. Simply book in advance online, through the app or at a staffed station.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.