- Recommended
Stranraer Museum
Local history museum in Stranraer covering Loch Ryan, the port, wartime stories, and everyday life in southwest Scotland.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
€41
Average price
€53
Fastest journey
2 h 55 m
Average duration
2 h 59 m
Trains per day
18
Distance
158 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan will cost around €53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €41.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan without transferring at least 2 times.
L88256 · L87411 · L869831:56 PM3h00Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)4:56 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way2 transfers- L88241 · L87379 · L869659:59 AM2h55Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:54 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way2 transfers
- L88248 · L87395 · L8697311:56 AM3h00Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2:56 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way2 transfers
- L87831 · L87372 · L86960+
Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central9:00 AM3h02Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:02 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way3 transfers - L87801+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+L87364 · L869568:00 AM2h57Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)10:57 AMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way3 transfers
- L88241 · L87379 · L869659:59 AM2h55Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:54 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way2 transfers
- L87801+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+L87364 · L869568:00 AM2h57Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)10:57 AMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way3 transfers
- L88256 · L87411 · L869831:56 PM3h00Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)4:56 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way2 transfers
- L88248 · L87395 · L8697311:56 AM3h00Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2:56 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way2 transfers
- L87831 · L87372 · L86960+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central9:00 AM3h02Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:02 PMGirvan station (GIR)€411One-way3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €32 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:19, the last at 21:06. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (158 km) distance in 2h 53m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 98 miles (158 km) |
Average train duration 2h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price €32 |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 2h 53m |
First train 6:19 AM |
Last train 9:06 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 7 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Live departures
Edinburgh to Cairnryan train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L87801 · L87364 · L86956+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | Delayed 7:00 AM 8:00 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2h57 | 10:57 AM Girvan station (GIR) | 3 transfers | |
| L87831 · L87372 · L86960+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | Delayed 8:01 AM 9:00 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h57 | 12:57 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 3 transfers | |
| L87831 · L87372 · L86960+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | Delayed 8:01 AM 9:00 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h02 | 12:02 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 3 transfers | |
| Tuesday, August 4 | |||||
| L87801 · L87364 · L86956+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | 8:00 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2h57 | 10:57 AM Girvan station (GIR) | 3 transfers | |
| L88236 · L87372 · L86960 | 8:57 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h05 | 12:02 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 2 transfers | |
| L88236 · L87372 · L86960 | 8:57 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h00 | 12:57 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 2 transfers | |
| L87831+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+L87372 · L86960 | 9:00 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h02 | 12:02 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 3 transfers | |
| L87831 · L87372 · L86960+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | 9:00 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h57 | 12:57 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 3 transfers | |
| L88241 · L87379 · L86965 | 9:59 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2h55 | 12:54 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 2 transfers | |
| L88248 · L87395 · L86973 | 11:56 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h00 | 2:56 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 2 transfers | |
| L88253 · L87404 · L86979 | 12:57 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h59 | 4:56 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 2 transfers | |
| L88253 · L87404 · L86979 | 12:57 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h04 | 4:01 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 2 transfers | |
| C15014 · L87411 · L86983+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | 1:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h16 | 4:56 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 3 transfers | |
| L88256 · L87411 · L86983 | 1:56 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h00 | 4:56 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 2 transfers | |
| L88256 · L87411 · L86990 | 1:56 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 5h01 | 6:57 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 2 transfers | |
| W68939 · L87421 · L86990+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | 2:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h18 | 6:57 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 3 transfers | |
| W68939 · L87421 · L86990+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | 2:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h19 | 5:58 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 3 transfers | |
| L88260 · L87421 · L86990 | 2:55 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h03 | 5:58 PM Girvan station (GIR) | 2 transfers | |
| L88260 · L87421 · L86990 | 2:55 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h02 | 6:57 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 2 transfers | |
| W68977 · L87448 · C14634+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central | 5:54 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 5h06 | 11:00 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 3 transfers | |
| W84216 · L87452 · C14634 | 5:59 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 5h01 | 11:00 PM Stranraer station (STR) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains with Omio?
Scotrail operates all trains services from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Train companies: Scotrail from Edinburgh to Cairnryan trainsScotrail trains will get you between Edinburgh and Cairnryan from €32. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Price
€32
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Cairnryan
Things to do in Cairnryan
Discover the best of Cairnryan — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cairnryan trip today.
- Recommended
Mull of Galloway Broch Trust Visitor Centre
Compact heritage centre interpreting one of Scotland’s most important Iron Age brochs, with strong archaeological displays.
- Recommended
Mull of Galloway Lighthouse Exhibition
Small museum at Scotland’s southernmost point with lighthouse and maritime interpretation, ideal with the clifftop visit.
- Must visit
Portpatrick Harbour
Main harbour village near Cairnryan, known for pretty seafront walks, colourful houses, and an appealing coastal atmosphere.
- Must visit
Mull of Galloway
Scotland’s southernmost headland, prized for cliff paths, seabirds, sea views, and one of the area’s best natural viewpoints.
- Recommended
Loch Ryan Shoreline
Large sea loch beside Cairnryan with shoreline views, birdlife, and strong ferry and maritime connections to the region.
Scotch Broth
A hearty lamb and barley broth long linked to south-west Scotland. It is prized as a warming, traditional farmhouse soup.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
Smoked haddock poached in milk, often with onion and butter. A classic Scottish coastal dish valued for its rich flavour and fishing heritage.
Haggis
A savoury pudding of oats, onion, suet, and spices, usually cooked inside sheep offal. It is Scotland’s best-known national dish.
Henrys Bay House Restaurant
Popular casual stop in Cairnryan serving breakfasts, sandwiches, home baking, and coffee in a friendly setting near the ferry route.
The Merchant's House Hotel
Well-known traditional hotel dining room in Cairnryan with pub-style Scottish meals, seafood options, and a relaxed village atmosphere.
North West Castle Hotel
Established harbour-side hotel restaurant in nearby Stranraer known for seafood, grills, and broad menus in a polished but comfortable setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a rural ferry port. Lodging can be limited and pricier in peak periods, while pub meals and local transport are broadly in line with similar small UK destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for an upscale meal.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical for good service if not already added. Round up in cafes and taxis or leave a small tip.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.50
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Cairnryan Ferry Terminal -> Stranraer Town Centre
- Distance
- 9 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Most local buses are limited; check Stagecoach timetables before arrival. Services are coordinated with ferry traffic only on some routes.
- Contactless card payment is commonly accepted on Stagecoach buses in Scotland, but carry a backup payment method in case of connectivity issues.
FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cairnryan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Cairnryan can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €32, while the average price is around €37.
The train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan takes 2h 53m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan leaves at 6:19 AM.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is 98 miles (158 km).
The last train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan leaves at 9:06 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Cairnryan is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which connects to Girvan station (GIR).
There is no direct train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan; however, the journey involves a train to Stranraer with a scenic route through the rolling hills and countryside of southwestern Scotland, offering picturesque views along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Popular day trips by train from Cairnryan include Ayr, Irvine.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cairnryan, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially around busy ferry terminals and parking areas. It's important to use official ticket vendors to avoid scams related to fake or inflated transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Most Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Girvan station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Cairnryan train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Cairnryan
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · €1 · every ~32 min
Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
HaymarketHaymarket station, Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH12 5EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Train3m · €1
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · €1 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · €1
TramT50 · 6m · €4 · every ~30 min
Haymarket train station facilities and services
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Edinburgh ParkEdinburgh Park station, Cultins Road, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH11 4DF
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Park from Edinburgh city centre
Edinburgh Park is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainEdinburgh - Dunblane, Edinburgh - Helensburgh Central, Edinburgh - Bathgate, Edinburgh - Milngavie, Edinburgh - Garscadden, Edinburgh - Stirling, Edinburgh - Airdrie, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dalmuir · 4m · €2 · every ~9 min
Edinburgh - Dunblane, Edinburgh - Helensburgh Central, Edinburgh - Bathgate, Edinburgh - Milngavie, Edinburgh - Garscadden, Edinburgh - Stirling, Edinburgh - Airdrie, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dalmuir · 8m · €3 · every ~9 min
Bus2 · 24m · €2 · every ~10 min
TramT50 · 18m · €4 · every ~30 min
Edinburgh Park train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Park.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Park.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Park: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Park: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cairnryan and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Cairnryan
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