Edinburgh to Inverness train with Scotrail

Thu, Oct 08
+ Add return
Scotrail
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Scotrail
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Inverness

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08

Cheapest price on Oct 08

$33

Average ticket price on Oct 08

$78

Fastest journey on Oct 08

3 h 29 m

Average journey duration on Oct 08

3 h 36 m

Trains on Oct 08

13

Distance

181 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Edinburgh to Inverness will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

On Thu, Oct 08, we found 13 trains from Edinburgh to Inverness, including 6 direct services.

On Thu, Oct 08 the direct trains cover the 181 km distance in an average of 3 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 29 m .

On Thu, Oct 08 the slowest trains will take 3 h 45 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • ScotrailW83042 · C14674
    5:33 AM4h56
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    10:29 AMInverness station (INV)
    $331One-way
    1 transfer
  • London North Eastern RailwayG80228
    4:33 PM3h35
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    8:08 PMInverness station (INV)
    $411One-way
    0 transfers
  • ScotrailC14687
    7:34 PM3h45
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    11:19 PMInverness station (INV)
    $441One-way
    0 transfers
  • ScotrailL87648 · C14674
    6:36 AM3h53
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    10:29 AMInverness station (INV)
    $891One-way
    1 transfer
  • ScotrailL87274
    1:32 PM3h30
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    5:02 PMInverness station (INV)
    $891One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Inverness

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Edinburgh to Inverness run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 but you can travel from only $8 by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 20:22. The fastest train covers the 112 miles (181 km) distance in 3h 18m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $8
Distance
112 miles (181 km)
Average train duration
3h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
$22
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
3h 18m
First train
4:54 AM
Last train
8:22 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
70 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $8

Live departures

Edinburgh to Inverness train times

The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Inverness trains for today, Wednesday, October 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ScotrailL87668 · C14680
On time
9:39 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h46
1:25 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
ScotrailL87271
On time
10:33 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h43
2:16 PM Inverness station (INV)
0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL87682 · C14694
On time
11:35 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h54
3:29 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
ScotrailL87274
On time
1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h30
5:02 PM Inverness station (INV)
0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL87695 · C14684
On time
1:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
4h49
6:26 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
ScotrailL87703 · C14684
On time
2:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h45
6:26 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
ScotrailL87707+London North Eastern RailwayG80228
On time
3:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
4h30
8:08 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
London North Eastern RailwayG80228
On time
4:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h35
8:08 PM Inverness station (INV)
0 transfersDirect
ScotrailW83033 · C14686
On time
5:05 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
4h18
9:23 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
ScotrailC14644 · L87326
On time
5:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
5h07
10:37 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
ScotrailC14686
On time
5:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h50
9:23 PM Inverness station (INV)
0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL87729 · L87282
On time
6:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
4h01
10:42 PM Inverness station (INV)
1 transfer
ScotrailC14687
On time
7:34 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h45
11:19 PM Inverness station (INV)
0 transfersDirect
Thursday, October 8
ScotrailW83042 · C146745:33 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
4h56
10:29 AM Inverness station (INV)1 transfer
ScotrailL87648 · C146746:36 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h53
10:29 AM Inverness station (INV)1 transfer
ScotrailC146788:38 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h29
12:07 PM Inverness station (INV)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Edinburgh to Inverness trains with Omio?

Scotrail as well as London North Eastern Railway or CrossCountry offer trains services from Edinburgh to Inverness.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Inverness.

Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Inverness.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Inverness.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Inverness.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Edinburgh to Inverness?

The best time to book your train from Edinburgh to Inverness is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Edinburgh to Inverness route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Edinburgh to Inverness per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Edinburgh to Inverness.

Train companies: Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry from Edinburgh to Inverness trainsScotrail, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Edinburgh and Inverness from $8. 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 Scotrail Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$22
Scotrail frequency
6 a day
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

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$25
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
4h 37m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$112
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Inverness

Things to do in Inverness

Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.

  • Must visit

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

The city's main museum, covering Highland history, archaeology, art, and local culture in a central Victorian building.

  • Must visit

Culloden Visitor Centre

A modern visitor centre exploring the Battle of Culloden through artefacts, immersive displays, and Jacobite history.

  • Recommended

The Highlanders' Museum

A compact military museum telling the story of the Queen's Own Highlanders and local regimental heritage.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are usually reasonable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%.

FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Inverness

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22, while the average price is around $62.
The train from Edinburgh to Inverness takes 3h 18m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Inverness is 112 miles (181 km).
The first train from Edinburgh to Inverness leaves at 4:54 AM.
The last train from Edinburgh to Inverness leaves at 8:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Inverness.
Yes, there is a direct train from Edinburgh to Inverness. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Inverness.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Inverness is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which connects to Inverness station (INV).
Yes, the train journey from Edinburgh to Inverness is considered scenic, offering views of the rolling countryside, forests, and the Cairngorms National Park.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Inverness.
Popular day trips by train from Inverness include Invergordon, Aviemore, Elgin, Nairn, Pitlochry.
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 Inverness, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Some visitors report occasional overcharging by taxi drivers, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Always be aware of your surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas. Standard travel safety practices help ensure a secure 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 Inverness

Most Edinburgh to Inverness trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Inverness 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 Inverness
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
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 5EYWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
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 · $5 · 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 GatewayEdinburgh Gateway station, 1 Myreton Drive, Gogar, Lothian, EH12 9GFWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh Gateway from Edinburgh city centre

Edinburgh Gateway is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainEdinburgh - Leven, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dundee, Edinburgh - Cowdenbeath, Edinburgh - Glenrothes with Thornton, Edinburgh - Aberdeen, Edinburgh - Inverkeithing · 9m · $4 · every ~10 min
Bus100 · 27m · $2 · every ~30 min
12, 22A, 22 · 44m · $2 · every ~14 min
TramT50 · 24m · $5 · every ~30 min

Edinburgh Gateway train station facilities and services

Edinburgh Gateway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Gateway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Gateway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh Gateway. 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: Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Edinburgh Gateway: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Edinburgh Gateway: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Gateway: 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 both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 4, 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: Yes.

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