- Recommended
Thurso Museum
Local history museum covering Thurso, Caithness life, archaeology, and the nuclear era at Dounreay. Compact, informative, and central.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Thurso
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 25
Cheapest price on Oct 25
$139
Average ticket price on Oct 25
$139
Fastest journey on Oct 25
10 h 11 m
Average journey duration on Oct 25
10 h 11 m
Trains on Oct 25
1
Distance
294 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Thurso is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Thurso will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $139.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Thurso without transferring at least 2 times.
W83212 · C14681 · W6906911:34 AM10h11Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)9:45 PMThurso station (THS)$1391One-way2 transfers
- W83212 · C14681 · W6906911:34 AM10h11Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)9:45 PMThurso station (THS)$1391One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Thurso
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Thurso run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€45) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 16:37. The fastest train covers the 182 miles (294 km) distance in 7h 17m.
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 182 miles (294 km) |
Average train duration 7h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€45) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 7h 17m |
First train 5:33 AM |
Last train 4:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Edinburgh to Thurso trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Thurso can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€45), while the average price is around $108 (€91).
The train from Edinburgh to Thurso takes 7h 17m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Edinburgh to Thurso leaves at 5:33 AM.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Thurso is 182 miles (294 km).
The last train from Edinburgh to Thurso leaves at 4:37 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Live departures
Edinburgh to Thurso train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Thurso trains for today, Saturday, October 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L87275 · C15079 | On time 1:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 8h47 | 10:20 PM Thurso station (THS) | 1 transfer | |
| W83196 · C14683 · C15079 | On time 1:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 8h42 | 10:20 PM Thurso station (THS) | 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 Thurso trains with Omio?
Scotrail operates all trains services from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Thurso.
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 bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Train companies: Scotrail from Edinburgh to Thurso trainsScotrail trains will get you between Edinburgh and Thurso from $54 (€45). 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
7h 17m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$54 (€45)
Scotrail frequency
4 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Edinburgh and Thurso
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Thurso.
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.
Complete guide to Thurso
Things to do in Thurso
Discover the best of Thurso — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thurso trip today.
- Recommended
Caithness Horizons
Museum and archive at Wick Airport focused on the region's aviation story. Useful for visitors interested in transport history near Thurso.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
Visitor centre interpreting nearby Castlehill Heritage Centre collections and the history of flagstone, transport, and local industry in the area.
- Must visit
Thurso Beach
Broad sandy beach popular for walks, surfing, and sunset views. One of Thurso's signature outdoor spots and easy to reach from the town centre.
- Recommended
Thurso Riverside Walk
Riverside and coastal walk leading to the beach and harbour areas. A pleasant route for views, birdlife, and getting a feel for the town's setting.
- Recommended
Thurso Harbour
Active harbour area with fishing and ferry links nearby. Good for a stroll, sea air, and watching boats while learning the town's maritime character.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions and milk. Popular across the north coast and valued for local fish and warming comfort.
- Gluten-free
Highland Venison
Lean red deer from the Highlands, often served as roast or steak. It is a traditional northern Scottish game meat with a deep, distinctive flavour.
Haggis
A hearty pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet and seasoning. Scotland’s best-known traditional savoury dish, commonly served with neeps and tatties.
Spice Tandoori
Long-established Indian restaurant serving curries, tandoori dishes and takeaway options in a simple central setting.
Park Hotel Restaurant
Hotel dining room and bar serving Scottish classics, seafood and steaks in a traditional town-centre setting.
Y-Not Bar & Grill
Popular harbourside fish and chip shop known for fresh local seafood and relaxed casual dining.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the Scottish Highlands. Lodging can be pricey in peak season, but dining and local transport are usually reasonable for UK travelers.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35-60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. In restaurants, 10% is polite for good service. Round up taxi fares. Café tipping is optional.
MyTrip
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Thurso Station -> Thurso Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses in Caithness are covered by the £2 single fare cap, including Stagecoach services in Caithness.
- Thurso Station is close to the town centre, so walking is often quickest for central trips. Buy rail tickets before boarding where possible.
Plan your visit to Thurso
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Thurso.
Yes, the train journey from Edinburgh to Thurso is considered scenic, offering views of the Scottish Highlands, rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and picturesque villages.
Popular day trips by train from Thurso include Wick, Brora, Helmsdale.
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 Thurso, travelers should be mindful of typical small-town safety concerns such as petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to stay alert when using transportation services and avoid accepting unsolicited offers for rides. Scams are generally rare, but travelers should be cautious of overcharging or unofficial taxis. Staying informed and using reputable service providers 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.
FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Thurso
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Thurso 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 Thurso, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Thurso.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Edinburgh to Thurso
Most Edinburgh to Thurso trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Thurso station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Thurso 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 Thurso
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · $2 · 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 · $2
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · $2 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · $2
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.
Which Thurso station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh to Thurso arrive at Thurso. Thurso is from Thurso city centre.
ThursoThurso station, Princes Street, Thurso, Highland, KW14 7DL
City-centre transport
Getting to Thurso from Thurso city centre
Bus921 · 1m · $3
800, 803 · 2m
Thurso train station facilities and services
Thurso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, 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 Thurso.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thurso. 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.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thurso: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Thurso: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thurso: 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: 1, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Edinburgh to Thurso
Check train stations information for Edinburgh and Thurso, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Thurso is Edinburgh Waverley, which connects to Thurso.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Thurso
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Thurso and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Thurso
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