- 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 Inverness to Thurso
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$43
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$43
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 51 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 51 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
130 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Inverness to Thurso is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Inverness to Thurso will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Inverness to Thurso, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 130 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 51 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 51 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.
C150805:54 PM3h51Inverness station (INV)9:45 PMThurso station (THS)$431One-way0 transfers
- C150805:54 PM3h51Inverness station (INV)9:45 PMThurso station (THS)$431One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Inverness to Thurso
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Inverness to Thurso among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $41 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 18m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $41, while a train costs an average of $41.
Distance: 80 miles (130 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$41 Average price Cheapest | $40 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 3h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Inverness to Thurso is a train with an average price of $41.
The fastest way to travel from Inverness to Thurso is by train with an average journey time of 3h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Inverness and Thurso including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Inverness to Thurso among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $41 compared to roughly $40 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-0.32. The journey takes 3h 48m versus 2h 29m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Inverness to Thurso train times
The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Thurso trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C15075 | On time 10:41 AM Inverness station (INV) | 3h43 | 2:24 PM Thurso station (THS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W69072 · C15065 | On time 11:43 AM Inverness station (INV) | 6h07 | 5:50 PM Thurso station (THS) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Inverness to Thurso by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Inverness to Thurso trains with Omio?
Scotrail operates all trains services from Inverness to Thurso.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Inverness 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 Inverness 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 Inverness to Thurso.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Inverness to Thurso
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Inverness to Thurso run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:50, the last at 18:31. The fastest train covers the 80 miles (130 km) distance in 3h 43m.
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 80 miles (130 km) |
Average train duration 3h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 43m |
First train 6:50 AM |
Last train 6:31 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Train companies: Scotrail from Inverness to Thurso trainsScotrail trains will get you between Inverness and Thurso. 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 43m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$25
Scotrail frequency
1 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
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.
FAQs: Trains from Inverness to Thurso
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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.
Train ticket prices from Inverness to Thurso can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25, while the average price is around $41.
The train from Inverness to Thurso takes 3h 43m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Inverness to Thurso is 80 miles (130 km).
The first train from Inverness to Thurso leaves at 6:50 AM.
The last train from Inverness to Thurso leaves at 6:31 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Inverness to Thurso.
Yes, there is a direct train from Inverness to Thurso. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Scotrail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Inverness to Thurso.
The train station in Inverness that goes to Thurso is Inverness station (INV), which connects to Thurso station (THS).
The cheapest way to get from Inverness to Thurso is by train, with a cost of around $25.
Yes, the Inverness to Thurso train journey is considered scenic, offering views of the Scottish Highlands, rugged landscapes, and picturesque coastal scenery.
A day trip from Inverness to Thurso is not feasible since the journey takes 3h 43m. The distance is 80 miles (130 km), with a frequency of 2 trains per day.
In Thurso, you can surf at Thurso East, known for its powerful waves, or enjoy a leisurely walk along Thurso Beach with scenic views of the North Sea. Visit the Castlehill Heritage Centre for local heritage exhibits and workshops, or take a boat tour from Scrabster Harbour to discover marine wildlife and coastal landscapes. Golf enthusiasts can play at Thurso Golf Club, which offers scenic views. Don't miss sights like Thurso Castle, Caithness Horizons Museum, Old St Peter's Church, Scrabster Harbour, and Holburn Head Lighthouse for a glimpse into local history and stunning views.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Thurso allows visitors to explore its key attractions and enjoy local activities, including visiting the Castle of Mey and taking scenic coastal walks.
Yes, you can take the train from Inverness to Thurso.
Since neither Inverness nor Thurso are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Thurso include Wick, Brora, Helmsdale.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Inverness to Thurso among Omio's users.
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 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Inverness to Thurso
Most Inverness to Thurso trains use the Inverness to Thurso station pair. Use this guide to compare Inverness and Thurso train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Inverness
Arrival train stations in Thurso
Which Inverness station do trains to Thurso leave from?
Trains from Inverness to Thurso leave from Inverness. The station is from Inverness city centre at Inverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. 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 Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: 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: 3, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
Which Thurso station do trains from Inverness arrive at?
Trains from Inverness 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 · $2
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.
Most popular train connections from Inverness
More options for your journey from Inverness to Thurso
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Thurso and Inverness
Most popular train connections to Thurso
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