Motherwell to Edinburgh train with Scotrail

Wed, Sep 23
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CrossCountry
Scotrail
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Scotrail
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Motherwell to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 23

Cheapest price on Sep 23

$13

Average ticket price on Sep 23

$18

Fastest journey on Sep 23

46 m

Average journey duration on Sep 23

56 m

Trains on Sep 23

13

Distance

53 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Motherwell to Edinburgh will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.

Fast trains

On Wed, Sep 23, we found 13 trains from Motherwell to Edinburgh, including 6 direct services.

On Wed, Sep 23 the direct trains cover the 53 km distance in an average of 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 46 m .

On Wed, Sep 23 the slowest trains will take 1 h 7 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.

  • ScotrailC14939 · W84203
    9:17 AM1h27
    Motherwell station (MTH)
    10:44 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $131One-way
    1 transfer
  • ScotrailL88554 · L88238
    8:47 AM1h24
    Motherwell station (MTH)
    10:11 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $131One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01148
    8:04 AM0h52
    Motherwell station (MTH)
    8:56 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $131One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryW29873
    7:06 AM0h46
    Motherwell station (MTH)
    7:52 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $131One-way
    0 transfers
  • ScotrailL88537 · W84266
    8:19 AM1h30
    Motherwell station (MTH)
    9:49 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $181One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Motherwell to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Motherwell to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $7 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 1h 26m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, while a train costs an average of $20.

Distance: 32 miles (53 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$20

Average price

$7

Average price

Cheapest

$57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 40m

Average total duration

1h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 2m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Scotrail

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Motherwell to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $7.

This is compared to other travel options from Motherwell to Edinburgh:

A bus is $13 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Motherwell to Edinburgh costing on average $20.

The fastest way to travel from Motherwell to Edinburgh is by bus with an average journey time of 56m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Motherwell and Edinburgh including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Motherwell to Edinburgh 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 $20 compared to roughly $57 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $37. The journey takes 1h 10m versus 1h 2m 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.

Direct services run with CrossCountry, Scotrail.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Motherwell to Edinburgh train times

The table below shows live departures for Motherwell to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ScotrailC155885:48 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h19
7:07 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL88462 · W842266:16 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h15
7:31 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
CrossCountryW298737:06 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
0h46
7:52 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailC155967:21 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h07
8:28 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG011488:04 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
0h52
8:56 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL88537 · W842668:19 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h30
9:49 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailL88554 · L882388:47 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h24
10:11 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailC14939 · W842039:17 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h27
10:44 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailL8709310:05 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
0h55
11:00 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailC14943 · L8824710:48 AM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h14
12:02 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailL8709512:02 PM Motherwell station (MTH)
0h59
1:01 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL88690 · W8418912:17 PM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h27
1:44 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
BusBus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+ScotrailL87945+Transpennine ExpressW8517012:23 PM Motherwell station (MTH)
1h40
2:03 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Motherwell to Edinburgh by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sun
Sep 27
Mon
Sep 28
Tue
Sep 29

Why should you book Motherwell to Edinburgh trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Scotrail offer trains services from Motherwell to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Motherwell to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail to find the best option for your trip from Motherwell to Edinburgh.
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Motherwell to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail to find the best option for your trip from Motherwell to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Motherwell to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Motherwell to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Motherwell to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 but you can travel from only $5 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 32 miles (53 km) distance in 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $5
Distance
32 miles (53 km)
Average train duration
1h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$13
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
43m
First train
5:33 AM
Last train
11:27 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Tue
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $5

Train companies: Scotrail, CrossCountry from Motherwell to Edinburgh trainsScotrail, CrossCountry trains will get you between Motherwell and Edinburgh from $5. 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
50m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$19
Scotrail frequency
5 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

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
43m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$13
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 Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

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

  • Must visit

National Museum of Scotland

Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.

  • Must visit

National Gallery of Scotland

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.

British pound sterling (£)

Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.

FAQs: Trains from Motherwell to Edinburgh

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Motherwell to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13, while the average price is around $20.
The train from Motherwell to Edinburgh takes 43m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Motherwell to Edinburgh is 32 miles (53 km).
The first train from Motherwell to Edinburgh leaves at 5:33 AM.
The last train from Motherwell to Edinburgh leaves at 11:27 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Motherwell to Edinburgh.
Yes, there is a direct train from Motherwell to Edinburgh. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Scotrail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Motherwell to Edinburgh.
The train station in Motherwell that goes to Edinburgh is Motherwell station (MTH), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Motherwell to Edinburgh is by bus, with a cost of around $5.
The train journey from Motherwell to Edinburgh offers a pleasant view of the Scottish countryside, passing through rolling hills, lush greenery, and charming towns, making it a scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Motherwell to Edinburgh.
Popular day trips by train from Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
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 Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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 Motherwell to Edinburgh

Most Motherwell to Edinburgh trains use the Motherwell to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Motherwell and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Motherwell
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh

Which Motherwell station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?

Trains from Motherwell to Edinburgh leave from Motherwell. The station is from Motherwell city centre at Motherwell station, Muir Street, Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, ML1 1BL.
MotherwellMotherwell station, Muir Street, Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, ML1 1BLWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Motherwell from Motherwell city centre

Bus242, 209, 211, 240, 291 · 3m · $2 · every ~28 min

Motherwell train station facilities and services

Motherwell has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Motherwell.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Motherwell.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Motherwell. 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 Motherwell: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Motherwell: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Motherwell: 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 Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 3, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

AirblesAirbles station, Airbles Road, Motherwell, North Lanarkshire, ML1 2SXParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Airbles from Motherwell city centre

TrainMotherwell - Milngavie, Motherwell - Garscadden, Motherwell - Dalmuir, Cumbernauld - Dalmuir, Cumbernauld - Milngavie · 2m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus355 · 10m
211 · 10m · $5 · every ~2 min

Airbles train station facilities and services

Airbles has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Airbles.

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 Airbles: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Airbles: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Airbles: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B station. Accessible to all platforms - ramps to both platforms and connecting roadbridge between platforms, 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Most popular train connections from Motherwell

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