Trains to Oban | Tickets & Train Times

Trains to Oban

The Highland town of Oban is a port on the west coast of Scotland, a popular destination for travelers heading off to explore the Hebridean islands or investigate the local whisky distilleries. It is a terminus on a branch of the scenic West Highland Line from Glasgow, and also a stop for sleeper services coming from London via Glasgow. Connections are also available from Oban to Fort William for travelers planning an ascent of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis.

Which is the main train station in Oban?

Oban's railway station is located on the south-western shore side of the town center, a couple of minutes' walk from the ferry terminals for services to the Hebridean islands. Bus stops are immediately outside on Station Square. In addition to a parking lot, the station has baggage storage facilities, a cafe and snack bar, news vendor, free WiFi, cycle hire, and a taxi stand.

Which train companies offer trains to Oban?

ScotRail, the main rail operator for services across Scotland, provides direct trains to Oban on the West Highland Line. On Monday-Saturday there are six daily direct ScotRail services from Glasgow Queen Street and four on Sundays, with journey times of just over three hours for the 65-mile trip to Oban. In addition, the early morning Caledonian Sleeper service operates from Glasgow to Oban from Monday-Saturday, with a change required at Crianlarich. Connections from Fort William take around three hours and 45 minutes and involve a change at Crianlarich.

Why travel by train to Oban?

Railway connoisseurs agree that the West Highland Line from Glasgow is one of the world's most scenic routes, passing through a mountainous and forested landscape, with the opportunity to spot herds of deer on the wild moorlands. Taking the train to Oban from Glasgow can be chosen to coincide with ferry departures for the Inner and Outer Hebrides, turning a day of travel into a memorable experience.

Before you travel to Oban by train - good to know!

Before heading out to the islands, many visitors take the time to visit Oban's own whisky distillery, well-respected for its 14-year-old single malt. The town also has its own luxury artisan chocolate factory. Local buses in and around Oban are a useful way of exploring the remote Highlands, as well as visiting attractive Highland towns such as Lochgilphead.