Trains from Perth to Inverness

Trains from Perth to Inverness

Although not as large as either Edinburgh or Glasgow, Perth and Inverness are both distinctive cities in their own right with plenty to see and do. Inverness is widely regarded as the capital of the Highlands, while Perth is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Highlands." The train service linking the two cities is great - on average, there are around 12 departures per day. 

Perth to Inverness train time: daily departures

From Mondays to Saturdays there are 12 trains per day from Perth to Inverness, with departure times spread evenly throughout the day. The first departure from Perth each day is around 5:00 a.m. and the last departure is around 9:00 p.m. On Sundays the frequency is slightly reduced, with seven services per day. The first of these leaves Perth around 11:00 a.m. and the last leaves around 7:00 p.m.  

How long is the journey by train from Perth to Inverness?

Typically the train from Perth to Inverness takes between two and a half and three hours. The fastest service takes just under two hours, while the slowest, which stops regularly en route, takes around three hours. When catching the train from Perth to Inverness there's no need to connect; all services are direct.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Perth to Inverness?

Departure train station: There is only one train station in Perth and it is located in the heart of the city. The station has two entrances and plenty of car parking. There is a ticket office, an information area and a small cafe. The station has seven platforms and there is a good selection of hotels and restaurants nearby. St John's Shopping Center, the bus station and the city's park, called South Inch, are all a short walk from the station. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee are all well served by direct train services from Perth. 

Arrival train station: Inverness train station enjoys a central location adjacent to the main shopping area. It is located on the east side of the River Ness which runs through the city, and is a short walk from Inverness Castle. There are good hotels and guest houses a short distance from the station. The ticket office is located on the main concourse, and ticket barriers are usually in operation. Taxis are available outside the main entrance and the city's bus station is just around the corner.  

Which train companies travel from Perth to Inverness?

The majority of train services between Perth and Inverness are provided by ScotRail, which is the national train operator for Scotland. The only other operator on this route is a relatively new company called London North Eastern Railway (LNER). LNER operates one train from Perth to Inverness per day, seven days a week, and it is one of the faster services available.  

Scotrail Perth to Inverness

Scotrail operates all but one of the daily trains from Perth to Inverness. The journey time varies between two and three hours, depending on the number of stops en route. All of the Scotrail services on this route are direct, and the trains depart from either Edinburgh or Glasgow.

London North Eastern Railway Perth to Inverness

The LNER service from Perth to Inverness departs around 6:00 p.m. seven days a week. This is a long-distance service, and the train starts its journey north from London at lunchtime. As such it is relatively rapid, stopping at only three places en route, so the journey time is just over two hours. Finding seats (or luggage space) is rarely a problem because the trains are made up of ten or more carriages. 

Perth to Inverness trains: services on board

Both ScotRail and LNER provide first and second class seating on their trains between Perth and Inverness. First class tickets are generally around 20% more expensive than second (i.e. standard) class seats, and most people agree it's worth paying a little extra for more comfortable seats, more space and a quieter environment. Luggage can be stored in designated spaces at each end of the carriages. Bikes can be carried for free on ScotRail and LNER services, although on the latter you have to book this in advance. Additionally, both operators allow passengers to take up to two small dogs, cats or other small pets on board for no extra charge. Scotrail provides assistance - including with luggage - to those who are disabled or have reduced mobility. LNER also provide assistance, and their trains have wheelchair accessible toilets and dedicated wheelchair spaces.  

How can I find cheap train tickets from Perth to Inverness?

The most reliable way to find cheap tickets for trains from Perth to Inverness is to book as far in advance as possible. If you can, be flexible with your travel dates and avoid traveling at busy times. Often the quietest trains are in the middle of the day from late morning to mid-afternoon.