- Must visit
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
The city's main museum, covering Highland history, archaeology, art, and local culture in a central Victorian building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from York to Inverness
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 23
Cheapest price on Sep 23
lei361
Average ticket price on Sep 23
lei482
Fastest journey on Sep 23
6 h 32 m
Average journey duration on Sep 23
6 h 40 m
Trains on Sep 23
4
Distance
438 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from York to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from York to Inverness will cost around lei482 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei361.
Fast trains
On Wed, Sep 23, we found 4 trains from York to Inverness, including 4 direct services.
On Wed, Sep 23 the direct trains cover the 438 km distance in an average of 6 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 32 m .
On Wed, Sep 23 the slowest trains will take 6 h 48 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.
12:36 PM6h32York7:08 PMInvernesslei3611One-way0 transfers- 1:20 PM6h48York8:08 PMInvernesslei4791One-way0 transfers
- 12:20 PM6h48York7:08 PMInvernesslei4971One-way0 transfers
- 1:36 PM6h32York8:08 PMInvernesslei5911One-way0 transfers
- 1:36 PM6h32York8:08 PMInvernesslei5911One-way0 transfers
- 12:36 PM6h32York7:08 PMInvernesslei3611One-way0 transfers
- 1:20 PM6h48York8:08 PMInvernesslei4791One-way0 transfers
- 12:20 PM6h48York7:08 PMInvernesslei4971One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for York to Inverness
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from York to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of lei612 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 49m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of lei612, while a flight costs an average of lei3333.
Distance: 272 miles (438 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
lei612 Average price Cheapest | lei3333 Average price | lei578 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 50m Average total duration 6h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration Fastest 3h 49m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.3 - 2.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from York to Inverness is a train with an average price of lei612.
This is compared to other travel options from York to Inverness:
A train is lei2722 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from York to Inverness costing on average lei3333.
The fastest way to travel from York to Inverness is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 49m.
Other travel options to Inverness take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between York and Inverness including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from York to Inverness among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 21m sooner (6h 20m by train vs 6h 41m by car). Tickets start at around lei612 compared to roughly lei578 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
York to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for York to Inverness trains for today, Tuesday, September 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 L87274+ G66987 | Delayed 12:32 PM 10:36 AMYork station (YRK) | 6h26 | 5:02 PM Inverness station (INV) | 1 transfer | |
| L87703 · C14684+G01060 | Delayed 1:41 PM 11:36 AMYork station (YRK) | 6h50 | 6:26 PM Inverness station (INV) | 2 transfers | |
| G80216+C14617 | On time 12:06 PM York station (YRK) | 7h33 | 7:39 PM Inverness station (INV) | 1 transfer | |
| G80228+G01064 | Delayed 3:33 PM 1:36 PMYork station (YRK) | 6h32 | 8:08 PM Inverness station (INV) | 1 transfer | |
| G80228 | On time 2:06 PM York station (YRK) | 6h02 | 8:08 PM Inverness station (INV) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C14686+G01067 | Delayed 4:33 PM 2:36 PMYork station (YRK) | 6h47 | 9:23 PM Inverness station (INV) | 1 transfer | |
| G80241+W83078 · L87282 | On time 4:06 PM York station (YRK) | 6h36 | 10:42 PM Inverness station (INV) | 2 transfers | |
| C14687+G01073 | Delayed 6:34 PM 4:36 PMYork station (YRK) | 6h43 | 11:19 PM Inverness station (INV) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets York to Inverness by train or flight
Compare train and flight 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
Sep 23
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Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
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Sep 27
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Sep 29
Sep 29
Why should you book York to Inverness trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Scotrail or London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from York to Inverness.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from York to Inverness.
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 or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from York to Inverness.
- 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 train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from York to Inverness.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from York to Inverness.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from York to Inverness.
Journey information
Overview: Train from York to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from York to Inverness run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at lei333 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 18:52. The fastest train covers the 272 miles (438 km) distance in 5h 37m.
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 272 miles (438 km) |
Average train duration 6h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price lei333 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 37m |
First train 4:54 AM |
Last train 6:52 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 days |
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: London North Eastern Railway, Scotrail, CrossCountry from York to Inverness trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Scotrail, CrossCountry trains will get you between York and Inverness from lei333. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
5h 51m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
lei333
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
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
5h 37m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
lei341
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
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
6h 13m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
lei390
CrossCountry frequency
2 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 Inverness
Things to do in Inverness
Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.
- Must visit
Culloden Visitor Centre
A modern visitor centre exploring the Battle of Culloden through artefacts, immersive displays, and Jacobite history.
- Recommended
The Highlanders' Museum
A compact military museum telling the story of the Queen's Own Highlanders and local regimental heritage.
- Must visit
Ness Islands
The River Ness islands and footbridges create one of Inverness's best urban walks, with calm water, trees, and views.
- Must visit
River Ness Walk
A central riverside route ideal for strolling past cathedral, castle views, bridges, and classic Inverness scenery.
- Recommended
High Street
The main pedestrian shopping street, lively with historic facades, local businesses, and easy access to central sights.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty Highland soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Deeply linked to northeast Scotland and widely enjoyed in Inverness pubs and homes.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding made with sheep offal, oats and spices. A classic Burns supper dish and a staple on traditional Highland menus.
- Vegetarian
Vegetarian Haggis
A vegetarian version of haggis using oats, lentils, beans and spices. Popular across Scotland as a meat-free way to try a national classic.
Torrish Restaurant
Refined tasting menus in an elegant setting inside Ness Walk Hotel. Known for modern Scottish cooking with Highland produce and polished service.
The Castle Tavern
Historic pub by Inverness Castle known for cask ales, whisky and classic Scottish fare. A traditional stop for hearty local dishes.
The Kitchen Brasserie
Smart but relaxed bistro and bar near the river, serving modern Scottish dishes, seafood and steaks with a lively local atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are usually reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- /
To the city center
Inverness Airport -> Inverness Railway Station
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Most local Stagecoach buses accept contactless card payment as well as cash; ask the driver if you need the cheapest fare option.
- The £2 single fare cap commonly applies on many local bus journeys, but check the operator app or website before travel.
FAQs: Trains from York to Inverness
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from York to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from York to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at lei333, while the average price is around lei612.
The train from York to Inverness takes 5h 37m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from York to Inverness leaves at 4:54 AM.
The distance by train from York to Inverness is 272 miles (438 km).
The last train from York to Inverness leaves at 6:52 PM.
There is no high speed train available from York to Inverness.
There is no direct train service currently available from York to Inverness.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from York to Inverness.
The train station in York that goes to Inverness is York station (YRK), which connects to Inverness station (INV).
The cheapest way to get from York to Inverness is by train, with a cost of around lei333.
The train journey from York to Inverness is considered scenic, offering views of the rolling hills of Yorkshire, the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, and picturesque towns along the way.
A day trip from York to Inverness is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 37m, covering 272 miles (438 km). Trains run 5 times per day.
In Inverness, visitors can explore the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to discover local history and art, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a leisurely walk on the Ness Islands. The Caledonian Canal offers scenic walks or boat trips, while the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is perfect for wildlife exploration. Key sights include the historic Inverness Castle, the scenic Loch Ness, the informative Culloden Battlefield, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
To experience the highlights of Inverness, 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore the city, visit nearby attractions like Loch Ness, and enjoy local culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from York to Inverness.
Since neither York nor Inverness 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 Inverness include Invergordon, Aviemore, Elgin, Nairn, Pitlochry.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from York to Inverness 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 Inverness, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Some visitors report occasional overcharging by taxi drivers, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Always be aware of your surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas. Standard travel safety practices help ensure a secure 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 York to Inverness
Most York to Inverness trains use the York to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare York and Inverness train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in York
Arrival train stations in Inverness
Which York station do trains to Inverness leave from?
Trains from York to Inverness leave from York. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from York city centre at York station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB.
YorkYork station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to York from York city centre
BusY12, Y14, 15, X15 · 4m · lei17 · every ~4 min
37 · 7m
Cs · 28m · lei22 · every ~5 min
York train station facilities and services
York has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at York.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at York. ATMs are available at York.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at York.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at York: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at York: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at York: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: No advance booking is required but it will reduce the waiting time for a wheelchair access Taxi, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible machines are available on the main concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Inverness station do trains from York arrive at?
Trains from York to Inverness arrive at Inverness. Inverness is from Inverness city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from York to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Inverness and York
Most popular train connections to Inverness
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