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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Showing times and prices for 08 Jan
Cheapest price
£29
Average price
£31
Fastest journey
2 h 55 m
Average duration
3 h 29 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
158 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan will cost around £31 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £29.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Edinburgh for Cairnryan every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 158 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 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.
19:193h03
Edinburgh22:22Cairnryan
£291One-way
0 changes
07:574h00
Edinburgh11:57Cairnryan
£301One-way
0 changes
11:573h59
Edinburgh15:56Cairnryan
£301One-way
0 changes
08:592h55
Edinburgh11:54Cairnryan
£371One-way
0 changes
08:592h55
Edinburgh11:54Cairnryan
£371One-way
0 changes
19:193h03
Edinburgh22:22Cairnryan
£291One-way
0 changes
11:573h59
Edinburgh15:56Cairnryan
£301One-way
0 changes
07:574h00
Edinburgh11:57Cairnryan
£301One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Cairnryan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £24, and a flight costs an average of £42.
Distance: 158 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|
£33 Average Price Cheapest | £73 Average Price |
3h 10m Average total duration 2h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Cairnryan train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains for today, Wednesday 7 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 06:41
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Y39276+ Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+Y38840 · Y73140 | On time 08:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2h57 | 10:57 Girvan station (GIR) | 3 changes | |
| Y39708 · Y38848 · Y73144 | On time 08:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h05 | 12:02 Girvan station (GIR) | 2 changes | |
| Y39708 · Y38848 · Y73144 | On time 08:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h00 | 12:57 Stranraer station (STR) | 2 changes | |
| Y39306+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+Y38848 · Y73144 | On time 09:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h02 | 12:02 Girvan station (GIR) | 3 changes | |
| Y39306+Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+Y38848 · Y73144 | On time 09:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h57 | 12:57 Stranraer station (STR) | 3 changes | |
| Y39711 · Y38856 · Y73148 | On time 09:59 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2h55 | 12:54 Girvan station (GIR) | 2 changes | |
| Y39720 · Y38871 · Y73156 | On time 11:56 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h00 | 14:56 Girvan station (GIR) | 2 changes | |
| Y39724 · Y38880 · Y73162 | On time 12:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h59 | 16:56 Stranraer station (STR) | 2 changes | |
| Y39724 · Y38880 · Y73162 | On time 12:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3h04 | 16:01 Girvan station (GIR) | 2 changes | |
| Y39728 · Y38887 · Y73172 | On time 13:56 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 5h01 | 18:57 Stranraer station (STR) | 2 changes | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Cairnryan by train
Compare 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.
Thu
08 Jan
08 Jan
Fri
09 Jan
09 Jan
Sat
10 Jan
10 Jan
Sun
11 Jan
11 Jan
Mon
12 Jan
12 Jan
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13 Jan
13 Jan
Wed
14 Jan
14 Jan
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:50, the last at 20:58. The fastest train covers the 158 km distance in 2h 55m.
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 158 km |
Average train duration 2h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 2h 55m |
First train 06:50 |
Last train 20:58 |
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 Edinburgh to Cairnryan trainsScotRail trains will get you between Edinburgh and Cairnryan from £24. 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 Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
£24
ScotRail frequency
10 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
FAQs: Edinburgh to Cairnryan train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
For a relaxing visit, spending one to two days in Cairnryan is usually sufficient to explore its ferry port and enjoy the scenic coastal views.
In Cairnryan, you can enjoy a walk along Loch Ryan, a tranquil loch perfect for birdwatching. Discover Glenapp Castle with its luxury hotel, gardens, and guided tours. Nearby, visit Stranraer to explore attractions like the Stranraer Museum. For nature enthusiasts, the Galloway Forest Park offers hiking and stargazing opportunities. You can also enjoy a coastal walk along the Ayrshire Coastal Path. Key sights include the Cairnryan Ferry Terminal, Loch Ryan, the historic Cairnryan Lighthouse, Glenapp Castle, and the Castle of St. John in Stranraer.
Booking trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is not directly possible as there is no direct train service connecting these locations. However, travellers may take a train to Stranraer and then a bus or taxi to Cairnryan. The train journey to Stranraer offers scenic views of the Scottish countryside, including rolling hills and coastal vistas, making it a visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 55m. There are 10 trains per day.
The cost of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £33.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Cairnryan covers a distance of 158 km and takes approximately 2h 55m. Trains run 10 per day.
To travel from Edinburgh to Cairnryan, you can take a train.
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is by train, costing approximately £24.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Cairnryan is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), and it arrives at Girvan station (GIR).
The train distance from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is 158 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan leaves at 6:50.
Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan run approximately 10 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
The last train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan departs at 20:58.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
There is no night train service from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Cairnryan
Edinburgh
Cairnryan
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Wifi
- Free public Wi-Fi available.
Lockers
- You can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Wide range of shops Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: New Street: Long Stay
Dining
- Bagel Factory
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Costa Coffee
- JD Wetherspoon
- The Pasty Shop
- The Beer House
- M&S
- Pret a Manger
Taxis
- Taxi: Nearest Taxi Ranks are on Market St and Waverley Bridge outside the station.
- Accessible taxis: Taxi ranks are located on Waverley Bridge and also Market Street. Market Street can be accessed step free via available lifts.
Accessibility
- Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: At entrance to Public Toilets
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets,
Hotel
- Old Waverley Hotel
- Jurys Inn Edinburgh
- The Scotsman Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle storage can be found in the station: by the lift at Platform 2 (37 spaces) Platform 3 (68 Spaces) and adjacent to Platform 19 (86 Spaces). Additional cycle spaces are available in New Street car park (32 spaces).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information booths are located on the concourse.
Public transport options for Edinburgh Waverley
- Bus lines: 22, 30, 33, X22, X25, X37
- Train lines: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, CrossCountry, LNER, ScotRail, Transpennine Express
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off on Waterloo Place, pick up across from Apex Hotel and drop off outside the Apex Hotel.
- Metro: No metro available.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 21:25 Saturday 06:30 - 21:25 Sunday 08:10 - 21:25
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: M&S Simply Food
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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: 2
- 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: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, the Concourse and near the entrance from Haymarket Terrace.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Inside the station - one on platform 4 and one on platform 2 and 3
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transport options for Haymarket
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the layby in front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transport options for Edinburgh Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from Platform 2 bus stop, adjacent to Herminston Gate
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cairnryan and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Cairnryan
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