Edinburgh to Cairnryan train with Scotrail

Thu 09 Jul
+ Add return
Scotrail
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Scotrail
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan

Showing times and prices for 09 Jul

Cheapest price

£29

Average price

£33

Fastest journey

3 h 2 m

Average duration

3 h 18 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 £33 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 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 2 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 59 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.

  • Scotrail
    12:573h59
    Edinburgh
    16:56Cairnryan
    £291One-way
    0 changes
  • Scotrail
    7:573h05
    Edinburgh
    11:02Cairnryan
    £321One-way
    0 changes
  • Scotrail
    8:003h02
    Edinburgh
    11:02Cairnryan
    £361One-way
    0 changes
  • Scotrail
    8:573h05
    Edinburgh
    12:02Cairnryan
    £361One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and flight 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 £29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £29, and a flight costs an average of £30.

Distance: 158 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight

£33

Average Price

Cheapest

£196

Average Price

3h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 29m

Average total duration

5h 29m

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 8 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
ScotrailL87801 · L87364 · L86956+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central
On time
8:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h57
10:57 Girvan station (GIR)
3 changes
ScotrailL88236 · L87372 · L86960
On time
8:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
4h00
12:57 Stranraer station (STR)
2 changes
ScotrailL88236 · L87372 · L86960
On time
8:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h05
12:02 Girvan station (GIR)
2 changes
ScotrailL87831 · L87372 · L86960+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central
On time
9:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h57
12:57 Stranraer station (STR)
3 changes
ScotrailL87831 · L87372 · L86960+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central
On time
9:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h02
12:02 Girvan station (GIR)
3 changes
ScotrailL88241 · L87379 · L86965
On time
9:59 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h55
12:54 Girvan station (GIR)
2 changes
ScotrailL88248 · L87395 · L86973
On time
11:56 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h00
14:56 Girvan station (GIR)
2 changes
ScotrailL88253 · L87404 · L86979
On time
12:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h59
16:56 Stranraer station (STR)
2 changes
ScotrailL88253 · L87404 · L86979
On time
12:57 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h04
16:01 Girvan station (GIR)
2 changes
ScotrailL88256 · L87411 · L86990
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 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.

Thu
09 Jul
Fri
10 Jul
Sat
11 Jul
Sun
12 Jul
Mon
13 Jul
Tue
14 Jul
Wed
15 Jul

Why should you book Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains with Omio?

Scotrail operates all trains services from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.

Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?

  • 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £29 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 06:19, the last at 21:06. The fastest train covers the 158 km distance in 2h 53m.

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 46m
Cheapest ticket price
£29
Trains per day
11
Fastest train
2h 53m
First train
6:19
Last train
21:06
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
7 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: Scotrail from Edinburgh to Cairnryan trainsScotrail trains will get you between Edinburgh and Cairnryan from £29. 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 53m
Cheapest Price
£29
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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £29, 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 53m. Trains run 11 per day.
The train distance from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is 158 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan leaves at 6:19.
The last train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan departs at 21:06.
Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan run approximately 11 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
To get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan, you can choose from several travel options including train and flight.
There is no night train service from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Cairnryan is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), and it arrives at Girvan station (GIR).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is by train, costing approximately £29.
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 53m. There are 10 trains per day.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Cairnryan

Most Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Girvan station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Cairnryan train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Cairnryan
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre

BusUk090 · 12m · £0.90 · every ~32 min

Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services

Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: 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.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.

HaymarketHaymarket station, Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH12 5EYWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre

Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:

Train3m · £0.90
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · £0.90 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · £0.90
TramT50 · 6m · £4 · every ~30 min

Haymarket train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. 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 Haymarket: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: 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.

Edinburgh ParkEdinburgh Park station, Cultins Road, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH11 4DFWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh Park from Edinburgh city centre

Edinburgh Park is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainEdinburgh - Dunblane, Edinburgh - Helensburgh Central, Edinburgh - Bathgate, Edinburgh - Milngavie, Edinburgh - Garscadden, Edinburgh - Stirling, Edinburgh - Airdrie, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dalmuir · 4m · £2 · every ~9 min
Edinburgh - Dunblane, Edinburgh - Helensburgh Central, Edinburgh - Bathgate, Edinburgh - Milngavie, Edinburgh - Garscadden, Edinburgh - Stirling, Edinburgh - Airdrie, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dalmuir · 8m · £3 · every ~9 min
Bus2 · 24m · £2 · every ~10 min
TramT50 · 18m · £4 · every ~30 min

Edinburgh Park train station facilities and services

Edinburgh Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Park.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Park.

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 Edinburgh Park: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Edinburgh Park: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Park: 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.

Most popular train connections to Cairnryan

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Cairnryan Edinburgh to Cairnryan train

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