- Must visit
Caithness Horizons Museum and Art Gallery
Town museum covering Caithness life, archaeology and geology, with clear displays that introduce Thurso and the wider north Highlands.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Thurso
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 25 Oct
Cheapest price on 25 Oct
£102
Average ticket price on 25 Oct
£102
Fastest journey on 25 Oct
10 h 11 m
Average journey duration on 25 Oct
10 h 11 m
Trains on 25 Oct
1
Distance
294 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Thurso is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Thurso will cost around £102 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £102.
Fast trains
To travel from Edinburgh to Thurso you need to make at least 2 changes.
W83212 · C14681 · W6906911:3410h11Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)21:45Thurso station (THS)£1021One-way2 changes
- W83212 · C14681 · W6906911:3410h11Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)21:45Thurso station (THS)£1021One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Thurso
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Thurso run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £40 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 16:37. The fastest train covers the 294 km distance in 7h 17m.
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 294 km |
Average train duration 7h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price £40 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 7h 17m |
First train 5:33 |
Last train 16:37 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Edinburgh to Thurso trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Edinburgh to Thurso.
The cost of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Thurso can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £40, while the average price tends to be around £80.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Thurso covers a distance of 294 km and takes approximately 7h 17m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Edinburgh to Thurso is 294 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Thurso leaves at 5:33.
The last train from Edinburgh to Thurso departs at 16:37.
Trains from Edinburgh to Thurso run approximately 4 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Live departures
Edinburgh to Thurso train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Thurso trains for today, Saturday 24 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L87275 · C15079 | On time 13:33 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 8h47 | 22:20 Thurso station (THS) | 1 change | |
| W83196 · C14683 · C15079 | On time 13:38 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 8h42 | 22:20 Thurso station (THS) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Edinburgh to Thurso trains with Omio?
Scotrail operates all trains services from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Thurso.
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 bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Train companies: Scotrail from Edinburgh to Thurso trainsScotrail trains will get you between Edinburgh and Thurso from £40. 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 Scotrail Duration
7h 17m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£40
Scotrail frequency
4 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Edinburgh and Thurso
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Thurso.
There is no night train service from Edinburgh to Thurso.
Complete guide to Thurso
Things to do in Thurso
Discover the best of Thurso — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thurso trip today.
- Recommended
North Coast Visitor Centre Gallery
Gallery space at North Coast Visitor Centre in nearby Bettyhill, presenting local art and interpretation of the far north's landscape and culture.
Castletown Heritage Society Museum
Compact local museum in nearby Castletown exploring flagstone quarrying and village heritage, useful for understanding the area's industry.
- Must visit
Thurso Beach
Broad sandy beach popular for walks and surfing, with open views across the bay and easy access from the town centre.
- Recommended
Riverside Walk and Sir George's Park
Riverside park with paths, a play area and picnic space, ideal for a relaxed walk close to central Thurso.
- Recommended
Holburn Head Walk
Dramatic clifftop walk west of town with sea stacks, lighthouse views and frequent birdlife along the Pentland Firth.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A classic Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Deeply linked to northern coastal fishing communities and often served warming hot.
- Gluten-free
Caithness Langoustines
Fresh North Atlantic langoustines landed in Caithness waters, usually simply boiled or grilled to showcase the sweet local shellfish.
- Vegetarian
Scottish Porridge
Traditional porridge made from Scottish oats and water or milk. A Highland staple long associated with crofting life in the far north.
Park Hotel Restaurant
Established hotel restaurant serving Scottish dishes, seafood and grills in a smart but relaxed dining room near the harbour.
Y-Not Bar & Grill
Popular casual spot on Thurso seafront for fish and chips, seafood and takeaway favourites in an informal setting.
Commercial Hotel
Well-known local café and bistro with soups, baked goods, lunches and coffee in a friendly town-centre setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the Highlands: lodging can be limited and pricier in peak season, while dining is mid-range and local buses are modestly priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35-60+ per person for an upscale meal.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Thurso Station -> Sir George Street, Thurso
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Stagecoach says you can buy mobile tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app, and contactless Tap and Go is available on Stagecoach buses.
- Thurso Station is on Princes Street, within easy walking distance of the town centre, so walking may be simpler than waiting for a bus.
Plan your visit to Thurso
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Thurso.
Yes, the train journey from Edinburgh to Thurso is considered scenic, offering views of the Scottish Highlands, rugged coastlines, and picturesque landscapes.
FAQs: Edinburgh to Thurso train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Thurso 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 Thurso, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Edinburgh to Thurso in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Thurso.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Thurso
Most Edinburgh to Thurso trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Thurso station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Thurso 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 Thurso
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · £1 · 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 5EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Train3m · £1
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · £1 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · £1
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.
Which Thurso station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh to Thurso arrive at Thurso. Thurso is from Thurso city centre.
ThursoThurso station, Princes Street, Thurso, Highland, KW14 7DL
City-centre transport
Getting to Thurso from Thurso city centre
Bus921 · 1m · £2
800, 803 · 2m
Thurso train station facilities and services
Thurso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, 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 Thurso.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thurso. 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.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thurso: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Thurso: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thurso: 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 both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 1, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Edinburgh to Thurso
Check train stations information for Edinburgh and Thurso, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Thurso is Edinburgh Waverley, and it arrives at Thurso.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Thurso
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Thurso and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Thurso
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
