Edinburgh to Inverness Train Ticket Cost 2026
ScotRail advance from £18. 3h20m via the Highland Main Line through Perth and Aviemore.
Edinburgh-Inverness is one of the most scenic intercity rail routes in the UK, running 3h20m via the Highland Main Line through Perth, Pitlochry and Aviemore. ScotRail runs the main domestic service; LNER continues services from London King's Cross to Inverness.
The journey is a tourism draw in its own right - the Highland Main Line passes through the Cairngorms National Park. Advance fares from £18 for the 145-mile direct journey is good value, particularly given the scenic premium most operators charge.
Edinburgh to Inverness Train Prices
| Ticket Type | Single | Return | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ScotRail Advance Single | from £18 | 2x singles | Direct via Perth, 3h20m |
| LNER Advance Single | from £25 | 2x singles | London-Inverness through |
| ScotRail Off-Peak Single | £40 | £56 | After 09:15 weekdays |
| Anytime Single | £75 | £135 | Maximum flexibility |
Prices indicative singles based on operator-published fares, verified May 2026. Always check the live price on National Rail or the operator's own site before booking.
Operator Comparison
Saving Tips for Edinburgh to Inverness
- ScotRail beats LNER on cost for Edinburgh-Inverness-only travel.
- Off-peak return at £56 is good value for the 145-mile scenic journey through the Cairngorms.
- The Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Inverness is an alternative for those continuing from London - around £55 seated, £200+ cabin.
- 16-25 or Senior Railcard saves a third - £56 off-peak return becomes £37.35.
Best Days to Travel
Train vs Driving vs Coach
Driving: 160 miles via A9, £35-45 fuel, plus parking. The A9 is single-carriageway for long stretches and journey time can exceed 4h. The train is faster and decisively safer.