"Construction of the new Edinburgh tram system is under way and will
become operational in May 2014. The tram will run every ten minutes
and link the airport to the city centre."*
Can anyone tell me if the Edinburgh tram system on schedule? We are renting a car as we leave Edinburgh and if the Tram is in operation in September, it will be easier to pick up our rental car at the airport, especially with the tram.
Sounds like the Bay Bridge in San Francisco. Billions over budget and years late. But don't get me started.....
The tram will be operational by the end of May according to the latest reports. .
Read this here along with a video http://www.theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2014/04/edinburgh-trams-are-almost-there/
The airport is building a new extension which will take the building nearer the tram stop. http://www.theedinburghreporter.co.uk/2014/03/no-more-security-queues-promised-at-edinburgh-airport/
Karen,
I was there 2 years ago and when i told my co-worker from Glasgow, he laughed and told me about the ever going tram.
If it is open in 2014, i would say gollygeewillerkers and have at it. But from what i observed there, the construction company(s) are sure milking the work for whatever reason.
happy trails.
And Karen, I wouldn't worry about it too much. There is a very easy bus that will take you to Waverly Railway Station in City Centre if it's not working. :)
Pam
I also need to take the bus to Waverly Station from the Airport. Do you know off-hand which one it is? And do you just step out of the airport and the buses are all lined up there? If 4 adults are traveling, what, approximately, would be the cost difference in taking the bus and taking a taxi?
And last, do you have any suggestions for what we can do for about 2 hours while we wait for our train? I'm thinking we leave our luggage at the train station and get something to eat and walk a little. Specific casual places to eat close by would be appreciated.
Here's the link to the bus. As you can see it at Stance 19 and it's Airlink 100. It's not expensive at 4 pounds.
There is a left luggage at Waverly. If you really have two hours then either you walk up to the Royal Mile and grab a bit in one of the many places there. Or you could go into New Town in the direction and get a bit in Rose Street where there are a lot of pubs. One of my favorite restaurants is the Mussel Inn.
I always just go to the Waterstones on Prince's Street across from the station and pick up my Scottish reading material. I'd then go and sit in Princes Street Gardens with a snack from the train station. Of course that won't work if its raining. :) You could also climb the Walter Scott Monument.
Pam
We were aware of the Airlink and local buses, but not the new tram. Will the tram be faster/cheaper than Airlink?
@ Cyn The tram will probably be comparable to the bus price wise . As far as time , both the the bus and tram run along Princes Street but past Haymarket the tram swings slightly south and runs parallel to the train tracks . Since it doesn't run along Corstorphine and Glasgow Roads ( As best as I can tell ) it won't encounter traffic problems , so it probably will be somewhat faster . I don't think that the slight travel time difference means much in making the trip . The really nice thing about trams is the comfort and general convenience , not to mention that being electric , they don't spew localized carbon emissions . I'm returning to Edinburgh this fall and can't wait to ride them .
@Steven -- thanks for the info. It will be nice to have options, especially at Festival time in August. Have a great trip this fall.
