We need to get from Edinburgh to Inverness. I assumed we would do it via Scot Rail. Do I need to book in advance?
Are there other trains that offer more scenic routes for tourists that I should check out?
Thank you
Posted by
Isle of Skye, Scotland
1188 posts
Yes book via ScotRail. I'm attaching their route map here The direct route is very scenic. The only other possible route is via the coast and Aberdeen, but no benefit in doing that! There are no 'tourist' trains as such between Edinburgh and Inverness.
Posted by
Lake District, England
6520 posts
You don't NEED to book in advance. You can always just turn up, buy a ticket and travel. There is always a possibility (a small one) that you end up standing for part of the journey doing that.
If you book in advance, and can commit to a specific train, not only do you get a guaranteed seat but you benefit from a significantly better price.
Posted by
Perth, Scotland
14 posts
By booking in advance tickets called 'Advance Singles' the fare starts at £20.90 when they go on sale. It will generally trend upwards after reservations open like airline tickets, as each price tier sells out.
Flexible Single tickets, here called 'Anytime Singles' are £57. They are fixed at that price and that is the price bought weeks before or on the day.
Advance Singles can only be used on the specific booked train, Anytimes can be used on any train.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thank you so much for the information!
Posted by
Lake District, England
6520 posts
I have just been looking at Edinburgh to Inverness fares for my own purposes- on early and late trains Advance Fares actually start at £14.70, as opposed to £20.90.
The £14.70 trains include the 0838 and 1032 trains if booked far enough in advance. With a National Railcard that £14.70 becomes £9.70