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Outbound fromTrains to Edinburgh (Waverley) from Glasgow Queen Street
It takes an average of 1h 6m to travel from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train, over a distance of around 42 miles (67 km). There are normally 176 trains per day travelling from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) and tickets for this journey start from £12.10 when you book in advance.
| First train | 04:43 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:45 | |
| Departure station | Glasgow Queen Street | |
| Arrival station | Edinburgh (Waverley) | |
| Journey time | From 44m | |
| Distance | 42 miles (67 km) | |
| Frequency | 176 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £12.10 | |
| Train operators |
Travel by train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)
Looking to travel from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train? You've come to the right place!
Generally, the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) takes around 1 hour 6 minutes, but can take just 44 minutes on the fastest services. There are up to 176 trains per day from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley).
Direct trains are available on this route.
Lumo and ScotRail trains operate on this route.
Book your ticket from £12.10 for this journey. Booking early is one of the most effective ways to save money.
Start your search for train tickets from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) in our Journey Planner.
What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
Want to know more about your journey from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Is there a direct train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
How far is Edinburgh (Waverley) from Glasgow Queen Street by train?
Can I get from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) without flying?
What is the best way to get from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
When is the first train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
When is the last train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
How often do trains run from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
How far in advance can I book tickets from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
Looking for a return trip from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
How do I find cheap train tickets from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.
1. Book in advance
2. Sign up to Ticket Alert
3. Use a Railcard
4. Book split tickets
5. Travel Off-Peak
6. Consider a Season Ticket
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.
ScotRail trains from Glasgow to Edinburgh
If you’d like to know more about Scotrail trains, keep reading for more information.
ScotRail is the major rail operator of trains in Scotland. ScotRail will take you from major hubs like Glasgow and Edinburgh to the Scottish East Coast, the Highlands and beyond.
For those who prefer not to leave their travel plans up in the air, ScotRail takes you to destinations outside of Scotland too, including Newcastle and Carlisle that connect to the rest of Great Britain and places further afield.
Get cheap train tickets with split ticketing
What is split ticketing?
Split ticketing is a clever way to save money on train travel. Instead of buying one ticket for your whole journey, you buy separate tickets for different sections of the trip — and it often works out cheaper.
You’ll still travel on the same train, with no need to change along the way (in most cases). It’s a simple way to cut the cost of your journey!
How do split tickets work?
Split ticketing is when you buy separate tickets for different sections of your journey, rather than one ticket from start to finish.
Your journey is divided into smaller segments on paper, but you don’t need to leave the train. The only requirement is that the train stops at each of the stations shown on your tickets.
If asked, just make sure to show the correct ticket for the part of the journey you're travelling on.
ScotRail train classes from Glasgow to Edinburgh
On ScotRail trains between Glasgow and Edinburgh, there are two classes to choose from, Standard and First Class.
Standard Class
In ScotRail’s Standard Class, you can charge your devices and store your luggage in the available storage sections.
- Family-sized tables
- Power sockets
- Generous luggage allowances
- Free WiFi on some services.
First Class
In First Class, you’ll benefit from all the amenities of Standard Class, plus some additional extras, such as more comfortable seating and quieter coaches.
- Quieter coaches
- Comfortable leather reclining seats
- Table at every seat
- Adjustable curtains
- Individual sockets and USB ports
- Free Wi-Fi
- Hospitality on some services (subject to availability)
Your Glasgow to Edinburgh train travel guide
High-speed trains
With direct, high-speed services running every few minutes, the Glasgow to Edinburgh train route is one of the fastest and most frequent in the UK. Whether you're heading for a business meeting or a cheeky weekend away, you'll be in the heart of Edinburgh before you can say 'haggis'.
Train vs. bus
Considering the bus instead? While buses between Glasgow and Edinburgh can be a budget option, they typically take longer (up to 90 minutes or more) and may face traffic delays. Trains offer a smoother, speedier ride with comfy seats, free WiFi on many services, and a greener carbon footprint. So, if you value your time (and your sanity), the train's the clear winner!
Glasgow to Edinburgh round trip
If you're plotting your escape back to Glasgow, check out the return route here: [Edinburgh to Glasgow Queen Street trains]. Booking a round-trip can sometimes unlock extra savings, so it's worth comparing your options.*
Choosing your departure station
Train frequency
Understanding your ticket options
Onboard services from Glasgow to Edinburgh
Learn more about the services offered on board ScotRail trains from Glasgow to Edinburgh.
Luggage
Food and drink
Entertainment
Travel with children
Bikes
Pets
Accessibility and assistance
How to get to Glasgow Queen Street station
When travelling to Edinburgh, your train will depart from Glasgow Queen Street station. Read on for more information on how to get there using public transport.
Glasgow Queen Street is the third busiest station in Scotland, located in the heart of the historic centre, close to Buchanan Street – Glasgow's main shopping hub. There are several ways to get from the city centre to Glasgow Queen Street station, including:
- Walk: If you’re already in central Glasgow, you can simply walk east from Buchanan Street, and enter via George Street to the south or Cathedral Street Bridge to the north.
- Train: If you’re situated further afield, you can take ScotRail trains to Glasgow Queen Street from stations across the city including Charing Cross, High Street, Partick and more.
- Bus: There are various buses available from all areas of the city to Glasgow Queen Street station.
Everything you need to know about Glasgow Queen Street station
As you wait for your train to Edinburgh, there are plenty of things to keep you occupied at Glasgow Queen Street station.
As soon as you’ve entered Glasgow Queen Street station, you can make your way to the platform. If you’ve got some time to kill, you can take advantage of the amenities:
- Seating area
- Left luggage
- Mobile coffee van
- Toilets
- Baby-changing facilities
- Free WiFi
- Ticket office
- Lost property.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley station from Glasgow
No matter which train operator you decide to travel with, you’ll arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station. The station lies between the Old Town and New Town, close to Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle.
As soon as you’ve arrived, you’ll want to start soaking up the city’s atmosphere as soon as possible. All areas of Edinburgh are easily accessible due to the city’s public transport system:
- Walk: Due to its central location, you can walk from Edinburgh Waverley station to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle.
- Bus: Local buses leave from Princes Street and North Bridge to all areas of the city.
- Tram: The nearest stop is St Andrew’s Square which connects you with the rest of Edinburgh.
- Taxi: The closest taxi rank is on Market Street.
Want to travel from Edinburgh Waverley station to Edinburgh Airport? You can simply walk to St Andrews Square and catch the tram to the airport, taking around 35 minutes in total.
Using public transport in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a small city, so everywhere is easy to reach on foot. Plus, you’ll pass historic architecture as you walk. However, if you want to reach somewhere quickly, Edinburgh boasts a modern public transport system to help you navigate the city.
Taking the bus in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has multiple bus companies that operate in the heart of the city, but the most prominent are Lothian and First. Both companies have the same bus stops, but the bus numbers vary and each company has its own ticket.
Lothian is the leading city operator with the largest number of buses and routes, while First has fewer bus routes and concentrates on the outskirts of the city.
If you don't buy a day-ticket, then you won't need to fret about which bus you take. However, if you choose to stay a bit further away from the centre and need to purchase a day-ticket, it's essential to note which route runs closest to your accommodation. Generally, the best option is to buy a Lothian day-ticket, but it will depend on where you're located.
Taking the tram in Edinburgh
The Edinburgh tram features one route that links York Place to Edinburgh Airport. This route includes fifteen stops, all of which are equipped for wheelchair access.
It will take roughly thirty-five minutes to get from Edinburgh Airport to Princes Street (the closest stop to the city centre).
Discover Scotland
If you’re planning a trip to the Scottish capital, but unsure where to visit first, here are some ideas for things to see and do in Edinburgh and Scotland:
Where to travel next after Edinburgh
If you enjoyed your time in Edinburgh and want to explore more of Scotland and the UK, you can easily reach nearby towns and cities by train. To inspire your next trip, here are some of the most popular train journeys from Edinburgh:
Additional FAQs
Can I use contactless payment for tickets on this route?
Yes, you can use contactless cards or mobile payment (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) at ticket machines and gates on this route for most ticket types. Just tap and go – it's that easy!
Are there quiet coaches on Glasgow to Edinburgh trains?
Some ScotRail services offer quiet coaches, perfect if you need to catch up on work or just fancy some peace and quiet. Look out for signage on the platform or ask a member of staff if you're unsure.
What is the luggage allowance on ScotRail trains?
You can bring up to three pieces of personal luggage for free: two large items (like suitcases or rucksacks) and one piece of hand luggage. If you're travelling with extra-large or unusual items, make sure they're under a metre in length, or check with staff before you board.
Is WiFi available on all trains between Glasgow and Edinburgh?
Free WiFi is available on most ScotRail trains on this route, especially the newer or refurbished carriages. Signal strength may vary, but you'll usually be able to check emails, browse, or stream (responsibly, of course).
