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Trains from Ayr to
Inverness

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Ayr to Inverness by train

A train trip from Ayr to Inverness takes about 6hrs 4 mins on average, covering roughly 140 miles (226 kilometres). With around 13 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £32.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Ayr to Inverness Key Stats

Arrival Station

Inverness

Departure Station

Ayr

Frequency

13trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 39 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:15 / 00:01

Distance

140miles
(226 km)

4 Routes

2 Train Operators

Prices

from£32.90

Travelling from Ayr to Inverness by Train

Hop on a Train from Ayr to Inverness – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Ayr to Inverness by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 6hrs 4 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Inverness), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 39 mins. With roughly 13 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 140-mile (226 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of London North Eastern Railway, ScotRail, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £32.90 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Inverness!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Ayr and Inverness

Curious about your trip from Ayr to Inverness? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Ayr and Inverness by train?

The travel time between Ayr and Inverness by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 4 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 39 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Ayr and Inverness by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Ayr to Inverness is 4hrs 39 mins.

How much does the train from Ayr to Inverness cost?

Train ticket prices from Ayr to Inverness can start from as little as £32.90 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Ayr and Inverness?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Ayr and Inverness vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 13 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:15, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:01.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Ayr and Inverness?

First class tickets on trains between Ayr and Inverness typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Ayr and Inverness?

Amenities on trains between Ayr and Inverness can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Ayr to Inverness by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Ayr and Inverness. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Inverness, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Ayr to Inverness?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Ayr & Inverness. However, there are 13 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Ayr to Inverness?

London North Eastern Railway and ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Ayr and Inverness.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Ayr and Inverness?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Ayr and Inverness, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Ayr to Inverness Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Ayr to Inverness on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
07:27 Ayr12:06 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Stirling
4 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
08:35 Ayr13:25 Inverness2 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
4 hrs 50 mins Get Tickets
09:05 Ayr14:15 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
Perth
5 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
10:35 Ayr15:29 Inverness2 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
4 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
12:05 Ayr17:02 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
Perth
4 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
13:35 Ayr18:26 Inverness2 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
4 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
15:05 Ayr20:07 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
Perth
5 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
16:05 Ayr21:23 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
Perth
5 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
17:35 Ayr22:43 Inverness2 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
5 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
18:05 Ayr23:19 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Central
Glasgow Queen Street
Perth
5 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
20:05 Ayr08:26 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Aberdeen
12 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
23:05 Ayr10:30 Inverness3 changesGlasgow Queen Street
Perth
11 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Ayr to Inverness journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Ayr to Inverness start from as little as £32.90

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Ayr to Inverness are available for £80.40 one way, or £110.20 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Ayr Station

Welcome to Ayr Train Station

Nestled in the scenic landscape of South Ayrshire, Ayr Train Station is a bustling hub for travelers keen on exploring the charming town of Ayr and beyond. Whether you're a local commuting to work or a tourist embarking on a Scottish adventure, Ayr Station serves as an excellent starting point. With its range of facilities and connections, stepping onto the platform is just the beginning of your journey.

Ayr Station Facilities

Ayr Train Station is well-equipped to meet the needs of all travelers. The ticket office operates from the early hours of 5:30 AM until late at night at 11:15 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, while Sundays offer slightly adjusted times. For your convenience, there are ticket machines available for easy purchase and collection, including accessible machines. The station also offers step-free access to most platforms, making it accessible for those with mobility challenges. However, please note that there are no toilets or refreshment facilities available on-site.

You'll find help points and an induction loop throughout the station, emphasizing customer support and inclusivity. If you need assistance, knowledgeable staff are available from early morning to midnight most days of the week, eager to provide any information or support you may require.

Transport Links to and from Ayr Station

Ayr Station is more than a standalone travel hub. It connects seamlessly with various forms of local transport to ensure that reaching your final destination is as smooth as possible. Buses servicing the area can be accessed conveniently from the station’s car park. For an exact bus pickup location, you can use the what3words reference. Additionally, taxis are accessible through TrainTaxi, offering direct transportation straight from the station.

Popular Routes from Ayr

Venturing from Ayr opens up a world of travel possibilities across Scotland. Why not take a scenic train journey from Ayr to Glasgow Central? You can reach the vibrant city center with ease. If you're setting your sights elsewhere, trains from Ayr link you to places like Paisley Gilmour Street, Edinburgh Waverley, and even Prestwick International Airport. From calm seaside escapes to vibrant cityscapes, the train routes from Ayr Station are perfect for both routine commutes and leisurely explorations.

Here's a glimpse of some popular routes you might consider: head from Ayr to Irvine, Prestwick Town, or even venture as far as Edinburgh or Motherwell. These journeys promise picturesque landscapes and a comfortable ride.

Ending Your Journey

Ultimately, Ayr Train Station is a pivotal transit point that caters to both immediate travel needs and ensures connections onward across the region. With its accessible facilities and unyielding dedication to customer service, the station is harmoniously aligned with the serene yet vibrant town of Ayr. Ensure to check train times and ticket availability on various routes for a seamless travel experience.

Whether you're setting off for a day of work or the adventure of a lifetime, Ayr Train Station promises to be a robust start to your journey through Scotland's beautiful expanses. Safe travels!

Everything you need to know about Inverness Station

Discover the Charm of Inverness Train Station

Journeying to the heart of the Scottish Highlands often begins at the Inverness train station. Nestled in the city renowned for the legendary Loch Ness, Inverness station offers a gateway to breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a resident or a tourist, the station provides a blend of conveniences that cater to all your travel needs and secures your journey onward smoothly.

Station Facilities

Inverness Station is well-equipped to ensure that your travel begins on a pleasant note. Its ticket office operates with ample hours, from Monday to Friday, from 06:30 to 20:30, and slightly reduced hours over the weekend. Savvy travelers can swiftly collect pre-purchased tickets via the on-site ticket machines, meticulously designed with accessibility in focus.

Adding to the ease of travel, customer support is available through help points and ticket offices, with ample staff presence to assist daily. While luggage storage is unfortunately unavailable, CCTV facilities offer added security. Travelers with accessibility needs will find comfort in the step-free access available throughout the station, with accessible toilets and a staff-help service running from early morning until just past midnight.

Get Connected with Onward Transport Options

Navigating from Inverness station is a breeze with multiple transportation options at your disposal. Rail replacement services are accessible from the Eastgate side, while local bus services and taxis further enhance connectivity. Be it exploring the city or heading to Inverness Airport, a variety of local bus services extends from the station.

Inverness Bike Hire makes your transit exciting for those favoring an eco-friendly route, offering discounted cycle hire to rail ticket holders right from the station grounds.

Popular Destinations from Inverness Station

The station acts as a convenient launchpad for numerous intriguing journeys. For an urban escape, hop on a train to the capital with routes like Inverness to Edinburgh and Inverness to Glasgow Queen Street. Adventure seekers can embark on a scenic journey to the iconic Kyle of Lochalsh or breathe in the history along the way to Dingwall.

Train travel also facilitates an escape to picturesque spots such as Nairn and Aviemore, ideal for both brief and extensive visits.

Comfort and Convenience Await

After exploring the Highlands' charms and castles, take solace in the various station amenities. Enjoy a hot beverage at Costa Coffee or grab essentials at WH Smith, ensuring your travels are both comfortable and convenient. The station's waiting areas and 1st Class Lounge add a luxurious touch to your journey, while public Wi-Fi enables you to stay connected.

Final Thoughts

For your next rail adventure or commute, Inverness train station proves to be the ideal starting point. With comprehensive facilities, ample transport links, and exciting destinations at arm's reach, traveling from Inverness opens a doorway to Scotland's timeless allure. As always, ensure your travel arrangements are seamlessly organized and enjoy a smoother journey, further enriched by the vibrant landscapes and historical depth offered by this enchanting region of the United Kingdom.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Ayr