A train trip from Balloch to Thurso takes about 10hrs 27 mins on average, covering roughly 183 miles (294 kilometres). With around 4 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 £42.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Thurso |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Balloch |
Frequency | 4trains per day |
Journey Time | from8hrs 12 mins |
Changes | 2-3no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 06:08 / 22:35 |
Distance | 183miles (294 km) |
2 Routes | Via Glasgow Queen Street & Inverness Via Glasgow Queen Street & Dundee & Inverness |
1 Train Operators | ScotRail |
Prices | from£42.50 |
Hop on a Train from Balloch to Thurso – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Balloch to Thurso 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 10hrs 27 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Thurso), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 8hrs 12 mins. With roughly 4 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 183-mile (294 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of 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 £42.50 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 Thurso!
The travel time between Balloch and Thurso by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 10hrs 27 mins & the fastest journey takes 8hrs 12 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Balloch to Thurso is 8hrs 12 mins.
Train ticket prices from Balloch to Thurso can start from as little as £42.50 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Balloch and Thurso vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 4 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:08, and the last train of the day leaves at 22:35.
First class tickets on trains between Balloch and Thurso typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Balloch and Thurso can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Balloch and Thurso. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Thurso, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Balloch & Thurso. However, there are 4 possible journeys which require a change.
ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Balloch and Thurso.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Balloch and Thurso, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
Balloch, nestled on the southern shore of Loch Lomond in Scotland, is not just your gateway to the stunning Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park but a charming travel hub with connections stretching far and wide. Whether you're a local heading into the city or a tourist exploring the scenic beauty of Scotland, Balloch train station serves as your convenient departure point.
Step into Balloch Station and you'll be greeted by facilities designed to make your journey smoother. The station has a well-staffed ticket office, open from 5:55 AM to 11:55 PM (and slightly reduced hours on Sundays). If you're in a rush, don't worry — there are ticket machines available, including those for online purchases. For those who require them, accessible ticket machines and an induction loop are in place, ensuring that everyone can access services with ease.
While the station might lack in high-end amenities like shops or currency exchange, it more than makes up for it with its focus on accessibility. There’s step-free access throughout the station, making it a Category A station, known for its inclusivity. Passenger assistance is available upon request, and help points are scattered around for your convenience. Although you won’t find lounges or first-class waiting areas, the seating arrangements are ample and comfortable.
Balloch prides itself on being equipped with essential services such as public Wi-Fi, payphones, and secure bicycle storage spaces with CCTV, keeping both tech-savvy travelers and cyclists in mind. If you’re planning to cycle, note that while storage is available, hire facilities aren’t. Planning your journey seamlessly using your smartphone is a breeze with the Wi-Fi readily available throughout the station.
When it comes to onward travel, Balloch Station connects you brilliantly through various modes of transport. For those times when the rail service is disrupted, there's a reliable rail replacement bus service, with clear signage and pickup points. If you're looking to travel by taxi, TrainTaxi provides up-to-date information on local hire services. Additionally, local bus routes are well-covered; simply visit Traveline Scotland or give their 24-hour hotline a call to stay updated.
Balloch’s platform promises an exciting journey, whether you're venturing close or afar. With frequent services to destinations like Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central, commuters and tourists are well connected to the heart of Scotland’s largest city. Head further afield with journeys to Edinburgh for an enriching cultural experience, or explore the charm of Helensburgh and its beautiful seafront. Each line opens up a new world, from the vibrant urban settings of Partick to the quieter scenes of Dumbarton Central.
Whether it's the daily commute or an unplanned adventure, Balloch Station stands as a reliable starting point. Its strategic location, equipped with essential traveler conveniences, ensures that all passengers — whether seasoned commuters or first-time visitors — feel grounded and well-composed before embarking on their journey. With accessibility, connectivity, and a plethora of destinations to choose from, your choice to travel by train from Balloch opens the door to myriad experiences just waiting to be discovered.
The simplicity and efficiency of train travel are at your fingertips. For those considering a visit to Balloch or already en route to explore this picturesque locale, rest assured that your journey begins and ends comfortably at Balloch Train Station.
Nestled in the northern reaches of Scotland, Thurso Train Station serves as the gateway to one of Britain's most scenic rail corridors. Whether you are setting off on an idyllic exploration of the Scottish coastline or planning a business trip to the bustling cities far south, Thurso is your starting point. This small yet significant station may not boast grand amenities, but it's rich in character and history, making your journey memorable right from the start.
Thurso Train Station ensures accessibility with step-free access throughout the whole station, a feature that makes it convenient for passengers with mobility concerns. While ticket machines are not available, tickets can be collected from the ticket office, which is operational on weekdays and Saturdays until around mid-afternoon. Passenger assistants are on hand during these times to offer help. Though there's no CCTV present, safety remains a priority, with support accessible through customer help points stationed strategically.
The station's simplicity extends to its offerings, with payphones available to keep communication flowing. There are no shops or refreshment facilities, so packing a snack might not be a bad idea. Those traveling with babies will appreciate the baby changing facilities. Cyclists, too, are well catered for, with sheltered bicycle stands and a bike shop nearby, ensuring you can hop on two wheels upon arrival.
Whether your journey is beginning or ending at Thurso, ample transportation options facilitate seamless connections. Buses and taxis are available, with rail replacement services picking up and dropping off at the station car park. For those seeking to explore further afield, bicycle hire is just a call away at The Bike Shop. Need to plan your onward journey by bus? Head over to Traveline Scotland for reliable service details.
From the serenity of Thurso, a world of destinations awaits. Fancy a trip to Scotland’s historical cities? You could head to Edinburgh or Glasgow Central. For something closer, why not take a scenic route to Inverness or a short jaunt to Wick? The station also offers routes to Aberdeen, Dundee, and more. There are plenty of captivating stops for adventurous day-trippers or overnight stays alike.
There’s something timeless about embarking on a journey from a station like Thurso. The convenience of services accompanied by an array of scenic travel routes creates limitless possibilities for exploration. Booking your tickets is now easier than ever, whether through online platforms or at the station itself. So why not take advantage of the opportunities that lie along the railway lines stretching out from Thurso? Unleash your wanderlust and let your journey begin amidst the enchantment of the Scottish Highlands. Safe travels!