A train trip from Birkdale to Thurso takes about 18hrs 20 mins on average, covering roughly 343 miles (552 kilometres). With around 2 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 £25.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Thurso |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Birkdale |
Frequency | 2trains per day |
Journey Time | from13hrs 7 mins |
Changes | 4-4no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 09:13 / 23:40 |
Distance | 343miles (552 km) |
2 Routes | Via Southport & Bolton & Haymarket & Inverness Via Liverpool South Parkway & Manchester Piccadilly & Edinburgh & Inverness |
4 Train Operators | ScotRail, Northern Rail, Merseyrail, First TransPennine Express |
Prices | from£25.00 |
Hop on a Train from Birkdale to Thurso – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Birkdale 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 18hrs 20 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 13hrs 7 mins. With roughly 2 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 343-mile (552 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of ScotRail, Northern Rail, Merseyrail, First TransPennine Express, 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 £25.00 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 Birkdale and Thurso by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 18hrs 20 mins & the fastest journey takes 13hrs 7 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Birkdale to Thurso is 13hrs 7 mins.
Train ticket prices from Birkdale to Thurso can start from as little as £25.00 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 Birkdale and Thurso vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 2 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 09:13, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:40.
First class tickets on trains between Birkdale and Thurso typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Birkdale 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 Birkdale 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 Birkdale & Thurso. However, there are 2 possible journeys which require a change.
ScotRail, Northern Rail, Merseyrail and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between Birkdale and Thurso.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Birkdale and Thurso, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Monday 28th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 09:13 Birkdale | 22:20 Thurso | 4 changes | Southport Bolton Haymarket Inverness | 13 hrs 7 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:16 Birkdale | 14:24 Thurso | 3 changes | Liverpool South Parkway Crewe Inverness | 17 hrs 8 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 22:46 Birkdale | 22:20 Thurso | 4 changes | Liverpool South Parkway Manchester Piccadilly Edinburgh Inverness | 23 hrs 34 mins | Get Tickets | |
Located in the charming fringes of Southport, Birkdale Train Station serves as a welcoming hub for travellers, both near and far. Whether you're a local commuter or a curious visitor, this station offers a mix of convenience and accessibility that eases every journey. Nestled amidst the quaint surroundings of Birkdale, this station is your gateway to explore the vibrant landscapes and urban corners of the United Kingdom.
Operating under Merseyrail, Birkdale Station greets you with the promise of efficient service. If you're planning your next rail adventure, you're at the right place to discover all the details about the facilities, accessibility, and travel options that make this station a popular choice.
At the heart of Birkdale Station, you'll find a well-organized and passenger-friendly environment. Though ticket machines are unavailable, tickets can be conveniently collected from the ticket office, which opens bright and early. Smartcards are issued here, with validators available to ensure seamless travel on the network. Plus, an induction loop is installed to assist those with hearing needs.
Your comfort is well-catered with step-free access throughout the station. It's classified under ‘Category A’, meaning every platform is easily reachable via the level crossing, ideal for passengers with reduced mobility. While the station lacks retail shops, vending machines for cold drinks and snacks are available, allowing for a quick refreshment on the go. Don’t forget to use the secure cycle storage if you’re arriving by bike, with 24 protected spaces under CCTV surveillance ensuring your peace of mind.
Exploring further afield from Birkdale is straightforward. While a taxi rank isn't present at the station, local bus services link wonderfully with other modes of transport. Take a look at this handy guide from Merseytravel for detailed onward journey options. If you’re aiming for international travel, Liverpool John Lennon Airport is conveniently reachable via Merseyrail with combined train and bus tickets, making global adventures only a few steps away.
Birkdale's connections to the broader UK truly shine with numerous routes available. Fancy a quick trip to Southport, or how about a cultural excursion to the heart of Liverpool Central? The choices are plenty, stretching from the serene shores of Formby to bustling urban stops like Moorfields and many more. If you’re seeking inspiration for your next rail journey, rest assured that Birkdale Station links you effortlessly to your desired destination.
Embrace the opportunities that Birkdale Station offers, with its robust connectivity and easy navigation through its facilities. Whether it's a morning commute or a leisurely weekend away, Birkdale makes rail travel a hassle-free endeavor. Dive into the heart of Merseyside or beyond, knowing that comfort and convenience are just a ticket away. So take the leap, plan your trip, and let Birkdale Station be the starting point for your next great adventure.
Safe travels and happy ticket purchasing!
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!