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Trains from Lanark to
Helmsdale

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Lanark to Helmsdale by train

Planning a train journey from Lanark to Helmsdale? The trip usually takes about 9hrs 36 mins, covering approximately 169 miles (272 kilometres). With roughly 3 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £44.90, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Lanark to Helmsdale Key Stats

Arrival Station

Helmsdale

Departure Station

Lanark

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from7hrs 44 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

08:52 / 00:16

Distance

169miles
(272 km)

2 Routes

1 Train Operators

Prices

from£44.90

Travelling from Lanark to Helmsdale by Train

Jump on a Train from Lanark to Helmsdale – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from Lanark to Helmsdale? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 9hrs 36 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Lanark, the quickest trains can get you there in just 7hrs 44 mins. With approximately 3 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 169-mile (272 km) route usually requires just one change, with ScotRail providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £44.90, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Helmsdale!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Lanark and Helmsdale

Curious about your trip from Lanark to Helmsdale? 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 Lanark and Helmsdale by train?

The travel time between Lanark and Helmsdale by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 9hrs 36 mins & the fastest journey takes 7hrs 44 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Lanark and Helmsdale by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Lanark to Helmsdale is 7hrs 44 mins.

How much does the train from Lanark to Helmsdale cost?

Train ticket prices from Lanark to Helmsdale can start from as little as £44.90 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 Lanark and Helmsdale?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Lanark and Helmsdale vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 3 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 08:52, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:16.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Lanark and Helmsdale?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Lanark and Helmsdale?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Lanark to Helmsdale by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Lanark and Helmsdale. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Helmsdale, 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 Lanark to Helmsdale?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Lanark & Helmsdale. However, there are 3 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Lanark to Helmsdale?

ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Lanark and Helmsdale.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Lanark and Helmsdale?

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

When are Lanark to Helmsdale Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Lanark to Helmsdale on Monday 4th August 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 4th August
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:51 Lanark13:12 Helmsdale4 changesMotherwell
Glasgow Queen Street
Inverness
13 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Lanark to Helmsdale 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 Lanark to Helmsdale start from as little as £44.90

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 Lanark to Helmsdale are available for £103.50 one way, or £150.90 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 Lanark Station

Welcome to Lanark Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Scotland, Lanark train station is your gateway to exploring both rural charm and urban excitement. This station might not be the largest but it’s brimming with convenient features and friendly services designed to make your journey seamless and comfortable.

Facilities and Amenities

Lanark station offers a variety of facilities catering to both everyday commuters and occasional travelers. The ticket office is open Monday to Saturday from 06:20 to 20:25, providing ample time for travelers to buy and collect tickets. Although there are no Sunday services, the ticket machines onsite remain available for fast and accessible service for collecting tickets purchased online.

Accessibility is a top priority at Lanark station. It's categorized as a Category A station, offering step-free access throughout, although care should be taken at platform 1 due to potential height differences. While the station doesn’t feature accessible toilets or lounges, there are three Blue Badge parking bays available in the 24-hour freely available car park that has CCTV security for added peace of mind.

Support and Accessibility Services

The station is equipped with customer help points and an induction loop for those with hearing impairments, ensuring support is on hand if needed. Should you require assistance, staff help is available throughout the week, and additional help can be scheduled in advance via the Passenger Assist Service.

Onward Travel from Lanark Station

For those continuing their journey, Lanark makes it easy to connect to a variety of onward travel options. Rail replacement buses can be accessed from the Bannatyne Street Bus Terminal, conveniently located within walking distance. If taxis are your preference, visit Train Taxi for information on local taxi services. Bus routes can also be explored via Travel Line Scotland where more details on schedules and routes can be found.

Popular Train Routes

Lanark station connects you to a myriad of destinations across Scotland. Notably, trains from Lanark to Glasgow Central offer swift access to Scotland's largest city, ideal for a day of shopping or exploration. Smaller yet intriguing nearby destinations like Motherwell, Wishaw, and Carluke are easily accessible for both business and leisure trips. For a longer journey, take advantage of the Lanark to Edinburgh service to visit Scotland’s capital, rich in history and culture.

Final Thoughts

Lanark train station, while small, serves as a vital hub for transport across central Scotland, providing services that cater to varying needs and ensuring passengers have a pleasant travel experience. Get ready to book your tickets now and embark on a journey filled with delightful experiences and memories. Whether you're heading towards Glasgow's bustling streets or the historic capital of Edinburgh, Lanark is your perfect starting point.

Everything you need to know about Helmsdale Station

Discovering Helmsdale Train Station

Helmsdale train station sits quietly in the scenic village of Helmsdale, a place marked on the map for its picturesque charm in the Scottish Highlands. Whether you're a frequent traveler or a onetime visitor, Helmsdale station offers a unique travel experience. This rural station might not boast a bustling environment, but its tranquil setting provides a quiet respite from the hustle of urban life. So, if you’re looking to escape the city, view some of nature’s scenic views, or travel further into Scotland, Helmsdale could be your gateway.

Station Facilities and Services

Helmsdale station, although quaint and minimally equipped, covers essential facilities for basic travel needs. Travellers should be prepared for a self-service experience, as there are no ticket offices or machines available in the station. Tickets should be purchased online ahead of your journey. While this might seem limiting, take solace in the availability of an induction loop for those who need auditory assistance and there are help points to guide any inquiries.

Step-free access is available across parts of the station, ensuring some degree of accessibility, although be mindful when transitioning between the train and the platform, particularly at platform 1. With no designated accessible taxis or set down points, planning ahead is key if mobility support is needed. Unfortunately, the station does not feature many common conveniences such as toilets, refreshments, or Wi-Fi, making preparation before arrival essential.

Travelling Onward from Helmsdale

While Helmsdale may feel isolated at first glance, onward travel options keep you connected. You can access bus services directly from the station's car park. For accurate pick-up points, services like What3Words provide exact locations for convenience. For more travel details, you can visit Traveline Scotland or contact them at 0871 200 22 33 for real-time bus schedules. Furthermore, taxi services can be sourced through the TrainTaxi website ensuring you're not stranded after reaching your destination.

For those eager to reconnect with urban life or explore further afield, popular train routes from Helmsdale can take you to key destinations. Whether you're headed to the vibrant city of Inverness, the historic appeal of Thurso, or the bustling streets of Edinburgh, Helmsdale can serve as a launching pad. More scenic routes include travel to Lairg, Wick, or even as far as Glasgow Central, providing a variety of destinations to cater to diverse travel interests.

Popular Train Routes from Helmsdale

If you're curious about where a journey from Helmsdale might take you, there’s a plethora of destinations to consider. For a taste of Scottish highland culture, consider traveling to Inverness or perhaps a spectacular coastal view trip to Brora. If you're craving a bit of adventure, a ride to Dunrobin Castle or discovering history in Edinburgh may satisfy your wanderlust. Longer connections available include the journey to Glasgow Central and as far as Aberdeen, which is perfect for those extended travel plans.

Conclusion

Though modest in offerings, Helmsdale train station provides the essentials for those travelling within the Scottish Highlands and beyond. Its simplicity invites travellers to experience the beauty of uncomplicated travel and the charm of rural Scotland, making it a worthwhile stop for any adventurer venturing into the area. Plan your journey with ease and let Helmsdale serve as your serene connection point into the heart of Scotland.

To ensure a smooth experience, remember to plan your travel ahead and equip yourself comfortably for the journey. Embrace the opportunities offered by Helmsdale and embark on a meaningful railway adventure that could take you places you never knew you wanted to visit!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Lanark