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Trains from York to
Thurso

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York to Thurso by train

Considering a train trip from York to Thurso? The journey typically lasts around 13hrs 20 mins and spans about 333 miles (537 kilometres). With approximately 3 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £30.30, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

York to Thurso Key Stats

Arrival Station

Thurso

Departure Station

York

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from10hrs 24 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:35 / 00:58

Distance

333miles
(537 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£30.30

Travelling from York to Thurso by Train

Embark on a train journey from York to Thurso, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 13hrs 20 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 10hrs 24 mins. With approximately 3 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 333 miles (537 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express, ScotRail offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £30.30, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for Thurso!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between York and Thurso

Curious about your trip from York to Thurso? 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 York and Thurso by train?

The travel time between York and Thurso by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 13hrs 20 mins & the fastest journey takes 10hrs 24 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between York and Thurso by train?

The fastest journey time by train from York to Thurso is 10hrs 24 mins.

How much does the train from York to Thurso cost?

Train ticket prices from York to Thurso can start from as little as £30.30 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 York and Thurso?

The departure and arrival times for trains between York and Thurso 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 06:35, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:58.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between York and Thurso?

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

What amenities are available on trains between York and Thurso?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from York to Thurso by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between York 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.

Is it possible to take a direct train from York to Thurso?

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

What train companies run services from York to Thurso?

London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express and ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between York and Thurso.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between York and Thurso?

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

When are York to Thurso Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from York to Thurso on Sunday 27th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 27th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
10:51 York21:45 Thurso3 changesEdinburgh
Perth
Inverness
10 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
23:09 York17:50 Thurso3 changesNewcastle
Edinburgh
Inverness
18 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for York to Thurso 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 York to Thurso start from as little as £30.30

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.

Off Peak fares from York to Thurso start from £102.10 one way

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 York to Thurso are available for £131.00 one way

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 York Station

Welcome to York Train Station

Situated in the historic city of York, the train station stands as a gateway to both local landmarks and broader travel destinations across the UK. Known for its bustling atmosphere and rich Victorian architecture, York station is the perfect starting point for your next journey, whether you're visiting nearby locales or setting off on a long-distance trip.

Facilities and Amenities at York Station

York station is well-equipped to meet the needs of all travelers. You can purchase and collect your train tickets with ease at the accessible ticket machines located on the main concourse, and the ticket office is open daily, although its hours vary slightly on Sundays. If you're tech-savvy, York station also supports smartcard issuances and validations for convenient access. There's no need to worry about accessibility, as the station boasts step-free access and ramps to all platforms.

Customer assistance is always at hand, with helpful staff available at information points throughout the station. CCTV is in operation for added security, and the station has earned Secure Station Accreditation. Yor wheels are welcome here; cyclists can take advantage of extensive bike storage facilities with over 600 spaces available, including sheltered and CCTV-monitored areas.

Convenient Onward Travel Options

Leaving York station is as seamless as arriving. Buses, taxis, and car hire services ensure a smooth transition to your next destination. Taxis are widely available at the rank without prior booking, although early morning or late-night arrivals may require advance arrangements with local operators like Station Taxis. Bus stop E for rail replacement services is conveniently located outside the Principal Hotel.

If you're feeling sporty or eco-friendly, bicycle hire is available from the EuropCar office on Platform 1. Should you prefer four wheels, car hire services like EuropCar and Hertz can be found within the station premises.

Popular Travel Routes from York Station

York offers an array of travel opportunities, connecting you to some of the UK's most popular destinations. Hop on a train from York to bustling London King's Cross or explore scenic routes like York to Harrogate. Commuters and regular travelers will appreciate the convenience of shorter trips to places like Leeds, Newcastle, or Manchester Victoria. For longer journeys, destinations like Edinburgh and Liverpool Lime Street are directly accessible from York station.

York Station: More Than Just a Stop

With a variety of shopping outlets, food and drink facilities, and more, York station is not just about catching your train. You'll find everything you need for a comfortable wait, including free Wi-Fi hotspots and ATM facilities on the concourse. Be it a quick coffee or a leisurely read in the heated waiting rooms, York station ensures your transit is as pleasant as possible.

As you plan your next journey, remember that York train station is more than just a stop—it's a hub of convenience, connectivity, and care, awaiting your next adventure.

Everything you need to know about Thurso Station

Welcome to Thurso 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.

Facilities and Amenities

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.

Transport Links and Onward Travel

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.

Popular Routes from Thurso

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.

Your Ticket to Adventure

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from York