Train Travel Glasgow to Edinburgh: Your Best UK Journey Experience

A trip by train from Glasgow to Edinburgh, in particular, is described as one of the best scenic rides in Scotland. Whether you’re a newcomer or an old-timer to this classic journey, the route between Boston and New York packs in a comfort and nostalgia, not to mention some gorgeous views to boot. In this guide, we will look at what makes the Glasgow to Edinburgh train special, what you can see on this train journey, and address some frequently asked questions about this train ride in Scotland.

Is Train Ride from Edinburgh to Glasgow Scenic?

The train ride from Edinburgh to Glasgow is, for sure, picturesque, but not in the usual sense of long, windy mountain passes or ferocious coastline. The passage between these two cities may not be as bucolic as some of the more famous rides Scotland has to offer, but it comes with views of some of that country’s natural beauty nonetheless.

During this journey you would cross some of the most beautiful of Scotland’s countryside: verdant with small hills and quaint villages. The ride is interrupted only by the peaceful dotted fields, streams and occasional horses munching on grass. It’s very much rural and is a peaceful foil for the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh.

For those who prefer something more scenic, catch one of the longer routes that spread out from each city.

What is the Most Beautiful Train Journey in Scotland?

Scotland has a handful of achingly beautiful train journeys to compete for your eye’s attention, but one stands out as the absolute must-do: the West Highland Line. This one is often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful train trips, which takes you along Scotland’s rugged western coast from Glasgow out to Mallaig. There are beautiful scenic views of Scottish highlands, lochs, and dramatic coastal scenery along the way.

Equally epic is Jacobite Steam Train, which shot to fame when it featured in the Harry Potter movies. This journey is from Fort William to Mallaig, a beautiful ride with Ben Nevis as the prime view.

The Glasgow to Edinburgh train is more urban, but for anyone with time and a thirst for adventure, you can’t beat these longer journeys.

What Are the Most Scenic Train Rides from Glasgow?

While Glasgow is a lively city, it’s also the jumping off point to some of Scotland’s most beautiful train journeys. Here are a few options to consider if you want to venture beyond the city limits:

• The West Highland Line: Covering some stunning rugged terrain, with huge mountains, peaceful lochs, stunning scenery — the line covering route between Glasgow and Mallaig is a feast for the eyes.
  
• Glaswow to Oban Line:You pass through rural Scotland to coastal town of Oban on the Oban Line, taking in lochs, hills and the dramatic Atlantic coastline.
  
• Glasgow to Inverness Line: Take the train north to challenging Inverness; you’ll have views of the Cairngorms National Park and the banks of Loch Ness.

Not just beautiful but deep in history, these rides take you through places which poets and artists have used as inspiration for hundreds of years.

Why Is the Glasgow to Edinburgh Train So Expensive?

The train is not always as cheap as I hope it would be from Glasgow to Edinburgh considering the short distance, especially at peak hours. There could be a few explanations for that:

• High demand: As two of Scotland’s biggest cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh are served by a fast and regular train service, which is in high demand. The prices should be expected based on the demand of both of these tourist/business commuter visiting cities.
  
• Fast travel time: The trip only takes 45 minutes, which is very convenient for anyone traveling between the two cities. This speed and high frequency of trains is what leads to the high cost of tickets.
  
• Flexibility Of Ticketing: Even though advanced booking is cheaper, last minute and flexible tickets are expensive to cater to impromptu travel needs.

If traveling on a budget, ordering in advance or traveling at off-peak times can really reduce the cost of your journey by train.

How Much Is It to Ride the Royal Scotsman?

For those wanting to luxuriate on a train journey, take the opulent Royal Scotsman in the Scottish Highlands. This is no mere train ride; it is an experience. The Royal Scotsman is a fully inclusive luxury train with ensuite cabins, gourmet cuisine and lovely views over the Scottish landscape.

There are a variety of different trips to choose from on the Royal Scotsman, and prices can fluctuate greatly, but expect to pay between £1,500 and £3,000 per person for a multi-day trip. It’s a bit pricey, but you won’t get better comfort and service.

How Many Train Stops Are There Between Glasgow and Edinburgh?

The train to Edinburgh from Glasgow usually makes several stops on way. The most common stops include:

• Glasgow Queen Street Station (Starting point)
  
• Springburn
  
• Croy
  
• Lenzie
  
• Airdrie
  
• Livingston South
  
• Edinburgh Waverley Station (End point)
  

These stations provide handy places to hop on if you’re making a trip between Glasgow and Edinburgh, as trains stop regularly in between.

What Is the Prettiest Train Ride?

While there are scores of scenic train journeys in Scotland, the West Highland Line is widely regarded as its most beautiful train experience. It’s a passage that takes you past majestic mountains, over broad moors and alongside sparkling lochs. For all who long for the stunning beauty of Scotland, this train journey is a must.

Another scenic choice is Fife Circle Line, which showcases the beautiful Fife coast. The journey affords sweeping views of North Sea and passes charming seaside towns.

What Is the Famous Scenic Route in Scotland?

Scotland is filled to brim with famous scenic train routes, but West Highland Line takes the cake. As I mentioned earlier, this is one of the most dramatic and beautiful lines in the country. It is often viewed as the crown of Scotland’s rail network, one that allows travelers to marvel at anything from rolling hills to crystal-clear lochs.

For a truly memorable trip, take the Jacobite Steam Train (otherwise referred to as the “Harry Potter train”) travelling between Fort William and Mallaig in the Highlands it’s a history and scenic journey rolled in one.

What Is the Posh Train Journey in Scotland?

The Royal Scotsman is still about the most “posh” train journey possible in Scotland. With its plush rooms, gourmet restaurants and impeccable service, it is an upscale travel experience. If you want to spoil yourself in a shiny, exuding elegance of the rail Jane, indulgence is the Royal Scotsman.

For a cheaper alternative that is still comfortable and stylish is the Caledonian Sleeper. With sleeper cars that enable you to travel through the night in relative comfort, it’s a boujee way to trek between cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and London.

Train Trips, Glasgow to Edinburgh Perhaps not the most scenic of Scotland’s train journeys that take you through some of the more far away parts of the country, train travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh is convenient, inexpensive, and quick to travel between two of Scotland’s most iconic cities. For train lovers keen to experience the beauty of Scotland, there are plenty of other scenic routes you should consider, including iconic West Highland Line and luxury Royal Scotsman.

Whether you want an eyeful of the most beautiful of views, a lesson in some of the world’s finest history or even just a nice, easy way to travel Scotland’s railways are what you’re looking for.