ScotRail Trains

ScotRail is the backbone of Scotland's rail network, connecting cities, towns and rural communities across the country.

Whether you're commuting to work, exploring the Highlands, or heading to a major city like Glasgow or Edinburgh, ScotRail plays a vital role in keeping Scotland moving.

Here's what you need to know about where ScotRail go, what their trains are like and the kind of service you can expect from ScotRail.

ScotRail Routes and Destinations

ScotRail operates an extensive network covering Scotland’s major cities, rural areas and cross-border routes into England. Here’s a breakdown of their key routes:

ScotRail Intercity Routes

• Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street (via Falkirk High) – One of Scotland’s busiest routes, with trains every 10-15 minutes.
• Glasgow Central to Edinburgh Waverley (via Shotts or Carstairs) – A slightly slower alternative.
• Glasgow Queen Street to Aberdeen (via Dundee) – Connects Scotland’s two largest cities with scenic coastal views.
• Edinburgh to Inverness (via Perth) – A stunning journey through the Highlands.
• Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig (The West Highland Line) – Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter fans, take note!).

ScotRail Commuter & Regional Routes

• Glasgow to Ayr and Stranraer – Serves the southwest coast, including ferry links to Northern Ireland.
• Edinburgh to Dundee and Aberdeen – Key east coast connection.
• Inverness to Wick and ThursoM – One of the UK’s most remote and scenic rail lines.
• Glasgow to Stirling, Alloa and Dunblane – Popular for commuters and tourists visiting Stirling Castle.

ScotRail Cross-Border Services

ScotRail also partners with LNER, Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express for services to:

• London King’s Cross (via LNER)
• Manchester & Birmingham (via Avanti West Coast)
• Newcastle & Carlisle (via TransPennine Express)

ScotRail Facilities & Services

ScotRail’s trains vary from modern electric units to older diesel carriages, but most offer a decent range of passenger amenities, including:

• Standard Class – Most trains have 2x2 seating with tables, power sockets and luggage racks. Some newer trains (like the Hitachi Class 385) have USB ports and better legroom.
• First Class (on select intercity routes) – Wider seats, extra space, complimentary Wi-Fi and sometimes free snacks/drinks.
• Quiet Zones – Available on some trains for passengers who want a quieter journey.
• Free Wi-Fi is available on most intercity and commuter trains (though signal can be patchy in rural areas).
• Power Sockets (and sometimes USB ports) are standard on newer trains.
• Luggage Racks – Space for suitcases near doors and overhead shelves for smaller bags.
• Bike Storage – Free to bring, but spaces are limited (reservation recommended on long-distance trains).
• Food & Drink Trolley Service (on longer routes like Edinburgh-Inverness) that sells hot drinks, snacks and light meals.
• First Class Refreshments – Complimentary tea/coffee and biscuits on some services.
• BYO Recommended – Shorter routes don’t have catering, so bring your own food.
• Wheelchair spaces – Available on all trains, with ramp assistance if booked in advance.
• Priority seating – Near doors for elderly or disabled passengers.
• Accessible toilets – On most intercity trains.
• Assistance dogs – Welcome at no extra charge.

For ScotRail tickets, the latest ScotRail timetable updates and service information, passengers are encouraged to visit the official ScotRail website or check live departure boards at stations.