It takes under two hours to get from Montrose to Edinburgh on a direct service with ScotRail.
You’ll begin your journey in the county of Angus in northern Scotland, south of Aberdeen. From there, you’ll travel down the grand East Coast of Scotland through Fife, Falkirk, and West and East Lothian before arriving at the Scottish Capital, Edinburgh.
ScotRail is responsible for the majority of rail services in Scotland, establishing connections among prominent cities including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Inverness, as well as linking these urban centers to smaller towns and cities throughout the country. It also provides cross-border services to various destinations in Northern England.
Departing from Montrose
Montrose is a lovely little station located on the shores of the Montrose Basin near the South Esk River. It is just off the A92 road at Basin View.
There is a bus route that stops at this station. However, if you need a taxi, you will have to arrange this yourself as there is no taxi rank. There are fifty car parking spaces, which are available all week long.
Altogether, four train operators run through this station: LNER, CrossCountry, ScotRail, and Caledonian Sleeper.
Main stops
Between Montrose and Edinburgh Waverley, key stations for ScotRail include Arbroath, Carnoustie, Dundee, Leuchars, and Haymarket. LNER services often have additional stops at Kirkcaldy and Inverkeithing, while CrossCountry includes an extra stop at Arbroath.
Weather conditions in Montrose can lead to changes in station stops, and scheduling adjustments or engineering works may also cause unexpected alterations. Always verify your travel details in advance. Booking early and using a Railcard can help secure the best fares.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley
Edinburgh Waverley is located in the centre of Edinburgh, positioned between the ‘old’ and ‘new’ towns along Princess Street. The station boasts four entrances: Market Street, Carlton Road (accessible via lift), Waverley Bridge (accessible via ramp), and Princess Street. Market Street has a taxi rank, while public bus services and trams are available on Princes Street and North Bridge.
It’s a great station to arrive at, as it puts you right in the centre of Edinburgh. If you like, you could stroll along on foot to the old town to marvel at Scotland’s medieval history at Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, or you could catch a bus to Edinburgh Zoo from Princes Street. Alternatively, you may need to catch the shuttle bus to the airport. It’s all up to you. In Edinburgh, all your travel needs are catered to right out of the station.
ScotRail train classes
- Standard Class: Passengers benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi and convenient plug sockets for all devices.
- First Class: Every seat has a table, a dedicated charging station, and Wi-Fi.
ScotRail train travel advice
- Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Reservations are highly recommended, as each train has only two cycle spaces. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book early.
- Children: Offer allows children aged 5 to 15 to travel for £1 each when accompanied by an adult. Children under five can travel for free.
- Passenger Assist: Boarding and alighting assistance, luggage carrying, and support for station issues ensure a smooth and successful trip.
London North Eastern Railway (LNER) operates along the East Coast Main Line, connecting cities in Eastern Scotland and Northern England to London. Prominent stops along its route include Stevenage, Newcastle, and York.
LNER train classes
- Standard Class: Comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi. There are also tables and power sockets for your devices.
- First Class: A Montrose to Edinburgh First Class ticket gives you access to complimentary food and drinks, larger seats and tables. First Class lounge access is available at certain stations on the East Coast Mainline.
LNER train travel advice
- Luggage: Passengers can bring up to three pieces of luggage.
- Pets: Pets travel free on LNER. Dogs must be on leads, and other animals in carriers. Maximum of two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Reservations are required. Folding bikes can be taken onboard as luggage.
- Children: Children receive cheaper tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
- Passenger Assist: Get travel advice for the station you wish to use, seat reservations, ticket assistance, and help with arrivals and transfers, plus discounts for disabled passengers.
CrossCountry: Montrose to Edinburgh trains
CrossCountry offers efficient train services from Montrose to Edinburgh, providing a comfortable travel experience across Scotland's picturesque landscapes. With regular departures, passengers can enjoy seamless connections to Edinburgh Waverley, one of the UK's major transport hubs. The service includes key stops such as Dundee and Haymarket, ensuring convenient access to various destinations along the route.
CrossCountry train classes
- Standard Class: Onboard Wi-Fi, charging points, and tables. Snacks and drinks are available from the onboard shop.
- First Class: First Class tickets provide a more spacious and comfortable journey with larger seats and complimentary refreshments.
CrossCountry train travel advice
- Luggage: A maximum of three items: one small item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small pets are free of charge. They must be well-behaved and do not disturb other passengers. Two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Bicycle reservations are required before traveling.
- Children: Children receive cheaper tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
- Passenger Assist: Provide assistance at stations and on trains, or during transfers, help with luggage, offer discounts for disabled passengers, and other services.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.