How to book your tickets
If you've decided where and when you're going, it's time to make your purchase. There are four different ways available for you to book train tickets in Scotland.
Buy Online
If you already know where you're going, you're only a few steps away from securing your ticket. Buying online with us is a great way of looking at Advance ticket options and train times picking up travel tips along the way. Start your search.
At the Stations
You still have the choice of buying printed "paper tickets" from a machine at the station. You'll have to queue, pay on-the-day prices (in many cases more expensive), and you won't be able to see or purchase Advance tickets
In app
Using our app to book your tickets means you've got more control over your train travel. Signing up is simple and we highlight the best prices for train tickets as well as platform information, quicker than at the station.
On the Train
In some rural and quiet areas of the Scotland, there won't be ticket machines. Trains in these parts will travel with a conductor who'll be able to sell you a ticket as well as answer any questions you may have about your journey.
How to collect tickets
Booked your tickets? Well, you're nearly good to go. There are several options for you to pick up them and they're all quick and easy.
01
eticket
Carry your tickets around with you. etickets are fast and secure – simply store the PDF (portable document format) on your phone and portable device or print at home.
Discover etickets.
03
Collect at the Station
Print a paper ticket at the ticket machine at the station using a unique collection code. You'll need to bring the credit or debit card you used to pay with you to collect the tickets.
02
Mobile Ticket
Skip the queues at the machine and get your ticket straight in Trainline app. Simply scan the barcode at the gates and you're good to go. (Not available at all stations)
Discover Mobile Tickets.
04
By Post
If you fancy a souvenir to hold on to, get your printed tickets posted to you. No matter where you are in the world, they'll be delivered straight to your door. (Additional postage fees apply)
Book in Advance
Train tickets in the UK usually go on sale 3 months before the date of travel. Look out for Advance tickets, as these tend to be cheaper when they're first released. Be quick though, as they sell out on busier routes.
Find out more about our Advance ticket alert tool.
Travel Off-Peak
When travelling by train in the UK, you can benefit from reduced fares by choosing times of day that are less busy. When searching for tickets with us, we'll display all available tickets and options, highlighting the cheapest ones.
Learn more about Off-Peak train times.
Consider a Railcard
They're types of train discount cards you can buy for £30 for unlimited use. You can get up to a 1/3 off the price of Off-Peak train tickets when using a Railcard. From kids to elderly people, there are great discounts out there to be had.
Find out more about Railcards.
GroupSave
GroupSave is a concession that allows any group of 3 - 9 passengers travelling together up to a 34% discount on Off-Peak tickets on selected routes.
Great for families and groups of friends, you can find this option in the Railcards drop-down menu when booking your train tickets.