Landmark · Princes Street and Gardens
Edinburgh Waverley Station
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Edinburgh Waverley Station is the principal railway station in Edinburgh, situated in the heart of the city between the Old Town and the New Town. It is the second busiest station in Scotland after Glasgow Central. The station is named after Sir Walter Scott's Waverley novels and is built in a dramatic valley (the Nor Loch) that was drained in the 19th century. Architecturally, the station features a grand Victorian train shed with a curved glass roof, and the main entrance on Princes Street is marked by an impressive portico. Inside, you'll find a range of shops, cafes, and waiting areas. The station is a hub for ScotRail services to Glasgow, the Highlands, and other destinations, as well as cross-border trains to London and the North of England. Its location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Edinburgh's attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Princes Street Gardens.
Don't miss
- Admire the Victorian architecture and the curved glass roof of the train shed.
- Visit the main concourse with its shops and food outlets.
- Take a photo of the station's exterior from Princes Street.
- Use the station as a starting point to explore the nearby Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle.
- Catch a train to scenic destinations like the Highlands or Glasgow.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Edinburgh Waverley Station
You can visit on your own (no entry fee; train tickets required for travel. book online or at ticket machines/offices). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inOriginal Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh : Guided Tour4.9★ · 4,500 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$19 per personSee dates →
Most bookedEdinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket4.8★ · 6,385 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$53 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleEdinburgh Airport Private Transfers To & From Edinburgh Airport5★ · 66 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$87 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before departure for ticket checks and platform changes.
- Left luggage facilities are available near the main concourse.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station.
- There are several cafes and restaurants inside, including a Wetherspoon pub.
A bit of history
Edinburgh Waverley Station opened in 1846 as the terminus of the North British Railway. The current building was largely rebuilt in the 1890s and expanded in the 20th century. It is a Category A listed building.
Common questions
Is Edinburgh Waverley Station open 24 hours?
The station is open 24/7, but shops and services have limited hours. Ticket offices typically close around 8 PM.
How do I get from Waverley Station to Edinburgh Castle?
It's a 10-15 minute walk uphill via the Royal Mile or Princes Street Gardens.
Are there luggage lockers?
Yes, left luggage facilities are available for a fee.
Can I take a taxi from the station?
Yes, there is a taxi rank outside the main entrance on Waverley Bridge.
Is there a direct train from Waverley to the airport?
No, but you can take the Edinburgh Tram from Princes Street to the airport.
What is the nearest tram stop?
The Princes Street tram stop is a short walk from the station.
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