Glasgow Central Station and Glasgow Queen Street are both located in the centre of the city, meaning you can have some great day trips by train around Scotland if you fancy a change of scenery from city life.
Scotland's rail network makes exploring the country easy. From the capital's cobbled streets to coastal escapes and harbour views, here are three brilliant day trips by train. All without the hassle of driving and providing their own unique experience.
From Glasgow Queen Street, you can connect to Edinburgh in as little as 50 minutes by taking the quick train. Staying on the train to Edinburgh Waverley Station delivers you right into the heart of Scotland's capital.
Stepping off at Waverley Station, you're a short walk (climb) from the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Princes Street Gardens. Wander through the historic Old Town, visiting the Grassmarket, Victoria Street, and its cobbled streets.
Travel tip: Stay on the train to Edinburgh Waverley. This way, you won't have to go far to visit many of Edinburgh's top attractions.
Journey time: It can be as quick and direct as 48 minutes, although other slower routes take around an hour and a half.
Take the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban for a scenic coastal adventure, known as the "Gateway to the Isles." The longest journey of the days out we recommend. However, making this journey in the summer months makes for a good day out as you see some of Scotland's best scenery.
Train services to Oban are limited with one train line, in and out of the town. So plan this day trip carefully. Getting the train from Glasgow Queen Street at around 8 am and the train home from Oban around 6 pm allows you around 6 hours to explore the town and see its top attractions.
The journey is one of Scotland's most beautiful, passing through Helensburgh, along the banks of Loch Lomond towards Crianlarich and Tyndrum before it continues to Oban, arriving at the harbour in the centre of the town beside the Oban Ferry Terminal.
Enjoy fresh seafood on the pier, visit McCaig's Tower for panoramic views towards Lismore and the Isle of Mull while watching the ferries come and go from Oban bay.
Travel tip: Doing this journey in the summer months allows for the most dramatic scenery. Always book tickets for this train as it can get very busy.
Journey Time: 3 hours and 15 minutes.
The shortest of the train journeys, only 40 minutes from Glasgow Central, takes you to the coastal town of Troon, known for its long sandy beach and world-famous golf. Stroll along the promenade, play crazy golf, visit the ice cream factory, grab fish and chips nearby, and sit by the beach, enjoying the sea breeze and views towards the Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran.
Travel tip: On sunny days, Troon makes an ideal spontaneous trip from Glasgow, although the beach can get very busy. You will find plenty of cafés and restaurants just a short walk from the station and beach in the town centre.
Journey Time: 40 minutes
These train journeys show just how easy it is to swap Glasgow city life for Scotland's coastlines and culture. Whether you're chasing sea air, history, or a relaxed day by the water, Glasgow's rail links open the door to endless adventures across Scotland.
How do I book train tickets from Glasgow?
You can book tickets online through ScotRail or use apps like Trainline. Tickets can often be cheaper when booked in advance.
How long does the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh take?
The train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh Waverley can be as quick as 50 minutes if you take the quickest most direct train.
How long is the train journey from Glasgow to Oban?
The journey from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban takes just over three hours. Passing through lochs, mountains, and small villages along the way.
Should I book tickets if travelling from Glasgow to Oban?
Yes, with the nature of this train line, the train often only has two carriages, so booking tickets for the Oban train is best to guarantee your space on the train.
Can you take the train from Glasgow to Troon?
Yes, regular trains run from Glasgow Central to Troon every 30 minutes. With a journey time of around 40 minutes, it'sperfect for a quick coastal escape.
Can you walk from Troon train station to Troon Beach?
Yes, the walk to the beach should take no longer than ten minutes.
