Borders Railway Line

Situated in the south east of Scotland, the regions of Edinburgh, Midlothian and the Scottish Borders all blend rich history, landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities and much more. Experiencing all that these enchanting regions have to offer is easier than ever before, thanks to the Borders Railway. Get all the information you need about the railway, and find great things to do along the route.

A couple admiring the Borders steam train from the platform at Tweedbank
© VisitScotland / David N Anderson

Borders Railway FAQs

A couple enjoying an afternoon aboard the Borders steam train — Een koppel in een stoomtrein in de Borders
© VisitScotland / David N Anderson

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WHICH RAILWAY STATIONS DOES THE BORDERS RAILWAY STOP AT?

The Borders Railway connects Edinburgh with the Scottish Borders. It begins in Edinburgh and finishes at Tweedbank. Here are the stops:

HOW LONG DOES THE BORDERS RAILWAY ROUTE TAKE?

Travelling the full length of the line from Edinburgh to Tweedback takes around 55 minutes. The line is 30 miles long (49 km) and passes over and through 140 bridges and tunnels, including the majestic Lothianbridge Viaduct in Newtongrange and the beautiful Redbridge Viaduct near Tweedbank.

Find out more about The Borders Railway

WHERE CAN I FIND BORDERS RAILWAY TIMETABLE?

During peak times, the train service runs half hourly from both Edinburgh and Tweedbank - check Scotrail's timetables to plan your journey.

Scotrail's timetables

HOW MUCH DO TICKETS COST AND WHERE CAN I BUY THEM?

Prices vary depending on the time of day that you travel, whether you book a single or return, and if you are eligible for any discounts. There are also a range of travel passes and railcards that could make your travel cheaper.

You can also purchase the Borders Explorer all-in-one ticket, which includes train travel to and from Edinburgh, as well as allowing you to discover the Scottish Borders by train and bus.

Check prices and buy tickets now.

CAN I TRAVEL THE RAILWAY BY STEAM TRAIN?

A special steam train service usually runs in August, but is currently not running. Board a steam train at Linlithgow in West Lothian for a beautiful journey across the iconic Forth Road Bridge, through Edinburgh, and along the Borders Railway.

CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT THE HISTORY AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE BORDERS RAILWAY?

The Borders Railway follows part of a historic railway line that was originally opened between Edinburgh and Hawick in 1849, before being extended to Carlisle. The line, which became known as the Waverley Route, closed in 1969. Work on the new Borders Railway route began in 2013, and was opened by Her Majesty The Queen in September 2015.

See more of the railway history.

A couple waiting for the Borders steam train on the platform at Waverley station
© VisitScotland / David N Anderson

6 Things to Do Along the Borders Railway

The Borders Railway offers a quick and comfortable way to discover some of the best attractions in Edinburgh, Midlothian and the Scottish Borders. Here are seven things to do along the route from Edinburgh to Tweedbank in the Scottish Borders.

1. EDINBURGH CASTLE

Within fifteen minutes you can walk from Waverley Train Station to Edinburgh Castle. If you're on a day trip from the Scottish Borders, a hop-on hop-off bus tour from Waverley bridge is a great way to take in more of the city sights.

2. ROSSLYN CHAPEL

The ornate Rosslyn Chapel can also be visited from Eskbank. It dates from the 1400s and has fascinated visitors ever since.

Travel details: Take a 35-minute ride on Lothian Bus 40 from the Tesco near Eskbank Stations to the Rosslyn Hotel stop and walk to the chapel in five minutes.

3. NATIONAL MINING MUSEUM SCOTLAND

Next stop, Newtongrange! Alight here for the National Mining Museum Scotland. See the largest steam engine in Scotland and hear anecdotes from real former miners on a guided tour of the pithead at this award-winning museum located in the Lady Victoria Colliery.

Travel details: The museum is a five-minute walk from Newtongrange Train Station.

4. OLD GALA HOUSE

The beautiful town of Galashiels in the Scottish Borders is home to Old Gala House museum and art gallery. Explore the area's history and take in visiting exhibitions. From Galashiels you can take the seasonal Scottish Borders CitySightseeing hop-on hop-off tour bus to explore further.

Travel details: It is a 10 minute walk from the station.

5. ABBOTSFORD

Alight at Tweedbank for Abbotsford. Once home to Sir Walter Scott, this luxurious mansion features elegant rooms. Explore the free exhibition and follow with a delicious afternoon tea in the restaurant.

Travel details: It's under 20 minutes' walk from Tweedbank Station, or a five-minute ride on the Border Weaver bus (return via Galashiels).

6. MELROSE ABBEY

Looking to explore more of the Scottish Borders - how about a trip to Melrose Abbey, one of the four Borders Abbeys?

Travel details: Take a leisurely 45-minute walk from Tweedbank Railway Station, or around a ten minute ride on a X62, or 68 Borders Bus, or Border Weaver bus to reach the abbey.