Is Thurso worth visiting?

Yes, it is a historic town with great coastal scenery and ferry access.

How do I get to Orkney?

Take the ferry from Scrabster, just outside Thurso.

Are there trains to Thurso?

Yes, the Far North Line connects Inverness to Thurso.

It takes nearly 4 hours from Aberlour.

The nearest airport is Wick John O'Groats, but flights are limited.

Aberlour

Thurso

Train Driving

Aberlour to Thurso

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Aberlour to Thurso involves traversing the northern edge of the Scottish Highlands. The most practical route involves a bus to Inverness followed by the scenic Far North Line train. Alternatively, driving via the A9 provides flexibility to explore the coastline. The journey covers roughly 250 km and takes about 4 to 5 hours. Thurso serves as the main gateway to the Orkney ferry terminals.

Total Distance: 250 km driving distance, 170 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Bus and train combination is generally the most cost-effective if booked in advance.

Compare Aberlour to Thurso Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	3 hours 45 mins
Avg Price	45-70 GBP	40-60 GBP
Operator	ScotRail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus to Inverness, then train from Inverness to Thurso.	A95, A96, and A9 via Inverness.
Tip	Book via the ScotRail website for advance purchase savings.	Use the A9 bypass around Inverness to save time.

Travel Tips

Train Views
Sit on the right side of the train from Inverness to Thurso for the best coastal views.
Ferry Connections
If heading to Orkney, check the NorthLink Ferries schedule in advance.
Station Facilities
Thurso station is small; ensure you have your tickets ready before boarding.
Local Transport
Taxis are available at Thurso station for onward travel to Scrabster.
Advance Booking
Train tickets are significantly cheaper when booked at least two weeks ahead.

Safety Tips

Coastal Winds
Be prepared for high winds near the coast, which can affect driving stability.
Winter Travel
Check for snow closures on the A9 during winter months.
Pedestrian Safety
Use designated crossings in Thurso town center as traffic can be busy near the harbor.
Emergency Contacts
Save local taxi numbers in your phone in case of public transport delays.