Is Forfar near Dundee?

Yes, it is about 20 kilometers north of Dundee.

How long is the train?

The journey takes about 3 hours including transfers.

Are there direct buses?

No, you will need to change in Dundee.

Yes, the route is mostly motorway and dual carriageway.

What is the best time to travel?

Mid-morning to avoid rush hour traffic.

Aviemore

Forfar

Train Driving

Aviemore to Forfar

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Aviemore to Forfar covers approximately 140 kilometers. By car, you will travel south on the A9, then take the A90 road through Dundee to reach Forfar. By train, you will travel to Dundee, then take a local bus to Forfar, as Forfar does not have a train station. This route takes you from the Cairngorms to the town of Forfar in Angus. Expect a travel time of 2 to 3 hours depending on your mode of transport.

Total Distance: 140 km driving distance, 110 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A9 and A90 is the fastest, taking 2 hours 15 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Advance train tickets are the most cost-effective.

Compare Aviemore to Forfar Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours	2 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	35-55 GBP	30-45 GBP fuel
Operator	ScotRail	N/A
Route	Aviemore to Dundee, then bus to Forfar.	A9 to Perth, A90 to Forfar.
Tip	Forfar does not have a train station; you must take a bus from Dundee.	The A90 is a major road; expect heavy traffic during peak hours.

Travel Tips

Traffic
The A90 can be very busy; check traffic reports before leaving.
Parking
Forfar town centre has several parking facilities.
Tickets
Book your train tickets in advance to save money.
Navigation
Use a sat-nav to navigate the road network around Forfar.
Connectivity
Use the Traveline Scotland website for real-time bus and train updates.

Safety Tips

Driving
Stay alert on the A9, especially during winter months.
Station Safety
Dundee station is generally safe, but stay aware of your surroundings.
Night Travel
Avoid walking in isolated areas at night.
Emergency
Keep your phone charged and have a backup power bank.