Is Dingwall worth visiting?

Yes, it is a historic town with easy access to the Highlands.

How far is Elgin from Dingwall?

It is approximately 115 kilometers by road.

Are there direct trains?

No, you must change at Inverness.

Is parking easy in Dingwall?

Yes, there are several public car parks in the town center.

What is the best way to travel?

Driving offers the most flexibility for exploring the surrounding area.

Elgin

Dingwall

Train Driving

Elgin to Dingwall

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Elgin to Dingwall involves crossing the scenic Moray and Highland regions. The most reliable method is by train, which takes you via Inverness, the Highland capital. Alternatively, you can drive via the A96 and A835, a route covering roughly 115 kilometers. The journey offers glimpses of the Moray Firth coastline and the rugged interior. Expect a total travel time of approximately 2 hours by rail or 1 hour 45 minutes by car.

Total Distance: 115 km driving distance, 90 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is generally the fastest way to reach Dingwall from Elgin.

Cheapest Way

Taking the train is often cheaper if booked in advance using a Railcard.

Compare Elgin to Dingwall Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours	1 hour 45 minutes
Avg Price	20-30 GBP	25-30 GBP in fuel
Operator	ScotRail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Elgin to Inverness, then Inverness to Dingwall.	A96 to Inverness, then A835 towards Dingwall.
Tip	The train ride from Inverness to Dingwall offers beautiful views of the Beauly Firth.	Traffic can be heavy near the Kessock Bridge during rush hour.

Travel Tips

Train Connections
Check the Inverness departure boards carefully for the Far North Line.
Traffic
Avoid the A96 near Inverness between 8:00 and 9:00 AM.
Tickets
Use the Trainline app for real-time updates on your journey.
Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Dingwall's historic town center.
Dining
Try the local cafes on the High Street for traditional Scottish fare.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
The A96 is a busy trunk road; maintain a safe following distance.
Rail Safety
Stay behind the yellow line at all railway stations.
Weather
High winds can affect travel on the Kessock Bridge.
Personal Safety
Keep your belongings secure in crowded train stations.