Is Nottingham a good place to visit?

Yes, it offers a mix of history, culture, and vibrant nightlife.

How far is Elgin from Nottingham?

It is approximately 650 km by road.

Can I take a dog on the train?

Yes, most UK train operators allow dogs on leads for free.

Are there direct trains?

No, all rail routes require at least one change.

What is the best motorway for this route?

The A1(M) is the most direct route from the north to the East Midlands.

Elgin

Nottingham

Train Driving

Elgin to Nottingham

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Elgin to Nottingham spans roughly 650 km. You can take a ScotRail train to Edinburgh Waverley, then transfer to an LNER service heading south to Grantham or Newark, followed by a local connection to Nottingham. By road, the route primarily follows the A96 to Aberdeen, then the A90 and A1(M) south. This journey takes you through the heart of the English countryside. It is a popular route for those moving between the Scottish Highlands and the East Midlands.

Total Distance: 650 km driving distance, 520 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A1(M) motorway, avoiding major city centers.

Cheapest Way

Advance train tickets booked via the LNER website.

Compare Elgin to Nottingham Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	8 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	90-180 GBP	110 GBP fuel
Operator	LNER and East Midlands Railway	Personal Vehicle
Route	Elgin-Edinburgh-Grantham-Nottingham	A96, A90, A1(M)
Tip	Book your LNER ticket to Grantham and connect to EMR for the final leg.	The A1(M) is generally faster than the M6 for this specific destination.

Travel Tips

Station Parking
Use the long-stay car park at Elgin station if you are leaving your vehicle for a long trip.
Quiet Carriages
Select a seat in the quiet carriage on LNER trains for a more peaceful journey.
Traffic Apps
Use Waze to monitor traffic incidents on the A1(M) in real-time.
Ticket Collection
Use mobile tickets to avoid queuing at station ticket machines.
Local Transport
Nottingham has an excellent tram network connecting the station to the city center.

Safety Tips

Night Driving
Be cautious of wildlife on the A96 during night hours.
Valuables
Keep your bags locked and close to you in crowded train stations.
Weather Alerts
Check the Met Office website for weather warnings before starting your journey.
Breakdown Cover
Ensure you have valid breakdown cover before embarking on a long drive.