Is Forfar a good place to visit?

Yes, it is a historic town with easy access to the Angus Glens and Glamis Castle.

How do I get to Forfar by train?

Forfar does not have a train station; the nearest is in Dundee.

What is the distance from Gairloch?

It is approximately 310 km by road.

Are there hotels in Forfar?

Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses in and around the town center.

Can I drive this in one day?

Yes, it is a manageable drive for a single day with regular breaks.

Gairloch

Forfar

Train Driving

Gairloch to Forfar

Updated: 31 May 2026

The route from Gairloch to Forfar covers roughly 310 km, taking you from the west coast of Scotland to the heart of Angus. By car, the journey follows the A832, A9, and A90, providing a mix of mountain passes and dual carriageways. Public transport is more complex, requiring a bus to Inverness and a train to Dundee, followed by a local bus to Forfar. This journey is perfect for those wanting to explore the inland beauty of Scotland, including the Cairngorms and the rolling hills of Angus.

Total Distance: 310 km driving distance, 205 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest option, taking approximately 5.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for this route.

Compare Gairloch to Forfar Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours 45 mins	5 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	75-115 GBP	45-65 GBP
Operator	ScotRail	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus to Inverness, train to Dundee, then bus to Forfar.	A832 to A835, A9 south to Perth, A90 to Forfar.
Tip	The bus from Dundee to Forfar is frequent and takes about 30 minutes.	The A90 section is a fast dual carriageway, making the final leg of the journey efficient.

Travel Tips

Bus Connections
Check the Stagecoach bus timetable for the Dundee to Forfar connection in advance.
Fueling
Fill up in Perth before heading north or east to ensure you have enough fuel.
Traffic
Avoid the A90 near Dundee during morning and evening rush hours.
Booking
Book train tickets at least two weeks ahead to secure the best prices.
Weather
Always carry a waterproof jacket, even if the forecast looks clear.

Safety Tips

Mountain Roads
Drive slowly on the A832, especially on sharp bends and narrow sections.
Wildlife
Be alert for sheep and deer on rural roads near Gairloch.
Emergency Prep
Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged before leaving Gairloch.
Breakdown Cover
Have reliable breakdown cover, as some parts of the Highlands are very remote.