Borders Railway times and fares unveiled

Train fares and timetables for the Borders Railway have been announced. Picture: Stuart Cobley

The average fare on the line, due to open in 2015, will be just £3.50, while passengers using existing stations on the route, such as Brunstane and Newcraighall, should find fares maintained at current levels.

There will be two trains each hour in both directions during peak times, with an hourly service scheduled for Sundays.

The earliest train on weekdays will depart Tweedbank at 05:20, reaching Edinburgh at 06:15. The last service from Waverley leaves at 23:54.

Transport Minister Keith Brown told the BBC: “The Borders Railway will serve a huge cross section of society from the daily commuter starting a new job in the capital to the tourist at the Edinburgh Festival wanting to visit the great Scottish countryside, to the Borders College student enjoying a night out in the city.

“Our fares structure and timetable will ensure that the train will be an attractive travel option for them, allowing them to go end-to-end in less than an hour and for under £10.

Tom Curry, vice chairman for Campaign for Borders Rail, said he was delighted with the pricing.

“The fare structure coupled with the half-hourly timetable will make the railway competitive with bus and car and will no doubt encourage a great number of people to switch to using the train,” he said.

“The confirmation that the first service of the day from Tweedbank will make a connection with the 0625 Edinburgh to Kings Cross is a welcome bonus coming from the timetable consultation and will give Borders business folk a sustainable route to London.

“At the other end of the day late night services will also help make passengers’ days more flexible and will be particularly crucial when it comes to sporting events and the Edinburgh Festivals.”

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