London to Stirling trains for under €35 have just launched

The biggest barrier to replacing domestic flights with eco-friendly train services isn’t the time difference, but the cost.

Thankfully, a new budget service has just launched between London Euston and the Scottish city of Stirling, making travel along the UK’s West Coast Main Line far more affordable.

Lumo’s new service, which launched on 25 May, calls at London Euston, Milton Keynes, Nuneaton, Crewe, Preston, Carlisle, Lockerbie, Motherwell, Whifflet, Greenfaulds, Larbert and Stirling.

Fares start from £29.90 (€34.63) between London Euston and Stirling, while the cost of the journey between Preston and Stirling is from £14.90 (€17.25).

“We’re delighted to see this new service connecting Stirling with London. It delivers a lower carbon option than flying or driving at an affordable price,” Colin Howden, director of national sustainable transport alliance at Transform Scotland, said.

“We’re confident that the new service will provide a catalyst for Stirling’s sustainable tourism ambitions. It provides a direct connection for visitors from London as well as for international inbound visitors arriving in London.”

While today it’s best known as a university town, Stirling was once an important seat of power, and you can explore its history at Stirling Castle.

Along with Inverness and Perth, Stirling is known as a Gateway to the Highlands, should you be looking to explore the region’s stunning landscapes.

Lumo’s other routes

Lumo, an open-access operator, first launched back in 2021.

Alongside the new West Coast Main Line, it operates trains on the East Coast Main Line between London’s King’s Cross, Edinburgh Waverley and Glasgow Queen Street.

The operator has also submitted proposals to operate a line between London Paddington and Paignton in Devon, calling at Bath Spa, Bristol Temple Meads, Exeter St David’s and Torquay among others.

According to Lumo’s website, services on that line, if approved, could begin from 2028.