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A Guide to First ScotRail for Cyclists
As part of our continuing commitment to protecting the environment, First ScotRail stations in Scotland now have secure cycle parking facilities except for 11 stations where there is no suitable site for such facility. We provide free reservations and guarantee cycle spaces on trains when pre-booked through First ScotRail Telesales on 08457 55 00 33.
First ScotRail is committed to developing a wide ranging consultation programme with cycling groups involving regional partnerships that allow everyone to make their views known. The programme also involves a specific integration group that will address issues around connecting all modes of transport.
Our efforts were rewarded when we received the ATOC National Cycle-Rail Award for Customer Service Excellence and Transport Operator of the Year 2006.
Cycles go free
First ScotRail welcomes cyclists on all services (subject to availability) and taking your cycle is free. Increased cycle capacity varies between 2 and 8 spaces per train on some routes.
First ScotRail Cycle Rescue - 08000 717 212
When you travel on First ScotRail services with your cycle intending to cycle to your final destination we want you to be sure you get there. If you are unable to complete the cycle portion of your journey as a result of an accident, vandalism or an irreparable breakdown to your cycle, First ScotRail Cycle Rescue will ensure you and your cycle (if appropriate) are transported either to your destination for that day, providing this is on the Scottish mainland, or to the nearest First ScotRail served station where you can get an onward train service. In the event that an incident occurs late in the day you will be transported to the nearest Scottish city where you can find overnight accommodation and an onward train service the following day and, if appropriate, repair facilities for your cycle.
Simply call freephone helpline 08000 717 212 and we will assist you according to our terms and conditions. You will need your valid rail ticket available when you telephone.
First ScotRail Cycle Rescue is a service for First ScotRail Limited (First ScotRail) passengers operated by ETA Services Ltd (ETA) on behalf of First ScotRail.
For terms, conditions and exclusions click here.
Reservations
Reservations are generally available 12 weeks in advance of travel and up to 2 hours before the train commences its journey. Reservations for early morning services should be made in advance.
Cycle reservations can be made at principal staffed stations or through First ScotRail Telesales when buying your travel ticket on 08457 55 00 33.
When to reserve space for your cycle
On the following services advance reservations are mandatory as space is limited;
Glasgow and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Glasgow and Edinburgh to Inverness.
Aberdeen to Inverness.
Glasgow to Oban, Fort William and Mallaig.
Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, Wick and Thurso.
Newcastle and Glasgow to Stranraer.
Subject to availability of space, cycles can be conveyed, free of charge, on the Caledonian Sleeper service, in the guards van. Space must be reserved in advance.
On the following services reservations are not necessary, but space is limited;
Edinburgh to Glasgow via Falkirk.
Edinburgh to Glasgow via Shotts.
Edinburgh and Glasgow to Falkirk, Dunblane and Perth.
Edinburgh to Bathgate.
Edinburgh to Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy.
Glasgow and Ayr to Carlisle and Newcastle via Dumfries.
You can take your cycle on any rail service within the Strathclyde area without a reservation, however please note that some trains do not have dedicated cycle space.
Glasgow to Paisley Canal.
Glasgow to Gourock and Wemyss Bay.
Glasgow to Whifflet.
Glasgow to Paisley, Ardrossan, Largs and Ayr.
Glasgow to East Kilbride, Barrhead and Kilmarnock.
Glasgow to Neilston and Newton.
Glasgow to Cumbernauld.
Glasgow to Motherwell, Coatbridge Central, Lanark and Larkhall
Glasgow to Anniesland.
Helensburgh, Balloch, Dalmuir and Milngavie to Glasgow, Springburn, Airdrie and Drumgelloch.
Stations and Cycle routes
Many stations are located near some great cycle routes, helping you to avoid the traffic and reach the best cycling in Scotland as easily as possible. Look out for the National Cycle Route Interchange signs at many stations.
To help you plan your journeys, the station information section on this site shows details of the facilities at First ScotRail stations and maps of each station, provided in conjunction with Sustrans, which include details of adjacent cycle routes.
When you cannot take your cycle
During periods of engineering work, cycles cannot be carried on bus services replacing trains.
Tandems, tricycles, cycle trailers, motorcycles, mopeds and motorised cycles are not carried on any of our services.
Light scooters for mobility purposes CAN now be carried on First ScotRail services, subject to certain conditions. click here for details
Further afield
For a day out or a longer break, take your cycle with you and make the most of First ScotRails facilities for cyclists. Many stations are located near great cycle routes, helping you to avoid traffic and reach the best cycling networks in Scotland easily. Simply look out for the National Cycle Route Interchange signs. Or explore all of Scotland by rail, sea and cycle with a Freedom of Scotland Travelpass using First ScotRail and Caledonian MacBrayne ferry. For information see our Explore Scotland leaflet or call National Rail Enquiries on 08457 4849 50. First ScotRail also provides extra seating accommodation attached to the Sleeper service between Edinburgh and Fort William. Special day out fares are available, with connections from Glasgow Queen Street and Westerton - an ideal way to maximise your time in the West Highlands.
Helpful hints
First ScotRail Telesales and booking offices should always issue you with a cycle reservation ticket as well as your travel ticket which you should keep safe and easily accessible.
Should you experience difficulties with your cycle during your trip, a valid rail ticket qualifies you for our free breakdown recovery service. Details of which, are available in this leaflet.
If you are taking your cycle on-train from a principal staffed station, inform platform staff. They will direct you to the appropriate portion of the train.
If you are taking your cycle on-train from any other station, look for the cycle symbol on your train as it arrives. This will indicate where you should board.
Some stations have secure cycle lockers for hire as well as cycle racks.
Folding-down cycles are carried on all services and do not need a reservation.
Remove anything not permanently fixed to the cycle, particularly valuables.
Do not lock your cycle to any part of the train other than at designated points.
Do not lean your cycle against doors or other passengers luggage. Do not obstruct vestibules.
Never ride your cycle on station platforms or concourses.
Please read instructions on how to use the on-train cycle racks.
Useful contacts
For cycling in Scotland and cycling events.
Scottish Cycling
Tel 0131 652 0187
www.scottishcycling.com
For route and accommodation information.
Cyclists Touring Club (CTC)
Tel 0870 873 0060
www.ctc.org.uk
For information on cycle paths in Scotland.
Sustrans
Tel 0845 113 0065
www.sustrans.org.uk
Cycling Scotland website.
www.cyclingscotland.org
Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries.
Tel 08705 650 000
www.calmac.co.uk
First ScotRail Cycle Rescue applies only to holders of valid rail tickets for journeys to or from stations in Scotland for breakdowns which occur on the roads of mainland Scotland within a days cycle ride of those stations for which the ticket is valid. First ScotRail Cycle Rescue only applies in conjunction with the cycle carriage arrangements detailed in First ScotRails Cycle Leaflet'. Tickets can be purchased in advance for return journeys to ensure cover for travel to the station.
You must comply with the following terms and conditions to be eligible for assistance from ETA:
Your pedal cycle must be reasonably maintained, fit for its intended use and in a safe and roadworthy condition at the start of your journey.
You shall take reasonable steps to effect repairs to your pedal cycle following a breakdown.
If you have a right of action against a third party you shall co-operate with ETA to recover any costs incurred by ETA.
Exclusions
First ScotRail and ETA shall not be liable for:
Any incident occurring outside the period of cover. This shall be deemed as the period of validity of your rail ticket.
Any incident within a mile, by public highway, from your residence.
Any incident where the pedal cycle is being used for a use not specified in the design and manufacturers specifications or arising directly out of the unreasonable use of the pedal cycle on unsuitable terrain.
Breakdowns where the pedal cycle is not accessible or cannot be transported safely, legally and without hindrance using a standard transporter or trailer, including immersion in mud, sand, snow or water.
Breakdowns while the pedal cycle is being used or has been used for racing, trials or rallies, speed or endurance tests or practices for those activities.
Any consequential loss arising from any act performed in the execution of the assistance services provided.
Call out charges the police may charge.
Ferry charges and tolls.
The cost of parts, components, lubricants or materials, food, drinks, telephone calls, petrol, oil, or insurance for a hire vehicle or other incidental expenses.
Any costs other than recovery to one of the destinations detailed above.
The charges of any company or person other than the recovery agent called out by ETA.
Any charges arising from your failure to comply with the reasonable requests of ETA or its agents concerning the assistance being provided to you.
Any charges where, having contacted ETA, you effect recovery or repair by other means.
Cover is limited to one puncture per person per year. We recommend that you carry a puncture repair kit as it can normally avoid the need for a call out and a roadside repair will normally get you on your way in the shortest time.
There is no cover for failure of lights where this is due to discharged batteries and you should ensure you carry spare batteries for your lights.
Medical and other expenses arising out of injury sustained by you except where such injuries are due to the negligence, actions or other fault of First ScotRail or ETA.
Liability for any loss or damage to property (including cycles) in excess of £1000 is excluded.