Getting to and around the South of Scotland by bus is a great way to explore the region and its many sights without a car. 

Enjoy scenic views as you weave your way through the region’s historic towns and villages or make use of the hassle-free train and bus connections to make the most of your time in the area. 

Here is everything you need to know about travelling by bus in the South of Scotland. 

Getting to the South of Scotland by Bus

The South of Scotland is well served by bus networks from the main nearby cities and towns, making it easy to reach, no matter where you are starting your journey.  

From Edinburgh

Hop on Borders Buses from the Scottish capital to head south and into the Scottish Borders. The regular services include: 

If you’re looking to head further west, Service 101A from Edinburgh Bus Station will take you to Dumfries via Biggar and Moffat. 

From Glasgow

Start your journey to Dumfries & Galloway by catching Stagecoach service X74 to Dumfries via Moffat from Buchanan Bus Station, then switch to local services. 

From Carlisle

Take Borders Buses service number X95 to Edinburgh via Langholm, Galashiels and Stow. 

From Berwick-upon-Tweed

Catch Borders Buses service number 253 to Dunbar to head north via the Scottish Borders coastline, or hop on services 60 or 67 to head to the heart of the Borders and Galashiels Transport Interchange, where you can change onto further services heading into Midlothian or across to Dumfries & Galloway.

Hop on the bus to see the South of Scotland

Getting around the South of Scotland by bus

The main bus operator in the Scottish Borders is Borders Buses, which serves Edinburgh and Midlothian, as well as major Borders towns such as Peebles, Hawick, Selkirk, Kelso and Galashiels. 

The Galashiels Transport Interchange, accessible from Edinburgh by bus or train, is the region’s main transport hub, with frequent connections across the Borders and beyond. From here, you can change onto a variety of local services which can take you as far east as Berwick-upon-Tweed, or to Carlisle in the west. 

For those travelling around Dumfries & Galloway, bus services 0perate from larger towns such as Stranraer, Kirkconnel and Sanquhar, which also offer onward train services to Glasgow. 

Connections between Borders Buses and services in Dumfries & Galloway are also available in a number of towns, including Langholm and Biggar. 

Planning your bus journey

Where to find bus timetables

Bus timetables are available online on the bus operator’s website, or in-person at bus stations across the region.

Here are helpful links to get you started: 

  • Borders Buses – Timetables for services across the Scottish Borders, including Peebles, Selkirk, Melrose, Galashiels, Jedburgh and onward travel to Berwick-upon-Tweed 
  • Lothian Buses – Connections from Edinburgh and Midlothian to Borders Buses.  
  • Stagecoach – Services in Dumfries & Galloway. 

Alternatively, Traveline Scotland’s journey planner provides the latest information on all transport across Scotland.  

How to buy a ticket

Most tickets can be bought online or in person when you board the bus, using either cash or contactless payment.  

For buses across the Scottish Borders, download the Borders Buses app for quick and easy ticket management.  

Make sure to check ahead of time with the bus operator for full payment details and ticket options. Some operators offer day tickets or bundles, which can be good value if you’re making multiple journeys during your visit. 

Frequently asked questions

Are buses in the South of Scotland accessible? 

Most modern buses operating in the South of Scotland are wheelchair accessible and include priority seating. Accessibility features may vary depending on the service and vehicle, so travellers with specific requirements should check with the operator in advance. 

Can I take luggage on buses in the South of Scotland? 

Yes. Passengers can usually bring luggage on board, including suitcases and backpacks, provided they can be safely stored and do not obstruct aisles or exits. Larger items may be subject to space availability. 

Can I use buses to connect with train services in the South of Scotland? 

Yes. Bus services are well connected with train stations across the region, making it easy to combine bus and rail travel. Check out our Travelling by rail page for more information.