There are three branches, to Largs, Ardrossan Harbour and Ayr, all running into the high level at Glasgow Central.

The line to Ayr was electrified and Class 318 electric multiple units introduced by British Rail in September 1986.

[1] The full electrified service, including trains to Largs and Ardrossan Harbour, commenced on 19 January 1987.

The other branch runs north along the coast to Ardrossan or Largs, becoming a single track for passenger trains after Saltcoats.

The line connects with ferries at Ardrossan to Brodick on the Isle of Arran and at Largs to Great Cumbrae.