London
Edinburgh

London to Edinburgh: Cheapest Travel Options

Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from London to Edinburgh starting at just £2. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 9h 5m trip.

Train: Speep and Confort. Opt for Avanti West Coast trains with fares beginning at €70. Travel time approximately 6h 2m.

London to Edinburgh bus times

Check out the cheapest buses departing from London to Edinburgh

CompanyDeparture time/Arrival timeDeparture Station/Arrival StationTransport TypePriceView schedule
Megabus
9h 5m
Megabus
£2
Megabus
9h 40m
Megabus
£14.99
Megabus
9h 25m
Megabus
£15.99
Flixbus
8h 40m
Flixbus
22.99
National Express
10h 25m
National Express
$23.14

Over 42 schedules for your journey.

Bus London to Edinburgh

It takes an average of 9h 41m to travel from London to Edinburgh by bus, over a distance of around 534 km. There are normally 17 buses per day traveling from London to Edinburgh and tickets for this journey start from £2 when you book in advance.

Distance534 km
Price£2
Frequency17
Fastest8h 40m

Train London to Edinburgh

It takes an average of 5h 1m to travel from London to Edinburgh by train, over a distance of around 534 km. There are normally 25 trains per day traveling from London to Edinburgh and tickets for this journey start from €70 when you book in advance.

Distance534 km
Price€70
Frequency25
Fastest4h 20m

What companies travel from London to Edinburgh?

Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, affordability, or a blend of all, our detailed overview covers the key players in the industry. Get insights into schedules, booking tips, and amenities offered by each company, ensuring your journey between these iconic cities is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Best Travel Options

Pondering over the best way to journey from London to Edinburgh? Let’s break down the essentials of travel time, cost, and experience for each mode of transportation:

Travel Time: Trains offer the swiftest route, taking roughly 4-5 hours, while driving provides a more leisurely 7-8 hour journey. Flying cuts through the clouds at just over an hour, with buses trailing at 8-10 hours.

Cost: Buses win on affordability, perfect for budget-savvy travelers. Trains and flights present a higher price point, yet often include deals that add value. Car travel costs divide nicely among group road trips.

Experience: Train rides strike a balance between speed and scenery, ideal for efficiency with a view. Buses immerse you in the landscape at a relaxed pace, while flights offer the quickest but least scenic transition.

🧳 Spanning approximately 400 km (about 250 miles), this trip varies from short aerial hops to lengthier road journeys. Dive into further details as you continue exploring the page!

Best Travel Options

Cheapest Travel Options

Seeking budget-friendly travel from London to Edinburgh? Consider National Express or Megabus, offering tickets from £10 to £30. For train enthusiasts, LNER and Avanti West Coast provide journeys starting at £20, complete with onboard amenities.

Explore cost-efficient travel tailored to everyone – families, solo entrepreneurs, or leisure groups. Dive into our recommended picks and find your ideal mode of transportation that aligns perfectly with your trip goals and wallet without compromising on the experience.

Cheapest Travel Options

Frequently asked questions

Embark on a scenic journey from London to Edinburgh, where history meets modern charm. Enjoy swift travel, stunning views, and comfortable amenities on this popular route through the heart of the UK. Perfect for leisure or business trips.

Bus vs Train

When considering how to travel from London to Edinburgh, it’s important to weigh three main differences:

Travel Convenience: Trains whisk you to your destination in 4-6 hours, a boon for the time-sensitive, while taking the bus means an 8-10 hour relaxed journey.

Onboard Amenities: Both modes offer Wi-Fi and power sockets, but trains edge out with dining options, whereas buses provide hassle-free liberal luggage policies and night-riding comfort.

Environmental Impact: Train travel supports eco-conscious choices with lower emissions per passenger, while buses provide a shared carbon footprint and scenic routes for the environment-minded voyager.

Bus vs Train
Save money

Cheap tickets from London to Edinburgh

The price of tickets from London to Edinburgh is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from London to Edinburgh by booking early.

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting transport

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Seasonal Travel Pack Essentials Guide

Seasonal Travel Pack Essentials Guide

Embarking on a short trip to Edinburgh? Gear up for the city’s fickle temperament with savvy essentials. Whether you’re admiring the spring blooms or walking through the autumnal hues, pack smart with adaptable layers, waterproofs, and comfortable footwear to fully embrace the Scottish charm any time of year.

Budget-Friendly Things To Do
Edinburgh - Uk

Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Pristine parks, historic hikes, and cultural treasures await you in Edinburgh. Discover the city’s ancient volcanoes, peaceful gardens, and iconic galleries — all without breaking the bank. Get ready to explore the best budget-friendly things to do in this captivating Scottish capital.
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Things To Do
Edinburgh - Uk

Things To Do

Exploring Edinburgh is a breeze with its robust local and public transportation network. From eco-friendly buses to fast trams and convenient trains, you’ll find a mode of travel suited for your pace and preference. Streamline your journey with these handy tips on payment and safety, ensuring a smooth ride through Scotland’s charming capital.

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Your First Arrival by Bus or Train
Edinburgh - Uk

Your First Arrival by Bus or Train

Welcome to Edinburgh, where every journey opens a new chapter of discovery in this historic city. Insightful preparation ensures a smooth transit, guaranteeing the quaint allure of Scotland’s capital is within comfortable reach.

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Travel Tips

The best tips from our team for your next trip

"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."

"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."

"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."

"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."

"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."

"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."

"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."

"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."

"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."

"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."

"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."

Travel Hotspots

Discover the Top Transit Hubs

Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.