Train from London to Edinburgh – Route Overview
Complete route overview, journey time, ticket prices, and train frequency for trains traveling from London to Edinburgh.
Why Take the Train from London to Edinburgh?
Traveling by train from London to Edinburgh is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to move between England and Scotland. High-speed services complete the journey in just over four hours, making rail travel quicker than driving and often more efficient than flying once airport procedures are considered.
Trains depart from central London and arrive directly in central Edinburgh, eliminating airport transfers and long security lines. Passengers enjoy comfortable seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and the freedom to move around during the journey—advantages not available on flights.
The train journey from London to Edinburgh also offers scenic views of the British countryside and coastline, adding to the travel experience. In addition, train travel is a more eco-friendly option, producing significantly lower emissions than cars or planes.
London to Edinburgh Train Times (Typical Daily Schedule)
Trains from London to Edinburgh operate frequently throughout the day, with multiple departures from early morning until late evening. The schedule below shows typical daily train times and services travelers can usually expect on this route, along with the main train companies operating each service.
Most trains depart from London King’s Cross, while some services operate from London Euston, arriving at Edinburgh Waverley.
London to Edinburgh Train Schedule
Traveler Note: Displayed times represent typical daily services. We recommend booking 4-8 weeks in advance to secure the lowest “€49–€50” price tiers.
London to Edinburgh Train Ticket Prices & How to Save Money
Train ticket prices for the train from London to Edinburgh vary based on how early you book, the time of travel, and the ticket type you choose. While last-minute fares can be expensive, travelers who plan ahead can often secure cheap train tickets from London to Edinburgh at significantly lower prices.
Cheapest option when booked early. These are valid only for a specific train and time on your selected date.
Offering more flexibility, these tickets allow travel on the same day but generally carry a higher price point.
Upgrade for extra comfort, including complimentary food and drinks, spacious seating, and lounge access.
Cheapest Train Tickets from London to Edinburgh
The cheapest train tickets are usually Advance fares, with prices starting from around £26 when booked several weeks in advance. These tickets offer the best value but are limited in availability and sell out quickly.
Key things to know:How to Save on London–Edinburgh Train Tickets
Book early
Ticket prices are at their absolute lowest when you book 4–8 weeks in advance of your travel date.
Travel off-peak
Fares for midday and late-evening trains are often significantly cheaper than peak morning or rush-hour services.
Use a Railcard
Save up to ⅓ on most fares with 16–25, Senior, or Family & Friends Railcards.
Sign up for LNER Perks
Earn 2% cashback on every journey and get an instant £5 credit for future bookings.
Compare platforms
Always check both official operators and booking sites to find the most competitive pricing before purchasing.
London to Edinburgh Travel Options: Train vs Bus vs Flight
When traveling from London to Edinburgh, passengers can choose between train, bus, or flight depending on their priorities such as price, total travel time, comfort, or environmental impact. Each option offers a different balance of cost, speed, and convenience, making the comparison below helpful for choosing the best way to travel.
Distance: Approximately 331 miles (534 km)
London to Edinburgh Travel Comparison
| Travel Mode | Average Price | Avg. Total Time* | Fastest Time | CO₂ Emissions | Top Operator | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Train
|
€130 – €140 | ~5h 10m | ~4h 05m | 0.2–0.5 kg | LNER | Comfort & Reliability |
|
Bus
|
€30 – €40 | ~8h 00m | ~7h 45m | 0.5–1.3 kg | Megabus | Budget Travel |
|
Flight
|
€25 – €40 | ~4h 30m – 5h | 1h 50m (air) | 1.6–3.2 kg | easyJet | Speed (Air Time) |
*Average Total Travel Time includes estimates for airport/station transfers, security checks, and boarding.
Which Is the Best Way to Travel from London to Edinburgh?
For most travelers, the train from London to Edinburgh offers the best overall experience, combining reasonable journey time, central station access, onboard comfort, and the lowest carbon footprint. Buses suit budget travelers willing to trade time for lower prices, while flights appeal to those prioritizing air travel despite additional airport procedures.
London to Edinburgh Train Operators
LNER (London North Eastern Railway)
LNER is the primary and most popular train operator on the London to Edinburgh route, running frequent high-speed services along the East Coast Main Line. It is the fastest option for most travelers and offers modern trains with excellent onboard facilities.
Onboard Amenities
Lumo
Lumo is a low-cost, open-access operator offering direct electric trains between London and Edinburgh. It is popular with budget travelers looking for cheap train tickets without compromising comfort.
Onboard Amenities
Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast operates services via the West Coast Main Line. While journeys are slightly longer, it offers First Class comfort and departures from London Euston.
Onboard Amenities
Caledonian Sleeper (Overnight Train)
The Caledonian Sleeper is the overnight train from London to Edinburgh, ideal for travelers who want to arrive early morning while sleeping onboard. It offers private cabins and seated options.
Onboard Amenities
CrossCountry
CrossCountry provides long-distance services across the UK, including some London to Edinburgh connections with fewer frequencies but useful alternative timings.
Onboard Amenities
TransPennine Express
TransPennine Express mainly connects northern England and Scotland, offering limited London–Edinburgh connections via regional routes.
Onboard Amenities
Popular Train Stations on the London to Edinburgh Route
Traveling by train from London to Edinburgh involves some of the UK’s busiest and best-connected railway stations. Below are the main departure and arrival train stations, along with key amenities, services, and public transport connections to help you plan your journey smoothly.
The primary hub for LNER and Lumo services to Edinburgh. Located in central London, offering world-class retail and frequent high-speed departures.
Serves as the departure point for Avanti West Coast and the Caledonian Sleeper services via the West Coast Main Line.
The main arrival hub in the heart of Edinburgh, perfectly situated between the historic Old Town and the elegant New Town.
A key secondary station located ~1 km from the city centre, ideal for passengers staying in the West End or commuting to regional Scottish towns.
Avanti, LNER or Lumo: Which Train Is Best from London to Edinburgh?
When traveling by train from London to Edinburgh, passengers mainly choose between LNER, Lumo, and Avanti West Coast. All three operators run regular services between London and Edinburgh, but they differ in journey time, comfort, price, and onboard experience. Choosing the right train depends on whether you prioritise speed, comfort, flexibility, or cost.
Most London to Edinburgh high-speed trains run on the East Coast Main Line, departing from London King’s Cross and arriving at Edinburgh Waverley. This route is famous for its scenic coastal views north of Newcastle.
- LNER & Lumo: Depart London King’s Cross → Arrive Edinburgh Waverley
- Avanti West Coast: Depart London Euston → Arrive Edinburgh Waverley
The journey from London to Edinburgh is widely considered one of the most beautiful rail routes in the UK, featuring a blend of rolling farmland and dramatic North Sea views.
| Operator | Class | Key Onboard Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| LNER | First Class | Complimentary meals, Lounge access, Power sockets |
| LNER | Standard | Spacious seating, Free Wi-Fi, Food & drink menu |
| Lumo | Standard | Budget-friendly, 100% electric, modern interiors |
| Avanti | First Class | Meals included, Extra legroom, Onboard entertainment |
LNER is the best overall for comfort and frequency, while Lumo is the top choice for eco-conscious budget travelers booking in advance.
| Ticket Type | Flexibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Advance | Fixed train & time | Cheapest fares (book 4–12 weeks early) |
| Off-Peak | Limited flexibility | Avoiding morning/evening rush hours |
| Anytime | Fully flexible | Last-minute travel and total freedom |
*Railcards can typically save you up to 1/3 on ticket prices on almost all these types.
Frequently Asked Questions: Trains from London to Edinburgh
- LNER & Lumo: ~4h 15–30m
- Avanti West Coast: ~5h 30–45m
- Caledonian Sleeper: Overnight journey
- London King’s Cross (LNER, Lumo)
- London Euston (Avanti West Coast)
- Edinburgh Waverley (city centre)
- Cheapest Advance: from £30–£40
- Average Price: £60–£90
- Right side → Coastal views and the North Sea.
- Left side → English countryside and historic towns.
Railcards: Yes, Railcards offer up to 1/3 off Standard Class fares on this route.