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Edinburgh to Leeds train ticket prices
€35.88
On Wed 11 Feb
Edinburgh to Leeds train timetable
Travelling from Edinburgh to Leeds, the fastest train takes 2h 51m with an average travel time of 2h 59m. 54 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:37 and the last at 23:45. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
12:30 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 57m, 1 change | 15:27 Leeds | LNER | Find tickets |
13:00 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 54m, 1 change | 15:54 Leeds | LNER | Find tickets |
13:05 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 59m, Direct | 16:04 Leeds | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
13:30 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 57m, 1 change | 16:27 Leeds | LNER | Find tickets |
14:00 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 54m, 1 change | 16:54 Leeds | LNER | Find tickets |
Edinburgh to Leeds train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh to Leeds with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
CrossCountry: Edinburgh to Leeds trains
It takes precisely three hours to get from Edinburgh to Leeds with CrossCountry.
As you travel to Leeds, you’ll head south from Edinburgh through the romantic Scottish Borders and wild Northumberland, passing through County Durham where, if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Durham’s distinguished cathedral. From there, you’ll continue into North Yorkshire, enjoying its delightful farmland, rolling moors, and traditional country pubs on your way to Leeds.
CrossCountry offers an extensive rail network linking numerous towns and cities across England, Scotland, and Wales. This enables fast and convenient travel to major British cities such as Cardiff, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham.
Departing from Edinburgh Waverley
Edinburgh Waverley is an excellently placed station from which to depart. It’s situated right in the middle of the ‘old’ town of Edinburgh with its cavernous Medieval alleyways and dwellings and the gallant, stocky and stately buildings along the Royal Mile, like Edinburgh Castle. While the ‘new’ town comprises light and airy 18th-century neoclassical townhouses and ornate 19th-century Victorian architecture.
Its central location makes it an excellent departure point, as buses and Edinburgh’s tram network can drop you near the station on Princes Street. Taxis can also drop you off directly at the station.
If you’ve arrived from Edinburgh Airport, you can take a tram from Edinburgh Park station that will take you directly to Princes Street as well.
LNER, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail and Lumo run from Edinburgh Waverley.
Main stops
There are six stops from Edinburgh Waverley to Leeds:
Although these may change due to scheduling, engineering work, poor weather, or train faults, it’s best to check before you travel to avoid disappointment.
If you want to buy cheap train tickets, it’s best to use sites like TrainPal to find the cheapest fares. Plus, if you add a Railcard you can bag yourself an extra discount.
Arriving at Leeds
Arriving at Leeds Station puts you right in the heart of the action. The station is south of the city centre, beside many public transport options and exciting ways to explore the city. It is located on New Station Street, south of City Square and nearby Bishopgate Street.
A taxi rank can be found outside the Aire Street entrance, and plenty of local bus routes operate around Leeds City and the rest of West Yorkshire beside the station.
Leeds is a city with so much going for it. It has a whole flask of exciting bars, restaurants, pubs and clubs to choose from to suit anyone’s tastes and budget. There’s the Royal Armouries Museum and Leeds City Museum if you’d like to dabble in some history, or Trinity Leeds is only a short walk from the station if you need some retail therapy.
Leeds station is the fourth busiest station in the UK outside of London, behind only Birmingham New Street, Manchester Piccadilly, and Glasgow Central. This is because it’s a central hub on the UK’s rail network, linking the west and east. It’s also the terminus of the Leeds branch of the East Coast Mainline. Accordingly, LNER, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, and Northern all run services through Leeds.
CrossCountry train classes
- Standard Class: Onboard Wi-Fi, charging points, and tables. Snacks and drinks are available from the onboard shop.
- First Class: A CrossCountry Edinburgh to Leeds First Class ticket provides a more spacious and comfortable journey with larger seats and complimentary refreshments.
CrossCountry train travel advice
- Luggage: A maximum of three items: one small item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small pets are free of charge. They must be well-behaved and do not disturb other passengers. Two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Bicycle reservations are required before travelling.
- Children: Children receive cheaper tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
- Passenger Assist: Provide assistance at stations and on trains, or during transfers, help with luggage, offer discounts for disabled passengers, and other services.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Edinburgh to Leeds train travel guide
Taking the train from Edinburgh to Leeds is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can arrive at Leeds in just 2h 51m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Edinburgh to Leeds?
Ticket prices from Edinburgh to Leeds average around €35.88, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
How do I find the best train route from Edinburgh to Leeds?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to Leeds?
The quickest train journey from Edinburgh to Leeds takes 2h 51m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from Edinburgh to Leeds?
No, there are no direct trains from Edinburgh to Leeds. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Edinburgh to Leeds?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey
Are Edinburgh to Leeds trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Edinburgh to Leeds trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Edinburgh to Leeds is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do Edinburgh to Leeds trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Edinburgh to Leeds route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.

Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Edinburgh to Leeds route?
The route from Edinburgh to Leeds is operated by Avanti West Coast. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
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Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Edinburgh to Leeds train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds

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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.





















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