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Edinburgh to Leeds train ticket prices

Travelling from Edinburgh to Leeds by train? Find fares from as low as €41.15. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€41.15󰄽

On Sun 02 Aug

  • Sun02 Aug
  • €50.50󰄽
    Mon03 Aug
  • €63.88󰄽
    Tue04 Aug
  • €49.14󰄽
    Wed05 Aug
  • €43.61󰄽
    Thu06 Aug
  • €58.96󰄽
    Fri07 Aug
  • €48.89󰄽
    Sat08 Aug

Edinburgh to Leeds train timetable

The journey from Edinburgh to Leeds on the fastest train in 2h 53m, usually 2h 58m. Each day, 30 trains leave from Edinburgh, starting at 08:55 and ending at 21:08. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

08:55

Edinburgh (Waverley)
2h 59m, 1 change

11:54

Leeds
LNER
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09:00

Edinburgh (Waverley)
3h 5m, 1 change

12:05

Leeds
LNER
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09:08

Edinburgh (Waverley)
2h 57m, Direct

12:05

Leeds
CrossCountry
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09:30

Edinburgh (Waverley)
2h 58m, 1 change

12:28

Leeds
LNER
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10:00

Edinburgh (Waverley)
2h 53m, 1 change

12:53

Leeds
LNER
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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.

Price
From €41.15
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
162 miles (261km)
Journey time
2h 53m
First train
08:55
Last train
21:08
Frequency
30
Train operators

CrossCountry: Edinburgh to Leeds trains

By Rosaline Nancy Kargbo | Updated May 20, 2026

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

The train journey from Edinburgh to Leeds combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can get to Leeds in just 2h 53m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Edinburgh to Leeds?

The average fare from Edinburgh to Leeds is approximately €41.15, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.

How do I find the best train route from Edinburgh to Leeds?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get 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 53m . 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, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Edinburgh to Leeds. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Edinburgh to Leeds?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Edinburgh to Leeds train timetables?

Edinburgh to Leeds trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

Do Edinburgh to Leeds trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Edinburgh to Leeds are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the Edinburgh to Leeds route?

The train from Edinburgh to Leeds is operated by CrossCountry. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.

  • 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.

  • Pets

    You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.

How to buy cheap Edinburgh to Leeds train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

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

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.