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Leeds to Edinburgh train ticket prices
£23.90
On Fri 24 Jul
Leeds to Edinburgh train timetable
Travelling from Leeds to Edinburgh, the fastest train takes 2h 54m with an average travel time of 3h. 57 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 03:18 and the last at 22:47. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
07:06 Leeds | 4h 31m, 1 change | 11:37 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
07:32 Leeds | 2h 56m, 1 change | 10:28 Edinburgh (Waverley) | LNER | Find tickets |
07:43 Leeds | 2h 55m, 1 change | 10:38 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
08:10 Leeds | 2h 58m, Direct | 11:08 Edinburgh (Waverley) | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
08:29 Leeds | 3h 4m, 1 change | 11:33 Edinburgh (Waverley) | LNER | Find tickets |
Leeds to Edinburgh train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Leeds to Edinburgh 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.
Travelling with CrossCountry: Onboard experience
How much luggage can you travel with on CrossCountry trains?
Are pets allowed on trains from Leeds to Edinburgh?
What amenities are included in CrossCountry Standard Class carriages?
Should I upgrade to First Class CrossCountry tickets?
If you’re after the most comfortable onboard experience, upgrading to Leeds to Edinburgh First Class accommodation is a smart choice. The larger reclining seating is ideal for long-distance travel, and you’ve got plenty of room for working on individual tables. A range of beverages and food is offered at no extra cost.
Train travel from Leeds to Edinburgh
Make every stage of the 162-mile (261-kilometre) journey to the Scottish capital seamless with our detailed travel tips.
Departure from Leeds
Easily access the Leeds to Edinburgh train from all corners of the city. Leeds station is eight minutes from the central shopping areas and 14 minutes from the bus station on foot. You can also take buses directly to the rail hub or nearby streets.
- Finding your platform: Made up of 18 platforms, Leeds station connects passengers to their trains from one main concourse. Platforms 0–6 are immediately in front of the ticket barriers, while platforms 7 and 8 are around the corner on the left. Use the footbridges, escalators or lift to get to platforms 9–17. If you don’t have luggage, you can beat the crowds to these platforms by using the quieter footbridge by Zone D of platforms 8–16.
- A quick shopping trip: Whether you want a book for the journey or a bite to eat before boarding, there are over 15 options within the station. Fuel up at Upper Crust, Leon or Coffee Room. Shops like WHSmith offer a range of items for your travels.
On board trains from Leeds to Edinburgh
The route from Leeds to Edinburgh Waverley combines great service with jaw-dropping views.
- Scenic views from your seat: Get your camera ready for stunning coastal landscapes as you cross the border. Sit on the right for the best scenery, including Durham Cathedral, Newcastle’s iconic Tyne Bridge and the clifftops in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
- Onboard dining: Order tasty treats and beverages from the comfort of your seat. Leeds to Edinburgh First Class passengers enjoy complimentary refreshments.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley
The Leeds to Edinburgh train calls at Edinburgh Waverley, the capital’s primary station. Here are the exits and connections to the rest of the city.
- Princes Street exit: Located at the station’s northern side, this exit leads to the city centre, shops and the New Town.
- Waverley Bridge exit: For quick access to sightseeing buses or the Airlink 100 bus to Edinburgh Airport, head up towards street level via the two roadways by platforms 12 and 17.
- Market Street exit: This exit offers a convenient route to the University of Edinburgh, the Old Town and the Royal Mile.
- Calton Road exit: If you’re getting a lift from the station, the driver can use the dedicated pick-up point near platform 2.
- Transport options: Edinburgh Waverley station connects the charming Old Town, the Georgian New Town and the areas surrounding it. You can easily transfer to an Edinburgh Trams service from St Andrew Square or hop on a local bus route (serving Princes Street, The Mound and North Bridge). Taxi ranks are located on Waverley Bridge and Market Street.
Leeds to Edinburgh train travel guide
Taking the train from Leeds to Edinburgh is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Leeds, you can arrive at Edinburgh in just 2h 54m, 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 Leeds to Edinburgh?
The average ticket fare from Leeds to Edinburgh is about £23.90, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from Leeds to Edinburgh?
What is the fastest train from Leeds to Edinburgh?
The fastest train journey time from Leeds to Edinburgh is 2h 54m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Leeds to Edinburgh?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leeds to Edinburgh. 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 Leeds to Edinburgh?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
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
How do I find Leeds to Edinburgh train timetables?
While Leeds to Edinburgh 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 Leeds to Edinburgh 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?
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 Leeds to Edinburgh trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Leeds to Edinburgh 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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the Leeds to Edinburgh route?
The route from Leeds to Edinburgh is operated by CrossCountry. 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
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.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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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
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 Leeds to Edinburgh train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
* 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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