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London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train ticket prices
£41.94
On Tue 07 Jul
London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train timetable
Travelling from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh, the fastest train takes {lowTime} with an average travel time of {avgTime}. With {count} daily trains, the first departs at {FirstTime} and the last at {LastTime}. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:45 London Kings Cross | 4h 12m, Direct | 09:57 Edinburgh (Waverley) | Lumo | Find tickets |
05:48 London Kings Cross | 4h 40m, Direct | 10:28 Edinburgh (Waverley) | LNER | Find tickets |
06:30 London Kings Cross | 4h 8m, Direct | 10:38 Edinburgh (Waverley) | LNER | Find tickets |
06:33 London Kings Cross | 4h 35m, 1 change | 11:08 Edinburgh (Waverley) | LNER | Find tickets |
07:03 London Kings Cross | 4h 30m, Direct | 11:33 Edinburgh (Waverley) | LNER | Find tickets |
London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London Kings Cross 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.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
LNER | 4h 10m | London King’s Cross | Business travel, frequent departures & First Class comfort | Complimentary First Class dining and LNER loyalty rewards. |
Lumo | 4h 20m | London King’s Cross | Low fares & greener journeys | All-electric trains with typically the lowest advance fares. |
- LNER runs the most frequent services on the route, with trains departing at least twice an hour from London King’s Cross railway station. It’s the best choice for travellers looking for flexibility and a premium onboard experience, including the option of First Class with complimentary dining.
- Lumo offers a single-class, all-electric service between London and Scotland, focused on simple, low-cost travel. With a streamlined service onboard and competitive pricing, it’s often the cheapest option for advance tickets on the route.
Train travel from London King’s Cross to Edinburgh
From the bustling energy of King’s Cross to the medieval skyline of Edinburgh, this 380-mile journey connects two of Britain’s great cities by rail. Make the most of these insider tips to maximise your journey from London to the Scottish capital.
London King’s Cross: Getting to the Platform
- The Platform Tip: LNER and Lumo both run Edinburgh services from King’s Cross, but they often depart from different parts of the station. LNER trains usually depart from platforms 8-11 on the main concourse, while Lumo frequently departs from the suburban platforms 1-2, a short 2-minute walk to the left of the main departure boards. Platforms are only announced shortly before departure, so keep an eye on the boards.
- Pre-Departure: For a relaxed start to your journey, drop by The Parcel Yard pub and restaurant for coffee or breakfast with views over the platforms. If you’re visiting for the first time, the Platform 9¾ Harry Potter shop near platforms 9-11 is also definitely worth a quick look.
Onboard trains from London King's Cross to Edinburgh
Once onboard, the journey north along the East Coast Main Line offers some of the most beautiful railway scenery in Britain, linking historic cities, cathedral towns and dramatic coastal landscapes between England and Scotland.
- The View Alert: For the best scenery, aim to sit on the right-hand side of the train as you face north. After Newcastle, the line hugs the Northumberland coast, offering sweeping views of the North Sea, with its sandy beaches and rugged cliffs.
- Key Landmarks: As the train heads north, look out for dramatic views of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle rising above the River Wear. The route then passes through Newcastle upon Tyne, where the city’s famous bridges span the River Tyne.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley
- The Princes Street Exit: Use this exit for Princes Street, St Andrew Square and the New Town. It’s also the easiest way to reach bus stops and the Edinburgh Tram, which connects the city centre with Edinburgh Airport.
- The Market Street Exit: Choose the Market Street side if you’re heading uphill towards the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle or the university district. The taxi rank is also located here.
- Onward Travel: Taxis and ride pickups operate from Market Street, while frequent buses run along Princes Street above the station. Most major attractions are within easy walking distance if you don’t mind tackling a few hills.
London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train travel guide
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?
Ticket prices from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh average around £41.94, 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.
What is the best way to travel from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh by train?
Are there direct trains from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?
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
Are London Kings Cross to Edinburgh trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While London Kings Cross 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 London Kings Cross 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?
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 London Kings Cross to Edinburgh trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London Kings Cross to Edinburgh 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?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
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
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.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar 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
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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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.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap London Kings Cross to Edinburgh 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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