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  3. London Kings Cross to Edinburgh

London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train ticket prices

Travelling from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh by train? Find fares from as low as €54.51. 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

€54.51󰄽

On Thu 07 May

  • €81.04󰄽
    Sat02 May
  • €98.60󰄽
    Sun03 May
  • €84.29󰄽
    Mon04 May
  • €74.54󰄽
    Tue05 May
  • €61.91󰄽
    Wed06 May
  • Thu07 May

London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train timetable

Travelling from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh, the fastest train takes 4h 6m with an average travel time of 4h 29m. With 51 daily trains, the first departs at 05:45 and the last at 23:42. 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.

DepartsArrivesOperator

10:30

London Kings Cross
4h 9m, Direct

14:39

Waverley
LNER
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10:33

London Kings Cross
4h 37m, 1 change

15:10

Waverley
LNER
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11:03

London Kings Cross
4h 31m, Direct

15:34

Waverley
LNER
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11:30

London Kings Cross
4h 8m, Direct

15:38

Waverley
LNER
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11:33

London Kings Cross
4h 34m, 1 change

16:07

Waverley
LNER
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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.

Price
From €54.51
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
330 miles (531km)
Journey time
4h 6m
First train
05:45
Last train
23:42
Frequency
51

LNER vs Lumo: Which should you choose?

Both LNER and Lumo run direct services between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh, with trains departing throughout the day. The best option will usually depend on the cost of your ticket and the departure time that suits you best.

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

London King’s Cross sits at the heart of London’s transport network, with easy London Underground connections via the Northern, Victoria, Piccadilly, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines. And with St Pancras International next door, there are also additional Thameslink and international rail links.
  • 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

Set in a natural valley beneath Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Waverley sits directly between the city’s Old Town and New Town, making it one of the most central stations in the UK. Picking the right exit helps you reach both parts of town quickly.

  • 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.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train travel guide

Travelling by train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London Kings Cross, you can reach Edinburgh in just 4h 6m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?

The average fare from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh is approximately €54.51, 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 London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?

The quickest train journey from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh takes 4h 6m . 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 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

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train timetables?

London Kings Cross to Edinburgh trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

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 route from London Kings Cross 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

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, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific 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 London Kings Cross to Edinburgh route?

The London Kings Cross to Edinburgh route is operated by Avanti West Coast. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the 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

    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.

  • 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.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • 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

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

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.