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London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train ticket prices
€46.10
On Thu 07 May
London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train timetable
From London Kings Cross to Edinburgh, take the fastest train in 5h 28m, typically 6h. Daily, 62 trains depart from London Kings Cross, with the first at 05:42 and the last at 23:33. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:42 London Kings Cross | 6h 38m, Direct | 12:20 Waverley | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
05:48 London Kings Cross | 6h 24m, 2 change | 12:12 Waverley | LNER | Find tickets |
06:33 London Kings Cross | 5h 57m, 2 change | 12:30 Waverley | LNER | Find tickets |
06:46 London Kings Cross | 5h 34m, 1 change | 12:20 Waverley | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
06:46 London Kings Cross | 5h 45m, 2 change | 12:31 Edinburgh Gateway | Avanti West Coast | 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
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.
London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train travel guide
Taking the train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from London Kings Cross, you can arrive at Edinburgh in just 5h 28m, 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 London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?
The average fare from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh is approximately €46.10, 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.
What is the best way to travel from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh by train?
What is the fastest train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?
The fastest train journey time from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh is 5h 28m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh?
No, there are no direct trains from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh. 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 London Kings Cross 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?
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
How do I find London Kings Cross to Edinburgh train timetables?
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?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed 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?
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?
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?
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 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
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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 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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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
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 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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