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  3. Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)

Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices

Travelling from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train? Find fares from as low as €39.74. 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

€39.74󰄽

On Thu 21 May

  • €61.42󰄽
    Sun17 May
  • €50.58󰄽
    Mon18 May
  • €50.58󰄽
    Tue19 May
  • €40.94󰄽
    Wed20 May
  • Thu21 May
  • €59.01󰄽
    Fri22 May
  • €97.54󰄽
    Sat23 May

Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 €39.74
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
246 miles (395km)
Journey time
4h 12m
First train
09:03
Last train
22:03
Frequency
23

CrossCountry: Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh Waverley trains

You can travel from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh Waverley in about 5 hours with CrossCountry's direct service.

It's a spectacular journey, too. Trains go past the Peak District National Park, through the Yorkshire Dales and along Scotland's coast before arriving into Edinburgh's city centre. It's popular with tourists wanting to explore this famous city and the wider Highlands area.

CrossCountry provides fast train services from Birmingham to major cities across the region, including Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Bristol and Edinburgh.

Departing from Birmingham New Street

Birmingham New Street's central location means it's easy to reach from anywhere in the city and the surrounding areas. You can walk there from the main shopping areas like the Bullring, or take a bus or Midland Metro - the stops are close by.

As Birmingham's main station, there are departures to cities across the country. Avanti West Coast runs fast trains to London Euston and up to Scotland, while CrossCountry has services to Manchester, Cardiff and the South West.
West Midlands Railway handles local services around the region, and Chiltern Railways offers an alternative route to London Marylebone from Birmingham Moor Street station — this is about a 10-minute walk away.

Main stops

This service from Birmingham to Edinburgh stops at some of the North's biggest cities, including Derby, Sheffield, Leeds, York and Newcastle.

Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley

Edinburgh Waverley is right in the heart of Scotland's capital, making it a breeze to explore the city or connect to onward travel. The station is located between the historic Old Town and Georgian New Town, just off Princes Street. Edinburgh Castle is only a 10-minute walk away, while the famous Royal Mile and main shopping streets are all within easy reach.

The station has 4 main exits, so pick the right one for where you're heading - Princes Street for the New Town shopping area, or Market Street if you're exploring the Old Town and Royal Mile.

It's one of Scotland's busiest stations, with services run by ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry and TransPennine Express. From here you can catch direct trains to London King's Cross, Glasgow Queen Street, Inverness, Aberdeen and Newcastle. There are also long-distance services to Birmingham, Bristol and Plymouth, plus overnight sleeper trains to London.

CrossCountry train classes

CrossCountry trains generally have 2 main classes on their Voyager trains to Scotland.

  • Standard Class: Comfy seating, free Wi-Fi and plug sockets are some of the features of Standard Class. Food and drinks are available to buy on most of CrossCountry's Voyager trains, either at an on-board shop or via a trolley service.
  • First Class: Offers larger reclining seats with extra space in quieter carriages. Each seat comes with a table, extra Wi-Fi allowance, and complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on select services.

CrossCountry train travel advice

  • Luggage: You should only bring 1 bag with maximum dimensions of 30 x 70 x 90 cm as space is tight on CrossCountry services. Some Voyager trains have a dedicated luggage space on coaches D and J - be sure to double-check before booking.
  • Bikes: CrossCountry trains have 2 reservable bike spaces, plus 1 space for an unreserved bike on Voyager trains. This is available on a first come, first served basis, so it's a good idea to reserve a space in advance. It's free.
  • Families: With a Family & Friends Railcard you could save 1/3 on adult fares and even more on kids' fares. Without a railcard, kids under 5 travel for free while young ones between 5 and 15 get 50% off.
  • Pets: You can travel with 2 pets for free on trains as long as you follow a few rules: small animals will need to be in a container and dogs on a lead, neither can occupy a seat.
  • Passenger Assistance: If you need help with things like boarding, or would like to book a wheelchair space, you can reserve these at least 2 hours in advance.

Avanti West Coast: Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh Waverley trains

On Avanti West Coast's direct trains, it takes just over 4 hours to travel from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh Waverley. Trains generally depart every 2 hours towards Scotland.

You're in for scenic views on this route, too - the line goes through the Southern Uplands, over Beattock Summit and between the Lake District and Pennines - it's one of Britain's most scenic rail journeys with dramatic landscapes between Motherwell and Lancaster.
Avanti West Coast operates long-distance services on the West Coast Main Line, linking cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Main stops

On this route, Avanti West Coast stops at Wolverhampton, Stafford, Wigan, Crewe and Preston (Lancs).

Avanti West Coast train classes

Avanti West Coast offers 3 classes on their trains:

  • Standard Class: Gives you free Wi-Fi, plug sockets at select seats and access to the onboard shop where you can buy snacks and drinks.
  • Standard Premium: Offers all the perks of Standard with extra legroom, a guaranteed table and plug sockets at every window seat.
  • First Class: Treats you to larger seats with more room to stretch out, guaranteed tables and complimentary food and drink (on select services). Passengers can also unwind at the Avanti West Coast lounge in Birmingham New Street before their departure (be sure to check opening times before you travel).

Avanti West Coast train travel advice

  • Luggage: It's best to bring only small cases on board Avanti West Coast - as trains are optimised for speed, space can be limited. Bags shouldn't be bigger than 30 x 70 x 90 cm in size.
  • Bicycles: You can travel with a bike for free on Avanti West Coast trains; you'll just have to make a reservation. Where your bike goes depends on the train, so be sure to arrive at Birmingham New Street 10 minutes ahead of departure for directions from station staff.
  • Children: Children under 5 are free, and 5-15 year olds get 50% of the adult fare. If you have small children, prams and pushchairs are allowed. The Friends & Family railcard is also valid on Avanti West Coast services to Edinburgh.
  • Pets: Good news - you can bring up to 2 pets without paying extra. Just keep smaller animals in carriers and dogs on leads, and make sure they don't take up seats.
  • Passenger Assistance: You can reserve help through the nationwide Passenger Assistance app or website up to 2 hours before you travel. This covers things like boarding and reserving a wheelchair space. 
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide

Taking the train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Birmingham New Street, you can arrive at Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 4h 12m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

Ticket prices from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) average around €39.74, 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.

How do I find the best train route from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

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 Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley).

What is the fastest train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

The quickest train journey from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) takes 4h 12m . 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 Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley). 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 Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

While Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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?

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, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

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?

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 Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?

The train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) is operated by Avanti West Coast. 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

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • 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

    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

    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

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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?

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.