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Birmingham to Edinburgh train ticket prices

Travelling from Birmingham to Edinburgh by train? Find fares from as low as £29.00. 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

£29.00󰄽

On Tue 14 Jul

  • Tue14 Jul
  • £42.00󰄽
    Wed15 Jul
  • £29.00󰄽
    Thu16 Jul
  • £43.00󰄽
    Fri17 Jul
  • £34.50󰄽
    Sat18 Jul
  • £40.00󰄽
    Sun19 Jul
  • £50.33󰄽
    Mon20 Jul

Birmingham to Edinburgh train timetable

From Birmingham to Edinburgh, take the fastest train in 4h 11m, typically 4h 46m. Daily, 43 trains depart from Birmingham, with the first at 01:35 and the last at 23:09. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
DepartsArrivesOperator

12:03

Birmingham New Street
5h 6m, Direct

17:09

Edinburgh (Waverley)
CrossCountry
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12:07

Birmingham New Street
4h 11m, Direct

16:18

Edinburgh (Waverley)
Avanti West Coast
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12:25

Birmingham New Street
4h 44m, 1 change

17:09

Edinburgh (Waverley)
CrossCountry
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13:03

Birmingham New Street
5h 7m, Direct

18:10

Edinburgh (Waverley)
CrossCountry
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13:07

Birmingham New Street
4h 33m, 1 change

17:40

Edinburgh (Waverley)
Avanti West Coast
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Birmingham to Edinburgh train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Birmingham 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 £29.00
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
246 miles (395km)
Journey time
4h 11m
First train
01:35
Last train
23:09
Frequency
43

Avanti West Coast vs CrossCountry: Which is best?

By Mark Wilshin | Updated May 29, 2026
Swap the hassle of traffic and getting to the airport for a reliable, eco-friendly train from Birmingham to Edinburgh. CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast services to the Scottish capital run frequently throughout the day. Compare each operator with this side-by-side comparison:
Train operators
Avg. duration
Departure station
Best for
Feature services
Avanti West Coast
4h 14m
Business, faster trains, upgrade options
Cheaper Advance tickets, Standard Premium Class (First Class benefits at a lower price)
CrossCountry
5h 6m
Birmingham New Street
Frequent departures
First Class upgrade option
  • Avanti West Coast offers the fastest and cheapest trains, running every hour via Preston and Carlisle and taking as little as 4 hours and 11 minutes. Choose from three train classes for a range of onboard perks.
  • CrossCountry services also run every hour and take a slightly longer but scenic route past York and along the coast via Berwick-upon-Tweed. You can also book a Birmingham to Edinburgh First Class ticket for more comfort.

Train travel from Birmingham to Edinburgh

Zoom through 246 miles (395 kilometres) on the high-speed Birmingham to Edinburgh train, and get from the heart of one city to another. Our frequent-traveller tips will help you navigate the stations and buy cheap train tickets for the best seats in the carriage.

Birmingham New Street: Getting to the platform

Sitting beneath the Grand Central shopping centre, the centrally located Birmingham New Street station is easy to reach on foot, by local bus or from Wolverhampton on the West Midlands Metro. Get to know the colour-coded lounge-style concourse and find your train faster.
  • Colour-coded zones: Three colours are used for the station’s three platform groups. Platforms 1A–5A are in the Blue zone, platforms 6A–12A are in the Green zone, and platforms 1B–12B belong to the Red zone. Both CrossCountry and Avanti services tend to depart from platforms in the Blue and Green zones.
  • Platform layout: Birmingham New Street has 12 main platforms divided into A and B sections (excluding platforms 4A, 4B and 4C). Check the departures board and leave plenty of time to reach the right part of the platform.
  • Pre-departure shopping: Whether you need last-minute essentials or food to go, you’ll find it all in the Grand Central and Bullring shopping complex above or within the station below. Grab travel items from Boots, a takeaway bento from Wasabi or a coffee from Costa in the station concourse.

On board trains from Birmingham to Edinburgh

No need to keep your eyes on the road and miss the spectacular scenery. Birmingham to Edinburgh train journeys give you the time to relax and views you won’t find elsewhere.

  • View alert: If you’re on a CrossCountry train, book a seat on the right for dreamy views over Durham Castle and Cathedral, the Tyne Bridge and Berwick-upon-Tweed’s clifftops as the train hugs the coastline between Newcastle and Edinburgh. The Avanti West Coast route offers scenic river crossings, magnificent hills and waterside views, including the River Ribble near Preston, the Lake District and the Shap Summit in Cumbria. Enjoy the landscapes on the left side of the train.
  • Onboard refreshments: Order whatever you fancy, from light bites and hot drinks to meal deals. CrossCountry passengers enjoy at-seat delivery, while Avanti travellers can skip the queue and pick up their order from the onboard café. Birmingham to Edinburgh First Class ticket holders get complimentary catering served straight to their table.

Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley

The Birmingham to Edinburgh train stops at Edinburgh Waverley, which couldn’t be better located for exploring the city and connecting to other modes of transport.

  • Princes Street exit: Waverley station’s northern exit leads to Edinburgh’s New Town, shops and city centre.
  • Market Street exit: Leading to the Old Town, this exit is ideal for reaching the Royal Mile or the University of Edinburgh.
  • Waverley Bridge exit: If you’re boarding a sightseeing bus or taking the Airlink 100 bus to the airport, head this way out.
  • Calton Road exit: This exit beside platform 2 has a dedicated pick-up point for drivers to meet passengers.
  • Onward travel: The city centre and surrounding attractions are all within walking distance - just be prepared for a few hills. Alternatively, you can take a Lothian or Borders bus route from Princes Street, North Bridge or The Mound. Edinburgh Waverley also connects you to Edinburgh Trams from St Andrew Square and taxi ranks on Market Street and Waverley Bridge.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Birmingham to Edinburgh train travel guide

Travelling by train from Birmingham to Edinburgh is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Birmingham, you can reach Edinburgh in just 4h 11m, 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 Birmingham to Edinburgh?

The average fare from Birmingham to Edinburgh is approximately £29.00, 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 Birmingham to Edinburgh?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Birmingham 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 Birmingham to Edinburgh?

The fastest train journey time from Birmingham to Edinburgh is 4h 11m. 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 Birmingham to Edinburgh?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Birmingham 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 Birmingham to Edinburgh?

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

How do I find Birmingham to Edinburgh train timetables?

While Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham to Edinburgh trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Birmingham 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

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

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?

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 Birmingham to Edinburgh route?

The train from Birmingham to Edinburgh 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

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar 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

    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.

  • 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

    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 Birmingham to Edinburgh train tickets

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

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?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

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.