Dunbar to Edinburgh (Waverley) Trains From £4.80*

TransPennine Express also operates direct trains between Dunbar and Edinburgh, with journey times starting around 28 minutes. Although less frequent than CrossCountry, TPE services are comfortable and ideal for longer-distance travellers entering Northern England.

TPE offers intercity and regional train services across Northern England and Scotland. Its core routes connect cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds, with extended service to coastal towns such as Scarborough and Middlesbrough.

Departing from Dunbar

Dunbar railway station sits on the East Coast Main Line and serves the historic town of Dunbar in East Lothian. It's easily reachable by several bus routes, including the East Coast Buses and Borders Buses Service 253, which connects Edinburgh and Berwick-upon-Tweed to Dunbar in under an hour.

Eve Coaches also serves local routes. If driving, Dunbar is about 45 minutes from Edinburgh via the A1. Limited paid parking is available at the station, with the option to reserve in advance through services like JustPark. While there's no taxi rank, local companies such as Torrance Taxis offer pre-booked services. The station is centrally located, and most of the town's key attractions are within easy walking distance.

Train services from Dunbar are well-connected. CrossCountry offers direct long-distance services to Edinburgh, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Newcastle, Leeds, and Birmingham, with some services extending to Bristol, Exeter, and Plymouth. ScotRail runs local commuter services to Edinburgh Waverley. LNER provides fast intercity links to Edinburgh, Newcastle, York, and a limited direct service to London King's Cross. TransPennine Express connects Dunbar to Edinburgh and Reston, with onward connections to cities like Manchester.

Main stops

TransPennine Express trains from Dunbar to Edinburgh Waverley stop at Reston, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Alnmouth, Morpeth, and East Linton before arriving in Edinburgh.

Arriving at Edinburgh (Waverley)

Edinburgh Waverley station is ideally placed for arrival, set in a valley between the city's Old Town and New Town. As a major hub, Waverley hosts trains from ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Lumo, and the Caledonian Sleeper. From here, you can travel throughout Scotland to destinations such as Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Inverness, and across the UK, including direct trains to London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

Minutes from the station, you'll find Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument, and the Royal Mile, which leads to Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. The Scottish National Gallery is a short walk away and offers free access to an impressive fine art collection.

TransPennine Express train classes

TransPennine Express provides Standard and First Class seating between Dunbar and Edinburgh on its trains. First Class is located in Coach E on Nova 1 and Nova 2 trains and in Coach C or G on refurbished Class 185 trains.

Standard Class features comfortable seating, power sockets, luggage racks, and access to onboard food and drink for purchase.

First Class offers larger, more spacious seating with power sockets, USB ports, and complimentary refreshments where available.

TransPennine Express train travel advice

To ensure a smooth experience with TPE, keep in mind the following:

• Luggage: Each passenger may bring one small bag and two larger items, with a maximum size of 30 x 70 x 90 cm.
• Bicycles: Non-folding bikes must be reserved in advance; folding bikes can be carried as luggage.
• Children: Under 5s travel free; children 5 to 15 can travel on discounted fares, with offers like "Kids for a Quid" available on off-peak journeys.
• Pets: Up to two pets per passenger may travel free if on a lead or in a carrier.
• Passenger Assist: Assistance can be requested online, by phone, or via WhatsApp on 07812 223336, and it should be booked two hours in advance.

ScotRail operates direct services from Dunbar to Edinburgh Waverley, with journey times starting from around 27 minutes. These electric services offer regular, accessible connections ideal for commuters and visitors.

This route runs along the East Coast Main Line, providing scenic views of the coastline and countryside. It's a convenient option for daily travel and trips to the capital.

ScotRail is Scotland's national train operator, covering over 340 stations and offering extensive services nationwide. It connects cities like Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Edinburgh with regional towns and remote communities, including scenic lines like the West Highland Line and routes to Thurso.

Main stops

ScotRail trains running from Dunbar to Edinburgh (Waverley) usually stop at the following main stations: Dunbar, Longniddry, Prestonpans, Wallyford, Musselburgh, Brunstane, Edinburgh (Waverley). This stopping pattern may vary depending on specific service times. Always check the latest ScotRail timetable for exact stops on your chosen journey.

ScotRail train classes

ScotRail services on this route are usually operated by Class 385 electric trains, offering both Standard and First Class.

• Standard Class has a 2+2 seating layout, power sockets, and designated luggage space. It's well-suited for short and medium journeys.
• First Class offers a 2+1 layout, more space, guaranteed tables, and complimentary snacks or drinks on longer routes. Upgrades can sometimes be purchased onboard if space is available.

ScotRail train travel advice

Here's what to know before travelling with ScotRail:

• Luggage: No strict limit, but items must fit in racks or under your seat.
• Bicycles: Some trains require bike reservations; folding bikes are allowed without one.
• Children: Under 5s travel free; children aged 5 to 15 get 50% off. The Kids Go Free offer lets children travel free with a fare-paying adult on off-peak routes.
• Pets: Two pets per passenger may travel free, with leashes or carriers required.
• Passenger Assist: Help can be arranged online or via the free Passenger Assist app, ideally booked 2+ hours in advance.

LNER (London North Eastern Railway) also provides high-speed services between Dunbar and Edinburgh Waverley, with journey times from just 21 minutes. These limited-stop services offer a fast and comfortable way to reach the capital.

The East Coast route is especially beautiful, offering views of cliff edges, coastal farmlands, and seaside villages.

LNER operates long-distance high-speed services on the East Coast Main Line, linking London with cities such as Edinburgh, York, Newcastle, and Leeds. Its Azuma trains are known for comfort, speed, and reliability.

Main stops

LNER operates frequent trains between Dunbar and Edinburgh Waverley, a key route on the East Coast Main Line. Principal stops on this journey typically include Dunbar, Musselburgh, and Edinburgh Waverley, providing direct access to central Edinburgh.

LNER train classes

LNER offers two travel experiences: Standard and First Class. Azuma trains operate most services.

• Standard Class: Comfortable seating with free WiFi, power sockets, and food or drink from the Let's Eat Cafe Bar.
• First Class: Spacious seating, table service, complimentary meals and drinks depending on time of day, and lounge access at selected stations.

LNER train travel advice

Before travelling with LNER, consider these tips:

• Luggage: Passengers can bring up to three pieces of luggage. Large items must fit in dedicated racks.
• Bicycles: Standard bikes require a free reservation. Folding bikes can be carried without one.
• Children: Children under 5 travel free. Ages 5–15 receive child fares. Family Railcards offer additional discounts.
• Pets: Two pets may travel per person at no extra charge, with rules around leads and carriers.
• Passenger Assistance: Assistance can be arranged online or by phone. Booking 24 hours in advance is advised for the best support.

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