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Edinburgh to Liverpool train ticket prices
£16.70
On Mon 28
Edinburgh to Liverpool train timetable
Travelling from Edinburgh to Liverpool, the fastest train takes 3h 27m with an average travel time of 4h 12m. 21 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:37 and the last at 14:30. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
08:52 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 27m, 1 change | 12:19 Liverpool Lime Street | Northern | Find tickets |
08:52 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h 12m, 1 change | 13:04 Liverpool Lime Street | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
12:12 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 57m, 2 change | 16:09 Liverpool Lime Street | Northern | Find tickets |
12:52 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 30m, 1 change | 16:22 Liverpool Lime Street | Northern | Find tickets |
12:52 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h 12m, 1 change | 17:04 Liverpool Lime Street | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
Edinburgh to Liverpool train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh to Liverpool 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.
Avanti West Coast vs TransPennine Express: Which should you choose?
For trains from Edinburgh to Liverpool, you’ll have to make a change along the way, as there are no direct trains. There are quite a few routes you can choose from, so we’ve selected the best options and their advantages so you can opt for the best route for your needs.
Train operators | Departure station | Avg. duration (indirect route) | Best for | Featured services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Avanti West Coast & Northern | Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 30m (change at Wigan) | Speed and value | Catering on first leg, easy station transfer |
TransPennine Express | Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 35m (change at Preston) | Comfort, flexibility | Catering on both legs |
Avanti West Coast | Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h (change at Crewe) | First Class, business travellers | Hot food in First Class on both legs |
Train travel from Edinburgh to Liverpool
Heading to the station to catch a train of this length can seem daunting, but when you know exactly what you’re doing, it’s a piece of cake. We make sure you know exactly how to get around your departure and arrival stations so you can walk confidently on and off your train.
Departing from Edinburgh (Waverley)
- Platforms by operator: Trains heading to Liverpool usually depart from the west end of the station, with TransPennine and Avanti departures often leaving from Platforms 7, 8 & 9. Platforms 10 & 11 may also be used as secondary platforms for these routes.
- Check the departure boards and head to your platform: Platforms 7 & 11 are next to the southern suburban lines and have their own ticket barriers; you’ll need an extra minute to reach them. Access Platforms 8, 9 and 10 via the footbridge lifts or concourse ramps.
Onboard trains from Edinburgh to Liverpool
Most trains from Edinburgh to Liverpool travel along the West Coast Main Line, offering river valley views and post-industrial townscapes.
Arriving at Liverpool Lime Street
There are four main exits to choose from after you cross the barriers:
- Lime Street Exit: The main exit through the grand archways. Head this way for St George’s Hall, Queens Square Bus Station and the central shopping district.
- Skelhorne Street Exit: Located at the south of the station – turn right past the ticket barriers to reach this exit. Aim for this exit for the taxi rank, pick-up/drop-off points, bicycle storage and accessing the Radisson RED hotel.
- Lord Nelson Street Exit: North exit found on the left after the ticket barriers, with toilets right beside it. Leave this way if you’re headed for the short-stay car park, the Empire Theatre or William Brown Street museums.
- Underground Low-Level Station: Follow the Merseyrail underground signs in the middle of the main concourse and take the escalators downstairs. You can connect to Liverpool Central, Moorfields and James Street's waterfront from here.
Why book Edinburgh to Liverpool trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Edinburgh to Liverpool start from just £16.70 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., Avanti West Coast, Northern, TransPennine Express on the Edinburgh to Liverpool route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Edinburgh to Liverpool train travel guide
Travelling by train from Edinburgh to Liverpool is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can reach Liverpool in just 3h 27m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Edinburgh to Liverpool?
The average fare from Edinburgh to Liverpool is approximately £16.70, 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 Edinburgh to Liverpool?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to Liverpool?
The fastest train journey time from Edinburgh to Liverpool is 3h 27m. 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 Edinburgh to Liverpool?
No, there are no direct trains from Edinburgh to Liverpool. 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 Edinburgh to Liverpool?
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
Are Edinburgh to Liverpool trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Edinburgh to Liverpool trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find 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 Edinburgh to Liverpool trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Edinburgh to Liverpool 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 Edinburgh to Liverpool route?
The Edinburgh to Liverpool 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 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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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 Edinburgh to Liverpool train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
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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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