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Edinburgh to Liverpool train ticket prices
£17.20
On Mon 09 Feb
Edinburgh to Liverpool train timetable
Travelling from Edinburgh to Liverpool, the fastest train takes 3h 27m with an average travel time of 4h 12m. 37 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:37 and the last at 22:58. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
12:52 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 30m, 1 change | 16:22 Liverpool Lime Street | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
12:52 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h 12m, 1 change | 17:04 Liverpool Lime Street | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
13:30 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h 29m, 1 change | 17:59 Liverpool Lime Street | LNER | Find tickets |
14:12 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 56m, 2 change | 18:08 Liverpool Lime Street | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
14:52 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 28m, 1 change | 18:20 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.
TransPennine Express: Edinburgh to Liverpool trains
Getting from Edinburgh to Liverpool with TransPennine Express takes around five hours. Making it one of the longer UK rail journeys.
On your trip to Liverpool, you’ll first head south through the Scottish Borders, Northumberland and County Durham. You’ll then head west through North and West Yorkshire before travelling towards Manchester and then, shortly after, reaching Liverpool in Merseyside.
TransPennine Express operates regional and long-distance intercity routes connecting important cities across Northern England and Scotland, including Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
Departing from Edinburgh Waverley
Edinburgh Waverley is an excellently placed station from which to depart. It’s between the ‘old’ town and the ‘new’ town of Edinburgh, across the street from the Walter Scott Monument and near The National Gallery of Scotland.
Its prime location serves as a fantastic departure point, with buses and Edinburgh’s tram network providing access close to the station on Princes Street. Taxis can also deliver you straight to the station entrance.
If you’ve arrived from Edinburgh Airport, you can take a tram from Edinburgh Park station directly to Princes Street.
LNER, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail and Lumo run from Edinburgh Waverley.
Main stops
There are nineteen stops from Edinburgh Waverley to Liverpool Lime Street:
- East Linton
- Dunbar
- Reston
- Berwick-upon-Tweed
- Alnmouth
- Morpeth
- Newcastle
- Chester-le-Street
- Durham
- Darlington
- Northallerton
- York
- Leeds
- Dewsbury
- Huddersfield
- Stalybridge
- Manchester Victoria
- Newton-Le-Willows
- Lea Green
These stops may change due to engineering works, poor weather, train faults, or scheduling alterations. So, it’s best to check before you leave.
Arriving at Liverpool Lime Street
Liverpool Lime Street Station is an integral UK rail hub, serving many destinations in England, Scotland, and Wales, such as London Euston, Edinburgh Waverley, and Cardiff. Opening in 1836, it is the world’s oldest mainline station.
It has excellent public transport links to the rest of Liverpool and wider Merseyside. For instance, the main terminal building provides direct access to the underground Lime Street Wirral Line station on the city’s Merseyrail network. Liverpool’s central bus station on Roe Street is only about four minutes from Lime Street Station.
As a major UK city, Liverpool offers plenty, including excellent shopping, nightlife, history, and cultural activities, from the Royal Albert Dock to The Beatles Museum to the city’s fabulous art galleries. Hop on a ferry tour if you’d like to see more of the River Mersey or catch a bus tour to get a comprehensive tour of the city.
TransPennine Express train classes
- Standard Class: TransPennine Express Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
- First Class: An Edinburgh to Liverpool First Class ticket with TransPennine Express will give you access to more legroom, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi and complimentary food and drink.
TransPennine Express train travel advice
- Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. You must book a space for your bike before you travel.
- Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can save 50% on their tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
- Passenger Assist: Providing ramps for entering and exiting trains, luggage support, and station guidance, with help for stairs and provision of wheelchairs or buggies for covering greater distances.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Edinburgh to Liverpool train travel guide
Taking the train from Edinburgh to Liverpool is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can arrive at Liverpool in just 3h 27m, 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 Edinburgh to Liverpool?
The average fare from Edinburgh to Liverpool is approximately £17.20, 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 Edinburgh to Liverpool by train?
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, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Edinburgh to Liverpool. 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 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?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
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 cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
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 Edinburgh to Liverpool trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Edinburgh to Liverpool route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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?
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 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
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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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
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.
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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
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 Edinburgh to Liverpool 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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