No booking fees on the app
Best Price Promise
Delay Repay
24/7 customer support
Edinburgh to London train ticket prices
€44.79
On Tue 04 Aug
Edinburgh to London train timetable
From Edinburgh to London, take the fastest train in 4h 10m, typically 5h 34m. Daily, 219 trains depart from Edinburgh, with the first at 05:37 and the last at 23:45. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:37 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h 13m, Direct | 09:50 London Kings Cross | LNER | Find tickets |
05:50 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h 43m, Direct | 10:33 London Kings Cross | LNER | Find tickets |
06:02 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 4h 42m, 1 change | 10:44 London Kings Cross | Lumo | Find tickets |
06:02 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 5h, 1 change | 11:02 London Kings Cross | LNER | Find tickets |
06:02 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 6h 37m, 1 change | 12:39 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
Edinburgh to London train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh to London 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.
Choose between the main operators on the East Coast Main Line. Whether you value a premium experience with First Class and special meals, a budget-friendly option, or a fully electric and eco-conscious journey.
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
LNER | 4h 10m | Edinburgh Waverley | Business, Speed & First Class | Hot food in First Class, "Perks" loyalty credit. |
Lumo | 4h 20m | Edinburgh Waverley | Students, Budget / Eco | 100% Electric, usually the cheapest advance fares. |
5h 40m | Edinburgh Waverley | West Coast Views | Standard Premium (more room without First Class price). | |
7h 30m | Edinburgh Waverley | Business/Overnight | Wake up in Scotland; hotel-style cabins. |
- LNER is the flagship service, running twice an hour from Edinburgh Waverley. It is the best choice for those wanting the full "First Class" experience with complimentary dining and arriving at London Kings Cross in just over 4 hours.
Lumo is a single-class, full-electric service designed to compete with budget airlines; it's often the cheapest option but has stricter luggage policies. Departing from Edinburgh Waverley with the same frequency as LNER, it offers excellent value for budget-conscious travellers.
Avanti services take a longer, westerly route via the Lake District—ideal only if you specifically want to see the Lake District en route and don't mind the additional 90 minutes of travel time.
Caledonian Sleeper provides an overnight service departing Edinburgh Waverley in the evening, allowing you to wake refreshed in London the following morning in hotel-style cabins, perfect for business travellers and those wanting to maximise their time.
Train travel from Edinburgh to London
Taking a 400-mile journey across the border is no problem if you know all the secrets of the local stations. Here is what you need to know to travel from the heart of Midlothian to the British capital.
Edinburgh Waverley: Getting to the Platform
Edinburgh Waverley is exceptionally well-connected via local transport links, with Waverley Bridge providing direct access to the city centre and multiple bus routes serving the station.
- The Platform Layout: Most London-bound trains (especially Lumo and LNER services) depart from Platforms 10–20, located at the far end of the main concourse. Allow an extra 2–3 minutes to walk to your platform, particularly during peak travel times.
- Pre-Departure: Avoid the main concourse queues and grab something to eat at one of the station's cafés—they offer plenty of space and charging points for your devices. The station has comfortable waiting areas and shops. For a classic Scottish souvenir, the station bookshop and gift shops near the main entrance stock a range of travel reads and local products.
Onboard trains from Edinburgh to London
Once you’ve boarded, the East Coast Main Line offers some of the UK’s most iconic railway views.
- The View Alert: To see the best of the British coastline, ensure you book a seat on the Right-Hand Side of the carriage (facing North).
- Key Landmarks: Keep your camera ready as you pass Berwick-upon-Tweed, you’ll cross the Royal Border Bridge with stunning views of the North Sea and the rugged Northumberland cliffs. Soon after, you’ll get a magnificent view of Durham Cathedral as you cross the viaduct.
Arriving at London Kings Cross
London Kings Cross is located close to Camden Town, in the Central-north part of the city. As you arrive, you can head toward Kings Cross underground inside the station to move in any direction within London or get a bicycle or taxi just outside in the parking space.
- The King's Cross Tunnel: A pedestrian subway tunnel connects King's Cross and St Pancras International stations towards Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard.
- Harry Potter fans: Platform 9¾ is located on the wall in the main station concourse — look for a luggage trolley embedded in the wall. A Harry Potter shop is located right next door
Onward Travel
Walkability
The King's Cross neighbourhood has been transformed in recent years into one of London's most vibrant new districts. Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard — with restaurants, bars, independent shops and the Regent's Canal — are a five-minute walk from the main concourse via the Regent's Canal exit. The British Library is two minutes' walk to the west.
Edinburgh to London train travel guide
Taking the train from Edinburgh to London is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can arrive at London in just 4h 10m, 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 London?
Ticket prices from Edinburgh to London average around €44.79, 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 Edinburgh to London?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to London?
The fastest train journey time from Edinburgh to London is 4h 10m. 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 London?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Edinburgh to London. 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 Edinburgh to London?
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?
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
Are Edinburgh to London trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Edinburgh to London 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?
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 London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Edinburgh to London 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?
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?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Edinburgh to London route?
The train from Edinburgh to London 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
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules 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
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
-
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 London 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?
More train routes
* 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.
New user welcome pack