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Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices
€8.64
On Wed 08 Apr
Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable
Travelling from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly, the fastest train takes 3h 13m with an average travel time of 4h 10m. 33 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 06:12 and the last at 23:12. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
14:52 Waverley | 3h 34m, 1 change | 18:26 Manchester Piccadilly | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
15:00 Waverley | 4h 10m, 2 change | 19:10 Manchester Piccadilly | LNER | Find tickets |
16:11 Waverley | 3h 15m, Direct | 19:26 Manchester Piccadilly | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
16:52 Waverley | 3h 23m, 1 change | 20:15 Manchester Piccadilly | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
17:04 Waverley | 4h 21m, 1 change | 21:25 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Waverley to Manchester trains
Travel from the Scottish capital to the capital of the North with TransPennine Express. Direct trains run from Edinburgh Waverley to Manchester Piccadilly every two hours, and the journey is typically around 3 hours and 14 minutes. Take in the magnificent views of the valley at Beattock and distant mountains as you pass the Pennines and Lake District.
Offering regional and intercity services, TransPennine Express provides routes covering stations in the North of England and Scotland. Stops on the network include Berwick-upon-Tweed, Sheffield and Liverpool Lime Street.
Departing from Edinburgh (Waverley)
The Edinburgh to Manchester train journey begins at Edinburgh Waverley station, centrally located on Princes Street. This key transport hub is served by multiple operators including TransPennine Express, ScotRail, London North Eastern Railway (LNER), CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Lumo, and Caledonian Sleeper. From here, trains travel to notable destinations such as Stirling, Aberdeen, London, Durham, and more, offering plenty of travel options for both business and leisure.
Edinburgh Waverley’s city centre location makes it highly accessible—Exit 1 is a major stop for numerous Lothian bus routes, while nearby Market Street and Waverley Bridge provide convenient taxi ranks just steps from the station entrance.
Main stops
Stops on the train from Edinburgh Waverley to Manchester Piccadilly include Carlisle, Lancaster and Bolton. There may be different stops on the route according to the operator, time and route.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
Your Edinburgh to Manchester train calls at Manchester Piccadilly station. Located on Piccadilly Station Approach, it’s about 15 minutes away from the city centre. Spend your day visiting attractions and popular spots like the Northern Quarter, or escape the hustle and bustle along the Green Spaces Trail, passing Mayfield Park, the canal and tranquil gardens.
Manchester Piccadilly is easily accessible from the city, the surrounding suburbs and the airport. Two free city buses call at the station. The station is also on the Metrolink tram network (available on the lower level).
As one of the busiest railway hubs in the country, Manchester Piccadilly station offers plenty of journey options. Six train-operating companies serve the station: TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway (EMR) and Transport for Wales (TfW). Trains run between Manchester Piccadilly and stations like Llandudno, Durham, Norwich, Oxford and London Euston.
TransPennine Express train classes
- Standard Class: Free WiFi access and comfy seating are provided in Standard Class. Table seats and pairs of seats are fitted with plug sockets to charge your devices. Certain TransPennine Express routes also sell refreshments. The Express Café is open from 07:00 to 18:30 Monday–Friday and between 09:00 and 18:30 during weekends.
- First Class: Edinburgh to Manchester First Class perks include complimentary food and drink. Each seat has a power socket. The Express Plus restaurant operates between 07:00 and 18:30 on weekdays and from 09:00 to 18:30 on weekends. As with Standard Class fares, you can buy cheap train tickets by booking early.
TransPennine Express train travel advice
- Luggage: TransPennine Express allows one piece of hand luggage and two larger bags or suitcases under 30 x 70 x 90 centimetres.
- Bicycles: You must pre-book a bike space. E-scooters and similar devices such as hoverboards aren’t permitted. E-bikes cannot be charged on board.
- Children: Travel is free for two kids under 5. Most Advance tickets are half price for 5–15-year-olds. Additional savings are available for 16–17 Saver Railcard and Family and Friends Railcard holders. Fold buggies and put them in the luggage racks or cycle area (when not booked).
- Pets: Animals must stay off seats and be on a lead or in a secure carrier throughout the journey. You can bring up to two dogs or small domestic pets with you.
- Passenger Assist: Request help for your journey like alighting the train by contacting the Passenger Assist Team (pre-booking recommended).
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly train travel guide
Taking the train from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Edinburgh (Waverley), you can arrive at Manchester Piccadilly in just 3h 13m, 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 (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly?
The average ticket fare from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly is about €8.64, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly?
The quickest train journey from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly takes 3h 13m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly. 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 (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly?
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?
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 (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly 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?
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 (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly 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?
While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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 (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly route?
The Edinburgh (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly 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
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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.
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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
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted 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 (Waverley) to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
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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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