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Edinburgh (Waverley) to York train ticket prices
£22.60
On Thu 06 Aug
Edinburgh (Waverley) to York train timetable
From Edinburgh (Waverley) to York, take the fastest train in 2h 14m, typically 2h 23m. Daily, 47 trains depart from Edinburgh (Waverley), with the first at 05:37 and the last at 20:16. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:37 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 16m, Direct | 07:53 York | LNER | Find tickets |
05:50 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 38m, Direct | 08:28 York | LNER | Find tickets |
06:02 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 36m, Direct | 08:38 York | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:30 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 22m, Direct | 08:52 York | LNER | Find tickets |
07:00 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 2h 14m, Direct | 09:14 York | LNER | Find tickets |
Edinburgh (Waverley) to York train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York 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.
LNER vs CrossCountry: Which one should you choose?
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
LNER | 2h 18m | Edinburgh (Waverley) | Frequent services, speed, dining | Catering, First Class lounge access, LNER Perks loyalty credit |
CrossCountry | 2h 33m | Edinburgh (Waverley) | Budget, students | First Class seating option, seat reservations |
- LNER run services up to twice an hour, with the quickest taking just 2 hours and 14 minutes. It’s the only operator to offer catering on this route, as well as lounge access for Edinburgh to York First Class ticket holders.
- CrossCountry trains from Edinburgh Waverley to York tend to have more intermediary stops, but the fares are usually the most budget-friendly. While you can upgrade to First Class, not all services offer catering or trolley service.
Train travel from Edinburgh Waverley to York
Zoom across the border and complete the 161 miles (259 kilometres) between the cities with the best onboard experience.
Edinburgh Waverley: Getting to the platform
Begin your journey at the Scottish capital’s main railway hub, bridging the Old Town, city centre and New Town. Take a short walk (no more than 15 minutes) from the central areas or arrive by bus, tram or taxi.
- Platform and facilities layout: Edinburgh Waverley’s shops, ticket office and other amenities are located on a central island platform, surrounded by 20 numbered platforms. Platforms 8 and 9 are further separated into “e” (east) and “w” (west). The Edinburgh to York train doesn’t always depart from the same platform, so you’ll have to check the departure boards and listen out for announcements.
- Coffee stop and shop: The central island has many outlets selling beverages, pastries and even books for the journey. Your options include Caffè Nero, Pret and WHSmith. If you fancy a pint, head to The Beer House opposite the ticket office or The Booking Office by the Waverley Bridge entrance.
- First Class lounge: If you’re travelling from Edinburgh to York first class with LNER, relax in the exclusive First Class lounges at both stations and tuck into complimentary refreshments. Waverley’s lounge is on platform 5.
On board trains from Edinburgh Waverley to York
A train ride from Edinburgh Waverley to York is seven times greener than driving and more enjoyable, offering picture-perfect views.
- The scenic route: The East Coast Main Line lives up to its name with stunning sea sights between Edinburgh and Alnmouth. The approach to Berwick-upon-Tweed passes dramatic clifftops before crossing the Royal Border Bridge. Sit on the left for coastal and city gems - you can spot Bass Rock, Newcastle’s Tyne Bridge and Durham Castle.
- Catering options: Both operators offer snacks, meals and beverages (complimentary for Edinburgh to York First Class passengers). If you’re travelling with CrossCountry on an early morning or late evening, stock up on drinks and snacks at the station, as the trolley service may not be available.
Arriving at York
Your high-speed train drops you off at York station, which is among the ten stations out of 100 to be rated five stars. Reach the rest of the city with ease.
- Station Road exit: York station’s main exit conveniently leads to the city centre, taxi rank, short-stay car park and local bus routes.
- Lounge access: Keep the free refreshments flowing upon arrival at York station’s LNER First Class lounge on platform 3. You’ll also find accessible toilets, charging points and complimentary guest Wi-Fi.
- Getting to the city: York is extremely walkable with large pedestrian-only zones and a flat city centre. You’re 15 minutes away from the iconic attractions from York station, and getting from one end of the city walls to the other takes about 20 minutes on foot. The station has plenty of transport links, including First, East Yorkshire and Transdev buses. You’ll find the taxi rank immediately in front of the exit.
Edinburgh (Waverley) to York train travel guide
Travelling by train from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Edinburgh (Waverley), you can reach York in just 2h 14m, 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 (Waverley) to York?
The average ticket fare from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York is about £22.60, 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.
What is the best way to travel from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York by train?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York?
The fastest train journey time from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York is 2h 14m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York. 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 York?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
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
How do I find Edinburgh (Waverley) to York train timetables?
While Edinburgh (Waverley) to York trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do Edinburgh (Waverley) to York trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Edinburgh (Waverley) to York 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?
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?
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 (Waverley) to York route?
The route from Edinburgh (Waverley) to York is operated by CrossCountry. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
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
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 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Edinburgh (Waverley) to York 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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