Manchester Oxford Road to Edinburgh (Waverley) Trains From £11.50*

Travelling from Manchester to Edinburgh could not be easier thanks to TransPennine Express. The journey from Manchester Oxford Road to Edinburgh Waverley takes just 3 hours and 16 minutes, covering 175 miles through some of the UK’s most varied landscapes. With 18 trains running every day, from the first departure at 05:24 to the last at 20:25, you will always find a service that suits your plans.

On board TransPennine Express, you can sit back and enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey. The route links two of the UK’s most vibrant cities while also connecting you to key stops such as Bolton, Preston and Carlisle along the way. With reliable services and modern trains, it is a straightforward way to head north for business, leisure or a well-earned break.

The train journey from Manchester Oxford Road to Edinburgh Waverley offers a mix of cityscapes, industrial towns and stunning countryside views. Shortly after leaving Manchester, you’ll pass through the towns and hills of the Pennines, with rivers, valleys and villages dotting the landscape. As the train continues into Scotland, the scenery opens up to dramatic highlands, forests and riverbanks.

Departing from Manchester Oxford Road

Starting your journey to Edinburgh from Manchester Oxford Road Station puts you right at the heart of the city. Located near the bustling Oxford Road, the station is one of Manchester’s busiest transport hubs, with excellent links to buses, trams and taxis that make it easy to arrive from anywhere in town.

With its striking glass roof and central location, it’s easy to see why Manchester Oxford Road is a bit of a landmark in itself. It’s a short walk from the University of Manchester, the Palace Theatre and the bars, pubs and restaurants that line Oxford Road. Inside the station, you’ll find everything you need before heading north to Edinburgh, including ticket machines, shops and waiting areas to relax ahead of boarding.

As a major stop on the TransPennine Express network, Manchester Oxford Road connects travellers to destinations across the North of England and Scotland, including direct services to Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow, as well as Edinburgh.

Main stops

With a journey as long as the Manchester Oxford Road to Edinburgh Waverley route, it’s not surprising that there are a few stops along the way. After boarding and departing Manchester, the TransPennine Express service stops at Bolton, Preston (Lancs), Lancaster, Oxenholme Lake District, Penrith, Carlisle, Lockerbie and Haymarket, before arriving in Edinburgh, which is the end of the line.

Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley

As you step off the train at Edinburgh Waverley, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Scotland’s capital. Situated between the historic Old Town and the elegant New Town, the station gives you immediate access to the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street. Edinburgh Waverley’s central location makes it easy to explore the city on foot, or to jump on local buses, trams and taxis if you’re heading further afield.

As you might expect, there’s a lot going on at Edinburgh Waverley Station. It boasts step-free access to all platforms, accessible toilets, baby changing, staffed hours, ticket machines, First Class lounge, refreshments, shops, wifi, parking and bike storage.

Once you’ve arrived in Edinburgh, you’ll be able to explore the city directly from the station. Edinburgh’s vibrant culture is noticeable from the moment you arrive, and the historic architecture and scenic streets can’t be missed. It’s the ideal place to start a Scottish adventure.

TransPennine Express train classes

• Standard Class: Travelling from Manchester Oxford Road to Edinburgh Waverley in Standard Class with TransPennine Express is both convenient and cost-effective. You can enjoy free onboard wifi, charging points and comfortable seating designed for work or relaxation. Booking in advance is the best way to buy cheap tickets, and using a valid railcard can reduce fares by up to a third, making the journey even better value.
• First Class: If you’re someone who enjoys the finer things in life, consider travelling from Manchester Oxford Road to Edinburgh Waverley First Class. First Class provides reclining seats, generous legroom and a quieter carriage. Many TransPennine Express services also include complimentary refreshments, speedy wifi and charging facilities, making it an excellent option for business travel or for simply starting your trip to Scotland in comfort.

TransPennine Express train travel advice

There’s a lot to like about TransPennine Express services between Manchester Oxford Road and Edinburgh, but knowing what to expect is key.

• Luggage - You can bring luggage on board TransPennine Express trains at no extra cost. Larger suitcases can be stored in racks at the ends of carriages, and smaller bags should fit in overhead spaces or under seats.
• Bicycles - Standard and electric bikes are both welcome on TransPennine Express trains, though spaces are limited and not guaranteed, even on an off-peak service. This is why advance reservations are strongly recommended.
• Children - Children under the age of 5 travel for free on TransPennine Express trains, as long as they're travelling with a fare paying adult. Kids aged between 5 and 15 can get a 50% discount on most fares. As a family, you can save even more by using a Family & Friends Railcard to buy cheap train tickets, which reduces the cost by a third.
• Pets - You can take two pets with you on a TransPennine Express train, and there’s no charge for doing so.
• Passenger Assist - TransPennine Express offers support for passengers who need extra help, from boarding and luggage handling to navigating stations. Assistance can be booked in advance directly with the train operator.