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Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices
£5.75
On Thu 01 Jan
Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) train timetable
From Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley), take the fastest train in 3 hours 11 minutes, typically 3 hours 34 minutes. Daily, 28 trains depart from Manchester Piccadilly, with the first at 02:44 and the last at 21:58. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
02:44 Manchester Piccadilly | 5 hours 48 minutes, 1 change | 08:32 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
04:22 Manchester Piccadilly | 5 hours 16 minutes, 1 change | 09:38 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
04:57 Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hours 29 minutes, 1 change | 08:26 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
06:22 Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hours 19 minutes, Direct | 09:41 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
06:33 Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hours 45 minutes, 1 change | 10:18 Edinburgh (Waverley) | Northern | Find tickets |
Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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: Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh Waverley trains
The direct train from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh is perfect for business trips, city breaks, and longer escapes to the Scottish Highlands. It's a scenic journey, too - expect views of the Lake District, the Pennines, and Morecambe Bay. The train also goes through the dramatic Luna Gorge before crossing into Scotland near Carlisle.
The Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh Waverley service is run by TransPennine Express. It takes around 3 hours 15 minutes, and there are departures every 2 hours. Aside from this route, TransPennine Express also runs intercity trains across Northern England and Scotland, connecting major cities like Leeds, Liverpool and Edinburgh.
Departing from Manchester Piccadilly
Manchester Piccadilly is one of the city's biggest and most central stations, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the Greater Manchester area. One of the easiest ways of getting there is via the Metrolink - trams stop at Piccadilly and Piccadilly Gardens just outside. There are also frequent local buses to the station from all parts of town.
The main operators from Piccadilly are Northern, TransPennine Express, CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast. You'll find direct trains to London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Leeds and Edinburgh, plus regional services to places like Preston, Sheffield and Newcastle. It's also your gateway to Scotland, with regular services to Glasgow and beyond.
Main stops
The main stops on this route are Bolton, Preston (Lancs), Lancaster and Carlisle. The train also calls at Manchester Oxford Road if that station is closer to you than Piccadilly.
Arriving at Edinburgh
Edinburgh Waverley station - often just Edinburgh station - is located between the Old Town and New Town, with exits onto Princes Street for shopping and Waverley Bridge for the Royal Mile. If you're heading to Edinburgh Castle, this landmark is a short walk up the hill.
As one of the city's biggest stations, you can take trains to all of Scotland's major cities. ScotRail operates regular services to Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness, while LNER and CrossCountry run direct trains into England, including to London, Newcastle and Birmingham.
If your trip takes you beyond the city centre, hop on the tram from Princes Street. Local buses stop right outside on Waverley Bridge and take you to attractions like Arthur's Seat and the Royal Yacht Britannia.
TransPennine Express train classes
On the Manchester to Edinburgh route, you've got two choices:
- Standard Class: This gives you free Wi-Fi and power sockets at table seats for charging your devices. The seats are comfortable enough for the journey, and you can buy snacks and drinks from the onboard trolley if you're feeling peckish.
- First Class: For a bit more comfort, First Class gives you reclining seating with extra legroom, plus power sockets and USB points at every seat. You'll also get a quieter cabin (usually Coach E) and complimentary food and drinks, though this is subject to availability.
TransPennine Express train travel advice
Here's the rundown of TransPennine Express' policies on their Manchester to Edinburgh service.
- Luggage: There's space to store your bags onboard - either overhead or under your seat. Just remember to keep your bags within sight. Any unattended luggage may be removed by TransPennine Express staff.
- Bicycles: You can travel with your bike for free, but space must be booked in advance – you can do this up to 15 minutes before, although it's best to do it sooner rather than later.
- Children: Kids under 5 travel free and those aged 5-15 get 50% off fares. Consider getting the Friends & Family railcard - this lets you buy cheap train tickets for family days out.
- Pets: You can bring up to two pets for free – just keep them on a lead or in carriers. For the comfort of human passengers, four-legged passengers aren't allowed on seats or tables.
- Passenger Assistance: Reserve assistance at least 2 hours ahead by calling up or booking online. TransPennine Express staff can help with boarding and provide wheelchairs.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide
Travelling by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Manchester Piccadilly, you can reach Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 3 hours 11 minutes, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
Ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) average around £5.75, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
What is the fastest train from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
The fastest train journey time from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) is 3 hours 11 minutes. 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley). 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?
The train from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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
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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
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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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 Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) 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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