Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh (Waverley) Trains From €27.13*

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.