Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) Trains From €39.72*

Travelling from Oxford to Edinburgh by train is a long but rewarding journey, taking you from the historic heart of southern England to the cultural capital of Scotland, spanning most of the UK. Covering around 300 miles, the trip takes roughly 5 hours and 40 minutes and showcases some of the best landscapes the UK rail network has to offer.

You’ll begin in Oxford, known for its dreaming spires and academic charm, before heading north on a CrossCountry service to Birmingham. After an easy change at Birmingham New Street, the journey continues with Avanti West Coast, whisking you through the rolling countryside of the Midlands and into the dramatic scenery of northern England and southern Scotland.

By the time you arrive at Edinburgh Waverley, you’ll have travelled the length of Britain, swapping Oxford’s cobbled streets for Edinburgh’s grand architecture, historic landmarks and lively atmosphere. It’s a comfortable and scenic way to connect two of the UK’s most beautiful and iconic cities.

Departing from Oxford

Oxford Station is conveniently located on Park End Street, which is a quick 10 minute walk from the city centre. It’s also close to the Castle Quarter and the Said Business School. The station is well connected by local transport, including routes from the Headington, Cowley and Summertown areas.

Oxford Station is served by an excellent mix of regional and long distance rail services, linking the city with London Paddington, Birmingham New Street, Manchester Piccadilly, Reading and Didcot Parkway, as well as direct services north to Edinburgh, Newcastle and Leeds via CrossCountry. Several major rail operators serve Oxford, ensuring a wide range of travel options. Great Western Railway, CrossCountry and Chiltern Railways run popular routes.

Main stops

If you are travelling from Oxford to Edinburgh Waverley by train, your journey is split into two. There are no direct trains connecting the two, which means you need to change at Birmingham New Street. The first part of the journey is provided by CrossCountry, which sees you travel from Oxford to Birmingham New Street, stopping at Banbury, Leamington Spa, Coventry and Birmingham International, before arriving at Birmingham New Street.

You will then change to an Avanti West Coast service to Edinburgh Waverley, which will stop at Sandwell & Dudley, Wolverhampton, Stafford, Crewer, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan North Western, Preston (Lancs), Lancaster, Oxenholme Lake District, Carlisle and Haymarket, before arriving in Edinburgh.

Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley

Edinburgh Waverley is located in the heart of the city, between Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town. In a valley beneath the famous Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle, the location of the station is incredibly convenient for visitors arriving into the city. Once you step off the train, you’re within walking distance of many of the city’s most popular sights, shops, restaurants and hotels.

From Edinburgh Waverley, you can travel with LNER, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, ScotRail and TransPennine Express, all of which are dedicated to connecting you to destinations across Scotland and England. Popular routes from Edinburgh Waverley include services to London King’s Cross, Glasgow Queen Street, Aberdeen, Inverness, Newcastle and Leeds, as well as scenic routes along the East Coast Main Line.

One of the best things about arriving at Edinburgh Waverley is just how close you are to the city’s highlights. Within minutes, you can stroll up to Princes Street Gardens, visit the Scott Monument, or explore the cobbled lanes of the Royal Mile leading up to Edinburgh Castle. The Scottish National Gallery is also just a few steps away.

CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast train classes

• Standard Class: Both CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast provide Standard Class services between Oxford and Edinburgh, offering everything you need for a smooth journey north. You can expect comfortable seating, free wifi, power sockets and space for luggage. If you’re looking to buy cheap train tickets, Standard Class is likely to be the most affordable option. Booking your ticket in advance or using a valid railcard can save you up to a third on fares.
• Standard Premium: If you’d like to enjoy a little more comfort without upgrading all the way to First Class, consider Avanti West Coast’s Standard Premium carriages. They’re the ideal middle ground between Standard Class and First Class, giving you access to wider seats, extra legroom, a guaranteed table and plug sockets at every window seat.
• First Class: For a more luxurious experience, travel from Oxford to Edinburgh Waverley First Class. With spacious reclining seats, generous legroom and a calm atmosphere, First Class is ideal for longer journeys. Depending on the service, you may also enjoy complimentary refreshments, such as snacks, tea or soft drinks.

CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast train travel advice

Here’s everything you need to know about a CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast journey from Oxford to Edinburgh Waverley, from taking luggage with you to booking assistance.

• Luggage - CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast both allow you to bring luggage free of charge. It’s recommended to only take one medium sized case and a smaller bag on CrossCountry services, or up to three items on Avanti West Coast trains.
• Bicycles - Both CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast allow bikes on board their trains, though you will need to make a reservation in advance, as space is limited. CrossCountry trains usually have two bike spaces that can be reserved and these are given on a first come, first served basis. Avanti West Coast trains sometimes have more bike spaces, but reserving one is still recommended.
• Children - Under 5s travel for free with a paying adult on Oxford to Edinburgh trains, and children aged 5 to 15 are eligible for reduced fares. You can cut the cost of travelling with children by having a valid railcard.
• Pets - You can bring up to two small pets on board CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast trains at no extra charge. Both operators have pet-friendly policies.
• Passenger Assist - CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast are both part of the Passenger Assist scheme. This means both train companies offer professional support with luggage, changing trains, boarding and navigating stations if you need it.