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Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices

Travelling from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train? Find fares from as low as £42.00. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

£42.00󰄽

On Mon 18 May

  • £61.53󰄽
    Sat16 May
  • £60.40󰄽
    Sun17 May
  • Mon18 May
  • £61.53󰄽
    Tue19 May
  • £61.53󰄽
    Wed20 May
  • £56.10󰄽
    Thu21 May
  • £61.53󰄽
    Fri22 May

Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Oxford 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.

Price
From £42.00
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
300 miles (484km)
Journey time
5h 40m
First train
07:53
Last train
22:24
Frequency
49

CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast: Oxford to Edinburgh Waverley trains

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.

Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide

Taking the train from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Oxford, you can arrive at Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 5h 40m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

The average ticket fare from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) is about £42.00, 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.

How do I find the best train route from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley).

What is the fastest train from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

The fastest train journey time from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) is 5h 40m . 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 Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

No, there are no direct trains from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley). However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip

Is it worth taking a train from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

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?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) train timetables?

Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find 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 Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?

The route from Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) is operated by Avanti West Coast. 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

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.

  • Children

    Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.

  • 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.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Oxford to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.