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Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) train times and prices
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
£55.00
On Wed 4
Live timetable and departures
The journey from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) on the fastest train in 7h 54m, usually 7h 56m. Each day, 2 trains leave from Southampton Central, starting at 09:15 and ending at 11:15. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
19:15 Southampton Central | 12h, 3 change | 07:15 Edinburgh (Waverley) | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
19:15 Southampton Central | 14h 26m, 2 change | 09:41 Edinburgh (Waverley) | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
21:30 Southampton Central | 12h 11m, 2 change | 09:41 Edinburgh (Waverley) | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
21:50 Southampton Central | 12h 48m, 3 change | 10:38 Edinburgh (Waverley) | Southern | Find tickets |
21:58 Southampton Central | 11h 59m, 1 change | 09:57 Edinburgh (Waverley) | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
Travelling with CrossCountry from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)
CrossCountry combines one of the UK’s widest intercity networks with fast long-distance services linking the South West, South Coast, Midlands, Wales, Yorkshire, the North East and Scotland without relying on a London terminus.
Its Class 220 and 221 Voyager trains reach 125 mph, while Class 170 Turbostars cover regional routes. A Voyager fleet refurbishment is adding improved seating, lighting and Wi-Fi.
First Class
Standard
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"CrossCountry’s Voyager services can get busy as they progress along their routes, so choosing the right carriage can make a noticeable difference. On Class 220 and 221 trains, Coach B (on 5-car sets) or specific designated seats in Coach D (on 4-car sets) serve as the unreserved seating areas, making them worth checking if you are travelling with a flexible ticket or cannot reserve a seat."
"It is also worth checking if your service is being operated by one of the £75 million refurbished Voyager trains. The updated trains can be identified by their distinctive red livery with a white X and feature USB-A and USB-C charging ports built into the seat frames, making it easier to keep devices charged throughout a longer journey."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- 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.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- 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
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
- Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Southampton Central
Address:
Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL
Public Transport Links:
Bus: Local bus services stop on Blechynden Terrace on the northern side of the station and on Western Esplanade on the southern side, with frequent connections across Southampton and the wider region.
Taxi: Licensed taxi ranks are located on both sides at the northern entrance on Blechynden Terrace and the southern entrance on Western Esplanade. Taxis to the cruise terminals typically take 5-10 minutes and cost around £10, depending on which terminal you're heading to.
Car: Paid parking is available on both sides of the station with a long-stay option on Blechynden Terrace. Pre-booking is recommended for cruise passengers.
Platforms:
Four platforms, each split into A and B sections to accommodate two services simultaneously. Managed by South Western Railway with step-free access throughout.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"The National Express coach station is just a short walk from the station – useful to know if you're connecting between rail and coach services, or need onward transport to London or further afield. WestQuay shopping centre is directly adjacent to the southern entrance. With a wide range of restaurants, coffee shops and retail all under one roof, it's the best and most convenient option if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat or a drink before or after your train.
If you have a little more time, the SeaCity Museum is a 10-minute walk from the station and tells the story of Southampton's extraordinary maritime history, including a remarkable permanent exhibition on the Titanic, which departed on its fatal voyage from here."
FAQs about Southampton Central Station
Is Southampton Parkway the same as Southampton Central?
No, they are two separate stations. Southampton Central is the main city centre station on Blechynden Terrace, serving intercity services to London, Manchester and Cardiff. Southampton Airport Parkway is approximately 7 minutes away by train and serves Southampton Airport with a direct link to the terminal.
Is there a free bus from Southampton Central to the cruise terminal?
No, there is no free bus or shuttle service between Southampton Central and the cruise terminals. The most practical option is a taxi, available at ranks on both the northern and southern entrances. The journey typically takes 5-10 minutes and costs around £10, depending on which terminal you're heading to.
How far is Southampton train station from the town?
Southampton Central is in the heart of the city – WestQuay shopping centre is right beside the station, and the historic high street, Bargate and city centre are all within a 10-15 minute walk. The SeaCity Museum and Mayflower Theatre are both around 10 minutes away on foot.
How do I get from Southampton Central to the Red Funnel ferry?
Red Funnel ferries to the Isle of Wight depart from Town Quay, approximately a 15-minute walk from Southampton Central, or a short taxi ride. A bus link to Town Quay also operates from outside the station.
Arriving at Edinburgh (Waverley)
Address:
Princes Street, Edinburgh, Lothian, EH1 1BB, Scotland
Onward Transit Options:
Tram: St Andrew Square is the nearest Edinburgh Trams stop to Edinburgh Waverley. The line runs to/from Edinburgh Airport and Newhaven.
Bus: Edinburgh bus station is around 0.1 miles (200 metres) from Waverley station. More Lothian bus routes stop along Princes Street and near other station entrances, including the 24-hour Airlink 100 to/from Edinburgh Airport.
Coach: The bus station also connects the city to destinations like Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen and cities in England and Wales via several coach services.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: You can catch a cab or have the driver drop you off at the main official station taxi rank on Market Street, or at the Calton Road drop-off area.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Royal Mile (4-min walk)
Princes Street Gardens (8-min walk)
Edinburgh Castle (11-minute walk)
Palace of Holyroodhouse (15-min walk)
Arthur’s Seat (53-min walk)
Airport Transfers:
Direct TransPennine Express services between Edinburgh Waverley and Manchester Airport every two hours (taking 3 hours and 32 minutes). Edinburgh Airport is accessible via tram (44 minutes) to/from St Andrew Square (8-min walk from Waverley).
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"When moving through the Princes Street side of the station, use the footbridge to access platforms 1, 20, or 8-10 to bypass the busy main concourse. Edinburgh Waverley has unusually long platforms and a unique layout, so allow extra time to navigate through the station. Speaking to station staff is always the best way to find the quickest route to a specific platform or exit."
FAQs: Edinburgh (Waverley) Station
Is there parking at Edinburgh Waverley station?
Yes, the station car park is open 04:00–00:45, Monday to Friday and 06:00–00:45 on weekends. There are 617 spaces and 11 bays for Blue Badge holders.
When does Waverley station close?
Edinburgh Waverley generally closes around 00:45 every day.
Are there lifts at Edinburgh Waverley station?
Yes, several lifts are available at Edinburgh Waverley station. They offer step-free access to all platforms, the overbridge, the First Class lounge and other areas.
What shops are in Edinburgh Waverley station?
Shops at Edinburgh Waverley include M&S, Boots and WHSmith. There are also more takeaway food outlets such as Bagel Factory and Pret.
Does Edinburgh Waverley have luggage storage?
Yes, the left luggage office is near platform 2 and the Calton Road entrance. You can leave and pick up your bags from 07:00 to 23:00.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)
Apply for CrossCountry Delay Repay
CrossCountry calculates Delay Repay compensation according to how late you arrive at your final destination, regardless of the cause of the delay. It operates under Delay Repay 30, so delays of less than 30 minutes are not eligible.
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket, or 50% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket, or 100% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket
120 minutes or more: 100% of the total ticket cost, whether single, return or Season Ticket
FAQ
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How much is a train from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
Tickets from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) typically cost £155.02, but can be as cheap as £55.00 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
The journey should take, on average, 7h 56m, though it can be as quick as 7h 54m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
There is no direct service between Southampton Central and Edinburgh (Waverley). Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for changeover stations that are the most convenient and time-efficient.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
You can typically book tickets from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
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How far is Southampton Central from Edinburgh (Waverley)?
The distance between Southampton Central and Edinburgh (Waverley) is approximately 356 miles (573km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
There is 2 train running from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley) per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Southampton Central to Edinburgh (Waverley)?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my 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 and Off-Peak 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.
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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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