York to Edinburgh Trains From €22.68*

The train journey from York to Edinburgh covers approximately 161 miles along the East Coast Main Line. More than 40 direct services operate on most weekdays, providing excellent flexibility throughout the day. Journey times range from around 2 hours 16 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes, depending on the operator and stopping pattern.

While both LNER and CrossCountry offer direct services, there are notable differences in speed, onboard facilities, and overall comfort.

• Fastest operator: LNER is around 10 minutes quicker than CrossCountry.
• Comfort: LNER's Azuma trains provide more spacious interiors and larger luggage areas.
• Regional connectivity: CrossCountry services can be useful for passengers continuing beyond Edinburgh or connecting from other regional routes.

Travelling from York to Edinburgh is one of the most scenic rail journeys in Britain, combining historic cities, dramatic coastline views and fast intercity travel.

Departure from York

York station is one of the busiest railway hubs in northern England, serving over 10 million passengers annually and acting as a key interchange on the East Coast Main Line.

Specific transport links

• First Bus York services: Routes 1,4,6,10 and 11stop directly outside the station, providing convenient links from residential districts and the city centre.
• York Park & Ride: Frequent Park & Ride services connect the station with sites around the outskirts of York.
• Coastliner buses: Coastliner services provide direct connections between York station, Leeds, Malton, Pickering and several destinations along the Yorkshire coast.
• Taxi rank: A dedicated taxi rank is located immediately outside the main entrance.

Station layout

• Main concourse: The ticket hall and departure boards are located within the central concourse, providing easy access to all platforms.
• Northbound departures: Trains to Edinburgh depart from Platforms 5, 9, 10 or 11, although platform allocations can change.

Pre-departure essentials

If you need refreshments before boarding, York station offers several convenient options. Pret A Manger is a popular choice for coffee and pastries, while Burger King is available within the station for hot food. Travellers with extra time may also enjoy a visit to York Tap, a well-known pub located on Platform 3.

Onboard trains from York to Edinburgh

As the route follows parts of the North Sea coastline and passes several historic landmarks, choosing the right seat can significantly enhance the journey.

The scenic side

• Sit on the right-hand side for the best coastal views, particularly between Berwick-upon-Tweed and Edinburgh.
• Sit on the left-hand side for views of inland landscapes, including historic cities, rolling countryside and river valleys.

Key landmarks

• Durham Cathedral and Castle: Visible shortly after departure, this UNESCO World Heritage Site rises dramatically above the River Wear.
• Durham Viaduct: The railway crosses high above the city, providing impressive views of Durham's historic skyline.
• Royal Border Bridge: Near Berwick-upon-Tweed, this iconic Victorian viaduct carries trains across the River Tweed on 28 impressive arches.
• Northumberland coastline: Passengers on the right-hand side can enjoy views of beaches, cliffs and the North Sea.

Arriving at Edinburgh

Edinburgh Waverley is Scotland's second-busiest railway station, handling more than 22 million passenger journeys each year. Located between the Old Town and New Town, it provides direct access to many of the city's most famous attractions, shopping districts and transport connections.

The correct exit

• Princes Street exit: Ideal for reaching Princes Street, major hotels, shopping areas and views of the Scott Monument.
• Market Street exit: Convenient for travellers heading towards the southern side of the city centre and nearby attractions.
• Calton Road exit: Useful for access to eastern city-centre locations and certain nearby accommodation options.

Onward travel

• Edinburgh Trams: Services from nearby Princes Street and St Andrew Square provide direct connections to Edinburgh Airport, Murrayfield and the west of the city.
• Lothian Buses: Extensive bus services operate from Princes Street, covering virtually all parts of Edinburgh, including Leith, Portobello, Morningside, Corstorphine, the Royal Infirmary, and Edinburgh Airport.
• Edinburgh Bus Station: Located at St Andrew Square, approximately five minutes on foot from the Princes Street exit.

Walkability

Edinburgh city centre is highly walkable from Waverley station, with many major attractions located within a 10 to 15-minute walk. Princes Street, the Royal Mile, St Andrew Square and Edinburgh Castle can all be reached on foot.