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York to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices

Travelling from York to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train? Find fares from as low as €21.61. 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.
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York to Edinburgh (Waverley) train timetable

Travelling from York to Edinburgh (Waverley), the fastest train takes 2h 17m with an average travel time of 2h 27m. 47 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:16 and the last at 23:23. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

05:45

York
2h 47m, Direct

08:32

Edinburgh (Waverley)
LNER
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06:36

York
2h 34m, Direct

09:10

Edinburgh (Waverley)
CrossCountry
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07:02

York
2h 36m, Direct

09:38

Edinburgh (Waverley)
LNER
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08:06

York
2h 22m, Direct

10:28

Edinburgh (Waverley)
LNER
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08:20

York
2h 18m, Direct

10:38

Edinburgh (Waverley)
LNER
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York to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets and times

Plan your journey from York 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 €21.61
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
161 miles (259km)
Journey time
2h 17m
First train
00:16
Last train
23:23
Frequency
47

LNER: York to Edinburgh Waverley trains

Travel from one of the UK’s most historic and atmospheric cities to another with a direct LNER train from York to Edinburgh Waverley, arriving in the Scottish capital in just under three hours.

Enjoy views as you make your way north aboard this York to Edinburgh Waverley train of Northumberland’s golden beaches, the dramatic silhouettes of Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh Castles, and the breathtaking North Sea coast with its rugged coves and headlands.

London North Eastern Railway (LNER) operates high-speed trains up and down the East Coast Main Line, linking London King’s Cross with major cities such as Leeds, York, Newcastle and Edinburgh, as well as regional hubs including Peterborough, Doncaster and Wakefield.

Departing from York

Just a short walk from the historic city walls and only 15-minutes from the city’s medieval heart, York railway station is a key stop on the East Coast Main Line and one of the grandest and busiest stations in northern England.

With its sweeping curved roof, Victorian architecture and elegant concourse, York railway station offers step-free access, lifts, shops, cafés, ticket machines and public Wi-Fi. Managed by LNER, the station is easily accessible by bus, car and taxi with a short-stay car park, and pick-up and drop-off points conveniently right outside.

From York, LNER operates frequent high-speed trains south to London King’s Cross and north to Newcastle and Edinburgh, while CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Northern, and Grand Central provide connections to a wide variety of destinations across the region, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Scarborough and Sunderland.

Main stops

Travelling from York to Edinburgh Waverley with CrossCountry, your journey will take you through the historic cities of Darlington, Durham, and Newcastle, before continuing north through Morpeth and Berwick-upon-Tweed and on to the Scottish capital. LNER services typically also call at Darlington, Newcastle, and Berwick-upon-Tweed, though some services offer a few extra stops along the scenic East Coast Main Line, calling at Northallerton, Durham, Morpeth, and Alnmouth.

Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley

Arriving into Edinburgh Waverley station, you’ll alight right in the beating heart of Scotland’s capital, nestled between the medieval Old Town and the elegant Georgian New Town. From the Market Street exit, it’s just a short walk to the Royal Mile.

Edinburgh Waverley railway station serves not only as Edinburgh’s main rail hub but also as a launchpad for adventures all across Scotland, with direct services to Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness and the Highlands.

Step out of the station and dive straight into the magic of Scotland’s capital, from where you can explore the elegant boutique-lined curve of Victoria Street, tour the regal Palace of Holyroodhouse and the dramatic Holyrood Park and Abbey ruins, or stroll along the Water of Leith to Dean Village, one of Edinburgh’s most enchanting hidden gems.

LNER train classes

  • Standard Class: Enjoy a smooth ride from York to Edinburgh Waverley onboard one of LNER’s state-of-the-art Azuma trains. Settle into your ergonomic seat, make use of the free Wi-Fi and power sockets, and enjoy locally sourced food and drinks from the onboard café.
  • First Class: Travel York to Edinburgh Waverley first class for a more premium experience, complete with spacious reclining seats, larger tables, and a complimentary refreshment service made from locally sourced ingredients and served directly to your seat.

LNER travel advice

If you’re planning your train journey from York to Edinburgh Waverley with LNER, here’s everything you need to know before you go – from travelling with luggage and bikes to family tickets, pets, and accessibility support.

  • Luggage: Passengers can bring up to three items onboard LNER services for free, including a holdall, cabin case or large suitcase. Luggage should be stowed in overhead racks, at end-of-carriage luggage stacks, or under your seat, keeping aisles and doorways clear.
  • Bicycles: LNER welcomes standard bikes and e-bikes onboard its services with a free reservation. Space, however, is limited, so it’s best to book ahead, especially for travel during peak hours. Folding bikes can be brought on board at any time and on any service, as long as they are folded and stored as luggage. E-scooters are not permitted.
  • Children: Kids under five can travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 only pay 50% on standard and first-class fares. Older children can also access half-price tickets with a 16-17 Saver railcard.
  • Pets: Passengers may bring up to two pets on board free of charge. Dogs must be kept on a lead and off seats, and smaller animals should be transported securely in a pet carrier.
  • Passenger Assist: If you require help with boarding, handling luggage or navigating stations, you can book Passenger Assist in advance, either at the time of booking, via the app or by requesting help from staff at major stations on the day of travel.

CrossCountry: York to Edinburgh Waverley trains

Take a direct CrossCountry train from York to Edinburgh Waverley and travel from one iconic city rich in history and legend to another, arriving in the Scottish capital in around two hours and forty minutes.

Climb aboard your York to Edinburgh Waverley train and enjoy some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery – from Northumberland’s wide golden beaches, the rugged cliffs around Berwick-upon-Tweed, and the shimmering seas and sweeping bays of the North Sea coast.

Spanning the length of Britain all the way from Penzance to Aberdeen, CrossCountry runs one of the UK’s most extensive long-distance rail networks. With Birmingham as its central hub, the network links key destinations such as Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh.

CrossCountry train classes 

  • Standard Class: Whether you’re travelling on a high-speed Voyager or a regional Turbostar, onboard CrossCountry services you can enjoy spacious seating and free Wi-Fi throughout your journey. Most services also include a trolley or at-seat catering service, so you can sit back and unwind with a snack or drink as the scenery rolls by.
  • First Class: Travel from York to Edinburgh Waverley first class for a quieter, more spacious experience with reclining seats, generous legroom, and tables ideal for working or relaxing. Complimentary drinks and light refreshments are available on most services.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Before you board your York to Edinburgh Waverley train with CrossCountry, here’s a quick guide covering everything you need to know in advance, from travelling with luggage and bikes to children’s tickets, pets and accessibility support.

  • Luggage: As storage space can be limited on some services, CrossCountry advises travelling with just one medium-sized bag. On Voyager trains, larger suitcases can be stored in the dedicated racks found in Coaches D and J.
  • Bicycles: Both standard bikes and electric bikes are welcome on board CrossCountry services with a free reservation, though spaces are limited, so it’s recommended to book early. Folding bikes do not require a reservation and can be brought on board at any time as long as they are folded and stowed as luggage.
  • Children: Kids under five can travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 get 50% off standard adult fares. Families can save even more with a Family & Friends railcard, offering a third off adult fares and 60% off children’s fares, and 16- and 17-year-olds can also save 50% on tickets with a 16–17 Saver railcard.
  • Pets: Passengers may bring up to two pets on board CrossCountry trains free of charge. Dogs, however, must be kept on a lead or transported securely in a pet carrier.
  • Passenger Assist: If you need a hand with boarding, carrying luggage, or getting around stations, you can pre-book Passenger Assist (either through the app or at the time of purchasing your tickets) or request assistance from staff on the day of travel.

York to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide

Taking the train from York to Edinburgh (Waverley) is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from York, you can arrive at Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 2h 17m, 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 York to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

The average ticket fare from York to Edinburgh (Waverley) is about €21.61, 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.

What is the best way to travel from York to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare York to Edinburgh (Waverley) train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

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

The fastest train journey time from York to Edinburgh (Waverley) is 2h 17m . 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 York to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from York to Edinburgh (Waverley). TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

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

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are York to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

While York to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from York to Edinburgh (Waverley) is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover 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 York to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from York 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?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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 York to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?

The train from York to Edinburgh (Waverley) is operated by CrossCountry. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • Bicycle

    You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.

  • Children

    Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.

  • Pets

    Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. 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.

  • Passenger assistance

    Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

How to buy cheap York 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?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.