Edinburgh
London

Edinburgh to London: Cheapest Travel Options

Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from Edinburgh to London starting at just £19.99. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 9h 40m trip.

Train: Speep and Confort. Opt for London North Eastern Railway (LNER) trains with fares beginning at €104. Travel time approximately 5h.

Edinburgh to London bus times

Check out the cheapest buses departing from Edinburgh to London

CompanyDeparture time/Arrival timeDeparture Station/Arrival StationTransport TypePriceView schedule
Megabus
9h 40m
Megabus
£19.99
Megabus
9h 15m
Megabus
£19.99
National Express
10h
National Express
$27.6
National Express
10h 50m
National Express
$27.6
National Express
9h
National Express
$27.6

Over 43 schedules for your journey.

Bus Edinburgh to London

It takes an average of 9h 44m to travel from Edinburgh to London by bus, over a distance of around 534 km. There are normally 15 buses per day traveling from Edinburgh to London and tickets for this journey start from £19.99 when you book in advance.

Distance534 km
Price£19.99
Frequency15
Fastest8h 1m

Train Edinburgh to London

It takes an average of 4h 44m to travel from Edinburgh to London by train, over a distance of around 534 km. There are normally 28 trains per day traveling from Edinburgh to London and tickets for this journey start from €104 when you book in advance.

Distance534 km
Price€104
Frequency28
Fastest4h

What companies travel from Edinburgh to London?

Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, affordability, or a blend of all, our detailed overview covers the key players in the industry. Get insights into schedules, booking tips, and amenities offered by each company, ensuring your journey between these iconic cities is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Best Travel Options

Embarking on the journey from Edinburgh to London presents distinct experiences across different modes of transportation:

Travel Time: Trains whisk passengers to London in a swift 4-5 hours, while buses offer a leisurely 9-hour ride and cars drive you there in about 7-8 hours.

Cost: Bus travel reigns as the most wallet-friendly option, whereas flights may offer value with early bookings, and car share can split travel costs efficiently.

Experience: Train rides promise comfort with onboard amenities, buses provide picturesque routes for sightseers, and car journeys give freedom to explore at your own pace.

🧳 Spanning approximately 534 km (332 miles), this short but scenic journey provides plenty of options for every type of traveler. Dive deeper into our page for more detailed insights!

Best Travel Options

Bus vs Train

Comparing the Edinburgh to London travel by bus and train, one should consider these distinctions:

Cost and Savings: Bus travel emerges as a clear winner for budget-seekers, providing a cost-effective journey without hidden luggage fees, unlike some train offerings.

Duration and Comfort: The train’s rapid journey averaging around 4-5 hours combines comfort with convenience, making it suitable for time-sensitive trips, while bus rides are lengthier.

Environmental Impact: Environmentally conscious travelers may favor the train for its lower carbon footprint, enhancing the sustainability of their travel experience when compared to road travel.

Bus vs Train

Cheapest Travel Options

Navigating from Edinburgh to London doesn’t have to break the bank. National Express and Megabus offer coach services starting as low as £10. While National Express provides comfort with added amenities, Megabus stands out for its unbeatable savings when booked ahead. Trains like LNER and Avanti West Coast serve as a sweet middle spot, with tickets ranging from £30 to £90, coupling speed with the pleasure of scenic views.

Flexibility is key when saving on travel. Tailor your transportation choice to your unique needs, whether you’re a family seeking comfort, a business traveler prioritizing speed, or a budget traveler looking to stretch your pounds. Discover the communal vibe of rideshares like BlaBlaCar for under £20, or fly high with budget airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair, where fares start around £20, minus the extra luggage fees. Dive into your next adventure with the best value travel options at your fingertips.

Cheapest Travel Options

Frequently asked questions

Embark on a scenic journey from Edinburgh to London, blending comfort and convenience. Traverse through Britain’s heart on a seamless rail or coach trip, encountering historic landmarks and lush landscapes while relishing the ease of direct connections.

Save money

Cheap tickets from Edinburgh to London

The price of tickets from Edinburgh to London is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from Edinburgh to London by booking early.

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting transport

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

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Travel Tips

The best tips from our team for your next trip

"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."

"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."

"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."

"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."

"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."

"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."

"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."

"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."

"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."

"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."

"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."

Travel Hotspots

Discover the Top Transit Hubs

Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.