Leicester
Edinburgh

Leicester to Edinburgh: Cheapest Travel Options

Bus: Choose National Express for affordable tickets from Leicester to Edinburgh starting at just $40.1. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 8h 25m trip.

Over 2 schedules for your journey.

Leicester to Edinburgh bus times

Check out the cheapest buses departing from Leicester to Edinburgh

CompanyDeparture time/Arrival timeDeparture Station/Arrival StationTransport TypePriceView schedule
National Express
8h 25m
National Express
$40.10
National Express
8h 10m
National Express
$44.70

Bus Leicester to Edinburgh

It takes an average of 8h 17m to travel from Leicester to Edinburgh by bus, over a distance of around 392 km. There are normally 2 buses per day traveling from Leicester to Edinburgh and tickets for this journey start from $40.1 when you book in advance.

Distance392 km
Price$40.1
Frequency2
Fastest8h 10m

What companies travel from Leicester to Edinburgh?

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.

Bus vs Train

When weighing your options for travel from Leicester to Edinburgh, here’s what to keep in mind:

Travel Time: Opting for the train slashes travel time with 5-7 hours trips compared to buses that stretch between 7-12 hours.

Cost: Bus travel is lighter on the pocket, an economical choice for budget travelers, while trains offer a balanced cost-efficiency.

Amenities: Trains elevate your comfort with dining and Wi-Fi benefits, whereas buses provide the basics like power outlets and reclining seats.

Bus vs Train

Best Travel Options

Planning a trip from Leicester to Edinburgh takes into consideration travel time, costs, and the overall experience unique to each mode of transport:

Travel Time: Trains offer the quickest journey, whizzing you to your destination in about 4 to 5 hours. Cars cover the distance in roughly 5 to 7 hours, providing flexibility on the road.

Cost: Travel by bus offers the most economical fares, a perfect option for those looking to minimize expenses. Train tickets are higher-priced but come with the advantage of speed.

Experience: The train ride provides a balance of comfort and efficiency, suitable for business or leisure travellers. Driving offers a customizable journey, ideal for adventurers and sightseers.

🧳 The trip stretches across 500 km (approximately 310 miles), making this a significant long-distance journey. Discover more insights about each travel option as you scroll down.

Best Travel Options

Cheapest Travel Options

Score unbeatable deals for your Leicester to Edinburgh journey with operators like Megabus and National Express, boasting fares from just £10 to £40. Comfortable coaches take you there in about 7 to 9 hours, mixing economy with choice. For quicker travel, consider CrossCountry or LNER’s train services, priced at £30 to £90 with potential early bird savings. Or, cut travel time significantly with EasyJet or Ryanair flights, starting around £25 minus luggage costs.

Tap into cost-saving tips whether you’re traveling with family, for work, or on a shoestring budget. Find the perfect balance between price and convenience with coaches offering frequent departures or trains for quick, pleasant rides. Families enjoy ample savings with advance coach bookings, while business travelers might zero in on flight deals that save time. Budget travelers and groups can take advantage of shared costs via rideshare services like BlaBlaCar, turning the trip into a sociable and highly economical adventure.

Cheapest Travel Options
Save money

Cheap tickets from Leicester to Edinburgh

The price of tickets from Leicester to Edinburgh 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 Leicester to Edinburgh 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.