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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Dec 16
Cheapest price
$99
Average price
$184
Fastest journey
4 h 47 m
Average duration
5 h 1 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
392 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Edinburgh will cost around $184 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leicester to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
C72516+
W05507+
W0293307:22AM4h58
Leicester station (LEI)12:20PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$991One-way
2 transfers
C74796+
C4104907:13AM5h17
Leicester station (LEI)12:30PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$1461One-way
1 transfer
C74794+C4104206:15AM5h18
Leicester station (LEI)11:33AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$1461One-way
1 transfer
C52136+
Y25427+C4104907:43AM4h47
Leicester station (LEI)12:30PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$2041One-way
2 transfers
C52115+C75051+C4104206:37AM4h56
Leicester station (LEI)11:33AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$2041One-way
2 transfers
C52136+Y25427+C4104907:43AM4h47
Leicester station (LEI)12:30PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$2041One-way
2 transfers
C52115+C75051+C4104206:37AM4h56
Leicester station (LEI)11:33AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$2041One-way
2 transfers
C72516+W05507+W0293307:22AM4h58
Leicester station (LEI)12:20PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$991One-way
2 transfers
C51957+C7483807:07AM5h05
Leicester station (LEI)12:12PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$3061One-way
1 transfer
C74796+C4104907:13AM5h17
Leicester station (LEI)12:30PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$1461One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Leicester to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €24, and a train costs an average of €65.
Distance: 243 miles (392 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€122 Average price | €41 Average price Cheapest | €89 Average price |
5h 16m Average total duration 4h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 52m Average total duration 8h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 1h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Leicester to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Edinburgh trains for today, Monday, December 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 1:22 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:15 AM Leicester | 5h05 | 10:20 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:06 AM Leicester | 5h01 | 11:07 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:14 AM Leicester | 5h00 | 11:14 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:18 AM Leicester | 5h04 | 12:22 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:13 AM Leicester | 5h03 | 3:16 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Edinburgh by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Leicester to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
LNER as well as CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast and east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Leicester to Edinburgh. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs LNER?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for LNER, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast and east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Edinburgh.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare LNER with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While LNER tickets can be bought on LNER's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast and east_midlands_trains to help you choose the right option for your journey from Leicester to Edinburgh.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Edinburgh.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Leicester to Edinburgh?
The best time to book your train from Leicester to Edinburgh is 4 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Leicester to Edinburgh route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Leicester to Edinburgh per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Leicester to Edinburgh.
Trains
from $130Buses
from $32Flights
from $169Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $81 (€65) but you can travel from only $30 (€24) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:29, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 4h 55m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $30 (€24)
Distance 243 miles (392 km) |
Average train duration 4h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $81 (€65) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 55m |
First train 05:29 |
Last train 23:32 |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $30 (€24)
Train companies: LNER, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains from Leicester to Edinburgh trainsLNER, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Leicester and Edinburgh from $30 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
LNER
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€92)
LNER frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 43m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€89)
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 58m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€65)
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 51m
Cheapest Price
$383 (€306)
east_midlands_trains frequency
10 a day
FAQs: Trains from Leicester to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Edinburgh by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
A day trip from Leicester to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 55m each way. Trains operate 6 times per day.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
The train from Leicester to Edinburgh takes 4h 55m and runs 6 per day.
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
The distance by train from Leicester to Edinburgh is 243 miles (392 km).
The train journey from Leicester to Edinburgh offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the English countryside and the Scottish Borders. Passengers can enjoy sights such as the rugged terrain of the Northumberland National Park and the crossing over the iconic Forth Bridge near Edinburgh.
The last train from Leicester to Edinburgh leaves at 11:32 PM.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Edinburgh is Leicester station (LEI), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Train ticket prices from Leicester to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $81 (€65), while the average price is around $152 (€122).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Edinburgh is by bus, with a cost of around $30 (€24).
There is no high speed train available from Leicester to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Edinburgh.
The first train from Leicester to Edinburgh leaves at 5:29 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester to Edinburgh.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Edinburgh.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Leicester to Edinburgh
Leicester
Edinburgh
The major train station for departures in Leicester is Leicester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester for your trip from Leicester to Edinburgh.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:20 - 22:30 Saturday 05:20 - 22:30 Sunday 07:15 - 22:30
Parking
- Car Park: Short stay car park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse, Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from the Duty Manager located on the end of Platform 3/4.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle hub situated on the lower floor (old Red Star parcels area) which can be accessed via the lift located to the left of the Customer Information desk. Stands also available in main car park and station front near short stay car park.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Leicester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Coaches leave from the Station front
The major train station for arrivals in Edinburgh is Haymarket. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Haymarket for your journey to Edinburgh from Leicester.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 21:25 Saturday 06:30 - 21:25 Sunday 08:10 - 21:25
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: M&S Simply Food
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, the Concourse and near the entrance from Haymarket Terrace.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Inside the station - one on platform 4 and one on platform 2 and 3
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing)
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Haymarket
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the layby in front of the station
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Car RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Wifi
- Free public Wi-Fi available.
Lockers
- You can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Wide range of shops Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: New Street: Long Stay
Dining
- Bagel Factory
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Costa Coffee
- JD Wetherspoon
- The Pasty Shop
- The Beer House
- M&S
- Pret a Manger
Taxis
- Taxi: Nearest Taxi Ranks are on Market St and Waverley Bridge outside the station.
- Accessible taxis: Taxi ranks are located on Waverley Bridge and also Market Street. Market Street can be accessed step free via available lifts.
Accessibility
- Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: At entrance to Public Toilets
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets,
Hotel
- Old Waverley Hotel
- Jurys Inn Edinburgh
- The Scotsman Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle storage can be found in the station: by the lift at Platform 2 (37 spaces) Platform 3 (68 Spaces) and adjacent to Platform 19 (86 Spaces). Additional cycle spaces are available in New Street car park (32 spaces).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information booths are located on the concourse.
Public transit options for Edinburgh Waverley
- Bus lines: 22, 30, 33, X22, X25, X37
- Train lines: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, CrossCountry, LNER, ScotRail, Transpennine Express
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off on Waterloo Place, pick up across from Apex Hotel and drop off outside the Apex Hotel.
- Metro: No metro available.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Address
Slateford station, Meggetgate, off A70 Slateford Road, Slateford, City of Edinburgh, EH14 1BXDistance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing)
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Slateford
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stop on Slateford Road at Platform 2 stair exit
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Leicester
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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