London to Edinburgh by Train
The East Coast Main Line is one of Britain's classic rail journeys — leaving London for the North Sea coast, the Angel of the North and the dramatic run into Scotland's capital.
The journey, stop by stop
From London King's Cross the line heads north through York and Durham, then hugs the North Sea coast past Berwick-upon-Tweed before crossing into Scotland and arriving beneath the castle at Edinburgh Waverley.
How long does it take?
The fastest direct trains cover the route in around 4h 20m, with several departures a day. Exact times shift by service and season, so check the live schedule for your date before you lock in plans.
Who runs the route?
The route is served by LNER. Comparing the day's departures in one search is the easiest way to find the best time and fare.
London to Edinburgh train price (2026)
LNER and Avanti tickets start from around €39 (approx. £33) booked well in advance. Walk-up fares can exceed €150.
| Operator | From | Journey time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| LNER / Avanti | ~€39 (≈£33) | 4h 30m | Every 30 min |
Prices are indicative advance fares. Check live availability for your exact date.
How to get the best fare
- Book early. The cheapest saver fares sell out first — booking ahead can be dramatically cheaper than buying on the day.
- Travel off-peak. Mid-morning and mid-week departures tend to be quieter and cheaper.
- Consider first class — on many routes the upgrade is modest and very comfortable.
- Compare in one place to see every departure at a glance.
Why take the train instead of flying?
The train runs city centre to city centre and the coastal stretch near the border is far better seen from a carriage window than from 30,000 feet.
Ready to go? Check live London → Edinburgh times and fares and book your seat on Trainline — secure checkout, mobile tickets, every operator in one search.
Prefer to compare every rail operator? Check schedules & book →
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