Cheltenham to Edinburgh bus with National Express

Wed, Jun 10
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cheltenham to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for Jun 10

Cheapest price

$35

Average price

$51

Fastest journey

14 h 45 m

Average duration

15 h 25 m

Buses per day

6

Distance

456 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh will cost around $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.

Fast buses

Of the 6 buses that leave Cheltenham for Edinburgh on Wed, Jun 10, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jun 10 the direct buses cover the 456 km distance in an average of 15 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 14 h 45 m .

On Wed, Jun 10 the slowest buses will take 16 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • FlixBus
    5:25 AM16h20
    Cheltenham
    9:45 PMEdinburgh
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    5:35 AM16h10
    Cheltenham
    9:45 PMEdinburgh
    $401One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    4:20 AM16h25
    Cheltenham
    8:45 PMEdinburgh
    $441One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    2:20 AM14h55
    Cheltenham
    5:15 PMEdinburgh
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    3:40 PM14h45
    Cheltenham
    6:25 AMEdinburgh
    $601One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cheltenham to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $23, and a train costs an average of $44.

Distance: 283 miles (456 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$57

Average price

$173

Average price

$52

Average price

Cheapest

$164

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

11h 25m

Average total duration

10h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 49m

Average total duration

5h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 8m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 15m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

easyJet

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is a flight with an average price of $52 (€42).

This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:

A flight is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh costing on average $57 (€46).

A flight is $121 (€98) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Edinburgh costing on average $173 (€140).

The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 8m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 19m.

Bus takes on average 10h 55m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Cheltenham to Edinburgh Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:20AM
Arrival Time
04:15PM
Duration
14h55
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:05AM
Arrival Time
05:15PM
Duration
15h10
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:20AM
Arrival Time
05:15PM
Duration
14h55
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:00AM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
15h35
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$92
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
08:45PM
Duration
16h25
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$44
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
14h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$89
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
09:45PM
Duration
16h20
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:35AM
Arrival Time
09:45PM
Duration
16h10
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
06:25AM
Duration
14h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
07:20AM
Duration
14h50
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$105
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
07:20AM
Duration
13h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$89
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:10PM
Arrival Time
08:05AM
Duration
12h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:45PM
Arrival Time
06:45AM
Duration
11h00
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:45PM
Arrival Time
07:45AM
Duration
11h00
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$50

Live departures

Cheltenham to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Edinburgh buses for today, Tuesday, June 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX444 · NX591
Delayed
8:05 AM 3:00 AMCheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
15h35
6:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:40 PM Cheltenham
14h45
6:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX444 · NX594
On time
4:30 PM Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
14h50
7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:45 PM Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub
11h00
7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
Wednesday, June 10
National Express1:20 AM Cheltenham
14h55
4:15 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
National Express2:20 AM Cheltenham
14h55
5:15 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
FlixBus4:20 AM Cheltenham
16h25
8:45 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
FlixBus5:25 AM Cheltenham
16h20
9:45 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
FlixBus5:35 AM Cheltenham
16h10
9:45 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham 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.

Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16

Why should you book Cheltenham to Edinburgh buses with Omio?

National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cheltenham to Edinburgh run on average 5 times per day, taking around 10h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $23 (€18) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 283 miles (456 km) distance in 10h 15m.

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
Flight from $23 (€18)
Distance
283 miles (456 km)
Average bus duration
10h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
$33 (€27)
Buses per day
5
Fastest bus
10h 15m
First bus
2:05 AM
Last bus
11:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
7 days
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
Flight from $23 (€18)

Bus providers: National Express, Megabus from Cheltenham to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Cheltenham to Edinburgh with National Express, Megabus for as low as $23 (€18). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

Complete guide to Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum of Scotland

Scotland’s flagship museum with collections spanning natural history, science, design, fashion, and Scottish history. A top all-round choice for first-time visitors.

  • Must visit

Scottish National Gallery

The national art gallery in central Edinburgh, known for European masters and Scottish art. Easy to combine with Princes Street Gardens and the Royal Mile.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

A striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of people who shaped Scottish history and culture. Popular for both the collection and the architecture.

Pound sterling

Expensive by UK standards. Hotels peak in summer and festival season, while pubs and casual dining are more manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple cafe meal.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up for taxis. Tips are optional in pubs and cafes.

FAQs: Bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Edinburgh by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cheltenham to Edinburgh can start from as little as $33 (€27) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cheltenham to Edinburgh is $57 (€46) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is 10h 15m to travel the 283 miles (456 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh leaves at 2:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Cheltenham to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cheltenham and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cheltenham , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station, Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane), Cheltenham, Cheltenham, Gloucester Road (Arle Court), Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub, Gloucester, Transport Hub . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your journey in bus stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station, which is located around 0 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Edinburgh from Cheltenham is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 10h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Edinburgh are:
  • Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and housing the Crown Jewels
  • Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano providing hiking trails and a vantage point over Edinburgh
  • The Royal Mile, a historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, lined with shops and landmarks
  • Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, featuring beautiful gardens and historic architecture
  • The National Museum of Scotland, a museum showcasing Scottish history, culture, and natural history through diverse exhibits.
The best things to do in Edinburgh include:
  • Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, a historic marketplace with pubs, shops, and street performances
  • Enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults of Edinburgh
  • Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, known for its diverse range of shows
  • Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, offering beautiful landscapes and plant collections
  • Discover the hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh depends on the bus companies:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
  • National Express
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:
  • Megabus
    • One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:
  • Megabus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Cheltenham nor Edinburgh are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Cheltenham to Edinburgh

Cheltenham
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Cheltenham is Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station for your trip from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 06:00-23:00
carConnection
Car connection
Royal Well Road
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Cafeteria Royal Well (in the station)
  • The Coffee House (0.2 km)
  • The Brewery Quarter (0.5 km).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the station.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available in the station.
Public transit options for Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
  • Bus: 94, 94U, 97, 98
Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane)
information
Cheltenham
information

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