- Must visit
Wordsworth Grasmere
Wordsworth’s former home with period rooms and a major literary museum. Essential for understanding Romantic-era Lakeland culture.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Ambleside
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 07
Cheapest price on Oct 07
€14
Average ticket price on Oct 07
€16
Fastest journey on Oct 07
4 h 9 m
Average journey duration on Oct 07
4 h 16 m
Buses on Oct 07
3
Distance
170 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Ambleside is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Ambleside will cost around €16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €14.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Ambleside without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus10:05 PM4h25Edinburgh, Bus Station2:30 AMPenrith, Brunswick Road (Booths)€141One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus10:15 PM4h15Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HH)2:30 AMPenrith, Brunswick Road (Booths)€151One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:21 PM4h09Edinburgh, Drum Brae South2:30 AMPenrith, Brunswick Road (Booths)€201One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:21 PM4h09Edinburgh, Drum Brae South2:30 AMPenrith, Brunswick Road (Booths)€201One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:15 PM4h15Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HH)2:30 AMPenrith, Brunswick Road (Booths)€151One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:05 PM4h25Edinburgh, Bus Station2:30 AMPenrith, Brunswick Road (Booths)€141One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Ambleside run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €13 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:20, the last at 21:34. The fastest bus covers the 105 miles (170 km) distance in 3h 36m.
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
Distance 105 miles (170 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price €13 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 3h 36m |
First bus 5:20 AM |
Last bus 9:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Edinburgh to Ambleside Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €15 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €14 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €15 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:21PM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 4h09 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €20 |
Why should you book Edinburgh to Ambleside buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Edinburgh to Ambleside.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Ambleside.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Ambleside.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Ambleside.
Bus providers: FlixBus from Edinburgh to AmblesideYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Ambleside with FlixBus for as low as €13. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
3h 36m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€13
FlixBus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Ambleside
Things to do in Ambleside
Discover the best of Ambleside — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ambleside trip today.
- Must visit
Hill Top House Museum
Museum displays within Beatrix Potter’s preserved farmhouse. The original rooms offer intimate insight into her life and work.
- Recommended
The Armitt Museum and Gallery
Independent museum with local history, Beatrix Potter material, and art collections. A compact, rewarding introduction to the area.
- Must visit
Stock Ghyll Force
Large waterfall reached by woodland paths from town. A classic Ambleside walk with fast water, mossy rock, and photo-worthy views.
- Must visit
Loughrigg Fell
Popular fell walk above town with wide views over Windermere and the central fells. Short but rewarding for most walkers.
- Must visit
Rydal Water
Quiet lakeshore and island-dotted water near Rydal. The setting inspired poets and remains one of the area’s most scenic walks.
- Vegetarian
Cumberland Rum Nicky
A spiced fruit cake from Cumbria, traditionally enriched with tea, dried fruit and warming spices. It is a classic Lake District bake often served with tea.
Cumberland Sausage
Northern Cumberland sausage is coiled and boldly seasoned with pepper and herbs. It is a protected regional specialty strongly associated with Cumbria.
- Vegetarian
Kendal Mint Cake
A rich fruit cake made with currants, candied peel and spice, baked for celebrations and afternoon tea. It is a long-standing Cumbrian farmhouse tradition.
The Old Stamp House
Established Michelin-starred dining room at The Samling, known for refined British tasting menus and elegant Lake District views.
Lake Road Kitchen
Popular independent restaurant serving modern British small plates with local produce in a lively yet polished setting.
Fellinis
Well-known vegetarian restaurant with globally inspired dishes, homemade cakes and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere near the centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Ambleside is pricier than many UK towns due to Lake District demand. Hotels, pub meals, and parking add up, though buses and casual cafés can help control costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food, bakery items, or a light café meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a pub or restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining or tasting menus.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. In cafés, tipping is optional, such as small change.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £8.50
To the city center
Ambleside, Kelsick Road -> Ambleside Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses around Ambleside are run by Stagecoach. Contactless card payment is commonly accepted on board.
- Check seasonal timetables before travel, as Lake District bus frequencies can change by day and time of year.
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Ambleside 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 Ambleside, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Edinburgh to Ambleside can start from as little as €13 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Ambleside is €17 ; 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 Edinburgh to Ambleside is 3h 36m to travel the 105 miles (170 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 Edinburgh to Ambleside leaves at 5:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside leaves at 9:34 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Edinburgh to Ambleside which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Ambleside. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Ambleside and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Ambleside including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh to Ambleside depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
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 Edinburgh to Ambleside.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh to Ambleside:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh to Ambleside:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Ambleside with the following bus company: FlixBus.
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 Ambleside, travelers should be mindful of typical countryside safety concerns such as uneven hiking paths and changing weather conditions. There are no widely reported scams specific to the area, but standard precautions like safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding unsolicited offers are advisable.
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 Edinburgh to Ambleside
Most Edinburgh to Ambleside buses use the Edinburgh, Bus Station to Penrith, Brunswick Road (Booths) station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Ambleside bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Edinburgh
Arrival bus stations in Ambleside
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · €2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · €1 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · €4 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Edinburgh, St Andrew's HouseEdinburgh EH7 5BN, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, St Andrew's House from Edinburgh city centre
BusX19, 43, X18, X27, X28 · 6m · €2 · every ~36 min
15, 26, 44, X26 · 7m · €1 · every ~40 min
Uk090 · 8m · €1 · every ~1 min
Uk090 · 8m · €1 · every ~15 min
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Ambleside
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ambleside and Edinburgh
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