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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Leicester
Showing times and prices for May 24
Cheapest price
$46
Average price
$55
Fastest journey
7 h 15 m
Average duration
7 h 57 m
Buses per day
7
Distance
392 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Leicester will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.
Fast buses
Of the 7 buses that leave Edinburgh for Leicester on Sun, May 24, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 24 the direct buses cover the 392 km distance in an average of 7 h 57 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 15 m .
On Sun, May 24 the slowest buses will take 8 h 22 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.
NX18311:45 AM8h15Edinburgh, Bus Station8:00 PMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station$461One-way0 transfers
FlixBus11:40 PM7h15Edinburgh, Bus Station6:55 AMLeicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)$481One-way0 transfers- FlixBus9:05 AM7h45Edinburgh, Bus Station4:50 PMLeicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)$481One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:33 PM8h22Edinburgh, Drum Brae South6:55 AMLeicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)$571One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:09 AM10h41Edinburgh, Drum Brae South4:50 PMLeicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)$571One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus11:40 PM7h15Edinburgh, Bus Station6:55 AMLeicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)$481One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:05 AM7h45Edinburgh, Bus Station4:50 PMLeicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)$481One-way0 transfers
- NX1809:10 PM8h10Edinburgh, Bus Station5:20 AMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station$581One-way0 transfers
- NX18311:45 AM8h15Edinburgh, Bus Station8:00 PMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station$461One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:33 PM8h22Edinburgh, Drum Brae South6:55 AMLeicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)$571One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Edinburgh to Leicester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 27m. 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 $31, and a train costs an average of $57.
Distance: 243 miles (392 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$40 Average price Cheapest | $103 Average price | $66 Average price | $146 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 41m Average total duration 8h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration 4h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 1h 27m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Leicester is a bus with an average price of $40 (€32).
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Leicester:
A bus is $26 (€21) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Leicester costing on average $66 (€54).
A bus is $63 (€51) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Leicester costing on average $103 (€83).
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Leicester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 27m.
Other travel options to Leicester take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 41m.
Bus takes on average 8h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Leicester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Leicester among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $40 (€32) compared to roughly $146 (€118) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $106 (€86). The journey takes 8h 11m versus 5h 51m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by National Express, FlixBus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Edinburgh to Leicester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:04AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 10h46 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:09AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 10h41 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:05AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 06:55AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:33PM | Arrival Time 06:55AM | Duration 8h22 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 05:55AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 06:55AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Leicester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Leicester buses for tomorrow, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:09 AM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 10h41 | 4:50 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 1 transfer | |
| NX183 · NX150 | 8:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 10h40 | 7:25 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 9:05 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 7h45 | 4:50 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX183 | 11:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 8h15 | 8:00 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX180 | 9:10 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 8h10 | 5:20 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:33 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 8h22 | 6:55 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 11:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 7h15 | 6:55 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Leicester 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.
Sun
May 24
May 24
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May 25
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May 26
May 26
Wed
May 27
May 27
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May 28
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May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Why should you book Edinburgh to Leicester buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus or Megabus offer buses services from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Leicester.
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 FlixBus or Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Leicester.
- 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 Edinburgh to Leicester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Leicester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Leicester run on average 5 times per day, taking around 8h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by flight.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 7h 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 (€19)
Distance 243 miles (392 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 7h 15m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 49 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 (€19)
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus from Edinburgh to LeicesterYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Leicester with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for as low as $23 (€19). 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 Duration
7h 15m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
FlixBus frequency
3 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.
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
8h 10m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€26)
National Express frequency
3 a day
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
Average Duration
8h 53m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€40)
Megabus frequency
1 a day
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.
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Leicester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Leicester 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 Leicester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Edinburgh to Leicester can start from as little as $31 (€25) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Leicester is $40 (€32) ; 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 Leicester is 7h 15m to travel the 243 miles (392 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 Leicester leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Leicester leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Edinburgh to Leicester with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Edinburgh to Leicester, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for the best way to get you to Leicester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Leicester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Leicester from Edinburgh is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Edinburgh to Leicester is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Leicester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh to Leicester:
- 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.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Edinburgh to Leicester for bus company National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh to Leicester 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.
- 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 National Express, 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 Leicester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh to Leicester:
- 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.
- 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 Leicester:
- 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.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Edinburgh to Leicester. 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 Leicester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Leicester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Leicester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Leicester 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Leicester 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 Leicester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who are not licensed and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure a safer visit.
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 Leicester
Edinburgh
Leicester
The major bus station for departures in Edinburgh is Edinburgh, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh, Bus Station for your trip from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Edinburgh, Bus Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Car connection
Elder StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Edinburgh, Bus Station
- Bus: 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 25, 26, 44 Trams: T50 Trains: Edinburgh Waverley Station
The major bus station for arrivals in Leicester is Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station for your trip to Leicester from Edinburgh.
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
information
Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)
information
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Leicester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Leicester and Edinburgh
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