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The cheapest and fastest buses from Leeds to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Jan 15
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$55
Fastest journey
4 h 40 m
Average duration
5 h 6 m
Buses per day
10
Distance
262 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Leeds to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leeds to Edinburgh will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast buses
Of the 10 buses that leave Leeds for Edinburgh on Thu, Jan 15, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jan 15 the direct buses cover the 262 km distance in an average of 5 h 6 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 40 m .
On Thu, Jan 15 the slowest buses will take 5 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.
FlixBus12:20PM5h15
Leeds, Coach Station05:35PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$361One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus · FlixBus12:20PM7h17
Leeds, Coach Station07:37PMEdinburgh, Drum Brae South
$451One-way
1 transfer
NX172 · NX59801:40AM6h00
Leeds, Coach Station07:40AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$481One-way
1 transfer
NX59101:35PM5h20
Leeds, Coach Station06:55PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$501One-way
0 transfers
NX18002:55AM5h10
Leeds, Coach Station08:05AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$551One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus03:05AM4h40
Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre)07:45AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$611One-way
0 transfers
NX18312:15PM5h05
Leeds, Coach Station05:20PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$551One-way
0 transfers
NX18002:55AM5h10
Leeds, Coach Station08:05AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$551One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus12:20PM5h15
Leeds, Coach Station05:35PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$361One-way
0 transfers
NX59101:35PM5h20
Leeds, Coach Station06:55PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$501One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Leeds to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Leeds to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €17, and a train costs an average of €33.
Distance: 162 miles (262 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train |
|---|---|
€34 Average price Cheapest | €66 Average price |
5h 31m Average total duration 5h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Leeds to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:40AM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55AM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 10:39AM | Duration 7h29 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $59 |
Live departures
Leeds to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Leeds to Edinburgh buses for today, Wednesday, January 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 3:54 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX171 · NX181 · NX591 | 11:15 PM Leeds, Coach Station | 11h10 | 10:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| Thursday, January 15 | |||||
| NX172 · NX598 | 1:40 AM Leeds, Coach Station | 6h00 | 7:40 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX180 | 2:55 AM Leeds, Coach Station | 5h10 | 8:05 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 3:05 AM Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre) | 4h40 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:05 AM Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre) | 8h36 | 11:41 AM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 1 transfer | |
| NX183 | 12:15 PM Leeds, Coach Station | 5h05 | 5:20 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:20 PM Leeds, Coach Station | 7h17 | 7:37 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 12:20 PM Leeds, Coach Station | 5h15 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX591 | 1:35 PM Leeds, Coach Station | 5h20 | 6:55 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX183 | 3:10 PM Leeds, Coach Station | 5h20 | 8:30 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leeds to Edinburgh by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Leeds to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Leeds to Edinburgh run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 162 miles (262 km) distance in 4h 40m.
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 162 miles (262 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Buses per day 10 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 4h 40m |
First bus 01:40 |
Last bus 23:40 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Leeds to Edinburgh start from as low as $21 (€17) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $42 (€34) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 10 daily trains from Leeds to Edinburgh with 6 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 4h 40m but the average duration is 5h 1m
Train Operators
- Travel from Leeds to Edinburgh with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Scottish Citylink, and Transdev Harrogate
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Megabus.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from Leeds, Coach Station and arrive in Edinburgh, Bus Station
- First train typically departs at 01:40 AM and the last at 11:40 PM
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
Bus providers: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Scottish Citylink, Transdev Harrogate, Arriva Yorkshire from Leeds to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Leeds to Edinburgh with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Scottish Citylink, Transdev Harrogate, Arriva Yorkshire for as low as $21 (€17). 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
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
5h 5m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
National Express frequency
6 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
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Megabus frequency
3 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.
Scottish Citylink
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€55)
Scottish Citylink frequency
1 a day
Transdev Harrogate
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 35m
Transdev Harrogate frequency
1 a day
Arriva Yorkshire
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
Arriva Yorkshire frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Leeds to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leeds 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Leeds to Edinburgh can start from as little as $19 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Leeds to Edinburgh is $43 (€35); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Leeds to Edinburgh bus travel time is 4 h 40 min for the 162 mile (261 km) long route, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Leeds to Edinburgh leaves at 1: 40AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Leeds to Edinburgh leaves at 11: 15PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Leeds to Edinburgh with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus or Scottish Citylink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Leeds to Edinburgh, you can count on Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transdev Harrogate, Arriva Yorkshire or Scottish Citylink for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus providers who offer a service to Edinburgh from Leeds and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Leeds, Coach Station, which is located around 1.7 miles (2.7 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0.4 miles (687 m) away from the city centre.
A trip to Edinburgh from Leeds is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4 h 40 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Leeds to Edinburgh is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Leeds to Edinburgh including taking a train or bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Leeds to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Leeds to Edinburgh for bus companies National Express and FlixBus.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies National Express and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Leeds to Edinburgh depends on the bus providers:
- 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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Leeds to Edinburgh, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Leeds to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Leeds to Edinburgh:
- 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 Leeds to Edinburgh:
- 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 Leeds to Edinburgh. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Leeds to Edinburgh with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leeds to Edinburgh with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leeds to Edinburgh with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Leeds to Edinburgh
Leeds
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Leeds is Leeds, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leeds, Coach Station for your trip from Leeds to Edinburgh.
Leeds, Coach Station
information
Leeds, York Street (Travel Centre)
information
Leeds, Kirgate Coach Stop
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Edinburgh from Leeds.
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
Ingliston, Airport (Stance C)
Public transit options for Ingliston, Airport (Stance C)
- Bus: 100, 200
Edinburgh, North St David Street / St Andrew Square
information
Most popular bus connections from Leeds
More options for your journey from Leeds to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Leeds
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