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Preston - EdinburghCompare FlixBus, National Express
$15
6h 18m
3 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Accessibility
Wifi
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Pets: Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Food sold onboard
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.
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.
$44
8h 0m
1 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Accessibility
Wifi
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Pets: Only assistance dogs are allowed on board.
Food sold onboard
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.
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.
The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Apr 26
Cheapest price
$31
Average price
$38
Fastest journey
5 h 48 m
Average duration
6 h 23 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Edinburgh will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Preston to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM6h01Preston, Bus Station11:16 PMEdinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)$311One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM5h56Preston, Bus Station11:11 PMEdinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)$311One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM5h48Preston, Bus Station11:03 PMEdinburgh, Drum Brae South$341One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM6h08Preston, Bus Station11:23 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$341One-way1 transfer
NX181 · NX5912:25 AM8h00Preston, Bus Station10:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$601One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM5h48Preston, Bus Station11:03 PMEdinburgh, Drum Brae South$341One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM5h56Preston, Bus Station11:11 PMEdinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)$311One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM6h01Preston, Bus Station11:16 PMEdinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)$311One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM6h08Preston, Bus Station11:23 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$341One-way1 transfer
- NX181 · NX5912:25 AM8h00Preston, Bus Station10:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$601One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Preston to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 17m. 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 $15, and a flight costs an average of $137.
Distance: 152 miles (245 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$30 Average price Cheapest | $61 Average price | $174 Average price |
5h 17m Average total duration 4h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 14m Average total duration 5h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Preston to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 11:23PM | Duration 6h08 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Live departures
Preston to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Edinburgh buses for today, Saturday, April 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station | 5h48 | 11:03 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station | 6h08 | 11:23 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station | 6h01 | 11:16 PM Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station | 5h56 | 11:11 PM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB) | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, April 26 | |||||
| NX181 · NX591 | On time 2:25 AM Preston, Bus Station | 8h00 | 10:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Edinburgh by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Why should you book Preston to Edinburgh buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express or Megabus offer buses services from Preston to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express or Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Preston 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express or Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Edinburgh.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Edinburgh run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $15 (€12) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:25, the last at 22:30. The fastest bus covers the 152 miles (245 km) distance in 6h 18m.
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 152 miles (245 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $15 (€12) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 6h 18m |
First bus 1:25 AM |
Last bus 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
FAQs: Bus from Preston to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Edinburgh can start from as little as $15 (€12) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Edinburgh is $30 (€24) ; 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 Preston to Edinburgh is 6h 18m to travel the 152 miles (245 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 Preston to Edinburgh leaves at 1:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Edinburgh leaves at 10:30 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Preston to Edinburgh which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Preston to Edinburgh, you can count on FlixBus, 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 Preston and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Edinburgh from Preston is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 18m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Preston to Edinburgh is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston 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.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Preston to Edinburgh for bus company FlixBus, 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 Preston 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.
- 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, 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 Preston to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston 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.
- 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 Preston 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.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Preston 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 Preston to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston to Edinburgh
Preston
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Preston is Preston, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston, Bus Station for your trip from Preston to Edinburgh.
Preston, Bus Station
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 Preston.
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
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
Most popular bus connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Preston
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