Preston to Edinburgh bus with FlixBus

Sat, Jun 13
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Preston to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for Jun 13

Cheapest price

$26

Average price

$33

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 $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Preston to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    5:15 PM5h48
    Preston, Bus Station
    11:03 PMEdinburgh, Drum Brae South
    $261One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    5:15 PM6h08
    Preston, Bus Station
    11:23 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $281One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    5:15 PM5h56
    Preston, Bus Station
    11:11 PMEdinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)
    $281One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    5:15 PM6h01
    Preston, Bus Station
    11:16 PMEdinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)
    $281One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX181 · NX591
    2:25 AM8h00
    Preston, Bus Station
    10:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $541One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, 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 $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 14m. 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 $18, and a flight costs an average of $112.

Distance: 152 miles (245 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$53

Average price

$204

Average price

$110

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 17m

Average total duration

4h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 35m

Average total duration

5h 35m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 46m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.7 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Preston to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).

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

A bus is $21 (€17) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Edinburgh costing on average $53 (€43).

A bus is $172 (€140) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Preston to Edinburgh costing on average $204 (€166).

The fastest way to travel from Preston to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 47m.

Flight takes on average 5h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Edinburgh 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 $32 (€26) compared to roughly $110 (€89) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $77 (€63). The journey takes 4h 47m versus 3h 46m 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 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.

Preston to Edinburgh Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:25AM
Arrival Time
09:25AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:25AM
Arrival Time
10:25AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$44
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:15PM
Arrival Time
10:33PM
Duration
6h18
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
11:33PM
Duration
6h18
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$22

Live departures

Preston to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for Preston to Edinburgh buses for today, Friday, June 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station
6h26
11:41 PM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station
6h18
11:33 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station
6h31
11:46 PM Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:15 PM Preston, Bus Station
6h38
11:53 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
Saturday, June 13
National ExpressNX181 · NX5912:25 AM Preston, Bus Station
8h00
10:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Preston 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.

Sat
Jun 13
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Jun 26

Why should you book Preston to Edinburgh buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Megabus or National Express 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 Megabus or National Express 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 train, bus 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 Megabus or National Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston 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 Preston to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Preston to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Preston to Edinburgh run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 01:25, the last at 22:30. The fastest bus covers the 152 miles (245 km) distance in 4h 24m.

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
Train from $18 (€15)
Distance
152 miles (245 km)
Average bus duration
4h 47m
Cheapest ticket price
$18 (€15)
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
4h 24m
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $18 (€15)

Bus providers: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express from Preston to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Preston to Edinburgh with FlixBus, Megabus, National Express for as low as $18 (€15). 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
5h 56m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
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.

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 0m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
National Express frequency
1 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 55m
Megabus frequency
2 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.

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 covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.

  • Must visit

Scottish National Gallery

Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.

Pound sterling

Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
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 coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Preston to Edinburgh can start from as little as $18 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Edinburgh is $32 (€26) ; 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 4h 24m 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, Megabus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Preston to Edinburgh, you can count on FlixBus, Megabus, National Express 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 4h 24m 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 train, bus, 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, Megabus, National Express.
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, Megabus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
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

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