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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Nov 06
Cheapest price
$107
Average price
$115
Fastest journey
13 h 7 m
Average duration
13 h 43 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
521 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Reading to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Edinburgh will cost around $115 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $107.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Reading to Edinburgh without transferring at least 2 times.
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX59104:20AM14h35
Reading, Blagrave Street06:55PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1071One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX025 · NX59104:20AM14h35
Reading, Blagrave Street06:55PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1081One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX035 · NX59405:43PM13h07
Reading, Blagrave Street06:50AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1111One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX025 · NX59405:43PM13h07
Reading, Blagrave Street06:50AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1171One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX59806:31PM13h09
Reading, Blagrave Street07:40AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1321One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX035 · NX59405:43PM13h07
Reading, Blagrave Street06:50AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1111One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX025 · NX59405:43PM13h07
Reading, Blagrave Street06:50AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1171One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX59806:31PM13h09
Reading, Blagrave Street07:40AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1321One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX59104:20AM14h35
Reading, Blagrave Street06:55PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1071One-way
2 transfers
RRRA1 · NX025 · NX59104:20AM14h35
Reading, Blagrave Street06:55PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1081One-way
2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Reading to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €23, and a train costs an average of €79.
Distance: 323 miles (521 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€89 Average price | €142 Average price | €86 Average price Cheapest |
11h 10m Average total duration 10h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 4m Average total duration 5h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Reading to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 14h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $107 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 13h07 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $109 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:31PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 13h09 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $112 |
Live departures
Reading to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Edinburgh buses for tomorrow, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 10:10 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RRRA1 · NX025 · NX591 | 4:20 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 14h35 | 6:55 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX032 · NX591 | 4:20 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 14h35 | 6:55 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX035 · NX594 | On time 5:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 13h07 | 6:50 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX025 · NX594 | On time 5:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 13h07 | 6:50 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| RRRA1 · NX032 · NX598 | 6:31 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 13h09 | 7:40 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
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 $28 (€23)
Distance 323 miles (521 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $68 (€55) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 11h 25m |
First bus 04:09 |
Last bus 23:40 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Reading to Edinburgh start from as low as $68 (€55) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $109 (€89) depending on the train type and class.
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 $28 (€23)
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Reading to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Reading to Edinburgh with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $28 (€23). 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
11h 25m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€55)
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
12h 50m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€65)
National Express frequency
2 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.
FAQs: Bus from Reading to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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 Reading to Edinburgh can start from as little as $31 (€25) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Edinburgh is $89 (€72); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Reading to Edinburgh bus travel time is 12 h 50 min for the 322 mile (520 km) long journey, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Reading to Edinburgh leaves at 4: 09AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Reading to Edinburgh leaves at 5: 57PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Reading to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express or FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
For the trip from Reading to Edinburgh you can take a bus with National Express or FlixBus. Be sure to check out all possible bus companies that offer services between Reading and Edinburgh on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
The cheapest month for a bus from Reading to Edinburgh is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel to Edinburgh from Reading including taking a train, bus or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading 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 Reading 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 providers National Express and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Edinburgh with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Edinburgh with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Edinburgh with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Reading to Edinburgh
Reading
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Reading is Reading, Blagrave Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading, Blagrave Street for your trip from Reading to Edinburgh.
Reading, Blagrave Street
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
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 Reading.
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 Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Reading
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