- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$95
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$121
Fastest journey on Sep 19
12 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
13 h 18 m
Buses on Sep 19
5
Distance
521 km
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 $121 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 5 buses from Reading to Edinburgh, including 5 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct buses cover the 521 km distance in an average of 13 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 12 h 50 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest buses will take 13 h 40 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.










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 bus, with an average ticket price of $123 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 50m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $123, while a flight costs an average of $287.
Distance: 323 miles (521 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$123 Average price Cheapest | $189 Average price | $287 Average price | $182 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 24m Average total duration 11h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 52m Average total duration 5h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 50m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.1kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Edinburgh:
A bus is $65 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Edinburgh costing on average $189.
A bus is $164 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Reading to Edinburgh costing on average $287.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 22m.
Bus takes on average 11h 54m.
Tickets start at around $123 compared to roughly $182 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $59. The journey takes 11h 54m versus 7h 25m 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.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 14h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:55AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $189 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 14h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:31PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 13h09 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h37 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:49PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h31 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $111 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 12h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:56PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h24 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:26PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 13h14 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $97 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:31PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 13h09 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 12h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $111 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $43 |
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Edinburgh buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
RRRA1 · NX032 · NX594 | 5:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 13h37 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
RRRA1 · NX025 · NX594 | 5:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 13h37 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
![]() | 3:55 AM Reading | 13h40 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:55 AM Reading | 13h40 | 6:35 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Reading to Edinburgh run on average 5 times per day, taking around 11h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $87 but you can travel from only $29 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 04:20, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 323 miles (521 km) distance in 9h 41m.
Distance 323 miles (521 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $87 |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 9h 41m |
First bus 4:20 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
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.

Most Reading to Edinburgh buses use the Reading, Blagrave Street to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Reading and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Reading, Blagrave Street has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading, Blagrave Street: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need