- 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 18
$64
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$69
Fastest journey on Sep 18
12 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
13 h 44 m
Buses on Sep 18
6
Distance
497 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Swindon to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Swindon to Edinburgh will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
It's difficult to get from Swindon to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
NX403 · NX591
NX403 · NX591
FlixBus · FlixBus
NX401 · NX594
NX401 · NX594
FlixBus · FlixBus
NX401 · NX594
NX403 · NX591
NX403 · NX591
NX401 · NX594Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Swindon to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $95 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $95, while a flight costs an average of $275.
Distance: 308 miles (497 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$95 Average price Cheapest | $275 Average price | $256 Average price | $175 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 42m Average total duration 12h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 23m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular train company | 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 Swindon to Edinburgh:
A bus is $161 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Swindon to Edinburgh costing on average $256.
A bus is $179 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Swindon to Edinburgh costing on average $275.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 53m.
Bus takes on average 12h 12m.
Tickets start at around $95 compared to roughly $175 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $80. The journey takes 12h 12m versus 6h 55m 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 FlixBus | Departure Time 02:25AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:44AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 14h06 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:59AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 13h36 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 15h40 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $130 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 15h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 13h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 14h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:24PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h56 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 12h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
The table below shows live departures for Swindon to Edinburgh buses for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX401 · NX594 | 3:40 PM Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) | 15h40 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX401 · NX594 | 3:45 PM Swindon, Queen's Drive | 15h35 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:15 PM Swindon, Regent Circus (Stop C) | 12h10 | 6:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:25 AM Swindon, Regent Circus (Stop C) | 14h10 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX403 · NX591 | 4:40 AM Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) | 14h10 | 6:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX403 · NX591 | 4:44 AM Swindon, Queen's Drive | 14h06 | 6:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Swindon to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 12h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 but you can travel from only $38 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 03:25, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 308 miles (497 km) distance in 11h 15m.
Distance 308 miles (497 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 11h 15m |
First bus 3:25 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 35 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 Swindon 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 Swindon to Edinburgh buses use the Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Swindon and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Nearby eateries available in the city center.
Wi-Fi is available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2). ATMs are available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2).
Ticket office support is available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2).
Available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2): Accessible for standard wheelchairs.
Swindon, Queen's Drive is 1 km from Swindon city centre. Public transport options include:
Swindon, Queen's Drive has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Swindon, Queen's Drive. ATMs are available at Swindon, Queen's Drive.
Ticket office support is available at Swindon, Queen's Drive.
Available at Swindon, Queen's Drive: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swindon, Queen's Drive: The station is accessible with provisions for disabled passengers.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need