Swindon to Edinburgh bus with National Express

Fri, Sep 18
+ Add return
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Swindon to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

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

Cheap tickets

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.

Fast buses

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

  • National ExpressNX403 · NX591
    4:44 AM14h06
    Swindon, Queen's Drive
    6:50 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX403 · NX591
    4:40 AM14h10
    Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2)
    6:50 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $641One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    6:15 PM12h10
    Swindon, Regent Circus (Stop C)
    6:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $651One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX401 · NX594
    5:15 PM14h05
    Swindon, Queen's Drive
    7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $691One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX401 · NX594
    5:10 PM14h10
    Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2)
    7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $691One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Swindon to Edinburgh

Omio 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)

Compare bus with

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

National Express

Most popular bus company

easyJet

Most popular airline

London North Eastern Railway

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Swindon to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $95.

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.

The fastest way to travel from Swindon to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 45m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 53m.

Bus takes on average 12h 12m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Swindon and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Swindon 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 $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.

Swindon to Edinburgh Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest 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

Live departures

Swindon to Edinburgh bus times

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.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX401 · NX5943:40 PM Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2)
15h40
7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX401 · NX5943:45 PM Swindon, Queen's Drive
15h35
7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:15 PM Swindon, Regent Circus (Stop C)
12h10
6:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
Friday, September 18
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:25 AM Swindon, Regent Circus (Stop C)
14h10
5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX403 · NX5914:40 AM Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2)
14h10
6:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX403 · NX5914:44 AM Swindon, Queen's Drive
14h06
6:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Swindon 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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

Why should you book Swindon to Edinburgh buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Swindon to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Swindon to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Swindon 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Swindon 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Swindon 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 Swindon to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Swindon to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

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.

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 $38
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
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 $38

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Swindon to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Swindon to Edinburgh with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $38. 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 FlixBus Duration
11h 15m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$47
FlixBus frequency
3 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 National Express Duration
11h 46m
Cheapest National Express Price
$42
National Express frequency
4 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.

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 covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.

  • Must visit

National Gallery of Scotland

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.

British pound sterling (£)

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.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for coffee.

Tipping culture

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.

FAQs: Bus from Swindon to Edinburgh

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Swindon to Edinburgh can start from as little as $42 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Swindon to Edinburgh is $95 ; 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 Swindon to Edinburgh is 11h 15m to travel the 308 miles (497 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 Swindon to Edinburgh leaves at 3:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Swindon to Edinburgh leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Swindon to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Swindon to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Swindon and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Edinburgh from Swindon is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Swindon to Edinburgh is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Swindon and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Swindon to Edinburgh for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Swindon to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Swindon to Edinburgh depends on the bus companies:
  • 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 National Express, FlixBus.
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 Swindon to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Swindon 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 Swindon 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 Swindon 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 Swindon to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Swindon to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Swindon to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Swindon 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Swindon 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 Swindon to Edinburgh

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.

Departure bus stations in Swindon
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2)New Bridge Cl, Swindon SN1 1EB, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) from Swindon city centre

TRUE

Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2) 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 and drink

Food options include: Nearby eateries available in the city center.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2). ATMs are available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Swindon, Fleming Way (Stops N1&N2): Accessible for standard wheelchairs.

Swindon, Queen's DriveQueens Dr, Swindon SN3, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Swindon, Queen's Drive from Swindon city centre

Swindon, Queen's Drive is 1 km from Swindon city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus81 · 6m · $5 · every ~1 min
17A, 17 · 11m · every ~17 min

Swindon, Queen's Drive bus station facilities and services

Swindon, Queen's Drive has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Swindon, Queen's Drive. ATMs are available at Swindon, Queen's Drive.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Swindon, Queen's Drive.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Swindon, Queen's Drive: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Swindon, Queen's Drive: The station is accessible with provisions for disabled passengers.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone