- 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.
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Cheapest price
$74
Average price
$155
Fastest journey
5h 45m
Average duration
6h 21m
Trains per day
20
Distance
395 km
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 16m. 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 bus costs an average of $36, and a train costs an average of $71.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$170 Average price | $104 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $188 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 35m Average total duration 6h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 1h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 27m Average total duration 11h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus 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 Bristol to Edinburgh:
A bus is $49 (€41) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bristol to Edinburgh costing on average $104 (€86).
A bus is $115 (€95) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Edinburgh costing on average $170 (€140).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 5m.
Bus takes on average 11h 57m.
The journey is about 1h 30m faster (6h 5m by train vs 7h 35m by car) and roughly $17 (€14) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($170 (€140) vs $188 (€155)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Edinburgh trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W34472+ G80226+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | On time 9:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h38 | 3:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G14899+ G80228+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | On time 9:30 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h57 | 4:27 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01064+ W33935+ W85182 | On time 9:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h03 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00869_G01067+ W34286 | On time 10:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 5h45 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G14901+ G80237+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | On time 11:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h38 | 5:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01069 | On time 11:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h37 | 6:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01069+ C01372+ W85191 | On time 11:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h07 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01073+ W34290 | On time 12:32 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 5h48 | 6:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G01073 | On time 12:32 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h39 | 7:11 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34493+ G80251+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | On time 1:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h37 | 7:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01075 | On time 1:30 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h35 | 8:05 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01075+ W34292+ W85201 | On time 1:30 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h10 | 7:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01080+ W34289 | On time 2:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 5h51 | 8:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G01080 | On time 2:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h36 | 9:09 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01082+ W34287+ W85208 | On time 3:30 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h08 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01082 | On time 3:30 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h44 | 10:14 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01083+ W34291 | On time 4:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 5h48 | 10:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G01083 | On time 4:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h34 | 11:07 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
W34513+ G80273+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | On time 5:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h39 | 11:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00723+ W34288+ W85210 | On time 5:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h08 | 11:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
V00814+ G80203+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 4:53 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h45 | 11:38 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W34456+ G80205+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 5:23 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 7h07 | 12:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G14893+ G80209+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 5:47 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h50 | 12:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G66987+ W34144 | 6:35 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 5h45 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G66987 | 6:35 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h35 | 1:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01060 | 7:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h37 | 2:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G01060+ C01369+ W85177 | 7:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 5h59 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01062+ W33941 | 8:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 5h46 | 2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G01062 | 8:33 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI) | 6h37 | 3:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train 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.
Trains from Bristol to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€59) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by flight.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:53, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 5h 45m.
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average train duration 6h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€59) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 5h 45m |
First train 4:53 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 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 Bristol to Edinburgh by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Bristol to Edinburgh trains use the Bristol Temple Meads to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Bristol Temple Meads has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Bristol, Airport is 11 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:
Bristol, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Dexters, Brunel Bar & Kitchen
Free. ATMs are available in the airport terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Bristol, Airport. Information desks are located in the main terminal.
Luggage storage is available at Bristol, Airport. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bristol, Airport: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hampton by Hilton Bristol Airport, Holiday Inn Bristol Airport, Winford Manor Hotel.
Clifton Down has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Clifton Down.
Wi-Fi is available at Clifton Down.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Clifton Down: Parking.
Available at Clifton Down: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Clifton Down: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step free Category B1 station - step free access available to both platforms via ramp and choice of drop off points, however adjacent car parks need to be used for full step free access. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Edinburgh Park is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Edinburgh Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Park.
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Park.
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Parking.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need