- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum with collections spanning natural history, science, design, fashion, and Scottish history. A top all-round choice for first-time visitors.
Cheapest price
$126
Average price
$142
Fastest journey
4 h 57 m
Average duration
5 h 25 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
470 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Edinburgh will cost around $142 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $126.
It's difficult to get from Cambridge to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
G80212+
GN227100 · X56616+
G88746
P76847+
G80229+
C04446
G80223+
C93351+
C04443
C02038 · G80217+
GN224000 · X56611
G80229+
G00963
P76847+
G80229+
C04446
G80223+
C93351+
C04443
G80229+
G00963
G80235+
G00965
C02038 · G80217+
GN224000 · X56611Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $52. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $52, and a train costs an average of $71.
Distance: 292 miles (470 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$130 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $84 Average price | $164 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 16m Average total duration 4h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 29m Average total duration 11h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 1h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus 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 Cambridge to Edinburgh:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cambridge to Edinburgh costing on average $84 (€67).
A bus is $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Edinburgh costing on average $130 (€105).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 46m.
Bus takes on average 11h 59m.
The journey is about 1h 43m faster (4h 46m by train vs 6h 29m by car) and roughly $34 (€28) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($130 (€105) vs $164 (€132)). 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.
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 Cambridge to Edinburgh trains for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
C01937+ C04454+ P01764 | Delayed 8:51 AM 8:31 AMCambridge North (CMB) | 5h01 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00958+ G80218 | On time 9:00 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h28 | 2:28 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G80218+ P66811+ C04457 | Delayed 9:51 AM 9:26 AMCambridge North (CMB) | 5h02 | 2:28 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
X55968+ G25705 | On time 9:51 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 4h47 | 2:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, May 31 | |||||
GN227100 · X56616+ G25745 | 5:57 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 7h36 | 1:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
GN227100 · X56616+ G88746+ G80212 | 5:57 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 7h34 | 1:31 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
GN224000 · X56611+ C02038 · G80217 | 8:24 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 6h03 | 2:27 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
GN224000 · X56611+ G88774+ G80217 | 8:24 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 6h03 | 2:27 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
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 Cambridge to Edinburgh run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€57) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:05, the last at 20:20. The fastest train covers the 292 miles (470 km) distance in 4h 41m.
Distance 292 miles (470 km) |
Average train duration 4h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€57) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 41m |
First train 5:05 AM |
Last train 8:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 with collections spanning natural history, science, design, fashion, and Scottish history. A top all-round choice for first-time visitors.
The national art gallery in central Edinburgh, known for European masters and Scottish art. Easy to combine with Princes Street Gardens and the Royal Mile.
A striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of people who shaped Scottish history and culture. Popular for both the collection and the architecture.
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street, linking the castle and Holyroodhouse through closes, courtyards, shops, and major heritage sites.
A central public garden below the castle with iconic skyline views, floral displays, and easy access to both Old and New Town sights.
One of the city’s classic viewpoints, known for panoramic views, monuments, and sunrise or sunset photography. Especially popular on social media.
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a savory pudding traditionally made with minced offal, oats, onion, and spices, served with mashed turnips and potatoes.
A rich Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, closely associated with the northeast but widely loved in Edinburgh.
A hearty traditional soup made with barley, root vegetables, and usually lamb or mutton, valued as classic Scottish comfort food.
A popular gastropub by Tom Kitchin serving refined Scottish pub classics in a warm, stylish, and relaxed setting.
A long-established local favorite serving traditional Scottish dishes with local ingredients in a comfortable, accessible city-center setting.
One of Scotland’s oldest pubs, offering classic Scottish food and a historic tavern atmosphere slightly outside the city center.
Expensive by UK standards. Hotels peak in summer and festival season, while pubs and casual dining are more manageable.
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up for taxis. Tips are optional in pubs and cafes.
Official public transport app
Edinburgh Waverley -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
Traveling between Cambridge and Edinburgh is a scenic journey that offers travelers the chance to experience the beauty of the British countryside. The train connection is well-served by several providers, including London North Eastern Railway, Lumo, and Cross Country. With frequent services available throughout the day, passengers can enjoy comfortable rides with modern amenities while taking in stunning views along the route. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, this rail link makes it easy to explore two cities rich in history and culture.
The train journey from Cambridge to Edinburgh takes approximately 4 hours and 44 minutes, with a total of 8 connections available per day. This route is not direct, requiring one transfer during the trip.
The first daily train journey from Cambridge to Edinburgh departs at 05:05 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the scenic route. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 07:00 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their evening in either city before heading back or continuing their adventure.
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey from Cambridge to Edinburgh is €71. The average ticket price typically hovers around €111, making the lowest fare a more budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in the UK.
Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and served as a royal residence for centuries. Its significance lies not only in its role during Scotland's tumultuous past but also as a symbol of national pride, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to explore its ancient halls and stunning views over the city. Unique features include the Stone of Destiny, used in Scottish coronations, and the One O'Clock Gun that fires daily—a tradition since 1861.
Holyrood Palace is an exquisite example of Renaissance architecture and serves as both an official residence for the British monarch in Scotland and a site steeped in royal history. The palace’s significance is highlighted by its connection to Mary Queen of Scots; her chambers are preserved much like they were during her reign, allowing you to step back into time. Don’t miss exploring the beautiful gardens surrounding Holyrood—an oasis amidst bustling Edinburgh—and take note of their design inspired by European formal gardens.
Arthur's Seat offers breathtaking panoramic views from one of Edinburgh’s most iconic natural landmarks while being steeped in legend about King Arthur himself. This extinct volcano holds significant cultural importance as it represents both historical heritage and outdoor adventure within easy reach from downtown Edinburgh. As you hike up this unique hillock with rugged terrain dotted with wildflowers, you'll discover fascinating geological formations alongside stories that have captivated locals for generations.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need