- 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
$64
Average price
$162
Fastest journey
4 h 36 m
Average duration
4 h 52 m
Trains per day
21
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 $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
It's difficult to get from Cambridge to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
C01971+
W45412
G00952+
G80199
G00960+
G08095+
G00739 · G01062
G00984+
G80272
G00956+
G80211
W45412+
G25677
W45472+
G25698
G80216+
P66812+
C21811
G80266+
P01165+
C04395
G80205+
C21812+
P76233Omio 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 $51. 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 $51, and a train costs an average of $70.
Distance: 292 miles (470 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$127 Average price | $76 Average price Cheapest | $82 Average price | $161 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 $82 (€67).
A bus is $51 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Edinburgh costing on average $127 (€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 ($127 (€105) vs $161 (€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, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G00960+ G08095+ G00739 · G01062 | On time 10:00 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h10 | 3:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
| Wednesday, July 15 | |||||
G00950+ C01971 | 5:15 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h13 | 10:28 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G25677+ W45412 | 5:21 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 4h36 | 9:57 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
C01971+ W45412 | 5:21 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h07 | 10:28 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G00952+ G80199 | 5:58 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h35 | 11:33 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G00955+ C02087 · C02010+ G01055 | 6:49 AM Cambridge North (CMB) | 5h23 | 12:12 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4 transfers | |
G00955+ G80205 | 6:57 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h33 | 12:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G00955+ C02087 · C02010+ G01055 | 6:57 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h15 | 12:12 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
C21812+ G80205+ P76233 | 7:26 AM Cambridge North (CMB) | 5h04 | 12:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00956+ G80211 | 8:00 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h32 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
C21590+ G80211+ P76828 | 8:25 AM Cambridge North (CMB) | 5h07 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00959+ G08088 · C02036+ G01060 | 8:49 AM Cambridge North (CMB) | 5h21 | 2:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4 transfers | |
G00959+ G08088 · C02036+ G01060 | 9:00 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 5h10 | 2:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
C21811+ G80216+ P66812 | 9:30 AM Cambridge North (CMB) | 4h57 | 2:27 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G25698+ W45472 | 9:51 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 4h41 | 2:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
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 $70 (€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 $70 (€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 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.
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.

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