East Kilbride to Edinburgh train with Scotrail

Sat, Aug 15
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Scotrail
CrossCountry
ScotRail
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Scotrail
CrossCountry
ScotRail
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from East Kilbride to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for Aug 15

Cheapest price

€22

Average price

€24

Fastest journey

2 h 3 m

Average duration

2 h 11 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

64 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from East Kilbride to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from East Kilbride to Edinburgh will cost around €24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €22.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave East Kilbride for Edinburgh on Sat, Aug 15, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Aug 15 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 2 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 3 m .

On Sat, Aug 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 15 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Scotrail
    8:28 AM2h15
    East Kilbride
    10:43 AMEdinburgh
    221One-way
    0 transfers
  • Scotrail
    7:28 AM2h15
    East Kilbride
    9:43 AMEdinburgh
    221One-way
    0 transfers
  • Scotrail
    9:31 AM2h03
    East Kilbride
    11:34 AMEdinburgh
    271One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for East Kilbride to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from East Kilbride to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €5, and a train costs an average of €22.

Distance: 39 miles (64 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

€25

Average price

€6

Average price

Cheapest

€49

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 14m

Average total duration

1h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Scotrail

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 East Kilbride to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of €6.

This is compared to other travel options from East Kilbride to Edinburgh:

A bus is €20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh costing on average €25.

The fastest way to travel from East Kilbride to Edinburgh is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 21m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 44m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between East Kilbride and Edinburgh including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from East Kilbride to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around €25 compared to roughly €49 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €24. The journey takes 1h 44m versus 1h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

East Kilbride to Edinburgh train times

The table below shows live departures for East Kilbride to Edinburgh trains for today, Friday, August 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ScotrailW69211 · L88238
On time
7:59 AM East Kilbride station (EKL)
2h12
10:11 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
ScotrailW69211 · L87845+BusBus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street
On time
7:59 AM East Kilbride station (EKL)
2h05
10:04 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2 transfers
ScotrailW69426 · L87853+BusBus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street
On time
8:14 AM East Kilbride station (EKL)
2h09
10:23 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2 transfers
ScotrailC15142 · W84203
On time
8:28 AM East Kilbride station (EKL)
2h16
10:44 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
ScotrailC15142 · L87861+BusBus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street
On time
8:28 AM East Kilbride station (EKL)
2h11
10:39 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2 transfers
ScotrailW69228 · L87093
On time
8:59 AM East Kilbride station (EKL)
2h01
11:00 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets East Kilbride to Edinburgh by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Sat
Aug 15
Sun
Aug 16
Mon
Aug 17
Tue
Aug 18
Wed
Aug 19
Thu
Aug 20
Fri
Aug 21

Why should you book East Kilbride to Edinburgh trains with Omio?

Scotrail as well as CrossCountry or ScotRail offer trains services from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?

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

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from East Kilbride to Edinburgh?

The best time to book your train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh is 3 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the East Kilbride to Edinburgh route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from East Kilbride to Edinburgh per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from East Kilbride to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €22 but you can travel from only €5 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:52, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 1h 51m.

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
Bus from €5
Distance
39 miles (64 km)
Average train duration
1h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
€22
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
1h 51m
First train
5:52 AM
Last train
10:45 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
3 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
Bus from €5

Train companies: Scotrail, CrossCountry, ScotRail from East Kilbride to Edinburgh trainsScotrail, CrossCountry, ScotRail trains will get you between East Kilbride and Edinburgh from €5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Scotrail

About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 51m
Cheapest Price
€22
Scotrail frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest Price
€27
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

ScotRail

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Price
€49
ScotRail frequency
16 a day

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: Trains from East Kilbride to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from East Kilbride 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from East Kilbride to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €22, while the average price is around €25.
The train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh takes 1h 51m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh is 39 miles (64 km).
The first train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh leaves at 5:52 AM.
The last train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh leaves at 10:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.
The train station in East Kilbride that goes to Edinburgh is East Kilbride station (EKL), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from East Kilbride to Edinburgh is by bus, with a cost of around €5.
The train journey from East Kilbride to Edinburgh offers a scenic experience with views of rolling hills, lush countryside, and charming towns along the way, providing a pleasant backdrop for travelers.
Yes, a day trip from East Kilbride to Edinburgh is feasible with a travel time of 1h 51m and a distance of 39 miles (64 km). There are 5 trains per day available for this journey.
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from East Kilbride to Edinburgh.
Since neither East Kilbride 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.
Popular day trips by train from Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from East Kilbride to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 train stations

Popular train stations from East Kilbride to Edinburgh

Most East Kilbride to Edinburgh trains use the East Kilbride to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare East Kilbride and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in East Kilbride
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh

Which East Kilbride station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?

Trains from East Kilbride to Edinburgh leave from East Kilbride. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from East Kilbride city centre at East Kilbride station, Torrance Road, West Mains, East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, G74 1AR.
East KilbrideEast Kilbride station, Torrance Road, West Mains, East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, G74 1ARWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to East Kilbride from East Kilbride city centre

Bus31B, 13 · 1m · every ~4 min

East Kilbride train station facilities and services

East Kilbride has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at East Kilbride.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at East Kilbride.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at East Kilbride. 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.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at East Kilbride: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at East Kilbride: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at East Kilbride: 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 single platform. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 14, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

HairmyresHairmyres station, Eaglesham Crescent, near the B764, Hairmyres, South Lanarkshire, G75 8SWShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hairmyres from East Kilbride city centre

Hairmyres is 3 km from East Kilbride city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainEast Kilbride - Glasgow Central · 3m · €1 · every ~4 min
Bus254 · 8m · every ~2 min
205 · 9m · every ~2 min
201 · 13m · €4 · every ~9 min
M1 · 19m · every ~2 min
395 · 27m · every ~2 min

Hairmyres train station facilities and services

Hairmyres has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Hairmyres.

Tickets and information

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.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hairmyres: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Hairmyres: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hairmyres: 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 single platform Blue Badge parking bays: 6, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.

More options for your journey from East Kilbride to Edinburgh

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