- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
Small local museum covering Folkestone’s history, archaeology, and changing seaside life. A useful first stop for understanding the town.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$332
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$332
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h 31 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 31 m
Trains on Sep 20
11
Distance
614 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Folkestone will cost around $332 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $332.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Folkestone without transferring at least once.
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9:30 AM5h32Edinburgh3:02 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer- 10:30 AM5h31Edinburgh4:01 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 11:30 AM5h31Edinburgh5:01 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 12:30 PM5h32Edinburgh6:02 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 1:30 PM5h32Edinburgh7:02 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 10:30 AM5h31Edinburgh4:01 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 11:30 AM5h31Edinburgh5:01 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 2:30 PM5h31Edinburgh8:01 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 4:30 PM5h31Edinburgh10:01 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
- 5:30 PM5h31Edinburgh11:01 PMFolkestone$3321One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Edinburgh to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $86 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 22m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $86, while a flight costs an average of $365.
Distance: 381 miles (614 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$156 Average price | $86 Average price Cheapest | $365 Average price | $209 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 43m Average total duration 5h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 37m Average total duration 13h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration Fastest 2h 22m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Folkestone is a bus with an average price of $86.
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Folkestone:
A bus is $71 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Folkestone costing on average $156.
A bus is $280 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Folkestone costing on average $365.
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Folkestone is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 22m.
Other travel options to Folkestone take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 13m.
Bus takes on average 13h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Folkestone including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Folkestone among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 3h 9m faster (5h 13m by train vs 8h 22m by car) and roughly $52 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($156 vs $209). 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.
Live departures
Edinburgh to Folkestone train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Folkestone trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:52 AM Edinburgh | 7h07 | 3:59 PM Folkestone | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Edinburgh | 6h59 | 3:59 PM Folkestone | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Folkestone by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Why should you book Edinburgh to Folkestone trains with Omio?
London North Eastern Railway as well as Lumo offer trains services from Edinburgh to Folkestone.
Omio is the only official third party seller for London North Eastern Railway tickets.
Why book with Omio vs London North Eastern Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for London North Eastern Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Folkestone.
- 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 London North Eastern Railway with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Folkestone.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Folkestone run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $121 but you can travel from only $59 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:44, the last at 22:01. The fastest train covers the 381 miles (614 km) distance in 5h 2m.
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 $59
Distance 381 miles (614 km) |
Average train duration 5h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $121 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 2m |
First train 4:44 AM |
Last train 10:01 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 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 $59
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, Lumo from Edinburgh to Folkestone trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Lumo trains will get you between Edinburgh and Folkestone from $59. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
5h 2m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$151
London North Eastern Railway frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
5h 12m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$121
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Artworks Visitor Centre
Changing contemporary art exhibitions in a leading regional gallery. Known for ambitious programming and strong links to the town’s creative revival.
- Recommended
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
Volunteer-run military museum in nearby Capel-le-Ferne with artefacts from wartime Kent. Compact but informative for local defence history.
- Must visit
Lower Leas Coastal Park
Clifftop park and promenade with gardens, family spaces, and wide sea views. One of the town’s best walking areas from coast to harbour.
- Must visit
Harbour Arm
Revived harbour promenade with public art, events, and dramatic views over the Channel. A signature place in modern Folkestone.
- Recommended
The Old High Street
Historic hillside lane in the Creative Quarter, lined with independent shops, art spaces, and old buildings. Ideal for a characterful stroll.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed on the Kent coast, usually grilled or pan-fried. A classic local seafood choice tied to Folkestone’s fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Briny oysters from the nearby Kent coast, often served raw with lemon. They reflect the area’s long shellfish tradition and seaside identity.
Fish And Chips
Lightly battered local fish with chips, a staple of English seaside towns. In Folkestone it is prized for very fresh catch and harbour setting.
The Lobster Shack
Popular casual seafood spot on Folkestone Harbour Arm serving fresh fish, oysters and shellfish with a lively seaside atmosphere.
Marleys
Established harbour restaurant specialising in mussels, fish and Belgian-style dishes. Relaxed, dependable and well known among locals.
Rocksalt
Refined restaurant in The Harbour Arm area known for seasonal small plates and polished cooking in a stylish modern setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Hotels and dining are often cheaper than London, but peak-season stays and seafront meals can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Round up taxi fares. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Folkestone Central -> The Leas, Folkestone
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Folkestone. Ask the driver for the best fare if you are making more than one trip.
- Folkestone Central is walkable to much of the town centre, but buses are useful for The Leas and seafront areas. Check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app.
FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Folkestone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Folkestone can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $121, while the average price is around $156.
The train from Edinburgh to Folkestone takes 5h 2m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Folkestone is 381 miles (614 km).
The first train from Edinburgh to Folkestone leaves at 4:44 AM.
The last train from Edinburgh to Folkestone leaves at 10:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Folkestone.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Folkestone.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Folkestone.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Folkestone is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which connects to Folkestone Central (FKC).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Folkestone is by flight, with a cost of around $102.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Folkestone offers a variety of scenery, including the rolling hills and countryside of the Scottish Borders, picturesque towns, and coastal views along parts of the East Coast Main Line.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Folkestone is not feasible, as the journey takes 5h 2m, covering a distance of 381 miles (614 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
Two to three days in Folkestone is ideal to explore its coastal attractions, visit the Creative Quarter, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Folkestone.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Folkestone 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 Folkestone include London, Canterbury, Margate, Stratford, Ashford.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near the port. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed operators to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, watch out for distractions used by scammers in crowded spots. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Edinburgh to Folkestone
Most Edinburgh to Folkestone trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Folkestone Central station pair, with some services arriving at Folkestone West. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Folkestone train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Folkestone
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · $1 · every ~32 min
Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Which Folkestone station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh to Folkestone most often arrive at Folkestone Central. Some services arrive at Folkestone West, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Folkestone arrival station.
Folkestone CentralFolkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone Central from Folkestone city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop outside of the station (exit station, walk down the slope and turn right. Bus stop is just beyond the bridge)
Folkestone Central train station facilities and services
Folkestone Central has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access via lift or steep ramps from main entrance, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · $4 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Folkestone and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Folkestone
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