- Recommended
Rothamsted Manor Heritage Displays
Heritage rooms and exhibitions within Rothamsted Research, explaining world-famous agricultural experiments and Harpenden’s scientific legacy.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Harpenden
Showing times and prices for Aug 28
Cheapest price
$142
Average price
$142
Fastest journey
5 h 31 m
Average duration
5 h 31 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
496 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Harpenden is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Harpenden will cost around $142 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $142.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Edinburgh for Harpenden on Fri, Aug 28, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Aug 28 the direct trains cover the 496 km distance in an average of 5 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 31 m .
On Fri, Aug 28 the slowest trains will take 5 h 31 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.
8:30 AM5h31Edinburgh2:01 PMHarpenden$1421One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 AM5h31Edinburgh2:01 PMHarpenden$1421One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Edinburgh to Harpenden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Harpenden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a train costs an average of $125.
Distance: 308 miles (496 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$153 Average price | $87 Average price Cheapest | $132 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 17m Average total duration Fastest 4h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 37m Average total duration 10h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Harpenden is a bus with an average price of $87 (€70).
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Harpenden:
A bus is $66 (€53) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Harpenden costing on average $153 (€123).
A bus is $181 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Harpenden costing on average $268 (€216).
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Harpenden is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 51m.
Other travel options to Harpenden take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 47m.
Bus takes on average 10h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Harpenden including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Harpenden among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2h 7m sooner (4h 47m by train vs 6h 54m by car). Tickets start at around $153 (€123) compared to roughly $132 (€107) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Edinburgh to Harpenden train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Harpenden trains for today, Thursday, August 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:20 PM Edinburgh | 7h04 | 2:24 AM Harpenden | 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 Harpenden 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.
Fri
Aug 28
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
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Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Why should you book Edinburgh to Harpenden trains with Omio?
London North Eastern Railway as well as Lumo or London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) offer trains services from Edinburgh to Harpenden.
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 or London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Harpenden.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Harpenden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Harpenden
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Harpenden run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $125 (€101) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 02:49, the last at 22:22. The fastest train covers the 308 miles (496 km) distance in 4h 36m.
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
Flight from $47 (€38)
Distance 308 miles (496 km) |
Average train duration 4h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $125 (€101) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 4h 36m |
First train 2:49 AM |
Last train 10:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Flight from $47 (€38)
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, Lumo from Edinburgh to Harpenden trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Lumo trains will get you between Edinburgh and Harpenden from $60 (€48). 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 Duration
4h 36m
Cheapest Price
$146 (€118)
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 Duration
4h 46m
Cheapest Price
$125 (€101)
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 Harpenden
Things to do in Harpenden
Discover the best of Harpenden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Harpenden trip today.
- Recommended
Rothamsted Research Visitor Exhibition
Exhibition area linked to Rothamsted Research where visitors can explore the site’s internationally important scientific story.
Harpenden Public Halls Gallery
Gallery-style exhibition space in a civic venue showing rotating visual art, crafts, and community culture close to the town centre.
- Must visit
Harpenden Common
The town’s broad village green and parkland, ideal for walks, events, sports views, and experiencing Harpenden’s distinctive open centre.
- Recommended
Rothamsted Park
Popular green space with formal gardens, play areas, and open lawns, well suited to families and relaxed town-centre strolls.
- Recommended
Church Green
Historic central green beside St Nicholas Church, valued for its memorials, mature trees, and traditional Harpenden atmosphere.
Full English Breakfast
A classic English breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, mushrooms and toast. A staple morning meal widely enjoyed in Hertfordshire pubs and cafés.
Fish And Chips
Beer-battered white fish with chips, usually served with peas and tartare sauce. A beloved British takeaway and pub favourite across Harpenden.
Roast Beef Dinner
Slow-roasted beef served with roast potatoes, vegetables, gravy and Yorkshire pudding. The traditional Sunday pub lunch in this part of England.
Brewhouse Coffee
Well-known local venue for coffee, brunch and light lunches with a modern café feel and reliable service.
Thompson St Albans
Established steakhouse and grill serving steaks, burgers and cocktails in a polished but approachable setting.
The Cross Keys
Popular Harpenden pub known for cask ales, British classics and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere in the town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for southern England: lodging is often lower than central London, but dining and rail travel are still relatively pricey for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: rounding up is fine. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city center
Harpenden Railway Station -> Harpenden Town Centre, Harpenden
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Most local buses accept contactless card payment; check with the driver if you need a paper ticket.
- Harpenden rail services use National Rail fares, while local buses use separate tickets, so plan bus and train journeys separately.
FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Harpenden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Harpenden 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 Harpenden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Harpenden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $125 (€101), while the average price is around $153 (€123).
The train from Edinburgh to Harpenden takes 4h 36m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Edinburgh to Harpenden leaves at 2:49 AM.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Harpenden is 308 miles (496 km).
The last train from Edinburgh to Harpenden leaves at 10:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Harpenden.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Harpenden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Harpenden.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Harpenden is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which connects to Harpenden station (HPD).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Harpenden is by bus, with a cost of around $60 (€48).
The train journey from Edinburgh to Harpenden offers scenic views, particularly through the Scottish Borders and the Northumberland countryside, featuring rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Harpenden is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 36m and covers 308 miles (496 km). There are 4 train trips available per day.
A visit to Harpenden can be enjoyed in 1 to 2 days, allowing time to explore its parks, local shops, and dining options.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Harpenden.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Harpenden 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 Harpenden include London, St Albans, Luton, Radlett, Bedford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Harpenden 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 Harpenden, travelers should be mindful of occasional pickpocketing in busy areas such as the town center and train station. While crime rates are generally low, it is advisable to stay alert when using public transportation and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no widespread scams specifically targeting travelers, but standard caution against unsolicited offers or overcharging in taxis is recommended.
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 Harpenden
Most Edinburgh to Harpenden trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Harpenden station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Harpenden 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 Harpenden
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 Harpenden station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh to Harpenden most often arrive at Harpenden. Some services arrive at Luton DART Parkway, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Harpenden arrival station.
HarpendenHarpenden station, Station Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 4SP
City-centre transport
Getting to Harpenden from Harpenden city centre
Bus610 · 3m · $2 · every ~5 min
Harpenden train station facilities and services
Harpenden has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Harpenden.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harpenden.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Harpenden.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harpenden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Harpenden: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harpenden: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the front of the station Ticket Office entrance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Harpenden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Harpenden and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Harpenden
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