- Recommended
Pontefract Museum
Main local museum covering Pontefract’s history, liquorice heritage, and social life through engaging displays in a historic setting.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Edinburgh to Pontefract
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Pontefract among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, and a train costs an average of $176.
Distance: 173 miles (279 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$270 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 48m Average total duration Fastest 4h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 50m Average total duration 7h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Pontefract is a bus with an average price of $42.
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Pontefract:
A bus is $228 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Pontefract costing on average $270.
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Pontefract is by train with an average journey time of 4h 18m.
Other travel options to Pontefract take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Pontefract including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Pontefract 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 $270 compared to roughly $72 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-197.55. The journey takes 4h 18m versus 4h 17m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Pontefract 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Pontefract
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Pontefract run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $176 but you can travel from only $39 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:45, the last at 19:47. The fastest train covers the 173 miles (279 km) distance in 2h 59m.
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 $39
Distance 173 miles (279 km) |
Average train duration 4h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $176 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 59m |
First train 5:45 AM |
Last train 7:47 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 28 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 $39
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, TransPennine Express from Edinburgh to Pontefract trainsLondon North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Edinburgh and Pontefract from $39. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
$176
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
6 a day
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$299
Cross Country frequency
10 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 56m
Cheapest Price
$221
TransPennine Express frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Pontefract
Things to do in Pontefract
Discover the best of Pontefract — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Pontefract trip today.
- Recommended
Pontefract Castle Visitor Centre
Museum rooms within the castle site interpreting royal intrigue, sieges, and prison stories that shaped Pontefract’s identity.
- Recommended
National Coal Mining Museum for England
Nearby mining museum preserving the region’s coalfield story with machinery, galleries, and powerful social history interpretation.
- Recommended
Market Place
Historic town centre street lined with notable buildings, shops, and landmarks, ideal for understanding Pontefract’s urban character.
- Recommended
Valley Gardens
Main public park with formal gardens, play areas, and open lawns, popular for relaxing walks near the castle and centre.
- Recommended
Pontefract Park
Expansive green space and racecourse surroundings offering walking routes, events, and wide views across the edge of town.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pontefract Cakes
Soft liquorice sweets made with local liquorice extract. Pontefract Cakes are the town’s signature treat and one of Yorkshire’s best-known confectionery traditions.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Christmas Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and peel, traditionally eaten across Yorkshire at Christmas and festive gatherings.
Yorkshire Roast Dinner
Roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and gravy. A classic Sunday meal strongly associated with Yorkshire home cooking.
Tulsi
Established Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for curries, tandoori dishes and attentive service.
Amici
Popular Italian restaurant serving pizza, pasta and grills in a casual family-friendly atmosphere in Pontefract town centre.
The Red Lion
Traditional pub known for hearty British meals and ales in a relaxed historic setting near Pontefract racecourse.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels, meals, and local transport are usually cheaper than in major cities like London or York.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-10 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is not expected.
MCard Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £6
To the city center
Pontefract Monkhill -> Pontefract Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 16 min
- Most local buses in Pontefract accept contactless card payment, but rail tickets usually need to be bought separately before boarding.
- For bus travel across West Yorkshire, check MCard and Metro for the best-value tickets and live service updates.
FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Pontefract
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Pontefract 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 Pontefract, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Pontefract can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $176, while the average price is around $270.
The train from Edinburgh to Pontefract takes 2h 59m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Pontefract is 173 miles (279 km).
The first train from Edinburgh to Pontefract leaves at 5:45 AM.
The last train from Edinburgh to Pontefract leaves at 7:47 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Pontefract.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Pontefract.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Pontefract.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Pontefract is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which connects to Pontefract Tanshelf (POT).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Pontefract is by bus, with a cost of around $39.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Pontefract offers scenic views of the Scottish Lowlands and the rolling hills of Northern England, with glimpses of quaint villages and open countryside, making it a pleasant and picturesque trip.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Pontefract is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 59m. Trains operate 2 times per day over a distance of 173 miles (279 km).
A visit to Pontefract can typically be enjoyed in 1 to 2 days, allowing time to explore its historic sites, such as Pontefract Castle, and experience local attractions and markets.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Pontefract.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Pontefract 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 Pontefract include Leeds, Castleford, Wakefield, Huddersfield, Bradford.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Pontefract 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 Pontefract, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially around busy areas like the market and train station. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but standard precautions such as avoiding unsolicited offers and verifying ticket authenticity when purchasing transportation tickets online are 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 Pontefract
Most Edinburgh to Pontefract trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Pontefract Monkhill station pair, with some services arriving at Pontefract Tanshelf. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Pontefract 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 Pontefract
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.
HaymarketHaymarket station, Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH12 5EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Train3m · $1
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · $1 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · $1
TramT50 · 6m · $5 · every ~30 min
Haymarket train station facilities and services
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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 Haymarket.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. 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, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: 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 all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Edinburgh GatewayEdinburgh Gateway station, 1 Myreton Drive, Gogar, Lothian, EH12 9GF
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Gateway from Edinburgh city centre
Edinburgh Gateway is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainEdinburgh - Leven, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dundee, Edinburgh - Cowdenbeath, Edinburgh - Glenrothes with Thornton, Edinburgh - Aberdeen, Edinburgh - Inverkeithing · 9m · $4 · every ~10 min
Bus100 · 27m · $2 · every ~30 min
12, 22A, 22 · 44m · $2 · every ~14 min
TramT50 · 24m · $5 · every ~30 min
Edinburgh Gateway train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Gateway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Edinburgh Gateway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Gateway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh Gateway. 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: Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Gateway: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Gateway: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Gateway: 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 both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 4, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Pontefract station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh to Pontefract most often arrive at Pontefract Monkhill. Some services arrive at Pontefract Tanshelf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Pontefract arrival station.
Pontefract MonkhillPontefract Monkhill station, Monkhill Lane, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 2NX+44 3332220125
City-centre transport
Getting to Pontefract Monkhill from Pontefract city centre
TrainLeeds - Knottingley · 2m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus149, 148, 186, Sw3, 157 · 3m · $2 · every ~16 min
149, 148 · 10m · $2 · every ~11 min
Pontefract Monkhill train station facilities and services
Pontefract Monkhill has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Pontefract Monkhill.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pontefract Monkhill: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Pontefract Monkhill: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Pontefract Monkhill: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, Station is unstaffed. No step-free access to platform2, which is via stepped footbridge. There is level access from the station entrance to platform 1, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.
Pontefract TanshelfPontefract Tanshelf station, Park Road, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 4QA+44 8002006060
City-centre transport
Getting to Pontefract Tanshelf from Pontefract city centre
Bus144 · 9m · every ~2 min
Pontefract Tanshelf train station facilities and services
Pontefract Tanshelf has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Pontefract Tanshelf.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pontefract Tanshelf: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Pontefract Tanshelf: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Pontefract Tanshelf: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Station is unstaffed. However no access problems for disabled or wheelchair users as the access to the platforms is via the ramped footbridge, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Pontefract
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Pontefract and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Pontefract
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