- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Cheapest price
$191
Average price
$278
Fastest journey
7 h 13 m
Average duration
7 h 29 m
Trains per day
15
Distance
582 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Exeter to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Exeter to Edinburgh will cost around $278 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $191.
Of the 15 trains that leave Exeter for Edinburgh on Mon, Jul 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 27 the direct trains cover the 582 km distance in an average of 7 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 13 m .
On Mon, Jul 27 the slowest trains will take 7 h 48 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.
G25683+
W34566+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
G80247+
G14922+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
Y80248 · W34572+
G80251+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
G80257+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+
Y80254 · W34577
G80251+
W34572+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
G01075+
W85201+
W34292
G25683+
W34566+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
G80251+
W34572+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
G01073
W34577+
G80257+
C48013+
Tube from London Paddington to London Kings CrossOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, and a flight costs an average of $133.
Distance: 361 miles (582 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$149 Average price | $51 Average price Cheapest | $190 Average price | $166 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 59m Average total duration 7h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 44m Average total duration 14h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 33m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Edinburgh:
A bus is $98 (€98) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Edinburgh costing on average $149 (€149).
A bus is $139 (€139) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Exeter to Edinburgh costing on average $190 (€190).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 29m.
Bus takes on average 14h 14m.
The journey is about 40m faster (7h 29m by train vs 8h 9m by car) and roughly $17 (€17) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($149 (€149) vs $166 (€166)). 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.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Exeter to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Monday, July 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W34566+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G25683 | 11:15 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 7h17 | 6:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01073 | 11:27 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 7h44 | 7:11 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
Y80248+ G01075 | 11:42 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 8h23 | 8:05 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
Y80248 · W34572+ G80251+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 11:42 AM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 7h55 | 7:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
G14922+ G80247+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 11:43 AM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 7h50 | 7:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
C48007+ G01075 | 11:48 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 8h17 | 8:05 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
C48007 · W34572+ G80251+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 11:48 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 7h49 | 7:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
C48007+ G01075+ W85201+ W34292 | 11:48 AM St James' Park (SJP) | 7h52 | 7:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
W34572+ G80251+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 12:15 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 7h22 | 7:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G01075+ W85201+ W34292 | 12:27 PM Exeter St Davids (EXD) | 7h13 | 7:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
Y80254 · W34577+ G80257+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 12:42 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 7h54 | 8:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
C48013 · W34577+ G80257+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 12:48 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 7h48 | 8:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
Y80260 · G14925+ G80263+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross | 1:42 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 7h58 | 9:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
Y80260+ G01082+ W85208+ W34287 | 1:42 PM Exeter St Thomas (EXT) | 7h56 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
C48018+ G01082+ W85208+ W34287 | 1:48 PM St James' Park (SJP) | 7h50 | 9:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Exeter to Edinburgh run on average 16 times per day, taking around 7h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€46) but you can travel from only $33 (€33) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 361 miles (582 km) distance in 6h 51m.
Distance 361 miles (582 km) |
Average train duration 7h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€46) |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 6h 51m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter 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.

Most Exeter to Edinburgh trains use the Exeter St Davids to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Exeter St Davids is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Exeter St Davids has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Davids.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Davids. ATMs are available at Exeter St Davids.
Ticket office support is available at Exeter St Davids.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter St Davids: Parking, WC.
Available at Exeter St Davids: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Davids: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - All platforms can be accessed via Lifts from the sole main station entrance. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Exeter St Thomas is 1 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Exeter St Thomas has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Exeter St Thomas.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter St Thomas.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Parking.
Available at Exeter St Thomas: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter St Thomas: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, 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.
Exeter Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Exeter Central.
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter Central.
Ticket office support is available at Exeter Central.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Exeter Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Exeter Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step free Category A station - Both platforms can be accessed via lifts from the main station entrance, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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 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 options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
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 storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
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.
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