- 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
$20
Average price
$30
Fastest journey
1 h 44 m
Average duration
1 h 48 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
56 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hamilton to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Hamilton to Edinburgh will cost around $30 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
It's difficult to get from Hamilton to Edinburgh without transferring at least 2 times.
L88718 · C14939 · W84203
L88714 · L88554 · L88238
L88714 · L88554 · L88238
W69777 · C15041
W69769 · W68988
L88714 · L88554 · L88238
L88714 · L88554 · L88238
L88718 · C14939 · W84203
W69769 · L87845+
Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street
W69769 · L87845+
Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen StreetOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamilton to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $6. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $6, and a train costs an average of $19.
Distance: 34 miles (56 km)
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$22 Average price | $6 Average price Cheapest |
1h 35m Average total duration 1h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 31m Average total duration Fastest 1h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Hamilton to Edinburgh:
A bus is $16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Hamilton to Edinburgh costing on average $22.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 5m.
The table below shows live departures for Hamilton to Edinburgh trains for today, Sunday, August 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W68529 · W69093 | On time 8:44 AM Hamilton Central (HNC) | 2h19 | 11:03 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W68529 · W69093 | On time 8:47 AM Hamilton West (HNW) | 2h16 | 11:03 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W68531 · L87871 | On time 9:02 AM Hamilton Central (HNC) | 1h51 | 10:53 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W68531 · L87871 | On time 9:05 AM Hamilton West (HNW) | 1h48 | 10:53 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W69857 · W69096 | On time 9:17 AM Hamilton Central (HNC) | 2h11 | 11:28 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W69857 · L87885 | On time 9:17 AM Hamilton Central (HNC) | 2h00 | 11:17 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W69857 · L87885 | On time 9:20 AM Hamilton West (HNW) | 1h57 | 11:17 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W69857 · W69096 | On time 9:20 AM Hamilton West (HNW) | 2h08 | 11:28 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W68533 · L87885+ Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street | On time 9:32 AM Hamilton Central (HNC) | 1h45 | 11:17 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W68533 · L87885+ Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street | On time 9:35 AM Hamilton West (HNW) | 1h42 | 11:17 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
L88759 · L88608 · W84219 | On time 10:01 AM Hamilton West (HNW) | 1h46 | 11:47 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
L88759 · L88608 · W84219 | On time 10:03 AM Hamilton Central (HNC) | 1h44 | 11:47 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus and train 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 Hamilton to Edinburgh run on average 14 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 but you can travel from only $6 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 34 miles (56 km) distance in 1h 24m.
Distance 34 miles (56 km) |
Average train duration 1h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 1h 24m |
First train 5:33 AM |
Last train 10:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 Hamilton 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 Hamilton to Edinburgh trains use the Hamilton Central to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Hamilton and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Hamilton Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Hamilton Central.
Ticket office support is available at Hamilton Central. 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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hamilton Central: Parking, WC.
Available at Hamilton Central: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamilton Central: 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: 5, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Hamilton West is 1 km from Hamilton city centre. Public transport options include:
Hamilton West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Hamilton West.
Ticket office support is available at Hamilton West. 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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hamilton West: Parking, WC.
Available at Hamilton West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Hamilton West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: This is a Category B station. Ramps to both platforms Blue Badge parking bays: 2, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Chatelherault is 1 km from Hamilton city centre. Public transport options include:
Chatelherault has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Chatelherault: Parking.
Available at Chatelherault: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chatelherault: 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 both platforms Blue Badge parking bays: 6, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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.
Edinburgh Park is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Edinburgh Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Park.
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Park.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Parking.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Park: 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 both platforms, 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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need