- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Holyhead to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
€53
Average price
€73
Fastest journey
5 h 16 m
Average duration
6 h 44 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
308 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Holyhead to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Holyhead to Edinburgh will cost around €73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €53.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Holyhead for Edinburgh on Thu, Aug 06, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 308 km distance in an average of 6 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 16 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 8 h 47 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.
12:04 PM5h16Holyhead5:20 PMEdinburgh€531One-way0 transfers
10:30 AM8h31Holyhead7:01 PMEdinburgh€691One-way0 transfers- 10:38 AM5h40Holyhead4:18 PMEdinburgh€751One-way0 transfers
- 7:53 AM5h26Holyhead1:19 PMEdinburgh€771One-way0 transfers
- 7:18 AM8h47Holyhead4:05 PMEdinburgh€901One-way0 transfers
- 12:04 PM5h16Holyhead5:20 PMEdinburgh€531One-way0 transfers
- 7:53 AM5h26Holyhead1:19 PMEdinburgh€771One-way0 transfers
- 10:38 AM5h40Holyhead4:18 PMEdinburgh€751One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 AM8h31Holyhead7:01 PMEdinburgh€691One-way0 transfers
- 7:18 AM8h47Holyhead4:05 PMEdinburgh€901One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Holyhead to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Holyhead to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €34, and a train costs an average of €34.
Distance: 191 miles (308 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€80 Average price Cheapest | €127 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 39m Average total duration Fastest 5h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Holyhead to Edinburgh is a train with an average price of €80.
The fastest way to travel from Holyhead to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 5h 9m.
Yes, you can take a train between Holyhead and Edinburgh.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Holyhead to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 33m faster (5h 9m by train vs 5h 42m by car) and roughly €47 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€80 vs €127). 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
Holyhead to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Holyhead to Edinburgh trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W33897 · W33941 | On time 8:51 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 5h28 | 2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
 G38518+W33941 | On time 9:05 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 5h14 | 2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
| G38520+W85182+W33935 | On time 10:02 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 5h34 | 3:36 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
| G38523+W85191 | On time 11:01 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 6h39 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
| G38523+W34286 | On time 11:01 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 5h17 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Holyhead to Edinburgh by train
Compare 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.
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
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Aug 09
Aug 09
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Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Why should you book Holyhead to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Holyhead to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Holyhead to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Holyhead to Edinburgh.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Holyhead to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Holyhead to Edinburgh run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €34 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 18:58. The fastest train covers the 191 miles (308 km) distance in 5h 16m.
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
Distance 191 miles (308 km) |
Average train duration 5h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price €34 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 16m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 6:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 77 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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales from Holyhead to Edinburgh trainsAvanti West Coast, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Holyhead and Edinburgh from €34. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest Price
€34
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
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 16m
Cheapest Price
€253
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Scotland
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
- Recommended
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
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.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
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.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
British pound sterling (£)
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.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
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.
FAQs: Trains from Holyhead to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Holyhead 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.
Train ticket prices from Holyhead to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €34, while the average price is around €80.
The train from Holyhead to Edinburgh takes 5h 16m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Holyhead to Edinburgh is 191 miles (308 km).
The first train from Holyhead to Edinburgh leaves at 4:45 AM.
The last train from Holyhead to Edinburgh leaves at 6:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Holyhead to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from Holyhead to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Holyhead to Edinburgh.
The train station in Holyhead that goes to Edinburgh is Holyhead station (HHD), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Holyhead to Edinburgh is by train, with a cost of around €34.
The Holyhead to Edinburgh train offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the beautiful landscapes of North Wales, the rolling hills of the English countryside, and the striking scenery of the Scottish Borders.
A day trip from Holyhead to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 16m, and the distance is 191 miles (308 km). The frequency of trains is 7 per day.
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Holyhead to Edinburgh.
Since neither Holyhead nor Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Holyhead to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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 Holyhead to Edinburgh
Most Holyhead to Edinburgh trains use the Holyhead to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Holyhead and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Holyhead
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh
Which Holyhead station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?
Trains from Holyhead to Edinburgh leave from Holyhead. The station is from Holyhead city centre at Holyhead station, Station Approach, London Road, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 2BT.
HolyheadHolyhead station, Station Approach, London Road, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 2BT+44 8705755755
City-centre transport
Getting to Holyhead from Holyhead city centre
Bus545, 4 · 2m · €2 · every ~4 min
Holyhead train station facilities and services
Holyhead 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 Holyhead.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Holyhead. ATMs are available at Holyhead.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Holyhead. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Holyhead: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Holyhead: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Holyhead: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access is via the Celtic Gateway Bridge, the ferry terminal, or via gates on to the platforms either side of Stena House. Transferring between platforms is step-free however distance between ferry terminal and Platform 1 is approximately 200m, 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, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 00:00 - 21:30 Sunday 07:00 - 00:00, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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 · €4 · 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.
SlatefordSlateford station, Meggetgate, off A70 Slateford Road, Slateford, City of Edinburgh, EH14 1BX
City-centre transport
Getting to Slateford from Edinburgh city centre
Slateford is 4 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainEdinburgh - Glasgow Central, Edinburgh - Motherwell, Edinburgh - Carfin, Edinburgh - West Calder · 8m · €2 · every ~2 min
BusN44, 34, 44, 4 · 18m · €2 · every ~40 min
44, 4, 34, N44 · 21m · €2 · every ~40 min
Slateford train station facilities and services
Slateford has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Slateford.
Tickets and information
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.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Slateford: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Slateford: Bike Parking.
Most popular train connections from Holyhead
More options for your journey from Holyhead to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Holyhead
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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