LEICESTER to EDINBURGH train from zł81 with CrossCountry

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

zł494

Average ticket price on Sep 15

zł899

Fastest journey on Sep 15

4 h 23 m

Average journey duration on Sep 15

4 h 58 m

Trains on Sep 15

Distance

392 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Leicester to Edinburgh will cost around zł899 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł494.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Leicester to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.

G00703+G80199+C21848
5:48 AM5h45
Leicester station (LEI)
11:33 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
zł4941One-way
2 transfers
G00805+G80211
8:19 AM5h13
Leicester station (LEI)
1:32 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
zł7311One-way
1 transfer
G80216+G00841
9:14 AM5h13
Leicester station (LEI)
2:27 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
zł7311One-way
1 transfer
G66982+C21848
5:48 AM5h20
Leicester station (LEI)
11:08 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
zł10851One-way
1 transfer
G80211+W84665+C21769
9:09 AM4h23
Leicester station (LEI)
1:32 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
zł10851One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Leicester to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of zł217 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 55m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of zł217, while a flight costs an average of zł1039.

Distance: 243 miles (392 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
zł633 Average price	zł217 Average price Cheapest	zł1039 Average price	zł543 Average price (fuel + tolls)
5h 6m Average total duration 4h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	8h 20m Average total duration 7h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 55m Average total duration Fastest 1h 55m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	5h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions	1.2 - 2.4kg 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.

The cheapest way to travel from Leicester to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of zł217.

This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Edinburgh:

A bus is zł416 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Edinburgh costing on average zł633.

A bus is zł822 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leicester to Edinburgh costing on average zł1039.

The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 55m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 36m.

Bus takes on average 7h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leicester and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Edinburgh 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 1h 4m sooner (4h 36m by train vs 5h 40m by car). Tickets start at around zł633 compared to roughly zł543 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

Leicester to Edinburgh train times

The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
G66982+C21848	5:48 AM Leicester station (LEI)	5h20	11:08 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)	1 transfer
G00703+G80199+C21848	5:48 AM Leicester station (LEI)	5h45	11:33 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)	2 transfers
G66987+W70945	8:09 AM Leicester station (LEI)	5h01	1:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)	1 transfer
G00805+G80211	8:19 AM Leicester station (LEI)	5h13	1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)	1 transfer
G01060+C21769	9:09 AM Leicester station (LEI)	5h01	2:10 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)	1 transfer
W84665+G80211+C21769	9:09 AM Leicester station (LEI)	4h23	1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)	2 transfers
G00841+G80216	9:14 AM Leicester station (LEI)	5h13	2:27 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)	1 transfer
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Edinburgh by train, bus, or flight

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.

Tue
Sep 15

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Sep 17

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Sep 18

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Sep 19

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Sep 21

Why should you book Leicester to Edinburgh trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, east_midlands_trains and more offer trains services from Leicester to Edinburgh.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester 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.
Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Edinburgh.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leicester to Edinburgh

United Kingdom

Trains from Leicester to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł225 but you can travel from only zł90 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:37, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 4h 4m.

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 zł90

Distance

243 miles (392 km)

Average train duration

4h 36m

Cheapest ticket price

zł225

Trains per day

Fastest train

4h 4m

First train

5:37 AM

Last train

11:28 PM

Cheapest Month

Jul

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Fri

Least Busy Day

Mon

Best time to book

21 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from zł90

Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Lumo from Leicester to Edinburgh trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Lumo trains will get you between Leicester and Edinburgh from zł90. 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 London North Eastern Railway Duration

4h 4m

Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price

zł284

London North Eastern Railway frequency

3 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

CrossCountry

About

CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average CrossCountry Duration

4h 18m

Cheapest CrossCountry Price

zł225

CrossCountry frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages

Cancellation Policy

Refund policies vary by ticket type

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled services

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for additional fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket

Quiet zone

Learn more about CrossCountry

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 Avanti West Coast Duration

4h 25m

Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price

zł229

Avanti West Coast frequency

1 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

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

Learn more about Avanti West Coast

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 Lumo Duration

5h 38m

Cheapest Lumo Price

zł535

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

Learn more about Lumo

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 Museum of Scotland

Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

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 Leicester to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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 Leicester to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł225, while the average price is around zł633.

The train from Leicester to Edinburgh takes 4h 4m and runs 6 per day.

The distance by train from Leicester to Edinburgh is 243 miles (392 km).

The first train from Leicester to Edinburgh leaves at 5:37 AM.

The last train from Leicester to Edinburgh leaves at 11:28 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Leicester to Edinburgh.

There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Edinburgh.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester to Edinburgh.

The train station in Leicester that goes to Edinburgh is Leicester station (LEI), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).

The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Edinburgh is by bus, with a cost of around zł90.

The train journey from Leicester to Edinburgh offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the English countryside and the Scottish Borders. Passengers can enjoy sights such as the rugged terrain of the Northumberland National Park and the crossing over the iconic Forth Bridge near Edinburgh.

A day trip from Leicester to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 4m each way. Trains operate 6 times 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 Leicester to Edinburgh.

Since neither Leicester 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 Leicester 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 Leicester to Edinburgh

Most Leicester to Edinburgh trains use the Leicester to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Leicester

Arrival train stations in Edinburgh

Which Leicester station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?

Trains from Leicester to Edinburgh leave from Leicester. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leicester city centre at Leicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB.

LeicesterLeicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB+44 8457125678 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Leicester from Leicester city centre

BusX7 · 4m · zł9 · every ~3 min

16 · 7m · every ~6 min

Hop · 11m · zł9 · every ~14 min

Leicester train station facilities and services

Leicester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Leicester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Leicester. ATMs are available at Leicester.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leicester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leicester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leicester: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leicester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases, 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: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

More about Leicester

Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre

BusUk090 · 12m · zł5 · 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.