- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Cheapest price
$135
Average price
$155
Fastest journey
5 h 32 m
Average duration
6 h 4 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
521 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Edinburgh will cost around $155 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $135.
Of the 8 trains that leave Reading for Edinburgh on Sat, Jun 20, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 521 km distance in an average of 6 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 32 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 6 h 42 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.










Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 20m. 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 flight costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $77.
Distance: 323 miles (521 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$154 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $113 Average price | $180 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 49m Average total duration 11h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | 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 Reading to Edinburgh:
A flight is $53 (€43) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Reading to Edinburgh costing on average $113 (€93).
A flight is $94 (€77) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Edinburgh costing on average $154 (€126).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 41m.
Bus takes on average 11h 19m.
The journey is about 1h 44m faster (5h 41m by train vs 7h 25m by car) and roughly $26 (€22) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($154 (€126) vs $180 (€148)). 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.
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Edinburgh trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W34850+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80199 | On time 5:48 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h45 | 11:33 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W35098+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80203 | On time 6:14 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h24 | 11:38 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00847+ W34144 | On time 6:15 AM Reading station (RDG) | 6h05 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W35431+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80205 | On time 6:50 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h40 | 12:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W35160+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80209 | On time 7:20 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h17 | 12:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G15040+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80211 | On time 7:51 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h41 | 1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00851+ W33941 | On time 8:15 AM Reading station (RDG) | 6h04 | 2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W35357+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80215 | On time 8:18 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h20 | 1:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G14896+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80216 | On time 8:42 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h45 | 2:27 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G15035+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G25698 | On time 8:58 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h34 | 2:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W35169+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80221 | On time 9:20 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h19 | 2:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G15041+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80224 | On time 9:51 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h43 | 3:34 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00858+ W34286 | On time 10:15 AM Reading station (RDG) | 6h03 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W34472+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80226 | On time 10:19 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h19 | 3:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W35121+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80228 | On time 10:46 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h41 | 4:27 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G14921+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G25679 | On time 11:04 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h31 | 4:35 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W34477+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80232 | On time 11:09 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h33 | 4:42 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G15043+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ C02047+ G01067 | On time 11:20 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h49 | 5:09 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
W35178+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80234 | On time 11:47 AM Reading station (RDG) | 5h44 | 5:31 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00866+ W34290 | On time 12:15 PM Reading station (RDG) | 6h05 | 6:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W35125+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80237 | On time 12:20 PM Reading station (RDG) | 5h18 | 5:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G15045+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80241 | On time 12:47 PM Reading station (RDG) | 5h41 | 6:28 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W34566+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G25683 | On time 1:05 PM Reading station (RDG) | 5h27 | 6:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
W35182+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80245 | On time 1:20 PM Reading station (RDG) | 5h20 | 6:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G14922+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80247 | On time 1:52 PM Reading station (RDG) | 5h41 | 7:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G00879+ W34289 | On time 2:15 PM Reading station (RDG) | 6h09 | 8:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G15047+ Tube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ G80251 | On time 2:19 PM Reading station (RDG) | 5h18 | 7:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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 Reading to Edinburgh run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $77 (€63) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 03:54, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 323 miles (521 km) distance in 5h 20m.
Distance 323 miles (521 km) |
Average train duration 5h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $77 (€63) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 20m |
First train 3:54 AM |
Last train 10:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 35 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 covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
Ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park with the city’s most famous hike and outstanding panoramic views. A classic outdoor Edinburgh experience.
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a peppery savoury pudding traditionally made with oats and offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns supps
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Though from Cullen, it is a classic on Edinburgh menus and a comforting local staple
A traditional hearty soup of barley, root vegetables and usually lamb or mutton. It is a long-standing Scottish comfort food commonly found in pubs and cafes
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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 Reading to Edinburgh trains use the Reading to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Reading and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
ATMs are available at Reading.
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, 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 and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Reading West.
Ticket office support is available at Reading West.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Reading West: Parking.
Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. 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 available. Please request staff assistance, 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.
Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:
Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.
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 Gateway is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Edinburgh Gateway.
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Gateway.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Gateway: Parking, WC.
Available at Edinburgh Gateway: Bike Parking.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need