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Trains from Edinburgh to
Preston (Lancs)

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Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) by train

A train trip from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) takes about 3hrs 12 mins on average, covering roughly 153 miles (246 kilometres). With around 17 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £12.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) Key Stats

Arrival Station

Preston (Lancs)

Departure Station

Edinburgh

Frequency

17trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 25 mins

Changes

015 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:12 / 00:05

Distance

153miles
(246 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£12.50

Travelling from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) by Train

Hop on a Train from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 3hrs 12 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Preston (Lancs)), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 25 mins. With roughly 17 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 153-mile (246 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, ScotRail, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £12.50 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Preston (Lancs)!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs)

Curious about your trip from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs)? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The travel time between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs) by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 12 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 25 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) is 2hrs 25 mins.

How much does the train from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) cost?

Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) can start from as little as £12.50 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs)?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs) vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 17 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:12, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:05.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs)?

First class tickets on trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs) typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs)?

Amenities on trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs) can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs). On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Preston (Lancs), and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs)?

Yes! There are usually around 15 direct services per day from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs)

What train companies run services from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs)?

Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express and ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs).

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs)?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Edinburgh and Preston (Lancs), but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
12:52 Edinburgh15:15 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
14:12 Edinburgh16:46 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
14:52 Edinburgh17:16 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
16:11 Edinburgh18:46 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
16:52 Edinburgh19:16 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
18:12 Edinburgh20:45 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
18:52 Edinburgh21:15 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
18:59 Edinburgh22:37 Preston (Lancs)2 changesBellshill
Motherwell
3 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
20:12 Edinburgh22:44 Preston (Lancs)Direct2 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
22:34 Edinburgh04:35 Preston (Lancs)1 changeInverkeithing
6 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
22:59 Edinburgh06:55 Preston (Lancs)1 changeGlasgow Central
7 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
23:13 Edinburgh07:58 Preston (Lancs)1 changeMotherwell
8 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) start from as little as £12.50

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) start from £44.40 one way, or £44.50 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) are available for £63.60 one way, or £75.00 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Edinburgh to Preston (Lancs) is £9.00 & the average saving on this route is £4.27!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Edinburgh Station

Welcome to Edinburgh Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Train Station stands as a bustling gateway to the vibrant city of Edinburgh and beyond. Known officially as Edinburgh Waverley, this station is not just a hub for commuters and travelers but a historical marvel worth exploring. Whether you're catching a train, planning a leisurely exploration of Scotland's scenic landscapes, or simply passing through, this station offers an abundance of amenities and connections that make your journey seamless and enjoyable.

The Heart of Edinburgh's Rail Network

Edinburgh Waverley is a sizable station where modern conveniences blend with historical charm. Travelers will find a ticket office that opens early in the morning and stays available late into the evening, along with plenty of automated machines for quick purchases or online order collections. Accessibility is a key focus at Waverley, with ample step-free access throughout the station via lifts and escalators, and essential amenities like accessible toilets and ramps for easy train access.

If you need assistance or have questions, helpful staff and customer information points are scattered throughout the station. Rest assured, luggage storage and lost property services managed by the Excess Baggage Company are also available in this bustling transportation hub.

Station Amenities

Edinburgh Waverley comes well-equipped with facilities to enhance your travel experience. A wide range of outlets awaits, from cozy coffee shops to a variety of food options with seating areas to relax before your journey. Travelers can also take advantage of the free parking and the impressive bicycle accommodations, with 223 storage spaces available throughout the station and car park. If connectivity is your concern, the robust public Wi-Fi, convenient payphones, and currency exchange services might just set your mind at ease.

Transport Links to Keep You Moving

Edinburgh Waverley is well integrated into the city's transport network. Convenient bus services from Lothian Buses are available, and they promise easy, step-free access. Are you heading to the airport? The 'Airlink 100' express shuttle directly connects you to Edinburgh Airport. Also, consider the Edinburgh Tram for straightforward commuting around town. Taxis are easily accessible on Market Street and Waverley Bridge for direct rides within the city. Whether it's a temporary rail replacement with scuttling buses or onward journeys, the station ensures you're never stranded.

For further exploration, why not hop on a train to popular destinations? Journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow Queen Street or venture further south with a scenic ride to London Kings Cross. Travel times are quick and efficient, making these routes ideal for both business trips and leisurely weekends. Adventure-seekers may also enjoy routes that lead to historic spots like Inverkeithing or the bracing seaside town of North Berwick.

Inspiration Awaits Beyond Edinburgh

From Edinburgh Station, the rich cultural tapestry of Scotland is just a train ride away. Whether you're considering trips to nearby attractions like Newcastle or York, or off the beaten path to places like Aberdeen, your journey will be as memorable as the destination. In this vibrant nexus of Scottish rail travel, every route offers a unique narrative and promises experiences waiting to be explored.

Concluding Your Edinburgh Adventure

Edinburgh Waverley is not just a station; it's a narrative starting point for countless adventures and memories. So the next time you're planning a trip, remember to explore the diverse options this historical hub offers. Revel in the convenience, relish the modern amenities, and let the tales of your journey unravel from this pivotal spot. Whether you're a local commuter or a seasonal traveler passing through, Edinburgh's charm awaits, ready to be part of your story.

Everything you need to know about Preston (Lancs) Station

Welcome to Preston (Lancs) Train Station

Whether you're setting off for a scenic trip through the UK, commuting for work, or heading to visit friends and family, Preston (Lancs) train station acts as a gateway to your journey. Situated in the vibrant heart of Lancashire, Preston station offers a comprehensive range of facilities that cater to your travel needs, making it a crucial hub for both local and long-distance travel.

The station is efficiently managed by Avanti West Coast and ensures a seamless experience for travelers, thanks to its extensive amenities and services that cater to millions of passengers each year. From ticketing to refreshments, everything is designed to make your travel as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Station Facilities & Amenities

Preston (Lancs) train station is well-equipped to handle the demands of modern travel. The ticket office is open from early morning until late at night, and with ticket machines available, it's convenient to purchase and collect your tickets, including those bought online. While smartcards aren't issued at the station, helpful staff are always available to assist you at help points, information points, and the ticket office itself.

Accessibility is a key strength of the station, with step-free access throughout, ramps for train access, and accessible ticket machines. Waiting rooms with automatic doors are located on platforms 3 and 4. Although there's no first-class lounge, seating and accessible toilets are available, providing a comfortable environment for everyone. CCTV coverage enhances the safety and security of the station premises.

For those needing to stay connected, the station provides accessible pay phones, although public Wi-Fi isn't available. Should you wish to explore local amenities or grab a quick refreshment, a selection of shops and eateries are conveniently located within the station.

Onward Travel Options

The station is a well-connected transport node that offers a variety of onward travel options. Taxis are readily accessible outside the station entrance, and a freephone service is available within the ticket office area to book them. Preston's local bus services also provide an efficient means of travel within and around the city, albeit with no Metro services available.

Should your journey require car hire, the nearest Eurocar branch is located approximately half a mile from the station. For the environmentally conscious or recreation-minded, a cycle hire is available from Leisure Lakes Bikes, offering a convenient bike shop adjacent to Platform 7. Additionally, the station allows easy pick-up and drop-off for Rail Replacement Services at the short-stay car park on Butler Street.

Popular Destinations from Preston

Preston station serves as a gateway to a plethora of bustling cities and tranquil towns across the UK. With direct routes to major cities like London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly, the station provides fast and frequent services that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're heading off to the seaside charm of Blackpool North or the cultural richness of Edinburgh, you'll find the station's connections both comprehensive and convenient.

Don't forget, journeys to closer destinations like Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Airport can be a breeze with excellent train services. Explore more rural settings such as Blackburn or plan your next adventure to vibrant Glasgow Central. Whatever your destination, Preston's connectivity ensures you're never too far from your next adventure.

Your Ticket to Exploring

Whether you're a seasoned commuter or an enthusiastic explorer, Preston (Lancs) train station opens the door to an exciting world of travel opportunities. It stands as a testament to Lancashire's vibrant rail history while seamlessly integrating modern conveniences for today's traveler.

As each train departs, the promise of discovering new places or reconnecting with loved ones begins. Make Preston (Lancs) your starting point for countless journeys, and don't hesitate to snag your travel tickets to make the most of your trip. With a wealth of connections and a rich tapestry of destinations at your disposal, there's no better time than now to explore the wonders that lie beyond Preston's tracks.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Edinburgh