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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Edinburgh

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London Waterloo East to Edinburgh by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh? The trip usually takes about 6hrs 43 mins, covering approximately 332 miles (534 kilometres). With roughly 29 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £35.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Edinburgh Key Stats

Arrival Station

Edinburgh

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

29trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 35 mins

Changes

2-5no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:16 / 23:13

Distance

332miles
(534 km)

5 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£35.50

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 6hrs 43 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 5hrs 35 mins. With approximately 29 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 332-mile (534 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southeastern, Thameslink, Lumo, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £35.50, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Edinburgh!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh? 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 London Waterloo East and Edinburgh by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 43 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 35 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh is 5hrs 35 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh can start from as little as £35.50 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 London Waterloo East and Edinburgh?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 29 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:16, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:13.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Edinburgh, 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 London Waterloo East to Edinburgh?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Edinburgh. However, there are 29 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh?

Southeastern, Thameslink, Lumo, London North Eastern Railway and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Edinburgh, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Waterloo East to Edinburgh Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Edinburgh on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
09:21 London Waterloo East15:24 Edinburgh4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
6 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
10:12 London Waterloo East16:16 Edinburgh2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
6 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
10:23 London Waterloo East16:22 Edinburgh4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
5 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
11:32 London Waterloo East16:41 Edinburgh2 changesLondon Bridge
Stevenage
5 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
11:42 London Waterloo East17:23 Edinburgh2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
12:12 London Waterloo East18:16 Edinburgh2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
6 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
12:21 London Waterloo East18:27 Edinburgh4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
6 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
13:12 London Waterloo East19:09 Edinburgh2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
5 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
13:21 London Waterloo East19:23 Edinburgh4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
6 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
14:12 London Waterloo East20:14 Edinburgh2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
6 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
14:21 London Waterloo East20:20 Edinburgh4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
5 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
15:12 London Waterloo East21:14 Edinburgh2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
6 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Edinburgh 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 London Waterloo East to Edinburgh start from as little as £35.50

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.

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 London Waterloo East to Edinburgh are available for £199.60 one way

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

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

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.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East