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Manchester to Edinburgh train ticket prices
For a train from Manchester to Edinburgh, Advance Tickets start at just £37.90*, with average fares around £23.60. Additionally, Off-Peak train tickets, Return train tickets, and Anytime Train Tickets are also great tips for saving money on train travel. Enjoy the cheapest and happiest journey with TrainPal. For more money-saving information, welcome to our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Average
£23.60
From 12 Dec to 18 Dec
Cheapest
£37.90
On Sun 14 Dec
Manchester to Edinburgh train times
From Manchester to Edinburgh, take the fastest train in 3 hours 8 minutes, typically 4 hours 4 minutes. Daily, 34 trains depart from Manchester, with the first at 04:57 and the last at 23:28. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:45 | 10 hours 24 minutes, 1 change | 08:09 | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
22:15 | 9 hours 54 minutes, 2 change | 08:09 | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
23:32 | 10 hours 46 minutes, 1 change | 10:18 | Northern | Find tickets |
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Manchester to Edinburgh Train journey information
Plan your journey from Manchester to Edinburgh with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
First train
04:57
Last train
23:28
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
3 hours 8 minutes
Distance
175 miles (282km)
Price
From £37.90
Train operators
Direct train route from Manchester to Edinburgh
The train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh covers 175 miles (282km), and the average duration is approximately 3 hours 8 minutes. On average, 34 trains are running daily between Manchester and Edinburgh. The first train departs at 04:57, while the last train leaves at 23:28. Check the latest schedules for updates.
Departing from Manchester Piccadilly
The best and fastest train from Manchester to Edinburgh is from Manchester Piccadilly, situated in the city centre's southeast. You can reach Manchester Piccadilly by taxi, bus, car, tram, or bicycle.
In addition, Manchester Piccadilly Station offers services to London, Birmingham, Leeds, Reading and other cities. The train operators at Manchester Piccadilly include TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Northern, and Transport for Wales.
Main stops
The main stops of this route are:
- Manchester Oxford Road
- Bolton
- Preston (Lancs)
- Lancaster
- Carlisle
- Haymarket
The stops may change according to the time, route, and train operators.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley
The best and fastest train from Manchester to Edinburgh will arrive at Edinburgh (Waverley), located in a narrow valley between the old and new urban areas. The station is accessible by trains, cars, taxis, bicycles, or walking.
Edinburgh Waverley Station also provides services to Glasgow, York, Dundee, the Penzance, and other cities. The station is served by London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper, and ScotRail.
In Edinburgh (Waverley), you can visit popular attractions such as the Royal Mile, Balmoral, and Edinburgh Castle, and also enjoy a play or go shopping on Princes Street.
TransPennine Express Trains from Manchester to Edinburgh
It takes less than 4h30m from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh by train. This route allows you to enjoy natural and cultural scenery, from the city to the countryside, to the mountains and historical sites, each section has a unique beauty.
TransPennine Express is the primary train operator for the route from Manchester to Edinburgh, providing services for regional and intercity railways between major cities and towns in Northern England and Scotland. It offers fast and efficient transportation across the UK, ensuring quick travel times.
Additionally, travellers can enjoy a comfortable journey with amenities such as WiFi, power sockets, and comfortable seating.
TransPennine Express Standard Class
Offering comfortable seat designs, free WiFi, Plug sockets and complimentary foods and beverages available on specific times and routes.
TransPennine Express First Class
Enjoy more spacious and comfortable seating, equipped with power outlets, free WiFi, and complimentary foods and beverages available on specific times and routes.
Travel with TransPennine Express
Taking the TransPennine Express? We will provide you with information about luggage, bicycles, children, pets, and passenger assistance.
- Luggage: Carry up to 3 pieces of luggage: one hand luggage and two pieces maximum 30 x 70 x 90 cm.
- Bicycles: Book space for non-foldable bikes. Foldable bikes can be placed in luggage areas or between seats.
- Children: Adult passengers travel free with two kids under 5. Kids under 16 get 50% off tickets booked in advance.
- Pets: Bring a maximum of two pets with four legs. Pets are not allowed to sit on tables or seats.
- Passenger Assist: Boarding assistance, luggage handling, providing ramps, cars, chairs, and other services at the station.
Manchester to Edinburgh train travel guide
Travelling by train from Manchester to Edinburgh is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can reach Edinburgh in just 3 hours 8 minutes, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
1. How can I find cheap train tickets from Manchester to Edinburgh?
Looking for discounted train tickets? Use Railcards, book in advance, and travel off-peak. Group travel with friends or family can also help you save. Frequent travellers should consider Season Tickets. TrainPal provides even more savings with split tickets and discount codes. Learn more about buying cheap train tickets in the UK.
2. What is the best way to travel from Manchester to Edinburgh by train?
Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Manchester to Edinburgh train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!
3. What is the best way to travel from Manchester to Edinburgh by train?
The fastest train journey time from Manchester to Edinburgh is 3 hours 8 minutes . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
4. Are there direct trains from Manchester to Edinburgh?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Manchester to Edinburgh. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Check timetables and during the journey
1. Are Manchester to Edinburgh trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Manchester to Edinburgh trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
2. How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
3. Do Manchester to Edinburgh trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Manchester to Edinburgh are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
4. How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.
Other things you might be interested
1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.
2. Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.
3. How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Save 1/3 with Railcards† from Manchester to Edinburgh
Family & Friends Railcard
£15.73
With Family & Friends Railcard
£23.60
Without
How to buy cheap Manchester to Edinburgh train tickets
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
* By combining Advance Ticket offers with split tickets, you’ll get lower fares when you book at least one week before travel (excluding Anytime fares bought on the day of travel). Availability depends on the specific route and cannot be combined with other promotions.
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