Which rail lines go through Edinburgh Waverley?
The main train lines running through Edinburgh Waverley station are LNER, CrossCountry, ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, Lumo, TransPennine Express, and Caledonian Sleeper.
These percentages were calculated using our Carbon Calculator.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route to the start point is approximately 20 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would also take approximately 6 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic.Directions on Google Maps
Enjoy panoramic views from Edinburgh's coast, all the way across to the city centre from the top of Arthur's Seat. Towering up from the Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat is a 251m ancient volcano offering stunning views. It's suitable for all ages, but it is steep with some rocky paths. Sensible shoes are a must, but it should be accessible for most people.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 20 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would also take approximately 7 minutes, depending on traffic. The number 8 bus from North Bridge (Stop NA) takes approximately 20 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
Made up of 70 acres, 10 glasshouses and 100,000 plants, The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh should be on your list. Just one mile from the city centre, you can pass away hours wandering the gardens. You could even take a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is an approximately 15 minute walk. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 6 to 10 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from The Mound (Stop MD) that take approximately 11 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
Big Harry Potter fan? Then this is the tour for you! Grab a wand and a cape and enter the magical world of Edinburgh. Your guide will take you through magical locations that inspired characters and scenes, including where JK Rowling wrote the books. You'll even learn a spell or two along the way. Perfect for young and old Potter fans alike.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Directions on Google Maps
Walk on the wild side in Natual World galleries and discover animals of all shapes and sizes. Travel through time from ancient Egypt all the way to modern-day science. The museum is filled with fun and interesting things for all the family to enjoy.
National Rail has partnered with renowned British DJ and broadcaster, Jo Whiley, to ignite a passion for exploring the roots of British music through train travel. Embark on a journey with Window Seater app with a variety of short audio guides narrating the vibrant tales of Britain's musical landscapes, both past and present.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 5 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Directions on Google Maps
Take in famous pieces from Scottish artists, as well as portraits of some of the greatest Scots to have ever lived. From classical pieces through to contemporary portraits, enjoy them all as you wander around the neo-gothic sandstone palace.
National Rail have teamed up with British sports presenter, Kirsty Gallacher to create a new audio series to inspire your next train trip to some of Britain’s fantastic sporting locations. The eight-episode series features exclusive interviews from British sporting heroes and brings to life the origins of Britain’s most popular sports. When it comes to sport, nothing beats being there.
How to get there from the station: Local buses take around 30 minutes from Edinburgh city centre. A taxi will take around 15 minutes, whereas a walk would take around 50 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
All aboard! Explore the official royal yacht which was used by the royal family and guests for 44 years. It's played host to politicians, celebrities, and international royalty during its time on duty. Now you can walk its decks and halls to see what life was like aboard a floating palace.
How to get there from the station: Approximately a 12-minute walk. Directions on Google Maps.
Visit this working royal palace in the heart of Edinburgh city centre. Explore the permanent collections, as well as touring exhibitions. You can also take a walk around Holyrood Park, which includes the ancient volcano, Arthur's Seat.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 7 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 2 minutes, depending on traffic. Directions on Google Maps
Set off an adventure exploring Edinburgh's most famous streets and buildings. Walk the Royal Mile, visit major landmarks like St Giles Cathedral, and stop for a coffee break at the Grassmarket Project. At the end of the tour, pay how you feel and reward interesting and entertaining tour guides.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is an approximately 7 minute walk. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 2 minutes, depending on traffic. Directions on Google Maps
Discover the darker side of Edinburgh with a spooky night tour. Learn about the body snatching, public executions, and gruesome jails and tortures that took place in Edinburgh's past.
How to get there: It’s simple: step out the station and you’re on Princess Street.
Under the gaze of magisterial Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street is a shopping experience like no other. You’ll find all the brands you love along one side of the street with plenty of green spaces to take a breather on the other. Don't miss the Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning and visit at Christmas for a magical family shopping trip.
How to get there: It can take as little as two minutes to reach Multrees Walk from Waverley Station, so why not stroll rather than walk?
Known as ‘the Bond Street of Scotland’, Multrees Walk is the place to head for high-end fashion powerhouses such as Gucci, Marc Jacobs, and Louis Vuitton. Fashionistas will revel in the choices available whilst window shoppers will simply enjoy browsing the famous labels before having an Italian lunch at VinCaffé.
Welcome to St James Quarter – where shopping, dining, and unforgettable experiences come together in style.
How to get there: Either choose a ten-minute walk from the station or jump on one of the many cheap buses that will get you there in no time.
Are you a fan of the more independent type of shop? If so, Edinburgh's Grassmarket offers a buzzing mix of antiques, vintage clothes, the latest styles, and unique little places where you can buy everything from fossils to practical jokes. It’s also a great place to stop for a bite to eat.
How to get there: Leave the station and head towards the Castle. The shop is based on West Port just South of the Castle and an easy walk for bookworms.
Small, a bit messy, and packed with great literature - yep, Armchair Books is perfect for bibliophiles and a charming place to pick up some holiday reading. Whether you want fact, fiction, or antiquarian, you’ll love the atmosphere and there’s also the chance of a rare find with books dating back to the 19th century.
How to get there: Just a short hop from the station, go up Market St and turn left so you end up on the Royal Mile.
There’s more to Scotland than whisky and shortbread but why not taste the best of both these treats at this foodie paradise? With 13 different types of oatcake available, the personally curated selection of traditional Scottish delicacies and homewares goes way beyond the typical tourist shop and the service is warm and welcoming.
How to get there: Edinburgh Waverley station is just a 5-minute walk from the store, in your designer shoes.
Harvey Nicks in Edinburgh is five floors of pure retail pleasure with stunning views from their brasserie on the fourth floor. Accessorise on the ground floor, get your personal shopper to help you decide on the third floor then enjoy an absolutely fabulous lunch at the brasserie on floor five. In between, browse beauty products, men's and women’s fashion, or top-quality wine and food.
How to get there: Head for luxury shopping street, Multrees Walk, just five minutes from Edinburgh Waverley train station.
Louis Vuitton is more than a maker of stylish luggage, born in the golden age of travel. Take a trip to the Edinburgh store to discover how the iconic brand has expanded its exquisite taste into everything from clothing to shoes to watches. Somewhere in the luscious-looking interior, there’s a handbag with your name on it.
How to get there: ‘Scotland's Bond Street’ is only a short walk from the station and well worth the trip.
Just down the street from Louis Vuitton is the powerhouse luxury British brand of Burberry. Its Edinburgh store displays the full range of world-famous tartan classics including the iconic trench coat invented by the fashion house. Set over two magical floors, enjoy the colourful digital walls as you browse the treasures.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route to the start point is approximately 11 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PQ) that take around 6 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
A basic no-frills, budget friendly hotel. easyHotel Edinburgh offers 3 room types: double with no window (cheapest), double with window, and double with a view of Edinburgh Castle (most expensive). With basic amenities, this budget is perfect if you're not planning to stay in your hotel much.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route to the start point is approximately 30 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PQ) take around 16 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
Where can you find close access to shopping, a restaurant on-site, and bargain prices? The Britannia Hotel is set just out of the centre, but still only a short walk from the action. With bus stops just 1-minute away ready to take you into the centre, Britannia Hotel Edinburgh is a real bargain.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route to the start point is approximately 15 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PP) that take around 8 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
Right in the heart of the city, Cityroomz Edinburgh is just a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley, making it easy to get to and from. With options for a double, family room, or a suite, whatever your plans, you'll be sure to be comfortable at Cityroomz.
How to get there from station: The fastest walking route is approximately 32-minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 11 to 15-minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PS) that take around 15-minutes. Directions on Google Maps
Set in two Victorian townhouses, The Roseate offer stylish bedrooms and suites. The perfect blend of modern conveniences and classic style, you'll barely want to leave your room (except maybe to head for their bar).
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 20 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PQ) that take around 8 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
You don't have to travel far for luxury at The Balmoral Hotel. The imposing building towers straight across the road from Edinburgh Waverley. With a restaurant, pool, and bar all on-site, you might not even leave your hotel.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 20 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PQ) that take around 8 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
With rooms with a view of Edinburgh Castle and an award-winning spa, you'd struggle to ask for more from Sheraton Grand Hotel. Not far from the city centre, after a busy day shopping and seeing the sights, you can come back and relax in their rooftop hydropool.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 7 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 3 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PM) that take around 6 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
When you're staying in a 170-year-old converted church, you know it's going to have character and The Glasshouse doesn't disappoint. With cosy and contemporary designs, not to mention the stunning views, you'll want to snap a picture of every corner of the hotel.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 13 minutes. Taking a taxi from the station would take approximately 7 minutes, depending on traffic. There are multiple buses from Princes Street (Stop PQ) that take around 6 minutes. Directions on Google Maps
If you're after a chilled getaway with good vibes then Eden Locke might be for you. The light and leafy aparthotel is every influencers' dream. Take your relaxation to the next level with an in-room massage or spa treatment.
How to get there from the station: The fastest walking route is approximately 4-minutes. Directions on Google Maps
Natural materials and custom made furniture make Market Street Hotel really stand out and so will your Instagram photos. Once you come back from exploring Edinburgh, if you do tire of checking out the curated artwork, you can binge your favourite series from Chromecast or Apple TV.
Ever wondered what pop star Tom Fletcher likes to get up to with his family?
Recently Tom, wife Gionvana and his children took a trip First Class with LNER to visit Edinburgh. Check out their day on Tom's Instagram.
We hope they booked their Family Return to save some money and enjoyed some tasty food from our First Class menu.
*Not an ad and Tom has no affiliation to LNER (other than loving his journeys with us by the looks of it)
We know you can't always plan ahead but, if you can, booking your travel in advance can save you a lot of money. In fact, booking at least 4 weeks ahead of your travel date can save you an average of up to 45%* on on-the-day train ticket prices!
Did you know that if you join our loyalty scheme, you can save money on every trip you take with LNER? Yep, that's right. LNER Perks members get £5 credit free on their account to spend on travel as a thank you for signing up. AND all members earn 2% credit back on every single journey. Not bad, eh?
Looking for travel deals? Enjoy cheap train fares and save up to 1/3 on train ticket prices with a range of railcards.
From Two Together Railcards, Senior Railcards, and many more, there are railcard discounts to be had for all!
Whether you're staying for a night or visiting for a week, Data Thistle has all the info you need on upcoming events to enjoy during your visit.
National Rail has partnered with renowned British DJ and broadcaster, Jo Whiley, to ignite a passion for exploring the roots of British music through train travel. Embark on a journey with Window Seater app with a variety of short audio guides narrating the vibrant tales of Britain's musical landscapes, both past and present.
National Rail have teamed up with British sports presenter, Kirsty Gallacher to create a new audio series to inspire your next train trip to some of Britain’s fantastic sporting locations. The eight-episode series features exclusive interviews from British sporting heroes and brings to life the origins of Britain’s most popular sports. When it comes to sport, nothing beats being there.