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Edinburgh Waverley to London King's Cross trains
Get to London King's Cross from Edinburgh Waverley in 4h 11m. Faster times, frequent trains and better prices!
Travel between capitals for only £41.40*!
Travel from Edinburgh to London from just £41.40* when you book three weeks in advance! With 3 extra services each weekday, enjoy the freedom to choose when you travel, and arrive refreshed, right in the heart of the city. LNER's faster and more frequent hourly trains now take around 4 hours and 11 minutes** from city centre to city centre.
Relax and watch the beautiful scenery of England and Scotland fly past the windows as you speed between Edinburgh and London, enjoying the freedom of train travel. Finish reading that book or binging that show, meet that work deadline or simply watch the world pass by with that window seat you booked through the LNER website or App.
With LNER, not only will you arrive feeling ready for the day ahead thanks to our comfy seats and range of refreshments, but you'll also have that little bit extra spending money left in your pocket thanks to more lower-priced tickets.
Average travel time
4h 11m
Number of trains
29 direct LNER trains per weekday
Cheapest train tickets from Edinburgh to London King's Cross
Today's train times
Upcoming direct journeys for Edinburgh to London King's Cross trains
Things to do in London
Think you've seen London? Handwritten Beatles lyrics, cat mummies from Ancient Egypt and the world's most whimsical department store.
Meet the spooky cat mummies at the British Museum
Much is said about the British Museum's mummies of Ancient Egypt but perhaps less well-known are their feline companions.
That's right, cat mummies. Cats ruled in Ancient Egypt, they were considered sacred.
Cats owned by important people were often mummified, and the British Museum exhibit shows a cat that has been wrapped rather elaborately. You'll never look at your pet moggie the same way again.
The British Museum
Browse Liberty, the department store in an eccentric country house
Liberty is a department store with a difference. From the outside it looks like a country house from the Tudor period – all black and white wood panelling and leaded windows. There’s an off-kilter, slightly eccentric feel too. Its timbers come from navy ships, and its founder was inspired by Eastern Bazaars.
Step inside and it’s rather magical. Small wood-panelled rooms tumble into one another – full of nooks and crannies and bursting with all manner of decadent products. Browse high-end fashion, homewares and beauty products from some of the best brands around.
Liberty
See the world’s most famous bed at the V&A
The Bed of Ware is an incredibly large bed that lives at the Victoria & Albert Museum.
Curators call it ‘One of the V&A’s greatest treasures,’ and it was even mentioned by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night! So what’s so special about it? Well, it’s 3 metres wide for starters – with enough room for 4 couples (ahem).
It became a bit of a thing to have slept in it, and visitors began to carve their names into its heavy oak frame – perhaps that’s where the phrase ‘another notch on the bedpost’ originates?
The V&A
Meet the spooky cat mummies at the British Museum
Much is said about the British Museum's mummies of Ancient Egypt but perhaps less well-known are their feline companions.
That's right, cat mummies. Cats ruled in Ancient Egypt, they were considered sacred.
Cats owned by important people were often mummified, and the British Museum exhibit shows a cat that has been wrapped rather elaborately. You'll never look at your pet moggie the same way again.
The British MuseumBrowse Liberty, the department store in an eccentric country house
Liberty is a department store with a difference. From the outside it looks like a country house from the Tudor period – all black and white wood panelling and leaded windows. There’s an off-kilter, slightly eccentric feel too. Its timbers come from navy ships, and its founder was inspired by Eastern Bazaars.
Step inside and it’s rather magical. Small wood-panelled rooms tumble into one another – full of nooks and crannies and bursting with all manner of decadent products. Browse high-end fashion, homewares and beauty products from some of the best brands around.
LibertySee the world’s most famous bed at the V&A
The Bed of Ware is an incredibly large bed that lives at the Victoria & Albert Museum.
Curators call it ‘One of the V&A’s greatest treasures,’ and it was even mentioned by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night! So what’s so special about it? Well, it’s 3 metres wide for starters – with enough room for 4 couples (ahem).
It became a bit of a thing to have slept in it, and visitors began to carve their names into its heavy oak frame – perhaps that’s where the phrase ‘another notch on the bedpost’ originates?
The V&A
Sup a pint in a pub built by Sir Christopher Wren
London is full of old pubs with magnificent histories.
Take the Old Bell Tavern on Fleet Street – built by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren to give people working on his St Bride’s Church designs somewhere to get a drink.
Wren, who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral, was rebuilding the capital after the Great Fire of London had wiped much of it out in 1666.
By the 1700s Fleet Street was home to the nascent newspaper industry and the early printers were soon making the Bell Tavern their own
Today, you'll still find a solid pint and an authentic atmosphere.
The Old Bell Tavern
A taste of London
London is one of the world’s most dynamic food destinations bringing together traditional British flavours global influences and modern dining. From classics like fish and chips or pie and mash to innovative street food and Michelin starred restaurants the city offers something for every taste.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden blends historic charm with a lively dining scene. It is a great place to enjoy classic British dishes elegant restaurants and vibrant market stalls all set around cobbled streets and iconic architecture. Expect bustling cafes cosy pubs and great people watching. Getting there from London Kings Cross takes around 10 minutes by Tube or a 40 minute walk.
Soho
Energetic and eclectic Soho is known for its bold flavours and diverse eateries. This area is ideal for international cuisine small plates late night bites and trendy dessert spots. With narrow streets full of character it is perfect for spontaneous food adventures. Getting there from London Kings Cross takes around 10 minutes by Tube or a 40 minute walk.
Shoreditch
Shoreditch offers a creative urban vibe with an emphasis on independent restaurants street food and artisan coffee. It is popular for relaxed lunches modern dining and exploring London’s edgier side. You will find everything from pop ups to stylish rooftop venues. Getting there from London Kings Cross takes around 10 minutes by Tube or a 15 minute taxi journey.
Free things to do in London
Snap a selfie at world-famous Piccadilly Circus
The huge, iconic advertising boards have made Piccadilly Circus in London’s West End one of the world’s most recognisable places.
Known as the Piccadilly Lights, the advertising boards have carried the slogans of everyone from Coca-Cola and McDonald’s to Samsung and Burberry – Coke has been there ever since 1955!
The lights are incredibly high tech these days, with a new screen dubbed the Curve – a 103 metre, full-motion display.
But Piccadilly Circus has been lit up by advertising since the early 1900s. Why? Around 71,760,000 people walk past Piccadilly Lights every year.
Picadilly Circus lights
Read John Lennon’s handwritten Beatles lyrics at the British Library
The best band the world has ever seen? Probably. The Beatles changed the face of popular culture in the '60s and created some of the 20th century's most enduring songs.
Their appeal has endured from one generation to the next. And now you can see the original lyrics as written by Lennon and McCartney at the British Library.
Scrutinise early versions of hugely important Lennon songs like In My Life and Strawberry Fields Forever – both of which reflect his Liverpool childhood – in the author's own, unmistakable hand.
The British Library
Get misty-eyed over Lego at the Museum of Childhood
Lego holds a special place in our hearts. Whether you're a child of the flower power '60s or the yuppie '80s you'll most likely have played with the colourful conjoining bricks.
Same goes for the thirty-somethings of today and their own children. Boxes of Lego have been passed from one generation to the next in many families.
No wonder it was named Toy of the Century at the turn of the Millennium. Embrace the nostalgia with a look at the vintage Lego on display at the Museum of Childhood - part of the V&A.
The Museum of Childhood
Snap a selfie at world-famous Piccadilly Circus
The huge, iconic advertising boards have made Piccadilly Circus in London’s West End one of the world’s most recognisable places.
Known as the Piccadilly Lights, the advertising boards have carried the slogans of everyone from Coca-Cola and McDonald’s to Samsung and Burberry – Coke has been there ever since 1955!
The lights are incredibly high tech these days, with a new screen dubbed the Curve – a 103 metre, full-motion display.
But Piccadilly Circus has been lit up by advertising since the early 1900s. Why? Around 71,760,000 people walk past Piccadilly Lights every year.
Picadilly Circus lightsRead John Lennon’s handwritten Beatles lyrics at the British Library
The best band the world has ever seen? Probably. The Beatles changed the face of popular culture in the '60s and created some of the 20th century's most enduring songs.
Their appeal has endured from one generation to the next. And now you can see the original lyrics as written by Lennon and McCartney at the British Library.
Scrutinise early versions of hugely important Lennon songs like In My Life and Strawberry Fields Forever – both of which reflect his Liverpool childhood – in the author's own, unmistakable hand.
The British LibraryGet misty-eyed over Lego at the Museum of Childhood
Lego holds a special place in our hearts. Whether you're a child of the flower power '60s or the yuppie '80s you'll most likely have played with the colourful conjoining bricks.
Same goes for the thirty-somethings of today and their own children. Boxes of Lego have been passed from one generation to the next in many families.
No wonder it was named Toy of the Century at the turn of the Millennium. Embrace the nostalgia with a look at the vintage Lego on display at the Museum of Childhood - part of the V&A.
The Museum of Childhood
Sport in London
London is a city where sport is part of everyday life. Whether you are a dedicated sports fan or just enjoy being active, the city makes it easy to get involved.
Football
Home to Arsenal FC at Emirates Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium), London’s football scene is full of passion and local rivalry. The surrounding areas are lively and offer a chance to soak up local football culture. From London King’s Cross it is about a 45 minute walk or a 35 minute bus ride to Emirates Stadium. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is around 45 minutes from London King’s Cross.
Rugby
Rugby has a proud tradition in London and Twickenham Stadium is the heart of it. Hosting international matches, professional club games and major events, it is a must visit for fans and newcomers alike. Getting there from London King’s Cross takes around 60 minutes.
Snow sports
The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead is one of the UK’s leading indoor slopes. Perfect for skiing, snowboarding or tubing, it offers safe and scenic sessions for all abilities with lessons, practice runs and fun activities available all year. A train and short connection from London King’s Cross takes roughly 50 minutes or a taxi takes about 50 minutes.
Cycling and BMX
London is ideal for cycling enthusiasts and BMX riders. Lee Valley VeloPark in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park provides open circuits, a world class velodrome and BMX tracks for tricks and training, giving a fresh way to see the city. Only a 65 minute walk or a 25 minute train and walk from London King’s Cross.
Family-friendly things to do in London
Meet the spooky cat mummies at the British Museum
Much is said about the British Museum's mummies of Ancient Egypt but perhaps less well-known are their feline companions.
That's right, cat mummies. Cats ruled in Ancient Egypt, they were considered sacred.
Cats owned by important people were often mummified, and the British Museum exhibit shows a cat that has been wrapped rather elaborately. You'll never look at your pet moggie the same way again.
The British Museum
Explore London Zoo
Come face to face with lions, tigers, gorillas and hundreds of other fascinating animals at London Zoo, one of the world’s most famous wildlife attractions.
With a wide variety of habitats from the tropical rainforests of the Rainforest Life exhibit to the icy realms of Penguin Beach there is always something new to explore. Children can enjoy hands on learning experiences, animal feeding sessions and interactive play areas, making it a perfect destination for school holidays. Families can also take advantage of a range of ticket offers including group discounts and seasonal deals, making a fun and educational day out more affordable than ever.
London Zoo
The Paddington Bear™ Experience
Step into the world of everyone’s favourite marmalade‑loving bear in this walk‑through adventure in central London. Families help Paddington and the Browns prepare for a big celebration, moving through beautifully recreated sets, from Paddington Station to Windsor Gardens, with plenty of hands‑on moments along the way. It’s playful, story‑led and perfect for younger kids.
The Paddington Bear Experience
Monopoly Lifesized
Bring the classic board game to life at this giant, interactive Monopoly experience. Families work together on a life‑sized board, taking on physical and mental challenges inspired by London landmarks as they race to buy properties and beat the clock. It’s high‑energy, immersive fun that’s great for older kids and teens.
Monopoly lifesized
Shrek’s Adventure! London
Join Shrek, Donkey and the whole DreamWorks gang on this laugh‑out‑loud, walk‑through adventure on London’s South Bank. Families travel through a series of interactive sets, from a magical flying bus to the Poison Apple Pub, meeting live actors and beloved characters along the way. It’s high‑energy, silly fun that brings the world of Far Far Away to life for kids and grown‑ups alike.
Shrek's Adventure London
Meet the spooky cat mummies at the British Museum
Much is said about the British Museum's mummies of Ancient Egypt but perhaps less well-known are their feline companions.
That's right, cat mummies. Cats ruled in Ancient Egypt, they were considered sacred.
Cats owned by important people were often mummified, and the British Museum exhibit shows a cat that has been wrapped rather elaborately. You'll never look at your pet moggie the same way again.
The British MuseumExplore London Zoo
Come face to face with lions, tigers, gorillas and hundreds of other fascinating animals at London Zoo, one of the world’s most famous wildlife attractions.
With a wide variety of habitats from the tropical rainforests of the Rainforest Life exhibit to the icy realms of Penguin Beach there is always something new to explore. Children can enjoy hands on learning experiences, animal feeding sessions and interactive play areas, making it a perfect destination for school holidays. Families can also take advantage of a range of ticket offers including group discounts and seasonal deals, making a fun and educational day out more affordable than ever.
London ZooThe Paddington Bear™ Experience
Step into the world of everyone’s favourite marmalade‑loving bear in this walk‑through adventure in central London. Families help Paddington and the Browns prepare for a big celebration, moving through beautifully recreated sets, from Paddington Station to Windsor Gardens, with plenty of hands‑on moments along the way. It’s playful, story‑led and perfect for younger kids.
The Paddington Bear ExperienceMonopoly Lifesized
Bring the classic board game to life at this giant, interactive Monopoly experience. Families work together on a life‑sized board, taking on physical and mental challenges inspired by London landmarks as they race to buy properties and beat the clock. It’s high‑energy, immersive fun that’s great for older kids and teens.
Monopoly lifesizedShrek’s Adventure! London
Join Shrek, Donkey and the whole DreamWorks gang on this laugh‑out‑loud, walk‑through adventure on London’s South Bank. Families travel through a series of interactive sets, from a magical flying bus to the Poison Apple Pub, meeting live actors and beloved characters along the way. It’s high‑energy, silly fun that brings the world of Far Far Away to life for kids and grown‑ups alike.
Shrek's Adventure London
Shopping in London
London is a brilliant city for shopping, combining iconic streets with modern retail spaces and a lively atmosphere.
Oxford Street and Regent Street
One of the city’s main shopping destinations is Oxford Street and Regent Street, known for their grand buildings and an impressive mix of flagship stores. Here, visitors can explore well known brands, beauty favourites and popular fashion in a busy yet inspiring setting. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes whether you take the tube, catch the bus or take a taxi.
Westfield London
Another key shopping area is Westfield London, a large retail destination offering a wide choice of fashion, beauty, lifestyle brands and places to eat. With its bright open layout and variety of shops, it is ideal for a full day out with everything in one place. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 30 minutes whether you take the tube, go by bus or grab a taxi.
Covent Garden
For a more relaxed shopping experience, Covent Garden offers a mix of independent boutiques, well known brands and historic market halls. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, street performers and charming side streets such as Seven Dials and Neal’s Yard, making it a great place to explore at a slower pace. Getting there from London Kings Cross station usually takes around 15 minutes by tube or taxi.
Carnaby Street and Soho
Just a short walk from Oxford Circus, Carnaby Street and the surrounding Soho area are known for their creative spirit and fashion‑forward shops. Shoppers will find independent labels, global brands and unique concept stores spread across pedestrian streets and hidden courtyards. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes by tube or taxi.
King’s Road, Chelsea
For something a little more refined, King’s Road in Chelsea is home to stylish boutiques, British heritage brands and elegant homeware stores. With its relaxed pace and café‑lined streets, it is ideal for a leisurely afternoon of browsing. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 30 to 35 minutes by tube or taxi.
Connections from London King's Cross station
Train connections
Train connections
London King’s Cross is one of the busiest stations in the country, with extensive rail connections operated by Thameslink, Great Northern and Hull Trains, alongside regular LNER services arriving into the capital. Once you step off the train here, you’ll find no shortage of convenient links to other destinations.
Regular services from King’s Cross make it easy to reach historic towns and cities such as Cambridge, Ely and King’s Lynn, offering plenty of options for onward journeys beyond London. From this station, travellers can also connect to many well known locations across the region, with direct trains to places including Stevenage and Welwyn Garden City and frequent services that continue through Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and towards the south coast via Thameslink. With its wide range of routes, King’s Cross is an ideal gateway for exploring destinations further afield.
Local buses and the tube
Local buses and the tube
London Buses operate an extensive network throughout the city with regular routes serving the King’s Cross area. Services stop directly outside the station on Euston Road and York Way, making it easy to travel across central London.
King’s Cross St Pancras Underground station is directly connected to the mainline station and is served by the Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines. Offering quick links to major destinations including Oxford Circus, Paddington, Liverpool Street, Leicester Square and Heathrow Airport.
Taxis
Taxis
London King’s Cross has a dedicated taxi rank located on Pancras Road, right outside the station’s main exit.
If you prefer to plan ahead, you can also pre‑book a taxi or private hire vehicle to collect you from King’s Cross when you arrive.
Walking
Walking
London King’s Cross sits in a vibrant central location, surrounded by lively neighbourhoods such as King’s Cross, St Pancras and the regenerated Coal Drops Yard district. Many attractions, shops and restaurants are within a 5–10 minute walk, including Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard with its mix of dining, culture and independent stores.
Standard and First Class facilities
Whether you choose Standard or First Class, you’ll enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi and power sockets. Standard Class offers great value with food and drinks available to purchase, while First Class elevates the experience with wider reclining seats, faster Wi-Fi and complimentary dining plus lounge access at major stations.
Standard
First Class
Standard
First Class
Booking tickets from Edinburgh to London
Booking directly with LNER is the easiest way to get your train tickets to travel from Edinburgh to London. You’ll have access to all fares, the best prices and the ability to manage your journey to London online or via the LNER App. Booking direct also gives you access to seat reservations, LNER Perks and the flexibility to change or refund tickets depending on the type.
Advance tickets
Advance tickets
Advance (fixed) tickets offer some of the best value for rail travel. Perfect for travelers looking to save money on their tickets, these fares are available when booked ahead of your journey, making them an excellent choice for those who like to plan in advance.
Advance tickets combine affordability with convenience. Another benefit of Advance tickets is that you secure a guaranteed seat and can choose where you are seated for the journey. By booking early, you can save up to 47% on your tickets and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve locked in a great deal.
Family single tickets
Family single tickets
Family Single tickets are the perfect way to make group travel with children easier and more affordable. Designed specifically for families, these tickets offer cheaper fares for journeys, helping you save on average 56% while enjoying quality time together.
Whether you’re planning a fun day out or visiting loved ones, Family Single tickets take the stress out of organizing travel by providing a simple, cost-effective solution. With savings that let you spend more on the things that matter, they’re an ideal choice for creating memorable trips without breaking the budget.
Anytime tickets
Anytime tickets
Anytime (fully flexible) tickets give you complete flexibility and peace of mind when traveling. Valid on any train throughout your chosen day, they’re perfect for those who want freedom without restrictions. Whether your plans change at the last minute or you simply prefer to keep your schedule open, Anytime tickets let you travel when it suits you best.
With no need to commit to a specific time, you can relax knowing your ticket works for any train that day. Ideal for business trips, spontaneous outings or journeys where timing is unpredictable. Whilst Anytime tickets cost more than fixed tickets, they allow you to enjoy the convenience and confidence of traveling on your own terms.
Group tickets
Group tickets
Group travel discounts are a fantastic way to make traveling together easier and more affordable. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends, colleagues, or a larger group, these tickets offer great value and convenience. Small groups cover 3–9 people, while large groups include 10 or more, giving you flexibility no matter the size of your party. Booking as a group is cheaper than booking individually, helping everyone save money while enjoying the journey together.
Plus, organizing travel as a group means fewer individual bookings and less hassle, so you can focus on making memories instead of managing logistics. Perfect for days out, team events or special occasions, group bookings make shared travel simple and cost-effective.
70min Flex tickets
70min Flex tickets
70min Flex tickets are the ideal choice when you need a little extra freedom without losing out on great savings. Perfect for those whose plans aren’t set in stone, these tickets allow you to travel on trains up to 70 minutes before or after your booked time.
This means you can enjoy a balance between flexibility and value, giving you peace of mind if your schedule changes slightly. Whether you’re heading to a meeting, catching up with friends or simply want the reassurance of a wider travel window, 70min Flex tickets make your journey easier and more convenient while still keeping costs down.
Season tickets
Season tickets
Season tickets are the ultimate solution for regular commuters, offering unlimited travel between two stations for a set period (Weekly, monthly, or annually). They provide exceptional value for anyone who travels frequently, helping you save money compared to buying individual tickets every day.
With a Season ticket, you can enjoy the peace of mind knowing your journeys are covered. Perfect for work commutes or regular trips, these tickets make planning simple and cost-effective, giving you more time and freedom to focus on what matters most.
Flexi Season tickets are designed for commuters who travel regularly but not every day. They offer 8 days of travel within a 28-day period between two stations, giving you flexibility and savings compared to buying daily tickets. Ideal for hybrid workers or those with variable schedules, Flexi Season tickets combine convenience with cost efficiency.
Edinburgh to London train tickets are available in a range of options to suit different travel needs and budgets. Advance tickets offer the best value when booked ahead for a specific train while Anytime tickets provide full flexibility to travel on any service during the day. For added freedom without the full Anytime ticket price, 70min Flex tickets allow travel up to 70 minutes before or after your booked time.
Families and groups can benefit from great value Family Single tickets and group travel discounts, making it easier and more affordable to travel together. For frequent travellers, Season tickets offer unlimited journeys between Edinburgh and London over a set period, delivering convenience and long-term savings. Together these ticket types ensure there’s an option for every journey style from planned trips to flexible travel.
How to get to Edinburgh Waverley
Station address
Princes Street
Edinburgh
Midlothian
EH1 1BBCar parking
The nearest car parking available to Edinburgh Waverley is at the Edinburgh New Street car park which is a multi storey parking facility open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Local transport
Edinburgh Waverley station is a central transport hub served by a wide range of local bus routes and Edinburgh’s main tram connections.
The nearest Edinburgh Trams stop is on Princes Street, a short walk from the station, offering direct services to Edinburgh Airport and key points across the city.
Station address
Princes Street
Edinburgh
Midlothian
EH1 1BBCar parking
The nearest car parking available to Edinburgh Waverley is at the Edinburgh New Street car park which is a multi storey parking facility open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Local transport
Edinburgh Waverley station is a central transport hub served by a wide range of local bus routes and Edinburgh’s main tram connections.
The nearest Edinburgh Trams stop is on Princes Street, a short walk from the station, offering direct services to Edinburgh Airport and key points across the city.
Things to do near Edinburgh Waverley station
Station facilities
Inside the station you’ll find essentials like luggage storage, free Wi Fi and plenty of seating to use while you wait for your journey to begin.
Coffee spots
For a quick caffeine fix, head to Pret A Manger, Caffè Nero or the nearby Starbucks on Princes Street to relax before you travel from Edinburgh Waverley.
Restaurants and bars
Just outside the station, The Doric on Market Street serves classic Scottish dishes in a historic setting and is one of the closest sit‑down restaurants to Edinburgh Waverley. BrewDog offers craft beer, cocktails and a full food menu, making it an easy spot to relax before or after your journey.
Shopping
Explore Waverley Mall beside the station for fashion, gifts and quick bite options or wander up to Princes Street for high street brands and great views of Edinburgh Castle.
Cultural attractions
Visit the National Gallery of Scotland on The Mound just a short walk away or stroll to the historic Royal Mile for landmarks, museums and street performers.
Unique experiences
Don’t miss the chance to walk up Calton Hill for panoramic city views or take a peaceful wander through Princes Street Gardens right next to the station.
For all Edinburgh Waverley facilities, visit the station page.
Edinburgh Waverley station
Get a little extra with your journey
Not only will you never pay a booking fee when you book your ticket with LNER, you can also sign up for LNER Perks.
When you sign up for Perks, you'll get:
Get £5 free to spend on your next journey
2% back on all LNER journeys
Download the LNER app or find out more about LNER Perks and sign up today.
How to book cheap tickets for a train from Edinburgh to London
Book your Edinburgh to London train in advance
Buying your Edinburgh to London train tickets at least four weeks in advance ahead of your travel date can save you up to 47%* on on-the-day train ticket prices.
Buy a Standard Advance ticket through the LNER website and app at least four weeks before you travel, and you'll save up to 47%* compared to buying any Standard ticket on the day of travel.
Book in advanceSave 1/3 on your train from Edinburgh to London with a Railcard
A Railcard is a discount card that allows you to save money on train travel throughout Great Britain, which often offers 1/3 off the cost of your train tickets on most routes.
RailcardsSave 56%** on Edinburgh to London high-speed trains
Travel between 17 cities and save on average 56%** when you're travelling with up to two adults and four children. Use one Family ticket for the whole family and get a reserved seat for everyone.
Family SinglesUse our Deal Finder for the cheapest trains to London from Edinburgh
Access the best train fares on Scotland to London trains easily with the LNER app. Use Deal Finder to find the lowest prices on train tickets by simply entering your travel details. It's your shortcut to easier and more affordable travel!
Get the LNER App
Book your Edinburgh to London train in advance
Buying your Edinburgh to London train tickets at least four weeks in advance ahead of your travel date can save you up to 47%* on on-the-day train ticket prices.
Buy a Standard Advance ticket through the LNER website and app at least four weeks before you travel, and you'll save up to 47%* compared to buying any Standard ticket on the day of travel.
Book in advanceSave 1/3 on your train from Edinburgh to London with a Railcard
A Railcard is a discount card that allows you to save money on train travel throughout Great Britain, which often offers 1/3 off the cost of your train tickets on most routes.
RailcardsSave 56%** on Edinburgh to London high-speed trains
Travel between 17 cities and save on average 56%** when you're travelling with up to two adults and four children. Use one Family ticket for the whole family and get a reserved seat for everyone.
Family SinglesUse our Deal Finder for the cheapest trains to London from Edinburgh
Access the best train fares on Scotland to London trains easily with the LNER app. Use Deal Finder to find the lowest prices on train tickets by simply entering your travel details. It's your shortcut to easier and more affordable travel!
Get the LNER App
* Saving average based on all Standard Advance tickets bought on the LNER website and App at least four weeks before you travel vs buying any Standard ticket on the day you travel.
** Average saving is based on two adults and two children travelling with an LNER Family Single vs Advance fare.
Take the train to London from Edinburgh with LNER
Travelling from Edinburgh Waverley to London King’s Cross with LNER is quick, comfortable and straightforward. The journey takes around 4 hours 30 minutes, with hourly services giving you the freedom to travel when it suits you. As you head south, you can enjoy scenic views along the East Coast Main Line. Onboard, you’ll find ergonomic seating, free Wi‑Fi, power sockets at every seat, and a selection of food and drink available to purchase. For even more comfort, First Class offers wider reclining seats, extra legroom, complimentary meals and alcoholic drinks (depending on the time of day), plus access to First Class lounges at both Edinburgh and London King’s Cross.
London offers endless things to do once you arrive. You can explore iconic cultural attractions like the British Museum, home to extraordinary exhibits including its lesser‑known cat mummies, or visit Liberty, the beautifully eccentric Tudor‑style department store filled with unique fashion, beauty and homeware. The V&A Museum showcases treasures such as the famous Bed of Ware, while the British Library displays handwritten Beatles lyrics. There are also plenty of free highlights including Piccadilly Circus, the Scottish‑influenced Museum of Childhood, and the atmospheric displays in world‑class museums across the city. Food lovers can head to Covent Garden, Soho or Shoreditch—all packed with eateries ranging from street‑food stalls to refined dining. London King’s Cross also provides excellent onward transport links, with the Tube, buses, taxis and pedestrian routes into central London all close at hand.
Before you board in Edinburgh, Waverley station is extremely convenient. Inside you’ll find essentials such as luggage storage, free Wi‑Fi and plenty of seating, along with coffee options like Pret A Manger, Caffè Nero and Starbucks close by. Just outside the station, restaurants like The Doric and BrewDog offer great places to eat or unwind. Nearby attractions include Princes Street, Waverley Mall, the National Gallery of Scotland, Calton Hill and the historic Royal Mile. Local buses, trams and connections make getting to and from Waverley simple.
LNER offers a wide range of ticket types for Edinburgh to London, including Advance, Anytime, 70min Flex, Family Single, Group tickets and Season tickets, giving flexibility for every type of traveller. Booking directly with LNER means you benefit from no booking fees and access to LNER Perks, earning 2% back on your journeys plus a free £5 reward for signing up. Whether you’re visiting London for work, shopping or sightseeing, LNER provides a reliable, comfortable and great‑value way to travel between the capitals.
Related FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to London King’s Cross by train?
What is the cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to London King’s Cross by train?
We’d recommend booking for London King’s Cross in advance with single tickets rather than the Flexible option. It’s also worth creating a Ticket Alert so you know when our cheapest Advance tickets go on sale.
Are there direct trains from Edinburgh to London King’s Cross?
Are there direct trains from Edinburgh to London King’s Cross?
Yes, there are direct LNER trains from Edinburgh to London with a journey that usually takes just over 4.5 hours. During the week, trains run every half hour at peak times.
Can you buy a Season Ticket between Edinburgh and London King’s Cross?
Can you buy a Season Ticket between Edinburgh and London King’s Cross?
Unfortunately no Season Tickets are available at the moment for this journey.
Do you offer a student discount on train tickets?
Do you offer a student discount on train tickets?
We don't offer a student discount however, you can purchase a 16-25 Railcard and save 1/3 on train tickets.
How can I apply for compensation if my train is delayed or cancelled?
How can I apply for compensation if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Cancelled train
In the rare event that your train is cancelled, we offer full refunds (assuming you don't take an alternative train). Be sure to apply for the refund within 28 days of the cancelled journey date.
If you meet these conditions, follow these steps for your refund:
- Swipe down the page and click on ‘Amend journey’ or ‘Request a refund’
- Notify us of the reason for the refund request by pressing 'My train was cancelled' and then ‘Continue’
- Enter your details and submit your request
Already collected your tickets or had them posted to you?
If you’ve already received your printed tickets, you'll need to fill in our Change of Plans form and follow the instructions included.
Was your train delayed by at least 30 minutes?
On our Delay Repay page, you can learn about compensation if your train is delayed. For future LNER journeys, book through our website or app, then choose One-Click Delay Repay to ensure claiming for a delayed journey is as easy as possible.
Which rail lines go through Edinburgh?
Which rail lines go through Edinburgh?
The main train lines running through Edinburgh Waverley station are LNER, CrossCountry, ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, Lumo, TransPennine Express, and Caledonian Sleeper. Although LNER does not directly manage Edinburgh Waverley Station, we have invested in a refurbished First-Class Lounge opposite Platform 4.
Which rail lines go through London King’s Cross?
Which rail lines go through London King’s Cross?
The main train lines through London King’s Cross station are LNER, Hull Trains, Grand Central, Lumo, and Thameslink. Although LNER does not directly manage London King’s Cross Station, we recently opened the first Family Lounge on the UK rail network.
What are the train stops between Edinburgh and London King's Cross?
What are the train stops between Edinburgh and London King's Cross?
LNER offers several different routes for your journey from Edinburgh to London King's Cross, each providing a distinct experience. Here are the stops on the different routes:
Route 1: Berwick-upon-Tweed - Newcastle - Darlington - York
Route 2: Alnmouth - Newcastle - Durham - Darlington - Northallerton - York - Doncaster - Newark Northgate - Peterborough
Route 3: Morpeth - Newcastle - Durham - Darlington - Northallerton - York - Doncaster - Newark Northgate - Peterborough
Route 4: Dunbar - Alnmouth - Newcastle - Durham - Darlington - York - Doncaster - Newark Northgate - Peterborough
Route 5: Alnmouth - Morpeth - Newcastle - Durham - Darlington - Northallerton - York - Doncaster - Newark Northgate - Peterborough
Whether you prefer a swift, streamlined journey or a more leisurely route with additional destinations, LNER ensures that your trip from Edinburgh to London King's Cross is a truly memorable one. Enjoy the journey!
