Cheap bus tickets from Edinburgh to York
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Bus from Edinburgh to York: Journey Information
There are 3 intercity buses per day from Edinburgh to York. Traveling by bus from Edinburgh to York usually takes around 8 hours and 16 minutes, but the fastest National Express bus can make the trip in 7 hours and 4 minutes.
Distance | 161 mi (259 km) |
Shortest duration | 7h 4m |
Cheapest price | $63.17 |
Most frequent service | National Express |
Bus lines | 1 |

What bus companies travel from Edinburgh to York?
There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Edinburgh to York. National Express connects the two cities by bus, it offers multiple scheduled buses per day for you to choose from.
Bus | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
---|---|---|---|
National Express | 3 | 8h 16m | $72.27 |
National Express is probably the UK's best-known bus company, offering intercity services to London, Manchester, Southampton, and Edinburgh. Onboard the single and double-decker vehicles, travelers enjoy a good amount of legroom – roomier than airlines have in coach class – alongside WiFi, restrooms, and air conditioning.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Edinburgh to York
The bus takes an average of 8 hours and 16 minutes to cover the 259 kilometers from Edinburgh to York. However, the fastest bus only takes 7 hours and 4 minutes. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.
Friday is the busiest travel day for buses as people head from Edinburgh to York for the weekend. If you are planning to travel on a Friday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.
On the other hand, Tuesday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Tuesday ticket is the way to go.
The first bus leaves at 8:00am and the last bus leaves at 10:00am. To see the times for all buses from Edinburgh to York, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
There are 3 scheduled buses that travel from Edinburgh to York every day, so you have a decent number of options to choose from. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so no matter which bus you take, you will have to transfer buses at least once during your journey.
Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Edinburgh to York; ticket prices start at $71.33.
City Information
Edinburgh

Image credit: Unsplash

Image credit: Unsplash

Image credit: Unsplash
As Scotland's capital, Edinburgh and its people are famed throughout history for their contribution to philosophy, literature, science, and industry, among many other areas. This incredibly diverse city promises to provide attractions and entertainment for people of all ages, budgets, and interests. Edinburgh is even ranked as the #6 city with the most historic sites per capita in Europe, and the #1 outside of Italy!
For those looking for outdoor adventure, take a walk up Arthur's Seat, one of four hill forts that date back to over 2,000 years ago. The walk to the top will allow you to embrace some of Scotland's most beautiful landscapes and wildlife, and you'll be rewarded with a dramatic view of Edinburgh at the top.
On rainy days, visit the National Museum of Scotland, where each floor provides information on several fascinating eras of Scotland's history. A trip down the Royal Mile will satisfy all your tartan and souvenir needs, while the world-famous Underground Ghost Tour will give you an entirely different view of this seemingly peaceful, quaint city.
If your trip falls during the holiday season, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is guaranteed to give you the festive feeling, while world-renowned Hogmanay celebrations will ensure that you ring in the New Year with a bang.
Edinburgh is easily accessible via train, plane, and bus. Edinburgh Airport provides global access to the city, while rail services connect the city to many other major towns and cities across the UK. In addition, numerous bus companies travel to and from Edinburgh, meaning that no matter your preferred mode of transport, the city is always within reach.
York

Image credit: Unsplash

Image credit: Unsplash

Image credit: Unsplash
The ancient town of York in the northeast of England offers adventure and excitement, as well as opportunities to sit back and relax. With over 1,900 years of history within its walls, the city of York is home to an intriguing mix of Roman and Viking history. Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre to experience a recreation of life in a Viking city, as well as life-size dioramas and a ride experience.
For those with an architectural eye, a visit to York Minster is a must. With its intricate stained glass windows and elaborate tombs, this medieval cathedral is an impressive yet peaceful place to spend a couple of hours exploring. York also boasts Europe's most visited street: The Shambles. Dating back to medieval times, this street now hosts many unique and independent shops, cafes, and bakeries, all with the feeling that you have stepped back in time.
With its position in the heart of the country, accessing York could not be simpler. East Midlands and Northern Rail services offer direct and quick train service to the city. York is also within reach of four international airports and many major roads for access via car. Park-and-ride services around the city mean you won't have to worry about parking in those medieval streets.
Station Information
Where does the bus leave from in Edinburgh?

Image credit: Wendy
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Edinburgh Bus Station
Edinburgh Bus Station is a local and long-distance bus station located beneath the luxury shopping area, Multrees Walk. It is less than five minutes on foot from Waverley train station, with the primary pedestrian access on St Andrew Square. Luggage lockers, a small convenience store, café, and pay-for restrooms occupy the underground waiting lounge. Megabus and National Express operate service to destinations such as Glasgow, Aberdeen, Belfast, and York. International travelers can reach the Edinburgh Airport via the tram at St Andrew Square.
All bus stations in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh Bus Station
Where does the bus arrive in York?

Image credit: Tim Green
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Railway Station
Situated in a commanding Victorian building on the eastern outskirts of the old town, York Railway Station is part of the UK's east coast main line between London's King's Cross Station and Edinburgh. Upon its opening in 1877, the station was the world's largest railway station. It remains York's primary rail terminus, with 11 platforms welcoming trains daily. Most of its platforms are reached via a long footbridge, while the main concourse has a small amount of seating, ATMs, a newsagent, and various food outlets.
Bus stations in York:
Railway Station
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Need a return trip from York to Edinburgh?
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