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Trip Summary
12 trains operate daily from Edinburgh to York. The train trip from Edinburgh to York is usually about 2 hours and 32 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest London North Eastern Railway train can get you there in as little as 2 hours and 23 minutes.
| Distance | 161 mi (259 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 23m |
| Lowest price | £39.91 |
| Trains per day | 12 |
| Most frequent service | London North Eastern Railway |
| Train lines | 2 |
Which train should you take from Edinburgh to York?
2 train services operate from Edinburgh to York. London North Eastern Railway usually has more trains scheduled, with 8 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| CrossCountry | 4 | 2h 36m | £39.91 |
| London North Eastern Railway | 8 | 2h 31m | £46.80 |
CrossCountry operates an extensive rail network in the U.K., centered in Birmingham. In standard class, passengers enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. Trains also contain a small café or a trolley that passes through the carriages. An upgrade to first-class gives passengers more legroom and complimentary food. The journey from Edinburgh to York usually takes about 2 hours and 36 minutes on a CrossCountry train. There are 4 trips on this route every day, and 0 daily trips on weekends.
London North Eastern Railway (LNER) is a privately-owned train company that operates passenger services on behalf of the UK government. LNER manages the prestigious East Coast mainline route, connecting London King's Cross Station to various cities, including Leeds, Bradford, and Hull. With a comprehensive network of 55 stations and a fleet of approximately 75 trains, LNER facilitates numerous daily journeys, offering standard and first-class ticket options.
Frequently Asked Questions
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Edinburgh to York on Friday. Tickets for Friday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Friday. Friday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Edinburgh at 05:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 14:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 12 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Edinburgh to York.
You can also take a train for your return trip from York to Edinburgh.
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 is the train station in Edinburgh?
Main departure station: Edinburgh Waverley Station
There is one train station in Edinburgh.
All train stations in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh Waverley Station
Where is the train station in York?
Main arrival station: York Station
York has one train station.
Train stations in York:
York Station
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Need a return trip from York to Edinburgh?
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