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Trip Summary
There are 10 daily trains from Bristol to Edinburgh. Traveling by train from Bristol to Edinburgh usually takes around 6 hours and 36 minutes, but the fastest CrossCountry train can make the trip in 6 hours and 26 minutes.
| Distance | 312 mi (502 km) |
| Fastest train | 6h 26m |
| Lowest price | €130.53 |
| Trains per day | 6 |
| Most frequent service | CrossCountry |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Bristol to Edinburgh?
CrossCountry is the one and only train line which connects Bristol to Edinburgh. However, there are 10 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| CrossCountry | 10 | 6h 36m | €246.77 |
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 Bristol to Edinburgh usually takes about 6 hours and 36 minutes on a CrossCountry train. There are 10 trips on this route every day, and 10 daily trips on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Bristol and Edinburgh is approximately 312 miles, or 502 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 36 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 26 minutes.
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Bristol to Edinburgh on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Sunday. Sunday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Bristol at 06:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 15:00. 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 10 scheduled trains on most days. 6 of these are direct connections to Edinburgh. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Edinburgh to Bristol.
City Information
Bristol
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Situated on the River Avon, Bristol is the most populous city in South West England. Known for its vibrant culture, Bristol comprises distinct areas, each with its own atmosphere. For example, the Stokes Croft area is filled with independent cafes and vintage shops, while the Clifton suburb hosts unique boutiques and beautiful Georgian architecture.
Bristol Zoo is a must-see for animal lovers, where visitors can discover over 300 different animal species and then enjoy lunch in The Hide restaurant. If nautical history is your thing, then step aboard Brunel's SS Great Britain to immerse yourself in 19th-century-era travel, with tours of the whole ship and docks available. More contemporary interests may be piqued when you learn that Bristol is the hometown of the famous street artist Banksy. Many walking tours are available daily to explore the city's renowned street art and local history.
Access to the city is made simple by a wealth of public transport, with rail, road, bus, and air links available. Bristol Airport provides international and national access, and the Great Western Railway trains enable easy access from London and other cities. Several national and regional bus services also serve Bristol.
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Bristol?
Main departure station: Bristol Temple Meads Station
There is one train station in Bristol.
All train stations in Bristol:
Bristol Temple Meads Station
Where is the train station in Edinburgh?
Main arrival station: Edinburgh Waverley Station
Edinburgh has one train station.
Train stations in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh Waverley Station
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