Cheltenham to Edinburgh bus with National Express

Tue 20 Oct
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Cheltenham to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct

Cheapest price on 20 Oct

£41

Average ticket price on 20 Oct

£55

Fastest journey on 20 Oct

10 h 45 m

Average journey duration on 20 Oct

13 h 36 m

Buses on 20 Oct

4

Distance

456 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh will cost around £55 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £41.

Fast coaches

To travel from Cheltenham to Edinburgh you need to make at least one change.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    17:1013h15
    Cheltenham
    6:25Edinburgh, Bus Station
    £411One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    21:0510h45
    Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub
    7:50Edinburgh, Bus Station
    £481One-way
    1 change
  • National ExpressNX444 · NX591
    3:0015h35
    Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
    18:35Edinburgh, Bus Station
    £581One-way
    1 change
  • National ExpressNX444 · NX594
    16:3014h50
    Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
    7:20Edinburgh, Bus Station
    £751One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cheltenham to Edinburgh run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £22 by flight.

The earliest coach runs at 02:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest coach covers the 456 km distance in 9h 30m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £22
Distance
456 km
Average bus duration
11h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
£24
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
9h 30m
First bus
2:05
Last bus
23:40
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £22

Live departures

Cheltenham to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Edinburgh coaches for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National Express19:10 Cheltenham
12h55
8:05 Edinburgh0 changesdirect
Tuesday 20 October
National ExpressNX444 · NX5913:00 Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
15h35
18:35 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX444 · NX59416:30 Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
14h50
7:20 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus17:10 Cheltenham
13h15
6:25 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cheltenham to Edinburgh coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Cheltenham to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Cheltenham to Edinburgh with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £22. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£24
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
9h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
£27
National Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

Complete guide to Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum of Scotland

National museum covering science, design, world cultures and Scottish history. Excellent for varied collections and a dramatic central hall.

  • Must visit

Scottish National Gallery

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance to the late nineteenth century, beside Princes Street Gardens.

  • Recommended

Fruitmarket

Contemporary art gallery in a converted schoolhouse, known for thoughtful exhibitions by Scottish and international artists near the Royal Mile.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Rooms and dining are pricier in peak season, but buses are affordable and budget eats are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs usually do not expect tips.

Best day trips from Edinburgh by bus

The most popular day trips by bus from Edinburgh are Glasgow, St Andrews, Perth, Dundee and Stirling. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Edinburgh on Omio.

A view of Glasgow

Day trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow by bus

Why visit Glasgow for the day?

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, known for grand architecture, a strong music scene and a friendly, direct character. Its industrial past on the Clyde still shapes a city that now balances major museums, lively neighbourhoods and a clear cultural confidence.

How to get from Edinburgh to Glasgow by bus?

There are 142 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:13, the last at 23:45. The fastest coach covers the 67 km distance in 57m.

A view of St Andrews

Day trip from Edinburgh to St Andrews by bus

Why visit St Andrews for the day?

St Andrews is a small coastal town in Fife known worldwide as the home of golf and for the University of St Andrews. Medieval streets, castle and cathedral ruins, and broad beaches give it a historic yet lively character.

How to get from Edinburgh to St Andrews by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 05:30, the last at 23:04.

A view of Perth

Day trip from Edinburgh to Perth by bus

Why visit Perth for the day?

Perth is a small Scottish city on the River Tay with strong royal and civic history. Known for its elegant centre and nearby Scone Palace, it feels calm, compact and well placed for exploring central and northern Scotland.

How to get from Edinburgh to Perth by bus?

There are 14 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 51 km distance in 1h 20m.

A view of Dundee

Day trip from Edinburgh to Dundee by bus

Why visit Dundee for the day?

Dundee is a compact Scottish city on the River Tay, known for design, digital creativity and a maritime past. The waterfront and V&A Dundee give it a modern feel, while old streets and university life keep its character grounded.

How to get from Edinburgh to Dundee by bus?

There are 9 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 58 km distance in 1h 55m.

A view of Stirling

Day trip from Edinburgh to Stirling by bus

Why visit Stirling for the day?

Stirling is known for royal history, Stirling Castle and the story of William Wallace. Its compact old town and setting by the River Forth give it a lively Scottish character.

How to get from Edinburgh to Stirling by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 00:35, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 50 km distance in 1h 38m.

FAQs: Cheltenham to Edinburgh coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Edinburgh by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Cheltenham to Edinburgh can start from as little as £24 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cheltenham to Edinburgh is £60; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is 9h 30m to travel the 456 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh leaves at 2:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh leaves at 23:40.
There are 4 coaches a day from Cheltenham to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cheltenham and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Cheltenham , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station, Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane), Cheltenham, Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your route in coach stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Edinburgh including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh depends on the coach companies:
  • National Express
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cheltenham to Edinburgh with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cheltenham and Edinburgh

Most Cheltenham to Edinburgh buses use the Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Cheltenham
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh

Which Cheltenham station do buses to Edinburgh leave from?

Buses from Cheltenham to Edinburgh leave from Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station. The station is from Cheltenham city centre at Royal Well Road, Cheltenham, GL50 3PD, UK.
Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus StationRoyal Well Road, Cheltenham, GL50 3PD, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station from Cheltenham city centre

Bus94, 94U, 97, 98

Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station bus station facilities and services

Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafeteria Royal Well (in the station), The Coffee House (0.2 km), The Brewery Quarter (0.5 km).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.

Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane)
City-centre transport

Getting to Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane) from Cheltenham city centre

Bus94X, 94, Nx94, N94, 95, 96 · 14m · £4 · every ~23 min
100, 94, 95, N94, 96 · 14m · £1 · every ~22 min
M13 · 21m
K · 23m · £4 · every ~1 min
CheltenhamCheltenham, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Cheltenham from Cheltenham city centre

TRUE

Cheltenham bus station facilities and services

Cheltenham has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi available in the waiting area. ATMs are available at Cheltenham.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cheltenham: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.

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