- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Edinburgh to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Oct
Cheapest price on 18 Oct
£24
Average ticket price on 18 Oct
£25
Fastest journey on 18 Oct
5 h 31 m
Average journey duration on 18 Oct
6 h 4 m
Buses on 18 Oct
5
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Edinburgh to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Preston will cost around £25 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £24.
Fast coaches
To travel from Edinburgh to Preston you need to make at least one change.
FlixBus · FlixBus8:305h40Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HH)14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change- FlixBus · FlixBus8:245h46Edinburgh, Princes Street (Stop PU)14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:205h50Edinburgh, St Andrew's House14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:357h35Edinburgh, Bus Station14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:395h31Edinburgh, Drum Brae South14:10Preston, Bus Station£261One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:395h31Edinburgh, Drum Brae South14:10Preston, Bus Station£261One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:305h40Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HH)14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:245h46Edinburgh, Princes Street (Stop PU)14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:205h50Edinburgh, St Andrew's House14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:357h35Edinburgh, Bus Station14:10Preston, Bus Station£241One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Preston run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £14 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 01:25, the last at 22:30. The fastest coach covers the 245 km distance in 4h 51m.
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
Distance 245 km |
Average bus duration 5h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £14 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 51m |
First bus 1:25 |
Last bus 22:30 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Live departures
Edinburgh to Preston bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Preston coaches for tomorrow, Sunday 18 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:35 Edinburgh, Bus Station | 7h35 | 14:10 Preston, Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:20 Edinburgh, St Andrew's House | 5h50 | 14:10 Preston, Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:24 Edinburgh, Princes Street (Stop PU) | 5h46 | 14:10 Preston, Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:30 Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HH) | 5h40 | 14:10 Preston, Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:39 Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 5h31 | 14:10 Preston, Bus Station | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Edinburgh to Preston coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer coaches services from Edinburgh to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Preston.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Preston.
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Edinburgh to PrestonYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Preston with FlixBus, National Express for as low as £14. 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
4h 51m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£14
FlixBus frequency
5 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
5h 20m
Cheapest National Express Price
£32
National Express frequency
1 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 Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
The Egypt Centre
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
- Recommended
Ribble Steam Railway and Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
- Must visit
Avenham Park
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
- Recommended
Miller Park
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
- Recommended
Preston Docklands
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
- Vegetarian
Simnel Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
263 Restaurant
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Angelo's
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
The Continental
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Preston Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.20
To the city centre
Preston Bus Station -> Preston Railway Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless Tap & Go works on Preston Bus services; daily charging is capped at the day ticket price when all taps are recorded. ([lancashire.gov.uk](https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/roads-parking-and-travel/public-transport/paying-for-your-journey/tap-and-go/?utm_source=openai))
- Fares in Preston vary by operator, so use the operator's own fare page before travelling. Preston Bus publishes its current tickets and fares online. ([lancashire.gov.uk](https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/roads-parking-and-travel/public-transport/paying-for-your-journey/daily-and-weekly-tickets/?utm_source=openai))
FAQs: Edinburgh to Preston coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Edinburgh to Preston can start from as little as £14 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Edinburgh to Preston is £27; 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 Edinburgh to Preston is 4h 51m to travel the 245 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 Edinburgh to Preston leaves at 1:25. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Edinburgh to Preston leaves at 22:30.
There are 4 coaches a day from Edinburgh to Preston which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Edinburgh to Preston, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Preston. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Preston and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Edinburgh , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Edinburgh, Bus Station, Edinburgh, St Andrew's House, Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HH), Edinburgh, Drum Brae South, Edinburgh, Princes Street (Stop PU) . When arriving in Preston , you can end your route in coach stations like Preston, Bus Station, Lancaster, University, Blackburn, Penny Street.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Edinburgh, Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Preston, Bus Station, located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Preston including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Edinburgh to Preston:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Edinburgh to Preston for coach company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Edinburgh to Preston 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 FlixBus, National Express.
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 Edinburgh to Preston.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Edinburgh to Preston:
- 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 Edinburgh to Preston:
- 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 Edinburgh to Preston. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Edinburgh to Preston with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Edinburgh to Preston with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Edinburgh to Preston with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Preston
Most Edinburgh to Preston buses use the Edinburgh, Bus Station to Preston, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Preston bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Edinburgh
Arrival bus stations in Preston
Which Edinburgh station do buses to Preston leave from?
Buses from Edinburgh to Preston leave from Edinburgh, Bus Station. The station is from Edinburgh city centre at Elder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · £2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · £1 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · £4 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, 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: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Edinburgh, St Andrew's HouseEdinburgh EH7 5BN, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, St Andrew's House from Edinburgh city centre
BusX19, 43, X18, X27, X28 · 6m · £2 · every ~36 min
15, 26, 44, X26 · 7m · £1 · every ~40 min
Uk090 · 8m · £1 · every ~1 min
Uk090 · 8m · £1 · every ~15 min
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Which Preston station do buses from Edinburgh arrive at?
Buses from Edinburgh to Preston most often arrive at Preston, Bus Station. Some services arrive at Lancaster, University, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Preston arrival station.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · £8 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Most popular bus connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Preston and Edinburgh
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