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FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h18Preston, Bus Station23:33Edinburgh, Drum Brae South£241One-way1 change- FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h38Preston, Bus Station23:53Edinburgh, Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h26Preston, Bus Station23:41Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h31Preston, Bus Station23:46Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)£291One-way1 change
NX181 · NX5912:258h00Preston, Bus Station10:25Edinburgh, Bus Station£351One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h18Preston, Bus Station23:33Edinburgh, Drum Brae South£241One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h26Preston, Bus Station23:41Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h31Preston, Bus Station23:46Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)£291One-way1 change
- FlixBus · FlixBus17:156h38Preston, Bus Station23:53Edinburgh, Bus Station£291One-way1 change
- NX181 · NX5912:258h00Preston, Bus Station10:25Edinburgh, Bus Station£351One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Preston to Edinburgh
The cheapest option from Preston to Edinburgh is train, with an average price of £23. Omio recommends booking the train, as it is the most popular option from Preston to Edinburgh among Omio users. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg.
Distance: 245 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£23 Average Price Cheapest option | £39 Average Price | £149 Average Price |
5h 17m Average total duration 4h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 44m Average total duration Fastest option 3h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 35m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.7 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Preston to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Edinburgh coaches for tomorrow, Friday 10 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX181 · NX591 | 2:25 Preston, Bus Station | 8h00 | 10:25 Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 17:15 Preston, Bus Station | 6h38 | 23:53 Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 17:15 Preston, Bus Station | 6h18 | 23:33 Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 17:15 Preston, Bus Station | 6h26 | 23:41 Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB) | 1 change | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 17:15 Preston, Bus Station | 6h31 | 23:46 Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF) | 1 change |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Edinburgh by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
10 Jul
10 Jul
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11 Jul
11 Jul
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12 Jul
12 Jul
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13 Jul
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16 Jul
Why should you book Preston to Edinburgh coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Megabus or National Express offer coaches services from Preston to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Edinburgh.
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 Megabus or National Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston 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 Megabus or National Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston 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 Preston to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Typically, there are 4 buses per day from Preston to Edinburgh, including direct buses, taking around 4h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £13 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 01:25, the last at 22:30. The fastest coach covers the 245 km distance in 4h 24m.
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
Train from £13
Distance 245 km |
Average bus duration 4h 47m |
Lowest ticket price £13 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 24m |
First bus 1:25 |
Last bus 22:30 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
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
Train from £13
Bus providers: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express from Preston to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Preston to Edinburgh with FlixBus, Megabus, National Express for as low as £13. 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 Duration
5h 56m
Cheapest Price
£13
FlixBus frequency
4 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 Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
£30
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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 55m
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
FAQs: Preston to Edinburgh coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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.
The earliest coach from Preston to Edinburgh leaves at 1:25. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Preston to Edinburgh leaves at 22:30.
There are 4 coaches a day from Preston to Edinburgh which require at least one change with FlixBus, Megabus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Preston to Edinburgh, you can count on FlixBus, Megabus, National Express for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Preston and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
The cheapest month for a coach from Preston to Edinburgh is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Edinburgh including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Preston to Edinburgh:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Preston to Edinburgh for coach company FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Preston to Edinburgh depends on the coach companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- 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 Preston to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Preston to Edinburgh:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- 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 Preston to Edinburgh:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- 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 Preston 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 Preston to Edinburgh with the following coach company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Preston to Edinburgh with the following coach company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Preston to Edinburgh with the following coach company: FlixBus, Megabus, National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Edinburgh
Most Preston to Edinburgh buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Preston and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Preston
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Preston, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Bus23 · 6m · £8 · every ~8 min
Which Edinburgh station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston to Edinburgh most often arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Some services arrive at {secondaryArrivalStation}, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Edinburgh arrival station.
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 · £0.90 · 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 · £0.90 · every ~40 min
Uk090 · 8m · £0.90 · every ~1 min
Uk090 · 8m · £0.90 · 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.
More options for your journey from Preston to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Preston
Most popular bus connections
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