- Must visit
Williamson Art Gallery and Museum
Local history museum and art gallery with paintings, social history displays and rotating exhibitions in a civic building near the town centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Birkenhead
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 29 Aug
Cheapest price on 29 Aug
£83
Average ticket price on 29 Aug
£83
Fastest journey on 29 Aug
3 h 59 m
Average journey duration on 29 Aug
3 h 59 m
Trains on 29 Aug
1
Distance
285 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Birkenhead is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Birkenhead will cost around £83 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £83.
Fast trains
On Sat 29 Aug, we found 1 trains from Edinburgh to Birkenhead, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 285 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 59 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:523h59Edinburgh12:51Birkenhead£831One-way0 changes
- 8:523h59Edinburgh12:51Birkenhead£831One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Edinburgh to Birkenhead
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Birkenhead among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £49 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 2m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £49, while a train costs an average of £126.
Distance: 285 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£126 Average Price | £49 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 5m Average total duration 8h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Birkenhead train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Birkenhead trains for tomorrow, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:52 Edinburgh | 3h59 | 12:51 Birkenhead | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Birkenhead by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
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29 Aug
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Why should you book Edinburgh to Birkenhead trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
- 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Birkenhead
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Birkenhead run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £87 but you can travel from only £44 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:48, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 285 km distance in 3h 33m.
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
Coach from £44
Distance 285 km |
Average train duration 3h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price £87 |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 3h 33m |
First train 5:48 |
Last train 19:00 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £44
Train companies: Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express from Edinburgh to Birkenhead trainsTranspennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Edinburgh and Birkenhead from £44. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Transpennine Express frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 11m
Cheapest Price
£88
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 33m
Cheapest Price
£172
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 51m
Cheapest Price
£87
TransPennine Express frequency
10 a day
Complete guide to Birkenhead
Things to do in Birkenhead
Discover the best of Birkenhead — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birkenhead trip today.
- Recommended
Birkenhead Priory Museum
Riverside museum set in Birkenhead Priory, interpreting monastic life, local maritime links and the area’s medieval past.
- Recommended
Wirral Transport Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum with historic trams, buses and exhibits on local public transport, best for enthusiasts and family visits.
- Must visit
Birkenhead Park
Historic public park with lakes, bridges and landscaped paths, ideal for walks and a key green space that inspired later park design.
- Must visit
Hamilton Square
Large civic square framed by fine terraces, well suited to architecture lovers, photography and a short heritage walk near the station.
- Recommended
Priory Quarter
Characterful quarter around the priory and waterfront, combining heritage buildings, river views and access to nearby maritime attractions.
Scouse
A Liverpool staple: minced beef, potatoes and onions baked under a crust. Long tied to dockside home cooking across the Mersey, including Birkenhead.
- Gluten-free
Blind Scouse
A richer baked version of scouse with sliced potatoes on top. Traditional across Merseyside and familiar in pubs and homes around Birkenhead.
Fish and Chips
The classic chip-shop pairing of battered fish and chips. Deeply rooted in everyday seaside and dockland eating on both sides of the Mersey.
Home Oxton
Smart neighbourhood bistro known for seasonal small plates, steaks and Sunday roasts in a relaxed but polished setting on Oxton’s high street.
Gallaghers
Popular independent Italian restaurant serving pasta, pizza and grills in a lively, friendly dining room close to Hamilton Square.
The Fraiche
Well-known pub and restaurant in Oxton village, serving British classics, roasts and cask ales in a traditional, comfortable setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Birkenhead is usually cheaper than central Liverpool for stays and dining, while local buses, trains and casual meals stay fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £7-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-28 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 5-10%. Cafes and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
FAQs: Edinburgh to Birkenhead train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Birkenhead by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Birkenhead, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Birkenhead can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £87, while the average price tends to be around £126.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Birkenhead covers a distance of 285 km and takes approximately 3h 33m. Trains run 13 per day.
The train distance from Edinburgh to Birkenhead is 285 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Birkenhead leaves at 5:48.
The last train from Edinburgh to Birkenhead departs at 19:00.
Trains from Edinburgh to Birkenhead run approximately 13 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
To get from Edinburgh to Birkenhead, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, there is a night train from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Birkenhead is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), and it arrives at Birkenhead Hamilton Square (BKQ).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Birkenhead is by coach, costing approximately £44.
Booking trains from Edinburgh to Birkenhead in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Birkenhead offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders and the picturesque landscapes of northern England. Passengers can enjoy a mix of countryside vistas and charming towns along the route.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Birkenhead is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 33m. However, you can find 11 train services per day for this route.
To explore Birkenhead's main attractions such as Birkenhead Park, Williamson Art Gallery, and the historic shipyard, a visit of 1-2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Birkenhead.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Birkenhead
Most Edinburgh to Birkenhead trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Birkenhead Hamilton Square station pair, with some services arriving at Conway Park. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Birkenhead train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Birkenhead
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · £0.90 · every ~32 min
Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Birkenhead Hamilton SquareBirkenhead Hamilton Square station, Hamilton Street, Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH41 1AL
City-centre transport
Getting to Birkenhead Hamilton Square from Birkenhead city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesHamilton Square, Hamilton Street, Birkenhead CH41
Birkenhead Hamilton Square train station facilities and services
Birkenhead Hamilton Square has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Information Desk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birkenhead Hamilton Square. ATMs are available at Birkenhead Hamilton Square.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birkenhead Hamilton Square. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birkenhead Hamilton Square: Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birkenhead Hamilton Square: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform.” Lifts can be used to access platforms, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Conway ParkConway Park station, Europa Boulevard, Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH41 4PP
City-centre transport
Getting to Conway Park from Birkenhead city centre
TrainWest Kirby - West Kirby, Rock Ferry - West Kirby, New Brighton - New Brighton, Birkenhead Hamilton Square - West Kirby · 1m · £0.90 · every ~13 min
Bus216, 217, 410, 409, 411 · 3m · £4 · every ~26 min
Conway Park train station facilities and services
Conway Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Conway Park.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Conway Park. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Conway Park: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Conway Park: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Conway Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” Lifts can be used to access platforms, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Birkenhead CentralBirkenhead Central station, Argyle Street South, Birkenhead, Merseyside, CH41 9DB+44 151 555 1111
City-centre transport
Getting to Birkenhead Central from Birkenhead city centre
TrainChester - Chester, Hooton - Chester, Rock Ferry - Ellesmere Port, Ellesmere Port - Ellesmere Port, Moorfields - Chester, Ellesmere Port - Chester, Hooton - Ellesmere Port · 2m · £0.90 · every ~9 min
Bus410 · 5m · £4 · every ~5 min
811 · 7m
Birkenhead Central train station facilities and services
Birkenhead Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birkenhead Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birkenhead Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birkenhead Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birkenhead Central: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birkenhead Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform.” Lifts can be used to access platforms, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Birkenhead
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Birkenhead and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Birkenhead
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