Edinburgh to Chester train with Avanti West Coast

Thu 08 Oct
+ Add return
Transpennine Express
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Transpennine Express
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Chester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 08 Oct

Cheapest price on 08 Oct

£32

Average ticket price on 08 Oct

£77

Fastest journey on 08 Oct

3 h 49 m

Average journey duration on 08 Oct

3 h 50 m

Trains on 08 Oct

6

Distance

308 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Edinburgh to Chester will cost around £77 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £32.

Fast trains

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

  • Avanti West CoastW33933+Transport for WalesG38409
    8:523h57
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    12:49Chester station (CTR)
    £321One-way
    1 change
  • Avanti West CoastW34060+Transport for WalesG38635
    10:523h52
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    14:44Chester station (CTR)
    £501One-way
    1 change
  • Avanti West CoastW33933+Transport for WalesG38629
    8:523h52
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    12:44Chester station (CTR)
    £501One-way
    1 change
  • Transpennine ExpressW84907+Avanti West CoastW33973+Northern RailG89095
    10:113h50
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    14:01Chester station (CTR)
    £1101One-way
    2 changes
  • Transpennine ExpressW84912+Avanti West CoastW34063+Northern RailG89102
    12:123h49
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    16:01Chester station (CTR)
    £1101One-way
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Chester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Edinburgh to Chester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:51, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 308 km distance in 3h 11m.

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
308 km
Average train duration
3h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
£17
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 11m
First train
3:51
Last train
23:30
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Mon
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

Live departures

Edinburgh to Chester train times

The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Chester trains for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West Coast5:52 Edinburgh
3h56
9:48 Chester0 changesdirect
Transpennine Express6:12 Edinburgh
4h36
10:48 Chester0 changesdirect
Avanti West Coast6:52 Edinburgh
3h56
10:48 Chester0 changesdirect
Transpennine Express7:12 Edinburgh
4h36
11:48 Chester0 changesdirect
Avanti West Coast7:52 Edinburgh
3h50
11:42 Chester0 changesdirect
Transpennine Express8:12 Edinburgh
4h36
12:48 Chester0 changesdirect
Avanti West Coast14:52 Edinburgh
3h52
18:44 Chester0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Edinburgh to Chester trains with Omio?

Transpennine Express as well as CrossCountry or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Edinburgh to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Chester.

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 CrossCountry or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Chester.
  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Chester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Chester.
  • 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 Chester.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry from Edinburgh to Chester trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry trains will get you between Edinburgh and Chester from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Avanti West Coast Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£17
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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

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
Average Transpennine Express Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£30
Transpennine Express frequency
3 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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
4h 47m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£146
CrossCountry frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Chester

Things to do in Chester

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

  • Recommended

Deva Roman Experience

Interactive museum exploring Roman Chester with artefacts, reconstructions and family-friendly displays that bring Deva’s military past to life.

  • Recommended

Cheshire Military Museum

Museum in a former mill on the River Dee, covering Chester’s social history, period rooms and local stories from Roman times onward.

  • Recommended

Dewa Roman Experience

Museum inside Chester Castle tracing regional regiments through uniforms, medals and campaigns in a compact but informative setting.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but tourist areas can feel pricey. Buses are reasonable, while central stays cost more in peak season.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.

Best day trips from Chester by train

The most popular day trips by train from Chester are Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Shrewsbury and Llandudno. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Chester on Omio.

A view of Liverpool

Day trip from Chester to Liverpool by train

Why visit Liverpool for the day?

Liverpool is known for The Beatles, football and a waterfront shaped by its maritime past. Its grand docks, museums and lively city centre give it a proud, creative character.

How to get from Chester to Liverpool by train?

There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:19, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 25 km distance in 37m.

A view of Manchester

Day trip from Chester to Manchester by train

Why visit Manchester for the day?

Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, influential music and deep football culture. Red-brick canalside areas, major museums and lively nightlife give it an energetic northern character.

How to get from Chester to Manchester by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 54 km distance in 40m.

A view of Birmingham

Day trip from Chester to Birmingham by train

Why visit Birmingham for the day?

Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.

How to get from Chester to Birmingham by train?

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:28, the last at 22:56. The fastest train covers the 103 km distance in 1h 10m.

A view of Shrewsbury

Day trip from Chester to Shrewsbury by train

Why visit Shrewsbury for the day?

Shrewsbury is a historic market town in Shropshire, known for medieval streets, timber-framed buildings and the River Severn. Birthplace of Charles Darwin, it has a compact centre with independent shops, old churches and a calm traditional feel.

How to get from Chester to Shrewsbury by train?

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 54 km distance in 49m.

A view of Llandudno

Day trip from Chester to Llandudno by train

Why visit Llandudno for the day?

Llandudno is a Victorian seaside town on the north Wales coast, known for its broad bay and graceful promenade. The Great Orme rises above the town, giving it a scenic, traditional character and easy access to nearby Conwy and Snowdonia.

How to get from Chester to Llandudno by train?

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 21:51. The fastest train covers the 64 km distance in 58m.

FAQs: Edinburgh to Chester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £77.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Chester covers a distance of 308 km and takes approximately 3h 11m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Edinburgh to Chester is 308 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Chester leaves at 3:51.
The last train from Edinburgh to Chester departs at 23:30.
Trains from Edinburgh to Chester run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Chester.
There is no night train service from Edinburgh to Chester.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Chester is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
Booking trains from Edinburgh to Chester 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 Chester offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including views of the rolling hills in southern Scotland, the scenic Lake District, and charming countryside in northern England, making it a pleasant and varied route.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Chester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Chester

Most Edinburgh to Chester trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Chester 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 Chester
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre

BusUk090 · 12m · £0.89 · 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.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

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