Edinburgh to Preston train with Transpennine Express

Wed 14 Oct
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
London North Eastern Railway
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
London North Eastern Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Preston

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct

Cheapest price on 14 Oct

£21

Average ticket price on 14 Oct

£40

Fastest journey on 14 Oct

2 h 23 m

Average journey duration on 14 Oct

2 h 23 m

Trains on 14 Oct

17

Distance

245 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train 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 £40 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £21.

Fast trains

On Wed 14 Oct, we found 17 trains from Edinburgh to Preston, including 13 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 245 km distance in an average of 2 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 23 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 24 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.

  • Avanti West CoastW33861
    18:522h24
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    21:16Preston station (PRE)
    £211One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW34259+ScotrailL88012+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central
    17:153h42
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    20:57Preston station (PRE)
    £211One-way
    2 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW34200+ScotrailL87975+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central
    15:153h49
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    19:04Preston station (PRE)
    £231One-way
    2 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW00587
    14:522h24
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    17:16Preston station (PRE)
    £261One-way
    0 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW33933
    8:522h23
    Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    11:15Preston station (PRE)
    £281One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Edinburgh to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 245 km distance in 2h 22m.

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 £14
Distance
245 km
Average train duration
2h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
£17
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
2h 22m
First train
4:30
Last train
22:50
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £14

Live departures

Edinburgh to Preston train times

The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Preston trains for today, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33933
Delayed
7:52 8:52Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h23
10:27 10:27Preston station (PRE)
0 changesdirect
ScotrailL87975+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+Avanti West CoastW34200
Delayed
14:15 15:15Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h49
19:04 Preston station (PRE)
2 changes
Transpennine ExpressW84928
On time
18:12 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h33
20:45 Preston station (PRE)
0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW33861
On time
18:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h24
21:16 Preston station (PRE)
0 changesdirect
Transpennine ExpressW84877
On time
20:12 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h33
22:45 Preston station (PRE)
0 changesdirect
Transpennine ExpressW849018:12 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h32
10:44 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW339338:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h23
11:15 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW33973+ScotrailL87843+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central9:15 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h41
12:56 Preston station (PRE)2 changes
Transpennine ExpressW8490710:11 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h34
12:45 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW3406010:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h23
13:15 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW34063+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+ScotrailL8790211:15 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h42
14:57 Preston station (PRE)2 changes
Transpennine ExpressW8491212:12 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h34
14:46 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW3412412:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h23
15:15 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Transpennine ExpressW8491814:12 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h34
16:46 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW0058714:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h24
17:16 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW34200+ScotrailL87975+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central15:15 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h49
19:04 Preston station (PRE)2 changes
Transpennine ExpressW8492316:11 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h35
18:46 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW3426816:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h24
19:16 Preston station (PRE)0 changesdirect
Avanti West CoastW34259+ScotrailL88012+BusBus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central17:15 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3h42
20:57 Preston station (PRE)2 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Edinburgh to Preston trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway and more offer trains 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 Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway 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 Avanti West Coast 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, Raileurope or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway 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.

Train companies: Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Northern Rail from Edinburgh to Preston trainsTranspennine Express, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Northern Rail trains will get you between Edinburgh and Preston from £14. 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
Average Transpennine Express Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£20
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

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
2h 22m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£17
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
4h 35m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£64
London North Eastern Railway 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets 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 55m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£139
CrossCountry frequency
1 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

Northern Rail

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£64
Northern Rail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

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.

  • Must visit

The Harris

Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Edinburgh to Preston train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £54.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Preston covers a distance of 245 km and takes approximately 2h 22m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Edinburgh to Preston is 245 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Preston leaves at 4:30.
The last train from Edinburgh to Preston departs at 22:50.
Trains from Edinburgh to Preston run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train between Edinburgh and Preston. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express.
There is no night train service from Edinburgh to Preston.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Preston is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
Booking trains from Edinburgh to Preston 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 Preston offers scenic views, including glimpses of the picturesque Scottish countryside, rolling hills, and coastal vistas, especially as it travels along the East Coast Main Line and through the scenic landscapes of the Scottish Borders and Northumberland.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Preston.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Preston

Most Edinburgh to Preston trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Preston 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 Preston
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 · £1 · 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.

HaymarketHaymarket station, Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH12 5EYWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre

Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:

Train3m · £1
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · £1 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · £1
TramT50 · 6m · £4 · every ~30 min

Haymarket train station facilities and services

Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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 Haymarket.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), 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 Haymarket: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

BrunstaneBrunstane station, Brunstane Road South, Brunstane, Midlothian, EH15 2NGParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Brunstane from Edinburgh city centre

Brunstane is 6 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainEdinburgh - Tweedbank · 9m · £2 · every ~3 min
Bus113, 124, N107, N113, N124 · 26m · £2 · every ~14 min
2 · 31m · £2 · every ~10 min
4 · 37m · £2 · every ~11 min

Brunstane train station facilities and services

Brunstane has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Brunstane.

Tickets and information

Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brunstane: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Brunstane: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brunstane: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to single platform, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Preston

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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