- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
National museum covering science, design, world cultures and Scottish history. Excellent for varied collections and a dramatic central hall.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Harpenden to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Sept
Cheapest price on 20 Sept
£103
Average ticket price on 20 Sept
£103
Fastest journey on 20 Sept
5 h 28 m
Average journey duration on 20 Sept
5 h 28 m
Trains on 20 Sept
1
Distance
496 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Harpenden to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Harpenden to Edinburgh will cost around £103 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £103.
Fast trains
On Sun 20 Sept, we found 1 trains from Harpenden to Edinburgh, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 496 km distance in an average of 5 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 28 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 28 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.
8:115h28Harpenden13:39Edinburgh£1031One-way0 changes
- 8:115h28Harpenden13:39Edinburgh£1031One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Harpenden to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Harpenden to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £61 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 24m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £61, while a flight costs an average of £168.
Distance: 496 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£105 Average Price | £168 Average Price | £61 Average Price Cheapest | £95 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 31m Average total duration 5h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 35m Average total duration 10h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Harpenden to Edinburgh is a coach with an average price of £61.
This is compared to other travel options from Harpenden to Edinburgh:
A coach is £44 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Harpenden to Edinburgh costing on average £105.
A coach is £107 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Harpenden to Edinburgh costing on average £168.
The fastest way to travel from Harpenden to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 24m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 1m.
Coach takes on average 10h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Harpenden and Edinburgh including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 47m sooner (5h 1m by train vs 6h 48m by car). Tickets start at around £105 compared to roughly £95 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Harpenden to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Harpenden to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Sunday 20 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:11 Harpenden | 5h28 | 13:39 Edinburgh | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Harpenden to Edinburgh by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Harpenden to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Harpenden to Edinburgh run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £98 but you can travel from only £31 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:36, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 496 km distance in 4h 47m.
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
Flight from £31
Distance 496 km |
Average train duration 5h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price £98 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 4h 47m |
First train 5:36 |
Last train 19:00 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Flight from £31
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway from Harpenden to Edinburgh trainsLondon North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Harpenden and Edinburgh from £31. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 47m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£98
London North Eastern Railway 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
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
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
Scottish National Gallery
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance to the late nineteenth century, beside Princes Street Gardens.
- Recommended
Fruitmarket
Contemporary art gallery in a converted schoolhouse, known for thoughtful exhibitions by Scottish and international artists near the Royal Mile.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, shops and public buildings. Ideal for first-time visitors on foot.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano with popular walking routes and broad views over the city and coast. A rewarding outdoor escape close to the centre.
- Recommended
Princes Street Gardens
Large public gardens below the castle, good for a break between Old and New Town sights, with monuments, lawns and seasonal planting.
- Gluten-free
Cullen skink
A rich Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, closely associated with east coast cooking and widely enjoyed in Edinburgh.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding of sheep’s offal, oats and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties at Burns suppers.
- Vegetarian
Cranachan
A classic Scottish dessert of raspberries, whipped cream, honey and toasted oats, often linked with soft fruit from eastern Scotland.
The Kitchin
Elegant dining room serving refined Scottish tasting menus focused on seasonal produce in a calm central setting.
Whiski Rooms
Popular traditional restaurant near the Castle, specialising in haggis, game and hearty Scottish comfort food.
The Cafe Royal
Stylish brasserie and oyster bar with Scottish seafood, shellfish and classic dishes in a grand city-centre space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Rooms and dining are pricier in peak season, but buses are affordable and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs usually do not expect tips.
Bus & Tram
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Edinburgh Waverley -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless works on trams with Tap On, Tap Off. Use the same card or device all day to benefit from the city day cap of £5.70.
- On trams, buy, validate or activate your ticket before boarding. If you use contactless on trams, remember to tap off when you leave.
FAQs: Harpenden to Edinburgh train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Harpenden to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Harpenden to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £98, while the average price tends to be around £105.
The train journey from Harpenden to Edinburgh covers a distance of 496 km and takes approximately 4h 47m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Harpenden to Edinburgh is 496 km.
The first train from Harpenden to Edinburgh leaves at 5:36.
The last train from Harpenden to Edinburgh departs at 19:00.
Trains from Harpenden to Edinburgh run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Harpenden to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Harpenden to Edinburgh.
To get from Harpenden to Edinburgh, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Harpenden to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Harpenden to Edinburgh is by flight, costing approximately £31.
Booking trains from Harpenden to Edinburgh in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Harpenden to Edinburgh offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the rolling landscapes of the Midlands and the picturesque countryside of the Scottish Borders, providing a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Harpenden to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 47m. However, there are 4 train trips available per day. The distance covered is 496 km.
In Edinburgh, you can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket with its pubs, shops, and street performances, or enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults. Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for beautiful landscapes. Discover hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market. Must-see sights include Edinburgh Castle, offering panoramic views and housing the Crown Jewels, Arthur's Seat for hiking and city views, The Royal Mile lined with shops and landmarks, Holyrood Palace with its stunning gardens, and the National Museum of Scotland showcasing diverse exhibits.
To fully experience Edinburgh's historic sites, cultural attractions, and local cuisine, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Harpenden to Edinburgh.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Harpenden and Edinburgh
Most Harpenden to Edinburgh trains use the Harpenden to Edinburgh Waverley station pair. Use this guide to compare Harpenden and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Harpenden
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh
HarpendenHarpenden station, Station Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 4SP
City-centre transport
Getting to Harpenden from Harpenden city centre
Bus610 · 3m · £2 · every ~5 min
Harpenden train station facilities and services
Harpenden has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Harpenden.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harpenden.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Harpenden.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harpenden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Harpenden: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harpenden: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the front of the station Ticket Office entrance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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.
Most popular train connections from Harpenden
More options for your journey from Harpenden to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Harpenden
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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