Reading to Edinburgh train with London North Eastern Railway

Fri 09 Oct
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Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
Lumo
Caledonian Sleeper
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
Lumo
Caledonian Sleeper
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct

Cheapest price on 09 Oct

£75

Average ticket price on 09 Oct

£144

Fastest journey on 09 Oct

5 h 17 m

Average journey duration on 09 Oct

5 h 23 m

Trains on 09 Oct

20

Distance

521 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Reading to Edinburgh will cost around £144 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £75.

Fast trains

To travel from Reading to Edinburgh you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • CrossCountryG00847+Avanti West CoastW34144
    6:156h05
    Reading station (RDG)
    12:20Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    £751One-way
    1 change
  • CrossCountryG00710 · G01073
    12:446h27
    Reading station (RDG)
    19:11Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    £931One-way
    1 change
  • London North Eastern RailwayG80237+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great Western RailwayW35125
    12:205h18
    Reading station (RDG)
    17:38Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    £1031One-way
    2 changes
  • LumoG25698+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great Western RailwayG15035
    8:585h34
    Reading station (RDG)
    14:32Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    £1191One-way
    2 changes
  • LumoG25683+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+Great Western RailwayW34566
    13:055h27
    Reading station (RDG)
    18:32Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    £1191One-way
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Reading to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £55 but you can travel from only £21 by flight.

The earliest train runs at 03:54, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 521 km distance in 4h 45m.

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 £21
Distance
521 km
Average train duration
5h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
£55
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 45m
First train
3:54
Last train
22:26
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
21 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
Flight from £21

Live departures

Reading to Edinburgh train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Friday 9 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW35090+London North Eastern RailwayG80203+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross6:00 Reading station (RDG)
5h38
11:38 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
CrossCountryG00847+Avanti West CoastW341446:15 Reading station (RDG)
6h05
12:20 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
CrossCountryG00738 · G669876:45 Reading station (RDG)
6h25
13:10 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
Great Western RailwayW35431+London North Eastern RailwayG80205+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
On time
6:50 Reading station (RDG)
5h40
12:30 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2 changes
CrossCountryG00849 · G010607:15 Reading station (RDG)
6h55
14:10 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
Great Western RailwayW35160+London North Eastern RailwayG80209+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross7:20 Reading station (RDG)
5h17
12:37 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
Great Western RailwayG15040+London North Eastern RailwayG80211+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross7:51 Reading station (RDG)
5h41
13:32 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
Great Western RailwayW34855+London North Eastern RailwayG80215+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross8:02 Reading station (RDG)
5h36
13:38 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
CrossCountryG00851+Avanti West CoastW339418:15 Reading station (RDG)
6h04
14:19 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
Great Western RailwayW35357+London North Eastern RailwayG80215+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross8:18 Reading station (RDG)
5h20
13:38 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
Great Western RailwayG14896+London North Eastern RailwayG80216+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross8:42 Reading station (RDG)
5h45
14:27 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
CrossCountryG00739 · G010628:51 Reading station (RDG)
6h19
15:10 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
Great Western RailwayG15035+LumoG25698+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross8:58 Reading station (RDG)
5h34
14:32 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
CrossCountryG00855 · G010649:15 Reading station (RDG)
6h52
16:07 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
CrossCountryG00866+Avanti West CoastW3429012:15 Reading station (RDG)
6h05
18:20 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
Great Western RailwayW35125+London North Eastern RailwayG80237+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross12:20 Reading station (RDG)
5h18
17:38 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
CrossCountryG00710 · G0107312:44 Reading station (RDG)
6h27
19:11 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change
Great Western RailwayG15045+London North Eastern RailwayG80241+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross12:47 Reading station (RDG)
5h41
18:28 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
Great Western RailwayW34566+LumoG25683+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross13:05 Reading station (RDG)
5h27
18:32 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 changes
CrossCountryG00875 · G0107413:15 Reading station (RDG)
6h50
20:05 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Reading to Edinburgh trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper and more offer trains services from Reading to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Edinburgh.

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 London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Lumo or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Reading to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Lumo or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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 Reading to Edinburgh.

Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper from Reading to Edinburgh trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Reading and Edinburgh from £21. 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 45m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£102
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

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
5h 10m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£55
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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

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
5h 56m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£68
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

Lumo

About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£85
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
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 Caledonian Sleeper Duration
8h 31m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£116
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

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

National Museum of Scotland

National museum covering science, design, world cultures and Scottish history. Excellent for varied collections and a dramatic central hall.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Reading to Edinburgh train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £55, while the average price tends to be around £137.
The train journey from Reading to Edinburgh covers a distance of 521 km and takes approximately 4h 45m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Edinburgh is 521 km.
The first train from Reading to Edinburgh leaves at 3:54.
The last train from Reading to Edinburgh departs at 22:26.
Trains from Reading to Edinburgh run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Edinburgh.
Yes, there is a night train from Reading to Edinburgh.
The train station in Reading that goes to Edinburgh is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Booking trains from Reading 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 Reading to Edinburgh offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. As you travel north, you can enjoy views of the rolling hills and countryside, especially through the Yorkshire Dales and the rugged landscapes of Southern Scotland.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Edinburgh.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Edinburgh

Most Reading to Edinburgh trains use the Reading to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Reading and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh

Which Reading station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?

Trains from Reading to Edinburgh leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading from Reading city centre

Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · £2 · every ~15 min

Reading train station facilities and services

Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Reading.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Reading.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reading.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reading: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Reading WestReading West station, Oxford Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7PYParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading West from Reading city centre

Reading West is 1 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainReading - Basingstoke, Reading - Newbury, Reading - Bedwyn, London Paddington - Bedwyn · 2m · £0.89 · every ~6 min
Bus15, 15a, 16, 17, 91, 85, 88, 93, 43 · 4m · £2 · every ~49 min

Reading West train station facilities and services

Reading West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Reading West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reading West.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reading West: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Reading West: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category B3 - This station has a degree of step free access but only to Platform 1 and only if accessed via Tilehurst Road. Otherwise this station can be classified as Category C. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, 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.

Reading Green ParkReading RG2 6AU, UKAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Reading Green Park from Reading city centre

Reading Green Park is 3 km from Reading city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainReading - Basingstoke · 6m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus9 · 39m · £2 · every ~3 min

Reading Green Park train station facilities and services

Reading Green Park has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading Green Park.

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