- 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 Stafford to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£47
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£111
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
3 h 31 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
3 h 33 m
Trains on 19 Sept
15
Distance
357 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stafford to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Stafford to Edinburgh will cost around £111 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £47.
Fast trains
On Sat 19 Sept, we found 15 trains from Stafford to Edinburgh, including 7 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 3 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 31 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 37 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.
W3379418:473h41Stafford station (STA)22:28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£471One-way0 changes- W333906:483h33Stafford station (STA)10:21Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£721One-way0 changes
- W3379816:473h39Stafford station (STA)20:26Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£721One-way0 changes
- W33542+
W851677:334h04Stafford station (STA)11:37Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£1171One-way1 change - W335638:473h31Stafford station (STA)12:18Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£1231One-way0 changes
- W335638:473h31Stafford station (STA)12:18Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£1231One-way0 changes
- W3379912:473h31Stafford station (STA)16:18Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£1231One-way0 changes
- W3375310:473h33Stafford station (STA)14:20Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£1231One-way0 changes
- W333906:483h33Stafford station (STA)10:21Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£721One-way0 changes
- W3379714:473h37Stafford station (STA)18:24Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)£1231One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Stafford to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stafford to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £38 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 £38, while a train costs an average of £40.
Distance: 357 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£40 Average Price | £38 Average Price Cheapest | £101 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 2m Average total duration Fastest 3h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 35m Average total duration 16h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Stafford to Edinburgh is a coach with an average price of £38.
This is compared to other travel options from Stafford to Edinburgh:
A coach is £2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Stafford to Edinburgh costing on average £40.
The fastest way to travel from Stafford to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 3h 32m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Coach takes on average 16h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Stafford and Edinburgh including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 27m faster (3h 32m by train vs 4h 59m by car) and roughly £61 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£40 vs £101). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Avanti West Coast.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Stafford to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Stafford to Edinburgh trains for today, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W34213 | On time 6:48 Stafford station (STA) | 3h31 | 10:19 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W34046+W85168 | On time 7:47 Stafford station (STA) | 3h50 | 11:37 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 change | |
| W34144 | On time 8:46 Stafford station (STA) | 3h34 | 12:20 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C01369+W85177 | On time 9:47 Stafford station (STA) | 3h45 | 13:32 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 change | |
| W33941 | On time 10:47 Stafford station (STA) | 3h32 | 14:19 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W34185 · W33935+W85182 | On time 10:50 Stafford station (STA) | 4h46 | 15:36 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 changes | |
| W33935+W85182 | On time 11:47 Stafford station (STA) | 3h49 | 15:36 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 change | |
| W34286 | On time 12:47 Stafford station (STA) | 3h31 | 16:18 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C01372+W85191 | On time 13:47 Stafford station (STA) | 3h53 | 17:40 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 change | |
| Saturday 19 September | |||||
| W85163+W33521 | 5:36 Stafford station (STA) | 4h04 | 9:40 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Stafford to Edinburgh 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.
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Fri
25 Sept
25 Sept
Why should you book Stafford to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Stafford to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stafford to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Stafford to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Stafford to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Stafford to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Stafford to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £22 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 357 km distance in 3h 31m.
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 357 km |
Average train duration 3h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price £22 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 31m |
First train 4:30 |
Last train 23:04 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 28 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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Stafford to Edinburgh trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Stafford and Edinburgh from £22. 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 31m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£22
Avanti West Coast frequency
12 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
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: Stafford to Edinburgh train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stafford 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 Stafford to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £22, while the average price tends to be around £40.
The train journey from Stafford to Edinburgh covers a distance of 357 km and takes approximately 3h 31m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Stafford to Edinburgh is 357 km.
The first train from Stafford to Edinburgh leaves at 4:30.
The last train from Stafford to Edinburgh departs at 23:04.
Trains from Stafford to Edinburgh run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Stafford to Edinburgh.
Yes, there is a direct train between Stafford and Edinburgh. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
To get from Stafford to Edinburgh, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Stafford to Edinburgh.
The train station in Stafford that goes to Edinburgh is Stafford station (STA), and it arrives at Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Stafford to Edinburgh is by train, costing approximately £22.
Booking trains from Stafford 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 Stafford to Edinburgh offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District and the rolling hills of southern Scotland. Passengers can enjoy sights such as lush countryside, rugged hills, and charming villages along the route.
A day trip from Stafford to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 31m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 357 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 Stafford to Edinburgh.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Stafford and Edinburgh
Most Stafford to Edinburgh trains use the Stafford to Edinburgh Waverley station pair. Use this guide to compare Stafford and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Stafford
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh
Which Stafford station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?
Trains from Stafford to Edinburgh leave from Stafford. The station is from Stafford city centre at Stafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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: 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 Stafford
More options for your journey from Stafford to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Stafford
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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