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Find London to Edinburgh bus tickets

from
London, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Why Choose Bus from London to Edinburgh

Traveling from London to Edinburgh offers a variety of transportation options, and selecting the right one can greatly enhance your journey. Buses provide a convenient and cost-effective alternative to trains and flights, especially for those looking to explore the scenic route between these two historic cities.

💰 Cost Efficiency

pros
  • Bus tickets are generally cheaper, ranging from £27 to £74, making it more accessible for budget travelers.
  • No additional fees for luggage allow for more savings compared to airlines.
cons
  • Longer travel time of approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes compared to faster trains or flights.

🛎️ Scenic Views

pros
  • The bus route passes beautiful landscapes, offering picturesque views of the English and Scottish countryside.
  • Travelers can enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace, making it ideal for photography and sightseeing.
cons
  • Limited opportunities to stop or take breaks compared to traveling by car.

⭐ Convenient Departures

pros
  • Buses depart regularly from central locations such as London Victoria, making access easy for travelers.
  • Services operate four times a day, ensuring flexibility in planning your trip.
cons
  • Potential congestion and delays on the road can extend travel times unexpectedly.

highlights:

Travel time is significantly longer than trains, which can take as little as 4 hours and 23 minutes.

Affordable travel options cater to budget-conscious passengers.

Opportunity to relax and enjoy the stunning British scenery en route.

Convenient and central departure and arrival points enhance overall travel experience.

Bus Options from London to Edinburgh

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
DirectMegabus UKLondon Victoria, LondonEdinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh09:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:0018:25, 21:25, 00:25, 03:25Four times a day9h 25m
£
27-74
ConnectingFlixBusLondon Finchley Road (Stop CL), LondonEdinburgh, Edinburgh08:00, 10:00, 14:0016:25, 18:25, 22:25Daily departures8h 25m
£
27-74
Glasgow

Comparison of Bus Operators from London to Edinburgh

Comparing bus operators servicing the London to Edinburgh route is essential for travelers seeking the best balance of price, amenities, and flexibility. With multiple providers in the market, understanding their offerings can greatly enhance the travel experience, ensuring passengers choose an option that fits their needs, from budget to comfort.

CriteriaMegabus UKFlixBus
Price Range£ 27 - £ 74£ 30 - £ 75
pricing policies
refund policyNo refunds available once the ticket is booked.Tickets are refundable within 30 minutes of booking.
Ticket ChangesTickets can be changed up to 24 hours before travel for a fee.Changes can be made for a small fee up to 15 minutes before departure.
discountsStudent discounts available up to 10%.Discounts for seniors and students, up to 15%.
amenitiesFree WiFi, Power outlets, Comfortable seatingFree entertainment system, Restroom on board, Air conditioning
baggage allowance
free allowance1 carry-on item and 1 checked bag up to 20kg1 small cabin bag up to 7kg and 1 large bag up to 25kg
Additional FeesAdditional checked bags incur a fee of £5 each.Extra baggage costs £10 for each additional bag.
accessibilityBuses are equipped with wheelchair access and designated seating.Fully accessible facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.

Both Megabus UK and FlixBus offer competitive pricing and amenities for travelers on the London to Edinburgh route. Megabus tends to be slightly cheaper, while FlixBus offers more flexibility with refunds and ticket changes. Depending on the traveler's priorities—whether budget, comfort, or flexibility—both operators provide viable options to accommodate a range of preferences.

Bus Stops and Stations from London to Edinburgh

Knowing about the bus stops and stations is crucial for a smooth and successful journey between London and Edinburgh.

Main Bus Stations in London

Victoria Coach Station

Located in the heart of central London, just a short walk from Victoria Station, and near landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation includes buses and metro lines (Victoria and District lines)
  • Taxi and rideshare services available outside the station
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles located nearby
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time to accommodate check-in and boarding.
  • Be aware that security checks may be conducted, so keep your bags prepared.
  • Try to avoid traveling during rush hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) to avoid crowding.
  • Explore nearby amenities like restaurants and shops at Victoria Station if you have time.

Main Bus Stations in Edinburgh

St. Andrew's Bus Station

Situated in the city center of Edinburgh, close to Waverley Railway Station and the famous Princes Street.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage facilities
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés and kiosks)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features for wheelchair users
Transportation Links
  • Public transport options include local buses and trams to different parts of the city and beyond.
  • Taxi services and rideshare options are readily available outside the terminal.
  • Parking available for those driving into the city, but spaces are limited.
  • Arrive early to allow time for disembarking and retrieving your luggage.
  • Remain aware of bus departure boards, as platforms can change.
  • Avoid peak tourist times during the summer months for a more comfortable experience.
  • Visit nearby attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile if time permits.

En Route Stops

Birmingham Coach Station

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Food options at nearby shops
  • Free Wi-Fi in certain areas
  • Accessibility features

Manchester Coach Station

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Limited seating areas
  • Food and beverage kiosks
  • Information desk
  • Accessibility options

York Coach Station

Duration: 10m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting area with adequate seating
  • Café and vending machines
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Accessibility features

Familiarizing yourself with the details of bus stations and significant stops will enhance your traveling experience from London to Edinburgh. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Embrace the Scenic Journey

    Take advantage of the picturesque landscapes between London and Edinburgh. Make sure to sit on the right side of the bus for stunning views of the Northumberland countryside and the iconic Hadrian's Wall. Bring a camera to capture these breathtaking sights!

  • 📍 Plan for Breaks Along the Route

    The trip typically includes several rest stops at interesting locations such as York and Durham. Take time to step off the bus, stretch your legs, and even explore these charming towns. You might discover local cafés or historical sites that enrich your journey.

  • 🚍 Pack a Light Snack and Entertainment

    For the journey that can take up to 10 hours, packing a light snack can keep you energized. Additionally, download movies or audiobooks beforehand, especially since Wi-Fi may be spotty during certain stretches of the route.

  • 🎭 Dress in Layers

    The temperature can vary greatly during the trip, especially when you reach Scotland. Dress in layers so you can adjust for comfort as the bus moves from warmer London to typically cooler Edinburgh.

  • 🏛 Stay Informed on Special Events

    Check the local calendar for events in Edinburgh, such as festivals or parades, which might affect travel times or availability of seats. Being aware of such events will help you better plan your departure and arrival.

FAQ

Buses traveling from London to Edinburgh typically offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and sometimes onboard refreshments. However, it's good to check with your specific bus provider for detailed amenities.
Yes, notable stops include the historic towns of York and Durham, where you can explore stunning cathedrals and enjoy local cuisine. Both locations are perfect for quick explorations during rest breaks.
No specific visa or documentation is required for travelers within the UK. Just ensure you have a valid ticket and a form of ID if needed.
Early mornings or late evenings are generally quieter, which can help you avoid congested traffic. Midweek travel can also offer less crowded buses compared to weekends.
While the UK is generally friendly and welcoming, be mindful of local customs such as queuing politely at bus stops and being respectful in quieter social settings, especially in historic or cultural sites during your journey.

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