Reading to Edinburgh from $42: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Reading to Edinburgh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$42 by busBest price

525.2 kmDistance

3h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Reading to Edinburgh with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Reading to Edinburgh

The journey from Reading to Edinburgh offers a fascinating contrast, blending the quaint charm of the Thames Valley with Scotland's vibrant capital known for its historic festivals and stunning architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh features diverse neighborhoods that reflect its rich culture and history.

Old Town

• Historic streets full of medieval architecture.

• Home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

New Town

• Known for Georgian buildings and stylish shops.

• Offers vibrant dining and nightlife options.

Leith

• Coastal area with a thriving food scene.

• Features the picturesque Water of Leith walkway.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience at Edinburgh's iconic sites.

Edinburgh Castle

Early morning visits on weekdays help avoid the busiest crowds.

The Royal Mile

Explore during late afternoon for a more relaxed stroll between shops.

Arthur's Seat

Early evenings offer stunning sunset views and fewer hikers.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters; summer months from June to August generally provide the best weather for exploring the city's outdoor attractions. Being prepared for sudden rain showers can enhance your travel experience, ensuring you enjoy all the sights regardless of the forecast.

Edinburgh Dining: A Taste of Scotland

Try haggis at the renowned restaurant, The Witchery by the Castle, where traditional Scottish ingredients come together in a beautifully atmospheric setting that contrasts with Reading's culinary scene. The rich flavors of haggis, paired with locally sourced vegetables and neeps, provide a unique dining experience that reflects Scotland's heritage and hospitality.

Reading - Edinburgh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Reading and Edinburgh, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+44 3457 000 125

Website

https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Reading to Paddington

Average Duration

41m

Estimated price

21-55

Train from Reading to Edinburgh

Average Duration

5h 45m

Estimated price

204-336

Contact phone

0343 222 1234

Website

https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/elizabeth-line/

Train from Reading to Paddington

Average Duration

53m

Estimated price

11-28

Contact phone

+44 345 722 5333

Website

https://www.lner.co.uk/

Train from King's Cross to Edinburgh

Average Duration

4h 22m

Estimated price

190-280

Contact phone

0344 736 9123

Website

https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Reading to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration

1h 36m

Estimated price

60-160

Train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh

Average Duration

5h 3m

Estimated price

180-550

Bus Show bus routes

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Reading Bagnall Way/ Station Rd to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

30-45

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration

1h 23m

Estimated price

11-16

Plane

Website

https://www.britishairways.com

Plane from Southampton to Edinburgh

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

110-470

Plane from London Heathrow to Edinburgh

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

60-350

Contact phone

+49 30 300 137 300

Website

https://www.easyjet.com

Plane from London Gatwick to Edinburgh

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

40-270

Plane from London Stansted to Edinburgh

Average Duration

1h 15m

Estimated price

30-230

Website

https://www.ryanair.com

Plane from London Stansted to Edinburgh

Average Duration

1h 20m

Estimated price

35-280

Plane from London Gatwick to Edinburgh

Average Duration

3h 22m

Estimated price

40-380

Website

https://www.loganair.co.uk

Plane from Southampton to Edinburgh

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

110-460

Reading to Edinburgh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Reading and Edinburgh offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting journey from Reading to Edinburgh by car, covering a distance of 622.8 km. 💷 Experience the flexibility of road travel with prices ranging from £95 to £150 for a trip from Reading to Edinburgh. 🏰 Arrive in majestic Edinburgh after approximately 6 hours and 43 minutes of driving, ready to explore the historic streets, stunning castle, and vibrant culture of this enchanting city nestled in the Scottish Highlands.

Average price

£93 - £148

🚉 The journey from Reading to Edinburgh by train takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, with transfers at Paddington and King's Cross stations. 🎫 The prices for a train ticket between Reading and Edinburgh can vary from £161 to £265, depending on the route and class chosen for the journey.

Departure Point

Reading station

Arrival Point

Edinburgh station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services typically include an onboard catering service, especially on operators like LNER (London North Eastern Railway). They offer a selection of snacks, light meals, and drinks. Be sure to check the menu in advance on their website at lner.co.uk and consider pre-ordering meals if available.

• The main operators on this route are LNER and TransPennine Express. LNER provides First Class and Standard Class seating, with First Class offering spacious seating, complimentary snacks, and a quieter environment. TransPennine Express primarily offers Standard Class, but check for any upgrades available at booking. Their websites are lner.co.uk and tpexpress.co.uk

• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Waverley Station, note that there are facilities for luggage storage at Excess Baggage Company on the concourse. Edinburgh Waverley is centrally located, so after dropping off your bags, you can easily explore the city on foot. For a quick journey from the station to the city center, you can take the Lothian Bus number 35 or Tram line, both are highly frequent and convenient.

🛫 Flying from Reading to Edinburgh is a convenient and quick way to travel, with the quickest direct flight taking just 1 hour and 25 minutes from Southampton Airport to Edinburgh Airport.

Departure Point

Southampton Airport

Arrival Point

Edinburgh Airport

🚌 Despite the lack of a direct bus route from Reading to Edinburgh, travelers can still reach their destination by making transfers along the way. The journey, operated by Megabus UK, typically takes around 10 hours and 34 minutes. 🌍 The route entails departing from Reading Bagnall Way/ Station Rd, transferring at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station, and finally arriving at Edinburgh Bus Station. The total distance covered during the trip is approximately 723 km, with ticket prices ranging from £33 to £46.

Departure Point

Reading Bagnall Way/ Station Rd

Arrival Point

Edinburgh Bus Station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• When planning your departure from Reading, make sure to arrive at Reading Bagnall Way/Station Rd at least 30 minutes early to account for any potential delays and to locate your bus, as transfers can be tight during peak travel times.

• During your transfer at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station, take time to check the electronic boards for your next bus's platform and allow for a brief break to grab a quick snack or coffee at the nearby cafes, which can help you recharge for the final leg of your journey.

• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Bus Station, download the Lothian Buses app to navigate public transport options easily, as it offers real-time information on the buses, trams, and routes available to reach your final destination within the city.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Reading to Edinburgh.

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The distance between Reading and Edinburgh is 524.6 km by road, taking approximately 6 hours and 43 minutes by car. By train, it takes 5 hours and 42 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Reading. Alternatively, if you choose to fly from London Stansted Airport, the total travel time is approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes, including the train journey from Reading to London Stansted. Buses are the slowest option, with a journey time of approximately 10 hours and 26 minutes from Reading to Edinburgh.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Reading to Edinburgh is by bus, which takes 10 hours and 26 minutes and costs between £52 and £80. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a train and fly, which takes 3 hours and 41 minutes and costs between £104 and £303.

The prices for traveling from Reading to Edinburgh by train range from £154 to £249. On the other hand, the prices for traveling by bus from Edinburgh to Reading vary between £53 and £76.

To get from Reading to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 622.8 km, and it takes around 6 hours and 43 minutes to drive from Reading to Edinburgh. The cost of this option may vary, with prices ranging from £96 to £151 for the journey.

To travel from Reading to Edinburgh without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes and ticket prices range from £151 to £255.

There is no direct train link between Reading and Edinburgh. However, there are train services available with a transfer at London Paddington and London Kings Cross, which take approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes. Alternatively, there is no direct bus link either, but buses are available with transfers at Heathrow Central Bus Station, taking around 10 hours and 26 minutes.

The flight between Reading and Edinburgh typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Edinburgh. With over 1382 hotels to choose from, visitors have a range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at £33, ensuring that there are options available for different budgets.

Reading to Edinburgh from $42: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Reading to Edinburgh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Reading to Edinburgh

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh Dining: A Taste of Scotland

Reading - Edinburgh operators

Reading to Edinburgh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Useful tips for train travellers

Useful tips for bus travellers

Frequently asked questions

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