Birmingham, West Midlands to Edinburgh, Edinburgh from $40: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Birmingham to Edinburgh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$40 by busBest price
396.2 kmDistance
1h 59m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Birmingham 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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Compare prices for your selected dates
| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $18 | $20 | $19 | $21 | $23 | $22 | $23 |
| Train | $70 | $47 | $47 | $57 | $59 | $83 | $109 |
| Fly | $46 | $46 | $50 | $47 | $45 | $69 | $55 |
Traveling From Birmingham to Edinburgh
Traveling from Birmingham to Edinburgh offers an exciting contrast between Birmingham's vibrant urban scene and Edinburgh's historic charm in the shadow of its iconic castle.
Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh
Edinburgh's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences for every traveler.
Old Town
• Home to the historic Royal Mile.
• Charming cobblestone streets with lively pubs.
Leith
• Vibrant waterfront area with trendy eateries.
• Rich maritime history and beautiful views.
New Town
• Elegant Georgian architecture and upscale shopping.
• Bustling art scene with numerous galleries.
Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions
Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Edinburgh's popular spots.
Edinburgh Castle
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Holyrood Palace
Afternoons are usually quieter, allowing for a more relaxed tour.
Arthur's Seat
Early morning hikes offer stunning sunrise views and fewer tourists.
Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making it important to pack layers regardless of the season. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Dining Recommendation in Edinburgh
For a truly Scottish experience, try haggis at The Devil's Advocate, where the warm, rustic atmosphere and use of local ingredients provide a stark contrast to Birmingham's diverse culinary scene. This dish showcases bold flavors and traditional recipes, immersing you in Edinburgh's rich culinary heritage.
Birmingham - Edinburgh operators
Explore transport companies operating between Birmingham and Edinburgh, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
https://www.easyjet.com
Plane from Birmingham (BHX) to Edinburgh (EDI)
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$40-210Plane from Birmingham (BHX) to Glasgow (GLA)
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$40-210Contact phone
0344 736 9123Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/
Train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh
Average Duration
5h 3mEstimated price
$180-550Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh
Average Duration
4h 12mEstimated price
$160-370Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk
Bus from Birmingham Summer Row- Great Charles Street to Edinburgh Bus Station
Average Duration
8hEstimated price
$40-60Website
https://uk.megabus.com
Bus from Birmingham Brunel Street to Manchester Airport Bus Station
Average Duration
1h 40mEstimated price
$13-19Birmingham to Edinburgh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Birmingham 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 a scenic road trip from Birmingham to Edinburgh covering 289 miles in just under 5 hours. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you make your way northwards.
💰 Prices for the journey by car range from £71 to £111, offering flexibility to suit different budgets. Consider fuel, tolls, and potential stops along the way when planning your expenses.
Average price
£70 - £109
Useful tips for car travellers
• Plan to refuel at major service stations like the Welcome Break on the M6, where petrol prices usually hover around £1.40 – £1.50 per liter; this will help you avoid higher prices in rural areas.
• As you approach Edinburgh, be mindful of the city's Low Emission Zone (LEZ) which restricts access for vehicles that do not meet certain emissions standards; familiarize yourself with the regulations to avoid fines.
• Upon arrival, consider using the St. James Quarter multi-storey car park where daily rates range from £15 to £25; it’s centrally located and ideal for exploring the city, but check for restricted parking zones to avoid penalties.
🚄 Traveling by train from Birmingham to Edinburgh is a convenient option for visitors. The direct CrossCountry service operates hourly, covering the 5-hour journey.
🎫 With prices ranging from £126 to £434, passengers can choose from various routes. One option involves a direct train from Birmingham New Street to Edinburgh Waverley, taking around 4 hours 12 minutes.
Departure Point
Birmingham New Street station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check onboard catering services provided by operators such as LNER and Avanti West Coast. Both offer a range of food and beverage options. Look for the buffet car for snacks and drinks. LNER provides a 'at-seat service' in First Class, where you can order from a menu and have your food delivered to you.
• Choose between different seating options: LNER offers Standard, First Class, and Premium seats. Premium First Class includes complimentary meals, access to lounges, and more spacious seating. Avanti West Coast also features Standard and First Class seating with added perks like wider seats, more legroom, and an at-seat dining service available in First Class.
• Multiple train operators run this route including LNER (lner.co.uk) and Avanti West Coast (avantiwestcoast.co.uk). For local transport schedules and station maps, check out the Edinburgh City Transport website at (lothianbuses.com) Additionally, eateries near your arrival station are listed on the Edinburgh Waverley station website.
🛫 Flying from Birmingham to Edinburgh is quick and convenient, with the direct flight taking just 1 hour and 5 minutes. EasyJet provides flights between these two cities, offering a seamless travel experience for passengers.
🌍 The total duration of the flight from Birmingham to Edinburgh is approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes, allowing travelers to reach their destination in a relatively short amount of time. This makes flying a practical choice for those looking to save time on their journey.
💸 Ticket prices for flights between Edinburgh and Birmingham can range from £65 to £168, depending on factors such as the time of booking and availability. With a range of options available, passengers can find a fare that suits their budget for this domestic UK flight.
Departure Point
Birmingham Airport
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Airport
🚌 Traveling from Birmingham to Edinburgh by bus is a convenient option, with services departing five times a week. The journey typically takes around 8 hours to reach the destination.
🚌 Passengers can board the bus at Birmingham Summer Row- Great Charles Street and arrive at Edinburgh Bus Station. The route covers a distance of 496 km, with a transfer involved at Leeds and Aberdeen Bus Station.
🚌 FlixBus operates the bus services between Birmingham and Edinburgh, providing a cost-effective and comfortable travel option for those looking to explore the UK. Prices for the journey can range from £32 to £47, offering flexibility for travelers.
Departure Point
Birmingham Summer Row- Great Charles Street station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as prices for the Birmingham to Edinburgh route with FlixBus typically range from £30 to £46, and availability may vary, especially on weekends. Check out FlixBus for schedules and booking.
• Pack snacks and entertainment for the approximately 8-hour journey; while FlixBus often has free Wi-Fi, it’s a good idea to have your favorite movies, music, or games downloaded just in case.
• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Bus Station, note that there are extensive local transport options available, including trams and buses, to conveniently reach your final destination; you can find a transport map and schedules at Lothian Buses.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Birmingham to Edinburgh.
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The distance between Birmingham and Edinburgh is approximately 247 miles, with a road distance of 288.6 miles. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Birmingham. Alternatively, taking a flight from Birmingham to Glasgow and then a train to Edinburgh can take approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. By plane, the travel time is around 2 hours and 58 minutes. By car, it takes approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes to travel from Birmingham to Edinburgh. And finally, the bus journey from Birmingham to Edinburgh can take around 9 hours and 50 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Birmingham to Edinburgh is by bus, with tickets ranging from £36 to £52 and a travel time of 9 hours and 50 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking just 2 hours and 58 minutes at a cost of £28 to £174. It is important to consider both cost and time when deciding which transportation option to choose.
The prices for a train ticket between Birmingham and Edinburgh can range from £119 to £436. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Edinburgh and Birmingham can vary from £36 to £52. These prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the time of booking, class of service, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Birmingham to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 289 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 59 minutes to drive this route. The prices to rent a car and drive from Birmingham to Edinburgh can range from £71 to £111. It's important to note that these prices may vary depending on factors such as rental company, car size, and time of year.
To travel from Birmingham to Edinburgh without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes, with fares ranging from £119 to £436. Another option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes and costs between £28 and £174. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which takes longer at 9 hours and 50 minutes, but costs between £36 and £52.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Birmingham and Edinburgh. The train services, operated by CrossCountry, depart from Birmingham New Street station and arrive at Edinburgh station. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and operates daily. Alternatively, there is also a direct bus link between the two cities. The bus services, operated by National Express, depart from Birmingham Coach Station and arrive at Edinburgh Bus Station. The journey by bus takes approximately 9 hours and 50 minutes.
The flight between Birmingham and Edinburgh typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes on a direct flight. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from £28 to £169. It is important to note that prices may also fluctuate depending on factors such as date, time, and airline. Overall, flying is a quick and convenient option for travelers looking to cover the distance between Birmingham and Edinburgh.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Edinburgh with over 1382 hotels available to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at £33, providing a range of choices to suit different budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in-between, there are plenty of choices available to make your stay in Edinburgh comfortable and convenient.
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Trips to Edinburgh
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