Is It Quicker to Fly or Train From London to Edinburgh?

By Anna Duncan

When it comes to traveling from London to Edinburgh, there are two popular modes of transportation: flying and taking the train. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, but the question is – which one is quicker?

Flying from London to Edinburgh

Flying from London to Edinburgh is undoubtedly the faster option. The flight time between the two cities is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the airline and route. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t include travel time to and from the airport, security checks, boarding time, and potential delays.

Pros:

  • Shorter travel time
  • Direct flights available
  • More comfortable for those who don’t enjoy long journeys or train travel.

Cons:

  • Airports are often far away from city centers
  • You will still have to factor in time for getting through security checks, waiting at the airport before your flight, as well as potential delays or cancellations.

Taking the Train from London to Edinburgh

Taking the train from London to Edinburgh has its pros and cons compared to flying.

The average journey time between London Kings Cross station and Edinburgh Waverley station is around 4 hours 30 minutes. However, this can vary depending on which train you take and whether it’s a direct service.

Pros:

  • You can relax during your journey with comfortable seating options.
  • You can stretch your legs or get up and walk around whenever you want.
  • No need for a long wait at security checks or boarding like airports.

Cons:

  • The journey takes much longer than flying with an average of 4 hours 30 minutes.
  • Some trains may require a transfer, which can add time to your journey.
  • You’ll need to factor in travel time to and from the train station.

So, which is quicker?

Overall, flying is the quicker option when it comes to traveling from London to Edinburgh. However, if you factor in the time it takes to get to and from the airport, go through security checks and boarding processes, etc., taking the train may not be much slower.

Ultimately, the decision between flying and taking the train depends on your personal preferences. Consider your budget, how much luggage you have (as this can affect airline fees), and whether you prefer a faster but more expensive trip or a slower but more comfortable one.

With that said – whichever option you choose – both flying and taking the train offer scenic views of England’s picturesque countryside as well as Scotland’s rolling hills and stunning coastline.