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Why now is the time to visit Scotland
Stunning views? Check. Bustling cities? Check. Best whisky in the world? Check.
Date & time
Passengers
We want to showcase Scotland's most exciting events, surreal scenery and dazzling day trips to various locations from Edinburgh with LNER. So get inspired and escape to Scotland today with LNER and VisitScotland.
Now is the ideal time to journey from the south to Scotland. With LNERs convenient direct train services and train travel generating 10 times less carbon emissions* than car travel (and a whopping 13 times less than plane-travel*), you can easily access Scotland's diverse experiences and leave environmental guilt behind.
Escape to stylish cities or lose yourself in the rural Scottish coast. With LNER there is freedom all the way.
Witness breathtaking scenery, immerse yourself in rich cultural heritage, and enjoy year-round appeal with activities suited to every season. Scotland offers something unforgettable for every traveller, so what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Edinburgh now!
* Data calculated via Rail Delivery Group, based upon a journey from London King’s Cross Station to Edinburgh Waverley Station produced 12.5kgCO2e of carbon emissions per passenger by train, compared to 136.4kgCO2e by car and 165.1kgCO2e by plane.
Unique experiences
Edinburgh isn't just a pretty city, immerse yourself in the unique and wonderful in the heart of it all.
Unique experiences are waiting for you in Edinburgh and beyond. Travel with unbeatable comfort and ease with LNER from 4 hours and 20 minutes from London King's Cross.
The Johnnie Walker Experience
Take a trip to Edinburgh's ultimate personalised whisky experience at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. Embark on an immersive tasting of world class whisky, purchase exclusive batches of whisky you won't find elsewhere and visit the 1820 rooftop bar for unbeatable views of Edinburgh Castle.
Johnnie Walker Experience
The Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia, launched in 1953, was the royal family’s floating palace for over 40 years. From glamorous state visits to private getaways, it was a symbol of luxury and elegance. The yacht hosted famous guests and became a beloved piece of British history. Now retired and docked in Edinburgh, Britannia is a fun, interactive museum where you can step inside and experience the royal lifestyle up close!
Royal Yacht Britannia
Dean Village
Explore Dean Village, just 5 minutes away from Princes Street, a quaint little village within the bustling city of Edinburgh. An oasis right by the water of Leith, you will find beautiful architecture, welcoming stores and plenty of history. Look out for the various mill stones and stone plaques decorated with baked bread and pies, plus a short walk away are the Dean Gallery and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
Dean Village
The Johnnie Walker Experience
Take a trip to Edinburgh's ultimate personalised whisky experience at Johnnie Walker Princes Street. Embark on an immersive tasting of world class whisky, purchase exclusive batches of whisky you won't find elsewhere and visit the 1820 rooftop bar for unbeatable views of Edinburgh Castle.
Johnnie Walker ExperienceThe Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia, launched in 1953, was the royal family’s floating palace for over 40 years. From glamorous state visits to private getaways, it was a symbol of luxury and elegance. The yacht hosted famous guests and became a beloved piece of British history. Now retired and docked in Edinburgh, Britannia is a fun, interactive museum where you can step inside and experience the royal lifestyle up close!
Royal Yacht BritanniaDean Village
Explore Dean Village, just 5 minutes away from Princes Street, a quaint little village within the bustling city of Edinburgh. An oasis right by the water of Leith, you will find beautiful architecture, welcoming stores and plenty of history. Look out for the various mill stones and stone plaques decorated with baked bread and pies, plus a short walk away are the Dean Gallery and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
Dean Village
Historic places to visit
Edinburgh's Calton Hill, The Vennel, and The Salisbury Crags are cherished historic sites offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance. From the iconic Edinburgh skyline to the tranquility of Holyrood Park, each location promises an unforgettable journey through time and natural beauty.
Venture to The Vennel
Get a new view of Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks. Stand at the historic steps of the Vennel, just off the bustling Grassmarket, and take in this gem's breathtaking view.
The Vennel
Climb the Crags
The Salisbury Crags are ingrained in the cities iconic skyline, dating back thousands of years. The Crags - Authur's Seat being the oldest reminants of a volcano - not only provide an excellent view point, but when the sun is low there are traces of agricultural terraces dating back to the bronze age.
Salisbury Crags
Conquer Calton Hill
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton hill is known for amazing sunrises (if you're an early bird) and amazing panoramic views. Don't miss out on this one!
Calton Hill
Venture to The Vennel
Get a new view of Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks. Stand at the historic steps of the Vennel, just off the bustling Grassmarket, and take in this gem's breathtaking view.
The VennelClimb the Crags
The Salisbury Crags are ingrained in the cities iconic skyline, dating back thousands of years. The Crags - Authur's Seat being the oldest reminants of a volcano - not only provide an excellent view point, but when the sun is low there are traces of agricultural terraces dating back to the bronze age.
Salisbury CragsConquer Calton Hill
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton hill is known for amazing sunrises (if you're an early bird) and amazing panoramic views. Don't miss out on this one!
Calton Hill
What's on in Edinburgh?
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's rich culture and history with events!
Edinburgh Food Festival
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: Summer 2025 (TBC)
Price: Free to enter (food and events will have a fee)
Kid friendly? YesCalling all foodies! The Edinburgh Food Festival is back with a smorgasbord of stalls and street food to try out in George Square Gardens. The event is also Edinburgh's largest free to enter food festival and is in its 10th year of bringing a delectable palette of dishes to the capital.
Edinburgh Food Festival
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: August 2025
Price: Free
Kid friendly? YesCelebrating their 20th anniverary this year, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is known as one of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture on the planet, the Festival is back to take over the city for three weeks in August. Big names in the industral and more up-and-coming artists alike will take to hundreds of stages across the city to present shows for every taste.
Edinburgh Fringe
Edinburgh Summer Festivals
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: Various dates. Late March - late August 2025
Price: Free (some events may charge a fee)
Kid friendly? YesThere are eight summer festivals in Edinburgh to choose from, with something for all the family. The festivities include the Edinburgh International Science Festival, Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh International Book Festival, and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Edinburgh Summer Festivals
Pride Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: Saturday 21 June 2025
Price: Free
Kid friendly? YesPride Edinburgh is the longest running free celebration of the LGBT community in Scotland, and its back for its 29th annual event in June 2025! This year it will no doubt be another colourful celebration filled with laughter, music, friendship and acceptance, truly an occasion not to be missed.
Pride Edinburgh
Edinburgh Hogmanay
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: 30 December 2025 - 1 January 2026
Price: Free
Kid friendly? YesRecommended as one of the 'top 100 things to do before you die' Hogmanay in Edinburgh is a big deal. Celebrating the new year has never been so fun! Big events in Hogmanay include a torchlight procession and other entertainment on December 30th, a massive outdoor street party, concerts, and fireworks on December 31st, and then the Loony Dook (a morning dunk in a river) and smaller public entertainment options on January 1st. Why not bring in the new year the Scottish way?
Edinburgh Hogmanay
Edinburgh Food Festival
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: Summer 2025 (TBC)
Price: Free to enter (food and events will have a fee)
Kid friendly? YesCalling all foodies! The Edinburgh Food Festival is back with a smorgasbord of stalls and street food to try out in George Square Gardens. The event is also Edinburgh's largest free to enter food festival and is in its 10th year of bringing a delectable palette of dishes to the capital.
Edinburgh Food FestivalEdinburgh Fringe Festival
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: August 2025
Price: Free
Kid friendly? YesCelebrating their 20th anniverary this year, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is known as one of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture on the planet, the Festival is back to take over the city for three weeks in August. Big names in the industral and more up-and-coming artists alike will take to hundreds of stages across the city to present shows for every taste.
Edinburgh FringeEdinburgh Summer Festivals
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: Various dates. Late March - late August 2025
Price: Free (some events may charge a fee)
Kid friendly? YesThere are eight summer festivals in Edinburgh to choose from, with something for all the family. The festivities include the Edinburgh International Science Festival, Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh International Book Festival, and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Edinburgh Summer FestivalsPride Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: Saturday 21 June 2025
Price: Free
Kid friendly? YesPride Edinburgh is the longest running free celebration of the LGBT community in Scotland, and its back for its 29th annual event in June 2025! This year it will no doubt be another colourful celebration filled with laughter, music, friendship and acceptance, truly an occasion not to be missed.
Pride EdinburghEdinburgh Hogmanay
Location: Edinburgh
Dates: 30 December 2025 - 1 January 2026
Price: Free
Kid friendly? YesRecommended as one of the 'top 100 things to do before you die' Hogmanay in Edinburgh is a big deal. Celebrating the new year has never been so fun! Big events in Hogmanay include a torchlight procession and other entertainment on December 30th, a massive outdoor street party, concerts, and fireworks on December 31st, and then the Loony Dook (a morning dunk in a river) and smaller public entertainment options on January 1st. Why not bring in the new year the Scottish way?
Edinburgh Hogmanay
Day trips from Edinburgh
In a convienient central location, Edinburgh serves as the perfect springboard for you to explore further into Scottish lands. Embark on a journey from its historic cobblestone streets, and discover the breathtaking views of coastal towns and cities like Dundee, each with its unique charm and character.
Journey onward to the iconic Highland landscapes of Inverness, where rugged beauty and serene landscapes await. The possibilities are endless, making Edinburgh an amazing gateway to Scotland's most picturesque corners.
Stuck between Scotlands sunniest city Dundee, or the Highland landscapes of Inverness? Relax, you can do both with LNER.
Pitlochry
Nestled in the heart of Highland Perthshire, Pitlochry is an ideal location to explore breathtaking landscapes, vibrant streets, local whisky, or world-class productions at Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
Trains to Pitlochry
Inverness
Home to Scotland's most famous resident, Nessie. Take a day trip to Loch Ness from Inverness and explore the stunning shoreline walks, waterfalls and even a boat trip on the famous Loch.
Trains to Inverness
Dundee
Scotland’s sunniest city - blends cutting-edge culture with rich maritime heritage. Explore the stunning V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum, or step aboard the legendary RRS Discovery, the ship that carried Scott to Antarctica. With its mix of history, creativity, and a buzzing foodie scene, Dundee is the perfect city break on Scotland’s east coast.
Trains to Dundee
Aberdeen
Aberdeen offers a stunning mix of history, culture, and coastal charm. Take in its sparkling granite architecture, explore the vibrant street art scene, or relax on the golden sands of Aberdeen Beach.
Aberdeen
Perth
Perth blends rich history with modern charm on the banks of the River Tay. Discover the grandeur of Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings, enjoy world-class performances at Perth Concert Hall, or venture into the stunning Perthshire countryside for outdoor adventures.
Perth
Leuchars
Nestled on Scotland’s east coast, Leuchars is the perfect stop for a coastal break before heading to St Andrews, the legendary Home of Golf. With its stunning 12th-century church, rich military heritage, and ties to the famous Leuchars Air Show, this historic town has plenty to explore.
Trains to Leuchars
Pitlochry
Nestled in the heart of Highland Perthshire, Pitlochry is an ideal location to explore breathtaking landscapes, vibrant streets, local whisky, or world-class productions at Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
Trains to PitlochryInverness
Home to Scotland's most famous resident, Nessie. Take a day trip to Loch Ness from Inverness and explore the stunning shoreline walks, waterfalls and even a boat trip on the famous Loch.
Trains to InvernessDundee
Scotland’s sunniest city - blends cutting-edge culture with rich maritime heritage. Explore the stunning V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum, or step aboard the legendary RRS Discovery, the ship that carried Scott to Antarctica. With its mix of history, creativity, and a buzzing foodie scene, Dundee is the perfect city break on Scotland’s east coast.
Trains to DundeeAberdeen
Aberdeen offers a stunning mix of history, culture, and coastal charm. Take in its sparkling granite architecture, explore the vibrant street art scene, or relax on the golden sands of Aberdeen Beach.
AberdeenPerth
Perth blends rich history with modern charm on the banks of the River Tay. Discover the grandeur of Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings, enjoy world-class performances at Perth Concert Hall, or venture into the stunning Perthshire countryside for outdoor adventures.
PerthLeuchars
Nestled on Scotland’s east coast, Leuchars is the perfect stop for a coastal break before heading to St Andrews, the legendary Home of Golf. With its stunning 12th-century church, rich military heritage, and ties to the famous Leuchars Air Show, this historic town has plenty to explore.
Trains to Leuchars
Go by train and relax!
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Eat warm delicious food brought right to your seat.
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Travel with friends and book together and save 20%
Read moreAvoid the jams
Get there hassle free, leave your car at the station and avoid those motorway jams
Read moreEco friendly
With 70% less CO2 emissions than travelling by car, its the responsible way to travel
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Join LNER Perks to recieve £5 joining credit and 2% cashback for every journey
Read more
Pick your seats
Choose where and which direction you would like to travel in.
Read moreEat at your seat
Eat warm delicious food brought right to your seat.
Read moreGroup savings
Travel with friends and book together and save 20%
Read moreAvoid the jams
Get there hassle free, leave your car at the station and avoid those motorway jams
Read moreEco friendly
With 70% less CO2 emissions than travelling by car, its the responsible way to travel
Read moreGet £5 free
Join LNER Perks to recieve £5 joining credit and 2% cashback for every journey
Read more
