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Retford to Edinburgh Waverley trains
Speed towards the Caledonian capital of culture and comedy
Relax and watch the beautiful scenery fly past the windows as you speed between Northallerton and London.
Travelling with LNER means you'll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and relaxed. Get the best value tickets to London from Northallerton by booking in advance.
Full steam ahead to Scotland’s capital!
Big things are happening up north! Our faster services now reach Edinburgh in around 4 hours 10 minutes from London - and even quicker from York and Newcastle. With more weekday trains, it’s never been easier to enjoy the buzz of Scotland’s stunning capital and have the freedom to explore it all at your own pace.
Average travel time
3h 30m
Distance
203 miles
Cheapest train tickets from Retford to Edinburgh Waverley
Today's train times
Upcoming journeys for Retford to Edinburgh Waverley trains
Things do to in Edinburgh
Finding cheap train tickets to Edinburgh Waverley is easy with LNER. Plus, our live timetables will keep you up to date.
LNER trains arrive and depart at Edinburgh Waverley station, located on Princes Street, close to Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh is a cosmopolitan city built on a series of extinct volcanoes and is positively erupting with things to see and do.
Aside from the world-famous Festival and Fringe events, the city offers fantastic views, hidden gems, wild surrounding countryside, and boundless creative art experiences.
Arthur's seat
Arthur's seatEnjoy panoramic views from Edinburgh's coast, all the way across to the city centre from the top of Arthur's Seat. Towering up from the Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat is a 251m ancient volcano offering stunning views. It's suitable for all ages, but it is steep with some rocky paths. Sensible shoes are a must, but it should be accessible for most people.
Harry Potter Walking Tour
Harry Potter Walking TourBig Harry Potter fan? Then this is the tour for you! Grab a wand and a cape and enter the magical world of Edinburgh. Your guide will take you through magical locations that inspired characters and scenes, including where JK Rowling wrote the books. You'll even learn a spell or two along the way. Perfect for young and old Potter fans alike.
Royal Yacht Britannia
Royal Yacht BritanniaAll aboard! Explore the official royal yacht which was used by the royal family and guests for 44 years. It's played host to politicians, celebrities, and international royalty during its time on duty. Now you can walk its decks and halls to see what life was like aboard a floating palace.
Arthur's seat
Arthur's seatEnjoy panoramic views from Edinburgh's coast, all the way across to the city centre from the top of Arthur's Seat. Towering up from the Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat is a 251m ancient volcano offering stunning views. It's suitable for all ages, but it is steep with some rocky paths. Sensible shoes are a must, but it should be accessible for most people.
Harry Potter Walking Tour
Harry Potter Walking TourBig Harry Potter fan? Then this is the tour for you! Grab a wand and a cape and enter the magical world of Edinburgh. Your guide will take you through magical locations that inspired characters and scenes, including where JK Rowling wrote the books. You'll even learn a spell or two along the way. Perfect for young and old Potter fans alike.
Royal Yacht Britannia
Royal Yacht BritanniaAll aboard! Explore the official royal yacht which was used by the royal family and guests for 44 years. It's played host to politicians, celebrities, and international royalty during its time on duty. Now you can walk its decks and halls to see what life was like aboard a floating palace.
Discover more things to do and places to see in Edinburgh.
A taste of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is one of the UK’s most exciting food cities, blending traditional Scottish flavours with modern, international influences. From classic dishes like haggis and Cullen skink to fresh seafood and contemporary cooking, there’s something for every appetite.
Old Town
The Old Town is packed with historic character and traditional Scottish fare. It’s a great place to sample local dishes in atmospheric surroundings, often with centuries-old buildings as the backdrop. Expect hearty menus, cosy interiors and a lively buzz, especially in the evenings. Getting there from Edinburgh Waverley only takes 10 minutes of walking or a 5 minute bus or taxi journey.
New Town
Elegant and spacious, the New Town is known for its refined dining scene. This area is ideal for contemporary Scottish cuisine, stylish cafés and relaxed brunch spots, all set among Georgian architecture and wide streets. Getting there from Edinburgh Waverley only takes 15 minutes of walking or a 10 minute bus or taxi journey.
Stockbridge
Stockbridge offers a village-like atmosphere with a mix of artisanal food spots, bakeries and laid-back dining options. It’s perfect for slow lunches with family, coffee stops with friends and enjoying a quieter side of the city. Getting there from Edinburgh Waverley only takes 30 minutes of walking or a 10-15 minute bus or taxi journey.
Free things to do in Edinburgh
Free Edinburgh Ghost Tour
Free Edinburgh Ghost TourDiscover the darker side of Edinburgh with a spooky night tour. Learn about the body snatching, public executions, and gruesome jails and tortures that took place in Edinburgh's past.
Free Tour of Edinburgh
Free Tour of EdinburghSet off an adventure exploring Edinburgh's most famous streets and buildings. Walk the Royal Mile, visit major landmarks like St Giles Cathedral, and stop for a coffee break at the Grassmarket Project. At the end of the tour, pay how you feel and reward interesting and entertaining tour guides.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Scottish National Portrait GalleryTake in famous pieces from Scottish artists, as well as portraits of some of the greatest Scots to have ever lived. From classical pieces through to contemporary portraits, enjoy them all as you wander around the neo-gothic sandstone palace.
Free Edinburgh Ghost Tour
Free Edinburgh Ghost TourDiscover the darker side of Edinburgh with a spooky night tour. Learn about the body snatching, public executions, and gruesome jails and tortures that took place in Edinburgh's past.
Free Tour of Edinburgh
Free Tour of EdinburghSet off an adventure exploring Edinburgh's most famous streets and buildings. Walk the Royal Mile, visit major landmarks like St Giles Cathedral, and stop for a coffee break at the Grassmarket Project. At the end of the tour, pay how you feel and reward interesting and entertaining tour guides.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Scottish National Portrait GalleryTake in famous pieces from Scottish artists, as well as portraits of some of the greatest Scots to have ever lived. From classical pieces through to contemporary portraits, enjoy them all as you wander around the neo-gothic sandstone palace.
Sport in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city where sport is part of everyday life. Whether you’re a dedicated sports fan or just enjoy being active, the city makes it easy to get involved.
Football
Home to Heart of Midlothian FC (Tynecastle) and Hibernian FC (Easter Road), Edinburgh’s football scene is full of passion and local rivalry. The surrounding areas are full of energy and offer a chance to soak up the local football culture, only a 40 minute walk or 20 minute bus ride from Edinburgh station.
Rugby
Rugby has a proud tradition in Edinburgh, and Murrayfield Stadium is the heart of it. Hosting international matches, professional club games, and major events, it’s a must-visit for fans and newcomers alike. Getting there from Edinburgh station takes 45 minutes to walk or a 20 minutes on the bus.
Snow sports
Hillend Dry Ski Slope is one of Europe’s largest dry ski slopes. Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, it offers year-round snow sports in a safe and scenic setting. Beginners and experienced skiers can enjoy lessons, practice runs, and fun activities. A bus ride from the station takes roughly 45 minutes, or for a quicker journey a taxi takes 25 minutes.
Cycling and BMX
Edinburgh is ideal for cycling enthusiasts and BMX riders. Inverleith Park provides open spaces and BMX tracks for tricks and training. Providing a fun and active way to see the city from a new perspective. Only a 30 minute walk or 15 minute bus ride from Edinburgh station.
Family-friendly things to do in Edinburgh
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden EdinburghMade up of 70 acres, 10 glasshouses and 100,000 plants, The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh should be on your list. Just one mile from the city centre, you can pass away hours wandering the gardens. You could even take a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.
Palace of Holyroodhouse Edinburgh
Palace of Holyroodhouse EdinburghVisit this working royal palace in the heart of Edinburgh city centre. Explore the permanent collections, as well as touring exhibitions. You can also take a walk around Holyrood Park, which includes the ancient volcano, Arthur's Seat.
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of ScotlandWalk on the wild side in Natural World galleries and discover animals of all shapes and sizes. Travel through time from ancient Egypt all the way to modern-day science. The museum is filled with fun and interesting things for all the family to enjoy.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden EdinburghMade up of 70 acres, 10 glasshouses and 100,000 plants, The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh should be on your list. Just one mile from the city centre, you can pass away hours wandering the gardens. You could even take a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.
Palace of Holyroodhouse Edinburgh
Palace of Holyroodhouse EdinburghVisit this working royal palace in the heart of Edinburgh city centre. Explore the permanent collections, as well as touring exhibitions. You can also take a walk around Holyrood Park, which includes the ancient volcano, Arthur's Seat.
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of ScotlandWalk on the wild side in Natural World galleries and discover animals of all shapes and sizes. Travel through time from ancient Egypt all the way to modern-day science. The museum is filled with fun and interesting things for all the family to enjoy.
Shopping in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a fantastic city for shopping, blending historic charm with modern retail experiences.
George Street and Multrees Walk
One of the city’s main shopping destinations is George Street and Multrees Walk, known for their elegant Georgian architecture and a refined shopping experience. Here, visitors can find stylish boutiques, contemporary fashion and speciality stores in a relaxed, sophisticated environment. Getting there from Edinburgh Waverley station only takes 10 minutes whether you walk, catch the bus or take a taxi.
St James Quarter
Another key shopping area is the St James Quarter, a modern shopping destination that brings together multiple levels of retail, dining and leisure. With its vibrant atmosphere and variety of shops, it’s ideal for a full day of shopping under one roof. Getting there from Edinburgh Waverley station only takes 10 to 15 minutes whether you walk, go by bus or grab a taxi.
Connections from Edinburgh Waverley station
Train connections
Train connections
Edinburgh Waverley is Scotland’s busiest station, with 20 platforms and services from operators including regular LNER services to the south and to Aberdeen and Inverness, as well as ScotRail, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express and Caledonian Sleeper services. Once you arrive here, there is no shortage of connections to other destinations.
Regular services connect Edinburgh to historic towns such as Stirling, Perth and Dundee, making Edinburgh Waverley the ideal starting point for exploring Scotland beyond the capital. From here, travelers can easily reach Scotland’s most iconic destinations, with frequent trains to Glasgow in around an hour, scenic journeys north to Inverness through the Highlands and direct routes to Aberdeen along the east coast.
Local buses and trams
Local buses and trams
Lothian Buses in Edinburgh operate an extensive network with over 50 routes, including 24-hour services and airport links. Tickets can be purchased onboard or via the Transport for Edinburgh app.
Edinburgh Trams run every 7 minutes from St Andrew Square, a short walk from Edinburgh Waverley. Trams run to Edinburgh Airport, stopping at key locations like Newhaven, Haymarket and Ocean Terminal.
Taxis
Taxis
Edinburgh Waverley has a dedicated taxi rank located near the Market Street entrance. Taxis in Edinburgh are similar to London’s black cabs which are spacious and comfortable.
If you prefer to plan ahead, you can also book your own taxi to pick you up from the station once you arrive at Edinburgh Waverley.
Walking to the city centre
Walking to the city centre
The station sits in the heart of Edinburgh, between the Old Town and New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a 5–10 minute walk, including Princes Street and the Royal Mile.
Standard and First Class facilities
Whether you choose Standard or First Class, you’ll enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi and power sockets. Standard Class offers great value with food and drinks available to purchase, while First Class elevates the experience with wider reclining seats, faster Wi-Fi and complimentary dining plus lounge access at major stations.
Standard
First Class
Standard
First Class
Booking tickets from Retford to Edinburgh
Booking directly with LNER is the easiest way to get your train tickets to travel from Retford to Edinburgh. You’ll have access to all fares, the best prices and the ability to manage your journey to London online or via the LNER App. Booking direct also gives you access to seat reservations, LNER Perks and the flexibility to change or refund tickets depending on the type.
Advance tickets
Advance tickets
Advance (fixed) tickets offer some of the best value for rail travel. Perfect for travelers looking to save money on their tickets, these fares are available when booked ahead of your journey, making them an excellent choice for those who like to plan in advance.
Advance tickets combine affordability with convenience. Another benefit of Advance tickets is that you secure a guaranteed seat and can choose where you are seated for the journey. By booking early, you can save up to 47% on your tickets and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve locked in a great deal.
Anytime tickets
Anytime tickets
Anytime (fully flexible) tickets give you complete flexibility and peace of mind when traveling. Valid on any train throughout your chosen day, they’re perfect for those who want freedom without restrictions. Whether your plans change at the last minute or you simply prefer to keep your schedule open, Anytime tickets let you travel when it suits you best.
With no need to commit to a specific time, you can relax knowing your ticket works for any train that day. Ideal for business trips, spontaneous outings or journeys where timing is unpredictable. Whilst Anytime tickets cost more than fixed tickets, they allow you to enjoy the convenience and confidence of traveling on your own terms.
Group tickets
Group tickets
Group travel discounts are a fantastic way to make traveling together easier and more affordable. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends, colleagues, or a larger group, these tickets offer great value and convenience. Small groups cover 3–9 people, while large groups include 10 or more, giving you flexibility no matter the size of your party. Booking as a group is cheaper than booking individually, helping everyone save money while enjoying the journey together.
Plus, organizing travel as a group means fewer individual bookings and less hassle, so you can focus on making memories instead of managing logistics. Perfect for days out, team events or special occasions, group bookings make shared travel simple and cost-effective.
70min Flex tickets
70min Flex tickets
70min Flex tickets are the ideal choice when you need a little extra freedom without losing out on great savings. Perfect for those whose plans aren’t set in stone, these tickets allow you to travel on trains up to 70 minutes before or after your booked time.
This means you can enjoy a balance between flexibility and value, giving you peace of mind if your schedule changes slightly. Whether you’re heading to a meeting, catching up with friends or simply want the reassurance of a wider travel window, 70min Flex tickets make your journey easier and more convenient while still keeping costs down.
Season tickets
Season tickets
Season tickets are the ultimate solution for regular commuters, offering unlimited travel between two stations for a set period (Weekly, monthly, or annually). They provide exceptional value for anyone who travels frequently, helping you save money compared to buying individual tickets every day.
With a Season ticket, you can enjoy the peace of mind knowing your journeys are covered. Perfect for work commutes or regular trips, these tickets make planning simple and cost-effective, giving you more time and freedom to focus on what matters most.
Flexi Season tickets are designed for commuters who travel regularly but not every day. They offer 8 days of travel within a 28-day period between two stations, giving you flexibility and savings compared to buying daily tickets. Ideal for hybrid workers or those with variable schedules, Flexi Season tickets combine convenience with cost efficiency.
Retford to Edinburgh train tickets are available in a range of options to suit different travel needs and budgets. Advance tickets offer the best value when booked ahead for a specific train while Anytime tickets provide full flexibility to travel on any service during the day. For added freedom without the full Anytime ticket price, 70min Flex tickets allow travel up to 70 minutes before or after your booked time.
Groups can benefit from great value group travel discounts, making it easier and more affordable to travel together. For frequent travellers, Season tickets offer unlimited journeys between Retford to Edinburgh over a set period, delivering convenience and long-term savings. Together these ticket types ensure there’s an option for every journey style from planned trips to flexible travel.
How to get to Retford
Station address
Retford station
Station Road
Retford
Nottinghamshire
DN22 7DECar Parking
The nearest car parking available to Retford station is at the Retford station car park which is parking facility open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Local transport
A taxi rank is located outside the station.
Station address
Retford station
Station Road
Retford
Nottinghamshire
DN22 7DECar Parking
The nearest car parking available to Retford station is at the Retford station car park which is parking facility open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Local transport
A taxi rank is located outside the station.
Things to do near Retford station
Station facilities
Inside Retford station you’ll find essential facilities to make your journey comfortable, including sheltered waiting areas, seating, toilets with baby‑changing facilities, ticket machines and public Wi‑Fi. The station is staffed throughout the day and offers step‑free access across platforms, with Passenger Assist available if needed.
Coffee spots
There’s a coffee shop located on Platform 1, making it easy to grab a hot drink before boarding your train from Retford.
Restaurants and bars
Retford town centre is a short walk from the station and offers a good mix of places to eat. Popular nearby options include The Brew Shed on Carolgate for burgers and craft beer, or Sun Inn Pub & Kitchen for classic pub food in a relaxed setting.
Shopping
Retford is a traditional market town with a compact high street full of independent shops, cafés and local businesses. Wander into the town centre to explore Market Square and the surrounding streets for gifts, food and everyday essentials.
Cultural attractions
Visit Bassetlaw Museum, located in an 18th‑century house in the town centre, to explore local history, art and exhibitions. For live entertainment, Retford Majestic Theatre hosts plays, comedy and touring shows throughout the year.
Unique experiences
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through King’s Park, an award‑winning green space close to the town centre, or take a walk along the Chesterfield Canal, which runs through Retford and offers scenic waterside views.
For all Retford facilities, visit the station page.
Retford station
Get a little extra with your journey
Not only will you never pay a booking fee when you book your ticket with LNER, you can also sign up for LNER Perks.
When you sign up for Perks, you'll get:
Get £5 free to spend on your next journey
2% back on all LNER journeys
Download the LNER app or find out more about LNER Perks and sign up today.
How to book cheap tickets for a train from Retford to Edinburgh Waverley
Book your Retford to Edinburgh train in advance
See moreBuying your Retford to Edinburgh train tickets at least four weeks in advance ahead of your travel date can save you up to 47%* on on-the-day train ticket prices.
Buy a Standard Advance ticket through the LNER website and app at least four weeks before you travel, and you'll save up to 47%* compared to buying any Standard ticket on the day of travel.
Save 1/3 on your train from Retford to Edinburgh with a Railcard
See moreA Railcard is a discount card that allows you to save money on train travel throughout Great Britain, which often offers 1/3 off the cost of your train tickets on most routes.
Use our Deal Finder for the cheapest trains to Edinburgh from Retford
See moreAccess the best train fares on Retford to Edinburgh trains easily with the LNER app. Use Deal Finder to find the lowest prices on train tickets by simply entering your travel details. It's your shortcut to easier and more affordable travel!
Book your Retford to Edinburgh train in advance
See moreBuying your Retford to Edinburgh train tickets at least four weeks in advance ahead of your travel date can save you up to 47%* on on-the-day train ticket prices.
Buy a Standard Advance ticket through the LNER website and app at least four weeks before you travel, and you'll save up to 47%* compared to buying any Standard ticket on the day of travel.
Save 1/3 on your train from Retford to Edinburgh with a Railcard
See moreA Railcard is a discount card that allows you to save money on train travel throughout Great Britain, which often offers 1/3 off the cost of your train tickets on most routes.
Use our Deal Finder for the cheapest trains to Edinburgh from Retford
See moreAccess the best train fares on Retford to Edinburgh trains easily with the LNER app. Use Deal Finder to find the lowest prices on train tickets by simply entering your travel details. It's your shortcut to easier and more affordable travel!
Related FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get from Retford to Edinburgh Waverley by train?
What is the cheapest way to get from Retford to Edinburgh Waverley by train?
We’d recommend booking for Edinburgh in advance with single tickets rather than the Flexible option. It’s also worth creating a Ticket Alert so you know when our cheapest Advance tickets go on sale.
Do you offer a student discount on train tickets?
Do you offer a student discount on train tickets?
We don't offer a student discount however, you can purchase a 16-25 Railcard and save 1/3 on train tickets.
How can I apply for compensation if my train is delayed or cancelled?
How can I apply for compensation if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Cancelled train
In the rare event that your train is cancelled, we offer full refunds (assuming you don't take an alternative train). Be sure to apply for the refund within 28 days of the cancelled journey date.
If you meet these conditions, follow these steps for your refund:
- Swipe down the page and click on ‘Amend journey’ or ‘Request a refund’
- Notify us of the reason for the refund request by pressing 'My train was cancelled' and then ‘Continue’
- Enter your details and submit your request
Already collected your tickets or had them posted to you?
If you’ve already received your printed tickets, you'll need to fill in our Change of Plans form and follow the instructions included.
Was your train delayed by at least 30 minutes?
On our Delay Repay page, you can learn about compensation if your train is delayed. For future LNER journeys, book through our website or app, then choose One-Click Delay Repay to ensure claiming for a delayed journey is as easy as possible.
Which rail lines go through Edinburgh Waverley station?
Which rail lines go through Edinburgh Waverley station?
The main train lines running through Edinburgh Waverley station are LNER, CrossCountry, ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, Lumo, TransPennine Express, and Caledonian Sleeper. Although LNER does not directly manage Edinburgh Waverley Station, we have invested in a refurbished First-Class Lounge opposite Platform 4.
Which rail lines go through Retford?
Which rail lines go through Retford?
The main trains via Retford station are LNER, Northern Trains, and Hull trains.
