Day trip to Edinburgh from London – transport, bus tour and castle entry

Discover Edinburgh’s fascinating history, iconic landmarks and stunning views on a day trip to Edinburgh from London.

Enjoy a stress-free journey with return train travel, entry to Edinburgh Castle and a guided open-top bus tour of the city’s top sights, all in one day.

What is included in the one-day trip to Edinburgh?

The day trip to Edinburgh includes:

• Return rail travel from London's King's Cross Station to Edinburgh Waverley Station.
• Reserved train seats in either standard or first class.
• Entry to Edinburgh Castle.
• Open-top bus tour of Edinburgh.
• Free city map.

What's not included:

• Food and beverages.
• Personal tour guide.
• Souvenirs.

Return travel to Edinburgh by train

Head to King's Cross Station to get an early train to the Scottish capital. After a little over four hours, step off the train and start exploring the beautiful city of Edinburgh.

Discover the best of Edinburgh in one day

Once you get to Edinburgh, a thrilling day of sightseeing awaits.

This tour is unescorted, so to help you navigate the city and explore its best spots, this package includes entry to Edinburgh Castle and an open-top bus ride, which takes in all the major sights, from the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Allow at least two hours to visit Edinburgh Castle, a stunning fortress where you can marvel at the sparkling Scottish Crown Jewels and take in breathtaking views of the city’s famous skyline.

Visit Edinburgh Castle and discover Scottish history

Perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, Edinburgh Castle has played a pivotal role in Scottish history, both as a royal residence and as a military stronghold.

The oldest part of the castle, St Margaret's Chapel, dates back to the 12th century. The Great Hall was erected by James IV around 1510, while the Half Moon Battery was built by the Regent Morton in the late 16th century.

Marvel at the sparkling Scottish crown jewels and soak in breathtaking views of the city’s famous skyline. Other highlights include the famous 15th-century gun Mons Meg, the One O'Clock Gun and the National War Museum of Scotland, which is housed within the castle walls.

See the city on an open-top bus tour

See the Scottish capital and take in all the major sights on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Edinburgh, which is included in your tour package.

From the King’s official residence when he visits Scotland, Palace of Holyroodhouse, to the much-loved Edinburgh Castle, get acquainted with the city's most famous sights.

You’ll also cruise down Royal Mile, one of the busiest streets in Edinburgh’s historic old town, and past the famed Greyfriars Bobby monument.

Is Edinburgh easy to walk around?

Despite its infamous seven hills, Edinburgh is a lovely city to discover on foot, with pretty cobbled streets, alleys, parks, gardens and squares. Bring comfortable shoes and check the weather to make the most of your visit.

Can I visit other attractions in Edinburgh during the day trip?

This day trip is unescorted, so you can visit as many of the city's attractions as you'd like, as long as you make it back to the train station in time for your return trip to London. 

How to book your London to Edinburgh day trip

You can buy tickets for your day trip to Edinburgh with bus tour and Edinburgh Castle entry using the booking button on this page. When making your purchase, you can choose standard class or first class rail travel.

Book your day trip to Edinburgh today.

What time does the Edinburgh tour depart?

You will receive all your tickets via email. On the day, please meet your Golden Tours representative at 6.30am outside the ticket office at King’s Cross Station. You will then take the 7am train to Edinburgh, which arrive at Edinburgh Waverley Station at 11.22am.

Don't forget your e-ticket!

What time does the tour return to London?

The Edinburgh day trip package includes reservations on the 5.30pm train to London King’s Cross. Make sure you get to the station at least 15 minutes before the train departs. You will arrive back in London at 10.09pm.

Check all timings on your booking confirmation.