How long is the drive?

Usually 8 hours without major traffic.

No, there are no direct flights between these points.

What is the best train operator?

LNER is the primary operator for the London to Edinburgh leg.

Kingsbridge

Edinburgh

Train Driving

Kingsbridge to Edinburgh

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Kingsbridge to Edinburgh covers approximately 450 miles. By train, you travel from Totnes to London Paddington, transfer to London King's Cross, and take the LNER service to Edinburgh Waverley. By car, the route follows the A38, M5, M42, M1, and A1. This trip connects the rural South West to the capital of Scotland. Expect a full day of travel.

Total Distance: 720 km driving, 580 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, provided traffic on the A1 is clear.

Cheapest Way

Advance train tickets booked via LNER or GWR websites.

Compare Kingsbridge to Edinburgh Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours 30 mins	8 hours
Avg Price	110-220 GBP	130-200 GBP in fuel
Operator	GWR and LNER	Personal Vehicle
Route	Totnes to London Paddington, transfer to London King's Cross, then to Edinburgh Waverley.	A38, M5, M42, M1, A1.
Tip	LNER trains from King's Cross are generally comfortable and reliable.	The A1 motorway is the most direct route into Edinburgh.

Travel Tips

London Transfer
Allow at least 60 minutes for the transfer between Paddington and King's Cross.
Traffic Apps
Use Waze or Google Maps to monitor A1 traffic in real-time.
Food
Pack snacks for the train as station food can be expensive.
Railcard
Use a Two Together or Network Railcard to save one-third on fares.
Parking
Pre-book parking in Edinburgh city center to save money.

Safety Tips

Motorway Safety
Keep a safe distance on the A1, especially during heavy rain.
Station Vigilance
Keep your luggage in sight at all times in London stations.
Vehicle Check
Check tire pressure and oil levels before starting the long drive.
Emergency Contacts
Save local taxi numbers for Edinburgh in case of public transport failure.