Cheap flights from London to Edinburgh

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from London to Edinburgh

Finding cheap tickets from London to Edinburgh is easy with a little flexibility. Use our Whole Month search feature to scan through the calendar for the cheapest dates. You can also set up a Price Alert for your route and let us monitor the fares for you, sending notifications when prices change. If you’d rather skip layovers, select the Direct Flights search to view non-stop options that’ll save you time.

Booking your tickets early often leads to savings, but we can also find you some last-minute deals. In general, January is the best time to schedule your trip from London to Edinburgh, with the lowest average fares across the board. Keep these strategies in mind to find the best itinerary.

Handy information about London airport

London is well-equipped with six airports, each catering to a variety of travel needs. London City Airport, with its single terminal, is nestled within the city, offering a convenient gateway, predominantly for business travellers to domestic and European destinations. The Docklands Light Railway provides swift access to this airport, along with other ground transport options.

Heathrow, London's major international airport, comprises four active terminals, connecting passengers to a comprehensive list of destinations worldwide. For efficient transfers, the Heathrow Express train service and several other transport modes link the airport to the capital and surrounding areas. Similarly, Gatwick, with two terminals, provides extensive connectivity and is logistically well-supported by the Gatwick Express and other rail and road services.

Stansted, favouring low-cost airlines, directs mostly to European locations, while also serving few intercontinental routes. The Stansted Express ensures a direct connection to London. Lastly, Luton and Southend, each featuring a single terminal, are strongholds for low-cost European flights, with robust rail links and other ground transport services ensuring seamless travel to and from the capital.

Edinburgh airport: good to know

Edinburgh Airport, serving as the gateway to Scotland's capital, comprises two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is equipped to handle both domestic and international flights and is situated nearer to the airport entrance, boasting a larger capacity for passengers. Travellers can find check-in, security, and baggage claim areas readily available. Transport options are comprehensive, featuring bus services, taxis, car hire facilities, and convenient tram links to the city centre.

For those flying with budget airlines, Terminal 2 offers similar amenities, including check-in, security, and baggage reclaim. Though primarily focused on low-cost carriers, it still accommodates a range of domestic and international flights. Access to transport options is just as varied as in Terminal 1, ensuring connectivity to Edinburgh and beyond. If you're arriving late after your flight from London to Edinburgh, be sure to check if the airport has 24-hour food and rest facilities.

Best time to fly from London to Edinburgh

The best time to fly from London to Edinburgh is during the months of July and August when temperatures are at their most favourable, ranging between 13°C and 20°C. These summer months bring mild weather, allowing for extended exploration of the city with more daylight hours. While rainfall is a possibility throughout the year, these months typically offer the most pleasant climate, ensuring a comfortable journey and stay. Always remember to pack a raincoat or umbrella, as Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable.

Reasons to visit Edinburgh

When planning your trip to Edinburgh, check out these activities and attractions the city has to offer. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe invites visitors to experience the world's largest arts festival, with thousands of performers taking to hundreds of stages throughout the city. Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano, offers a historic fortress experience that has played a pivotal role in Scottish history. Holyrood Palace stands at the end of the Royal Mile, serving as the Queen's official residence in Scotland and is steeped in royal history. The Royal Mile itself provides a thoroughfare to explore shops, restaurants, and historic sites, stretching from the castle down to the palace. Each location offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Edinburgh's past and present.

Add hotel bookings and car hire to your London to Edinburgh flight

Planning your trip to Edinburgh is easy and convenient with Skyscanner. Choose your perfect vehicle from trusted car hire brands like Hertz, Europcar, and Alamo. Select from top hotel options including The Balmoral Hotel, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, and Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel to ensure a comfortable stay. With all bookings in one place, you're set for an exceptional Edinburgh experience.