How to Fly from London to Edinburgh: Best Airlines and Booking Platforms

Flying from London to Edinburgh has always been a ritual for me. Every time I step onto a plane bound for Scotland, there’s a blend of excitement and nostalgia. The contrast between England’s bustling capital and Edinburgh’s medieval charm is something that never fails to enchant me. Over the years, I’ve learned how to pick the best airlines, the smartest booking strategies, and how to make the journey as seamless as possible. This guide details my personal experiences, recommendations, and tips for anyone making this popular domestic route.

My Initial Thoughts on Domestic Flights in the UK

I remember the first time I flew from London to Edinburgh. I was nervous about navigating Heathrow, unsure which airline to pick, and debating whether to use an online booking platform or go direct. That flight, simple as it seems, taught me lessons I carry with every trip: timing is key, airline reputation matters, and early planning makes all the difference.

The route itself is popular. London has multiple airports—Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City—that connect to Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which sits just 8 miles west of the city center. Flights are frequent, averaging 1 hour and 25 minutes in duration. Despite being a domestic route, comfort, reliability, and onboard amenities can make a significant difference.

Booking platforms play a vital role. Over the years, I’ve tested Skyscanner UK, Expedia UK, and Kayak UK. Each has its advantages: Skyscanner excels at comparing prices across airlines and dates, Expedia offers bundled deals with hotels, and Kayak allows flexible date searching. Personally, I always cross-check multiple platforms before committing.

Recommended Airline #1: British Airways – London Heathrow to Edinburgh

Flight Experience
I usually begin my journey from Heathrow Airport, the world’s bustling gateway, boarding British Airways’ short-haul flight to Edinburgh. The moment I stepped onto the aircraft, I noticed the meticulous cleanliness of the cabin and the welcoming smiles of the crew, which immediately put me at ease. The cabin itself is thoughtfully designed for comfort, with wide, cushioned seats and sufficient legroom for a flight lasting just under an hour and a half. Despite the brevity of the journey, the airline emphasizes passenger comfort. Complimentary drinks, from fresh orange juice to sparkling water, and a small selection of light snacks, like biscuits or packaged sandwiches, make even this short hop feel cared for. On one particularly early morning flight, the cabin crew even offered hot tea and coffee in travel mugs, which was a welcome touch during a chilly February morning.

Why I Prefer This Flight
British Airways’ punctuality is one of its standout features. On a recent trip, even though dense London fog caused delays across the airport, my flight departed only 15 minutes late. The cabin crew maintained a calm, professional demeanor, making the brief journey surprisingly pleasant. For travelers seeking extra comfort, Club Europe is a worthy upgrade. The seats recline more generously, with ample legroom, and passengers enjoy priority boarding, pre-boarding refreshments, and complimentary sandwiches and drinks. I once chose a window seat in this section, and it offered an almost panoramic view of the Highlands as we approached Edinburgh, making the flight feel like part of the sightseeing experience itself.

Cost
Tickets generally range from £50–£120, depending on when you book and the time of year. Booking 3–6 weeks in advance often secures the best prices, while flights during holidays or festival seasons can be higher. Early bookings also allow better seat selection, especially if you prefer a window view or travel with companions.

Booking Platform
I typically reserve my flights directly on British Airways to access loyalty benefits, flexible changes, and seat selection. However, I always cross-check prices on Skyscanner UK, which occasionally offers discounted fares or different travel times not shown on the airline’s website.

Tips

• Arrive at Heathrow early; security checks can be long during peak hours.
• Use the BA mobile app to manage boarding passes and flight updates.
• Travel light if possible—hand luggage only—to streamline boarding and disembarkation.
• Consider carrying a small travel pillow or lightweight blanket for added comfort, especially on early morning or late evening flights.
• Look out the window during descent; the Edinburgh skyline with the Castle perched on its rock is breathtaking from above.

This combination of reliable service, comfort, and beautiful aerial views makes British Airways my preferred choice for flying from London to Edinburgh.

Recommended Airline #2: EasyJet – London Gatwick to Edinburgh

Flight Experience
For budget-conscious travelers, EasyJet is my go-to. I boarded their morning flight from Gatwick, where the airport’s quieter terminal made check-in and security a breeze. The cabin felt modern and bright, although legroom is tighter compared to British Airways.

Why I Prefer This Flight
The flight is often priced competitively, making it ideal for spontaneous trips. I appreciate that EasyJet often operates multiple flights per day, providing flexibility if plans change. On one trip, I managed to catch a sunrise departure, which offered breathtaking views over the Scottish Highlands during descent.

Cost
Tickets can start as low as £35, especially when booked early or during off-peak times. Additional fees apply for checked luggage, so I usually travel with cabin luggage only.

Booking Platform
I usually reserve directly on EasyJet, but Skyscanner and Kayak UK are excellent for price comparisons.

Tips

• Bring a compact travel pillow for comfort on the shorter, upright seats.
• Pre-order snacks if you have dietary preferences; the onboard menu is limited.
• Check-in online to avoid terminal queues.

Recommended Airline #3: Jet2 – London Stansted to Edinburgh

Flight Experience
Jet2 offers an alternative from Stansted Airport. Boarding here feels more relaxed; Stansted is smaller and less crowded than Heathrow or Gatwick. The aircraft is clean, and the crew’s warmth is noticeable, making the journey feel more personable.

Why I Prefer This Flight
Jet2 balances cost with a touch of comfort. I especially like the early afternoon departures, perfect for avoiding rush-hour crowds. On one occasion, I took my parents along, and they were delighted by the service and smooth landing into Edinburgh.

Cost
Fares typically range from £45–£110, depending on timing and season.

Booking Platform
Direct booking via Jet2.com is convenient, but I often double-check Expedia UK for bundled hotel deals.

Tips

• Reserve seats in advance for families or groups.
• Take advantage of online check-in to reduce terminal waiting times.
• Keep a light jacket handy; early spring flights can be chilly in the morning.

Personal Experience Across Airlines

Flying these three airlines multiple times has taught me how to choose based on priorities:

• Punctuality and perks: British Airways.
• Budget and flexibility: EasyJet.
• Family comfort and alternative airports: Jet2.

I once planned a weekend trip on a tight schedule. Using British Airways for the outbound flight ensured I landed early, and Jet2 for the return allowed my family to catch a relaxed afternoon flight. Timing, seat comfort, and minor amenities such as Wi-Fi or snack availability made all the difference.

Additional Booking Tips

1. Compare Across Platforms: Always check Skyscanner UK, Expedia UK, and airline sites for the best deal.
2. Set Price Alerts: I use Skyscanner alerts to monitor fluctuations over a few weeks.
3. Consider Multi-Airport Options: London has several airports, and Edinburgh is accessible from all. Sometimes changing your departure airport saves £20–£40.
4. Travel Light: Cabin luggage only speeds up boarding and reduces stress.
5. Join Loyalty Programs: BA Executive Club or EasyJet Plus can accumulate points even on short domestic flights.
6. Book Early for Holidays: Flights to Edinburgh in spring festivals, Hogmanay, or summer fill up fast.
7. Check Airline Offers: British Airways often has weekend deals; EasyJet has “Low Fare Finder” for last-minute trips.
8. Read Reviews: Platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews give insights into boarding efficiency, seat comfort, and punctuality.
9. Time Your Arrival: For early flights, consider overnight stays near the airport. Booking via Hotels.com UK or Booking.com UK can yield affordable nearby hotels.
10. Use Apps: Most airlines’ apps provide digital boarding passes, notifications, and easy seat changes.

Onboard Experience and Scenic Views

Flying from London to Edinburgh is brief, but I’ve learned to enjoy every minute. I usually request a window seat on the left-hand side, which offers stunning views of the Highlands and the Firth of Forth during descent. The flight time is perfect for a light snack, reading a novel, or simply watching the rolling hills appear beneath the clouds.

British Airways offers complimentary drinks and snacks, EasyJet has a buy-onboard menu, and Jet2’s service strikes a balance. On one particular morning flight, I watched the sunrise illuminate Edinburgh Castle from above—it felt like stepping into a painting.

Arrival in Edinburgh Airport

Touching down, the efficiency of Edinburgh Airport impresses me every time. Immigration is swift, baggage claim is straightforward, and the airport’s transport options are plentiful. I usually take a taxi to the city center, but the Airlink 100 bus is also reliable and costs just £4.50.

Nearby, rental cars are available for those exploring the Scottish countryside. Booking platforms like Rentalcars UK and Expedia often provide competitive deals.

Accommodation and Further Travel

Flights are only the beginning. I often book hotels on the Royal Mile via Booking.com UK or Hotels.com UK to stay within walking distance of Edinburgh Castle and the city’s main attractions. For dining, OpenTable UK helps secure tables at popular restaurants like The Witchery or Timberyard.

For longer Scottish trips, combining flights with hotels on Expedia or Skyscanner often unlocks bundled discounts.

Flying from London to Edinburgh is more than a domestic hop; it’s a transition from the bustle of England’s capital to the historic, romantic charm of Scotland. Choosing the right airline, planning your timing, and using smart booking platforms can elevate the experience. Each flight is a prelude to the adventures awaiting in Edinburgh—the castles, the cobblestones, the Highland landscapes, and the rich culture. With preparation, every journey feels effortless, immersive, and memorable.