London to Edinburgh

[izaguf]

I'm looking for the best way to get from London to Edinburgh. I know that Easyjet has some pretty good fares but is it more convienent to take a train? Is the train route scenic and worth the extra time spent on the travel? If I do go by train should I buy a ticket in advance? What is the difference between Scotrail, Virgin, and GNER? I'm not going to have a britrail pass as I only plan on one leg of travel in the UK, if that makes a difference. Would also like to hear some opinions on which method of travel others would prefer. Thanks

[LHR02]

The West Highland Way route was without a doubt the most scenic, beautiful train voyage I have taken anywhere in Europe! Fabulous! It's not the 'direct route', but if you've the time, go west and then up for the ride of your life! Right on the coast, wildlife unmatched.....and the 'natives' reading and/or sleeping all the way! I stood most of the trip in the doorway so I could look out left and right and wanted to slap them all for the beauty they were ignoring. ;D Had a Britrail pass so didn't pay that much attention....at that time didn't matter...but fairly sure that link was GNER train.

ging

[Cil]

Have done both train and plane.
Sort of depends on what time of day you are traveling, how much you want to spend, and how much time you have. Both have their advantages.
Train is indeed beautiful as long as the sun is out; if you depart late afternoon/evening the glory of the scenery is a bit wasted. Plane is obviously quicker.

[nitsansh]

Plane is NOT obviously quicker, if you count the travel from city to city, including the time it takes to get in and out of airports.

GNER operates the direct train London-Edinburgh via the eastern corridor. Travel time ca 4.5 hours.
Virgin trains offer non-direct connections between London and Edinburgh. Travel time is ca 6 hours.
Scotrail runs the night trains with sleepers or reclining seats.