Use the online journey planner at the National Rail Web site (see link below) when you go to book train travel from Manchester to Edinburgh. You can also call National Rail with questions; from the U.S. call 011 (+44) (0) 20 7278 5240; from the U.K. call 08457 48 49 50.
Compare your travel options. The journey can include between one and three train changes, so choose the journey with the least connections if you are unsure about your ability to navigate unfamiliar stations.
Arrange to have reminders texted to a cell phone if you are carrying a phone or PDA that offers service in Britain; you can do this via National Rail's Web site (link below).
Consider your options for train ticket purchase. Buy them online up to four months in advance or buy them at the station.
Pay cash for tickets once you are on your train if you are pressed for time.
Buy a BritRail Pass before you leave home from the BritRail Web site (see link below) to save money on continuous rail travel throughout England, Scotland and Wales. Purchase the BritRail Pass plus Ireland add-on if you will also be traveling to the Emerald Isle.
Book train travel by calling RailEurope at (888) 382-RAIL or by visiting the link below.
Get directions to the station the night before, if you are planning on waking up and catching an early train to Scotland.
Leave from Manchester's Piccadilly Station, regardless of whether you book your trip from Manchester to Edinburgh via Leeds, York or Motherwell.
Leave from London's Euston station if you are coming by train to Manchester from London. You will arrive at Manchester's Piccadilly, making for an easy connection on to Edinburgh. The same is true for the train from Manchester's airport, which also pulls into Piccadilly.
