#VitaeCon2026 – useful information for attending in Edinburgh
We’re thrilled that the Vitae International Researcher Development Conference 2026 will be taking place in-person at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh on Tuesday 8 – Wednesday 9 September 2026, with a pre-conference workshop on Monday 7 September 2026, also at Dynamic Earth.
If you are attending, please find useful practical information below on places to stay and transport information.
Accommodation
List of accommodation near Dynamic Earth: Accommodation Options Near Dynamic Earth
Travelling to Edinburgh
Train: London to Edinburgh – main route
Operator: LNER (London North Eastern Railway) primarily
Route: London King’s Cross → Edinburgh Waverley
Journey time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours
Frequency: Around every 30 minutes (peak times)
Train alternatives
-Avanti West Coast + connection (via Birmingham/Preston)
-Caledonian Sleeper (overnight):
- Leaves London Euston late evening
- Arrives Edinburgh early morning
- Rooms available (beds or seated options)
Driving: London to Edinburgh
Distance: 400 miles (640 km)
Driving time: 7–8 hours (without long stops)
Main route: M1 → A1(M) → A1 – most direct
-Alternative: M1 → A68 or M6 → A74(M)
Getting around Edinburgh
Walking
-City centre (Old Town + New Town) is very walkable
-Major attractions within 15–20 minutes of each other
-Hills and cobbles—wear comfortable shoes.
Trams
Route: Edinburgh Airport ↔ City Centre ↔ Leith
Stops include:
- Haymarket
- Princes Street
- St Andrew Square
Frequency: every 7–10 minutes
A good option from the airport into the city.
Buses
- Extensive and reliable network (Lothian Buses)
- Covers entire city and suburbs
- Frequent services (often every 10 minutes)
Useful tickets: Day ticket (unlimited travel), Contactless payment accepted.
Taxis and ride apps
- Black cabs widely available
- Uber operates in Edinburgh
Cycling
- Growing number of cycle lanes
- Bike hire schemes available
- Some steep areas to be aware of