Part of our Choosing an Edinburgh Airport transfer guide
Quick answer
Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh campus at Riccarton is about 10 minutes from Edinburgh Airport by car, and the university itself calls a taxi the easiest way. By public transport you go into Haymarket and take the number 25 bus, about 30 minutes from there. RTransfer meets students in arrivals with a name board, tracks the flight and fits a term's luggage, at one fixed price per car (minimum £48 in a saloon).
Airport to campus: the options
| Option | Time | With big suitcases |
|---|---|---|
| Car (taxi or private hire) | About 10 min | Easy, door to door |
| Tram or bus to Haymarket, then bus 25 | About 30 min on the 25, plus the first leg | Hard: one change |
By bus
Take the tram or bus from the airport to Haymarket, then the Lothian number 25 from Dalry Road straight to campus. The 25 takes about 30 minutes and runs every 10 minutes during the day and every 15 minutes after 8pm. It is cheap, but you go into town and back out again with all your luggage.
By car with RTransfer
- Your driver waits in arrivals with your name and helps with bags: where to meet.
- Flight tracking and 60 minutes' free waiting, useful after long-haul connections.
- Saloon for 3 large cases; estate or people carrier for more.
- Parents can book for their son or daughter and get WhatsApp updates.
- Pay online by card or PayPal before you fly. Newsletter sign-ups get 10% off the first booking.
Studying elsewhere in Scotland?
We also run student arrivals to St Andrews, Dundee and Stirling.
Times are typical by car and longer at rush hour. RTransfer prices are per vehicle, not per person. Routes outside the city centre get one fixed quote before you book; the minimum fare is £48 in a saloon. Returns booked together save 10%.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Heriot-Watt University from Edinburgh Airport?
The Riccarton campus is about 10 minutes from the airport by car.
Which bus goes to Heriot-Watt University?
The Lothian number 25 from Dalry Road near Haymarket, about 30 minutes, every 10 minutes in the day and every 15 minutes after 8pm.
Can my parents book my airport pickup for Heriot-Watt?
Yes. They can book and pay online, and the driver meets you in arrivals with a name board and keeps everyone updated on WhatsApp.
Sources
Facts, fares and timetables checked 29 October 2026. They change, so check with the operator before you travel.