- Must visit
Museum of Liverpool
Major social history museum on the waterfront covering Liverpool's global trade, culture, sport and everyday life.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Carlisle to Liverpool
Showing times and prices for Jul 11
Cheapest price
$48
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
5 h 9 m
Average duration
6 h 20 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
165 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Carlisle to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carlisle to Liverpool will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $48.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Carlisle to Liverpool without transferring at least once.
NX181 · NX17012:55 AM8h15Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)9:10 AMLiverpool, University$481One-way1 transfer- NX590 · NX17010:45 AM5h15Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)4:00 PMLiverpool, University$481One-way1 transfer
- NX590 · NX17010:45 AM5h30Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)4:15 PMLiverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place$481One-way1 transfer
- NX590 · NX17010:45 AM5h09Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)3:54 PMLiverpool, Botanic Park$481One-way1 transfer
- NX181 · NX17012:55 AM8h08Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)9:03 AMLiverpool, Botanic Park$481One-way1 transfer
- NX590 · NX17010:45 AM5h09Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)3:54 PMLiverpool, Botanic Park$481One-way1 transfer
- NX590 · NX17010:45 AM5h15Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)4:00 PMLiverpool, University$481One-way1 transfer
- NX590 · NX17010:45 AM5h30Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)4:15 PMLiverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place$481One-way1 transfer
- NX181 · NX42112:55 AM7h40Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)8:35 AMLiverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place$511One-way1 transfer
- NX181 · NX17012:55 AM8h08Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)9:03 AMLiverpool, Botanic Park$481One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Carlisle to Liverpool
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to Liverpool among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 9m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $23, and a train costs an average of $15.
Distance: 102 miles (165 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$44 Average price Cheapest | $49 Average price | $43 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 21m Average total duration 4h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 39m Average total duration Fastest 2h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Carlisle to Liverpool is a bus with an average price of $44 (€36).
This is compared to other travel options from Carlisle to Liverpool:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Carlisle to Liverpool costing on average $49 (€40).
The fastest way to travel from Carlisle to Liverpool is by train with an average journey time of 2h 9m.
Other travel options to Liverpool take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlisle and Liverpool including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Liverpool among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -3h -18m sooner (4h 51m by bus vs 2h 33m by car) and save roughly $-0.98 (€-0.81) compared to fuel and tolls ($44 (€36) vs $43 (€35)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by FlixBus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Carlisle to Liverpool Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:55AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 08:55AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $28 |
Live departures
Carlisle to Liverpool bus times
The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Liverpool buses for tomorrow, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX181 · NX421 | 12:55 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 7h40 | 8:35 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 1 transfer | |
| NX181 · NX170 | 12:55 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 8h15 | 9:10 AM Liverpool, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX181 · NX170 | Delayed 12:55 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 8h08 | 9:33 PM 9:33 PMLiverpool, Botanic Park | 1 transfer | |
| NX590 · NX170 | 10:45 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 5h15 | 4:00 PM Liverpool, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX590 · NX170 | On time 10:45 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 5h30 | 4:15 PM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place | 1 transfer | |
| NX590 · NX170 | Delayed 10:45 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 5h09 | 9:33 PM 9:33 PMLiverpool, Botanic Park | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carlisle to Liverpool by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
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Jul 12
Jul 12
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Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
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Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Why should you book Carlisle to Liverpool buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Carlisle to Liverpool.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Liverpool.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Liverpool.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Liverpool.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Liverpool.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Liverpool.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Carlisle to Liverpool
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Carlisle to Liverpool run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 102 miles (165 km) distance in 3h 28m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $15 (€12)
Distance 102 miles (165 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 3h 28m |
First bus 12:50 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 63 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $15 (€12)
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Carlisle to LiverpoolYou can travel by bus between Carlisle to Liverpool with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $15 (€12). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 10m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€20)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 30m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Liverpool
Things to do in Liverpool
Discover the best of Liverpool — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Liverpool trip today.
- Must visit
The Beatles Story
Immersive museum tracing the story of The Beatles with memorabilia and recreated settings at the Royal Albert Dock.
- Recommended
Merseyside Maritime Museum
Waterfront museum exploring Liverpool's port history, emigration, naval links and the city's maritime heritage.
- Must visit
Royal Albert Dock
Historic dock complex with museums, waterside walks, restored warehouses and one of Liverpool's top photo spots.
- Must visit
The Waterfront
Scenic promenade along the Mersey with skyline views, ferry sights and easy access to major attractions.
- Must visit
Pier Head
Famous public space at the waterfront with open views of the Three Graces and frequent city events.
- Gluten-free
Scouse
Liverpool’s signature stew of slow-cooked beef or lamb with potatoes, carrots and onions. It is the city’s most iconic traditional dish and gave Liverpudlians their nickname, Scousers.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Blind Scouse
A meat-free version of Scouse made with potatoes, carrots, onions and other root vegetables. It is a traditional, humble local comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
Wet Nelly
A classic Liverpool bread pudding made from leftover bread, dried fruit and spices, usually served warm with custard. It is a nostalgic local dessert.
The Art School Restaurant
Highly regarded upscale restaurant serving creative British tasting menus in a grand heritage setting. One of Liverpool’s best-known special occasion venues.
Baltic Market
Popular food hall in the Baltic Triangle with a lively casual atmosphere and several local street-food traders under one roof.
Panoramic 34 Liverpool
Well-known fine dining restaurant with skyline views, modern British cooking and a polished atmosphere suited to a special meal.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual meals are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more on weekends and match days.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a standard coffee.
Tipping culture
Around 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up in taxis. Not expected for counter service, but small tips are appreciated in bars and cafes.
Merseytravel
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.10
To the city center
Liverpool One Bus Station, Liverpool -> Liverpool Lime Street Station, Liverpool
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Tap-and-go contactless payment is accepted on many local buses and rail ticket gates, but not every operator or route offers onboard card payment. Check the operator before boarding if you plan to pay
- Save money with a day ticket if you expect multiple journeys, especially across bus and rail in the city region. Use the Merseytravel app or website to plan routes and check service updates.
FAQs: Bus from Carlisle to Liverpool
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Liverpool by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Carlisle to Liverpool can start from as little as $23 (€19) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Carlisle to Liverpool is $44 (€36) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Carlisle to Liverpool is 3h 28m to travel the 102 miles (165 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Carlisle to Liverpool leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Carlisle to Liverpool leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Carlisle to Liverpool which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Carlisle to Liverpool, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Liverpool. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Carlisle and Liverpool and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Liverpool from Carlisle is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 28m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Carlisle to Liverpool is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlisle and Liverpool including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Carlisle to Liverpool:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Carlisle to Liverpool for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Liverpool are:
- The Beatles Story, an immersive museum dedicated to the history and impact of The Beatles
- Royal Albert Dock, a historic waterfront complex featuring museums, shops, and restaurants
- Liverpool Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Britain known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views
- Anfield Stadium, the iconic home of Liverpool FC offering stadium tours and a museum
- St George's Hall, a neoclassical building known for its grand architecture and cultural events.
The best things to do in Liverpool include:
- Explore the vibrant Baltic Triangle, a creative and digital district with street art, bars, and music venues
- Take a ferry across the Mersey River for scenic views of Liverpool's skyline
- Visit the Walker Art Gallery, home to one of the largest art collections in England outside London
- Enjoy a performance at the Liverpool Empire Theatre, hosting a variety of shows and musicals
- Discover the history of the city at the Museum of Liverpool, offering insights into the city's rich heritage.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Carlisle to Liverpool depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Carlisle to Liverpool.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Carlisle to Liverpool:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Carlisle to Liverpool:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Carlisle to Liverpool. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Carlisle to Liverpool with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Carlisle to Liverpool with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Carlisle to Liverpool with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Carlisle nor Liverpool are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Liverpool among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Liverpool, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and around popular attractions such as the Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE shopping center. Scams involving overcharging in taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be aware of nightlife-related safety, avoiding unlicensed venues and staying in well-lit, populated areas at night.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Carlisle to Liverpool
Most Carlisle to Liverpool buses use the Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place station pair, with some services arriving at Liverpool, University. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Liverpool bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Carlisle
Arrival bus stations in Liverpool
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
City-centre transport
Getting to Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) from Carlisle city centre
BusX95 · 6m · $6 · every ~1 min
63, 63A, 62, 64 · 6m · $11 · every ~19 min
Which Liverpool station do buses from Carlisle arrive at?
Buses from Carlisle to Liverpool most often arrive at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place. Some services arrive at Liverpool, University, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Liverpool arrival station.
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning PlaceCanning Place, Liverpool L1 8JX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 11m · $5 · every ~25 min
City Explorer 101 · 41m · every ~3 min
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café in the Station (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place: Elevators, ramps.
Liverpool, UniversityUniversity of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, University from Liverpool city centre
Liverpool, University is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10A · 4m · $5 · every ~11 min
Liverpool, University bus station facilities and services
Liverpool, University has practical services for this route, including Taxis.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Liverpool, University: Taxis.
Liverpool, Botanic Park
City-centre transport
Getting to Liverpool, Botanic Park from Liverpool city centre
Bus79 · 13m · $2 · every ~21 min
Most popular bus connections from Carlisle
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Liverpool
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Liverpool and Carlisle
Most popular bus connections to Liverpool
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