Carlisle to London bus with National Express

Wed, Dec 03
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Carlisle to London

Showing times and prices for Dec 03

Cheapest price

$28

Average price

$38

Fastest journey

6 h 55 m

Average duration

8 h 40 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

421 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Carlisle to London is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Carlisle to London will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.

Fast buses

Of the 3 buses that leave Carlisle for London on Wed, Dec 03, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Dec 03 the direct buses cover the 421 km distance in an average of 8 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 55 m .

On Wed, Dec 03 the slowest buses will take 9 h 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

National ExpressNX590
10:45AM9h35
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
08:20PMLondon, Victoria Coach Station
$281One-way
0 transfers
National ExpressNX594
12:25AM6h55
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
07:20AMLondon, Victoria Coach Station
$361One-way
0 transfers
National ExpressNX181 · NX540
12:50AM9h30
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
10:20AMLondon, Victoria Coach Station
$511One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Carlisle to London

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to London among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €18. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €18, and a train costs an average of €48.

Distance: 261 miles (421 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight

€30

Average price

Cheapest

€103

Average price

€100

Average price

8h 21m

Average total duration

7h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 9m

Average total duration

4h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 24m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.3 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Carlisle to London Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:25AM
Arrival Time
07:20AM
Duration
6h55
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50AM
Arrival Time
10:20AM
Duration
9h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:55AM
Arrival Time
09:25AM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$48
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:00AM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
15h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
08:20PM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$27

Live departures

Carlisle to London bus times

The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to London buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, December 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 4:27 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX59412:25 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
6h55
7:20 AM London, Victoria Coach Station0 transfersDirect
national_expressNX181 · NX540
On time
12:50 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
9h30
10:20 AM London, Victoria Coach Station
1 transfer
national_expressNX59010:45 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
9h35
8:20 PM London, Victoria Coach Station0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Carlisle to London by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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.

Tue
Dec 02
Wed
Dec 03
Thu
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Carlisle to London

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Carlisle to London run on average 6 times per day, taking around 7h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 (€18) if you book in advance.

There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 261 miles (421 km) distance in 7h 30m.

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
Distance
261 miles (421 km)
Average bus duration
7h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€18)
Buses per day
6
Direct buses
3
Fastest bus
7h 30m
First bus
00:05
Last bus
23:50
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

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus from Carlisle to LondonYou can travel by bus between Carlisle to London with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for as low as $23 (€18). 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
7h 30m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
9h 25m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
National Express frequency
3 a day
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.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 20m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€27)
Megabus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

Buses from Carlisle to London

Over 300 miles apart, the north-west city of Carlisle and the British capital of London are connected by direct National Express coaches. Each day, passengers can expect to find two direct departures from the UK's leading bus provider. The 320-mile route takes between eight and nine hours to complete, with the options of an afternoon departure, or an evening departure traveling through the night arriving in London the following morning. Whenever passengers decide to travel, National Express should have a journey to accommodate their needs. 

Which bus companies travel from Carlisle to London?

There is only one company operating along the Carlisle to London route. National Express offers two services per day, with no competition. Onboard, passengers can enjoy their free WiFi, spacious seating with good legroom, and personal control over their air conditioning to ensure maximum comfort.

How long is the bus from Carlisle to London?

The journey time varies slightly, depending on whether or not passengers will be on the road during peak travel time, where there is likely to be more congestion. Whenever passengers travel, they can expect journey times of between eight and nine hours.

How many buses are there from Carlisle to London?

Each day, passengers can expect to choose from two direct National Express departures. There tends to be a lunchtime departure and an evening departure, with services traveling through the night to arrive in London the following morning. Services continue through the weekend with no change to the frequency or duration of the trip.

What are the departure and arrival stations for buses from Carlisle to London?

Departure bus station: Buses from Carlisle to London begin their journey at Carlisle Lonsdale Street Bus Station. The centrally located station is a short walk from Carlisle train station. Very close by, passengers can find The Lanes shopping centre and historic features such as the Market Cross Monument and Carlisle Castle.

Arrival bus station: Buses from Carlisle to London terminate at London's busiest bus station, London Victoria, found directly in the heart of Westminster. The bus station is a short 10-minute walk from the well-linked Victoria train station for easy onward travel by bus, London Underground or rail. London Victoria train station has extensive facilities, including bathrooms, several dining options and cafes as well as supermarkets to purchase snacks.

FAQs: Bus from Carlisle to London

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to London 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 London, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Carlisle to London can start from as little as $20 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Carlisle to London is $33 (€27); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Carlisle to London bus time is 6 h 55 min   covering the 261 mile (421 km) long journey, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Carlisle to London leaves at 12: 25AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Carlisle to London leaves at 11: 15PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Carlisle to London without having to change trains with National Express, FlixBus or Megabus. There are 3 direct buses from Carlisle to London each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
When taking a bus from Carlisle to London, you can count on National Express, FlixBus or Megabus for the best way to get you to London. You can also check all possible bus providers who offer a service between Carlisle and London and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.

When departing from Carlisle, you have various bus station options to start your trip from including Carlisle, Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) and Carlisle, Parkhouse Road (Argos). When arriving in London, you can end your route in bus stations like London, Victoria Coach Station and London, Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3.

Passengers board the bus most frequently from Carlisle, which is located around 0.8 miles (1.3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at London, Victoria Coach Station, located 1.9 miles (3 km) away from the city centre.

The cheapest month to travel from Carlisle to London by bus is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel from Carlisle to London including taking a bus, train or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Carlisle to London:
  • 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 London for bus providers National Express and FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in London are:
  • The British Museum, a world-renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the globe
  • The Tower of London, a historic castle and former royal residence known for its Crown Jewels and rich history
  • Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch and a symbol of the British monarchy
  • The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, iconic landmarks representing the political heart of the United Kingdom
  • St. Paul's Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece with a stunning dome and rich history.
The best things to do in London include:
  • The London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank offering panoramic views of the city
  • West End Theatre District, a vibrant area known for its high-quality theatrical productions and musicals
  • Explore Camden Market, a bustling market known for its eclectic mix of food, fashion, and crafts
  • Take a walk through Hyde Park, one of London's largest and most famous parks offering beautiful landscapes and recreational activities
  • Visit the Tate Modern, a contemporary art museum housed in a former power station on the banks of the Thames.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers National Express and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Carlisle to London depends on the bus providers:
  • 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.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Carlisle to London, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Carlisle to London.
    Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Carlisle to London:
    • 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 London:
    • 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 London. 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 London with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus
    Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Carlisle to London with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.
    Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Carlisle to London with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Carlisle to London

    Carlisle
    London
    The major bus station for departures in Carlisle is Carlisle, Parkhouse Road (Argos). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Carlisle, Parkhouse Road (Argos) for your trip from Carlisle to London.
    Carlisle, Parkhouse Road (Argos)Accessibility
    Amenities at bus station
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    3 km
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
    Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
    information
    Carlisle
    information

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