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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Carlisle
Showing times and prices for Apr 28
Cheapest price
$19
Average price
$29
Fastest journey
2 h 25 m
Average duration
4 h 57 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
119 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Carlisle will cost around $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Edinburgh for Carlisle on Tue, Apr 28, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Apr 28 the direct buses cover the 119 km distance in an average of 4 h 57 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .
On Tue, Apr 28 the slowest buses will take 6 h 15 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.
10:00 PM2h25Edinburgh12:25 AMCarlisle$191One-way0 transfers- 5:20 PM6h15Edinburgh11:35 PMCarlisle$241One-way0 transfers
- 5:25 PM6h10Edinburgh11:35 PMCarlisle$441One-way0 transfers
- 10:00 PM2h25Edinburgh12:25 AMCarlisle$191One-way0 transfers
- 5:25 PM6h10Edinburgh11:35 PMCarlisle$441One-way0 transfers
- 5:20 PM6h15Edinburgh11:35 PMCarlisle$241One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Edinburgh to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 53m. 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 $11, and a train costs an average of $13.
Distance: 73 miles (119 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$19 Average price Cheapest | $24 Average price |
3h 4m Average total duration 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Edinburgh to Carlisle Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:56PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 3h54 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:21PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 3h29 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $22 |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Carlisle bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Carlisle buses for today, Monday, April 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX183 · NX181 | 8:30 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 4h25 | 12:55 AM Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Carlisle by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
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Why should you book Edinburgh to Carlisle buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus or Borders Buses offer buses services from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
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 or Borders Buses to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Borders Buses to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Carlisle run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 23:20. The fastest bus covers the 73 miles (119 km) distance in 2h 25m.
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 73 miles (119 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 2h 25m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 11:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 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
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus, Borders Buses from Edinburgh to CarlisleYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Carlisle with National Express, FlixBus, Borders Buses for as low as $11 (€9). 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
4h 19m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
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
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
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.
Borders Buses
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 27m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Borders Buses frequency
3 a day
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Carlisle 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 Carlisle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Edinburgh to Carlisle can start from as little as $11 (€9) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Carlisle is $19 (€15) ; 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 Edinburgh to Carlisle is 2h 25m to travel the 73 miles (119 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 Edinburgh to Carlisle leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle leaves at 11:20 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Edinburgh to Carlisle with Borders Buses. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Borders Buses for the best way to get you to Carlisle. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Carlisle and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Carlisle from Edinburgh is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Carlisle including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh to Carlisle 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 Edinburgh to Carlisle.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh to Carlisle:
- 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 Edinburgh to Carlisle:
- 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 Edinburgh to Carlisle. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Carlisle with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Carlisle 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 Edinburgh to Carlisle 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 Carlisle, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and transportation hubs. Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for help or transportation, as unofficial taxis or guides may overcharge. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed services helps ensure safety.
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 Edinburgh to Carlisle
Edinburgh
Carlisle
The major bus station for departures in Edinburgh is Edinburgh, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh, Bus Station for your trip from Edinburgh to Carlisle.
Edinburgh, Bus Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Car connection
Elder StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Edinburgh, Bus Station
- Bus: 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 25, 26, 44 Trams: T50 Trains: Edinburgh Waverley Station
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
The major bus station for arrivals in Carlisle is Carlisle. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Carlisle for your trip to Carlisle from Edinburgh.
Carlisle
information
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)
information
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carlisle and Edinburgh
Most popular bus connections to Carlisle
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