- Must visit
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery
Leading city museum and gallery with Roman, Border Reiver, natural history, and art collections in a historic house.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Exeter to Carlisle
Showing times and prices for Aug 17
Cheapest price
$66
Average price
$66
Fastest journey
14 h 45 m
Average duration
14 h 50 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
466 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Exeter to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Exeter to Carlisle will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $66.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Exeter to Carlisle without transferring at least once.
NX104 · NX1811:55 PM14h55Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court4:50 AMCarlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)$661One-way1 transfer- NX104 · NX1812:05 PM14h45Exeter, Honiton Road4:50 AMCarlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)$661One-way1 transfer
- NX104 · NX1812:05 PM14h45Exeter, Honiton Road4:50 AMCarlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)$661One-way1 transfer
- NX104 · NX1811:55 PM14h55Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court4:50 AMCarlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)$661One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Exeter to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Exeter to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $46. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $46, and a flight costs an average of $237.
Distance: 289 miles (466 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$54 Average price Cheapest | $874 Average price | $126 Average price | $127 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 35m Average total duration 10h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 38m Average total duration 6h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration Fastest 6h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Exeter to Carlisle is a bus with an average price of $54.
This is compared to other travel options from Exeter to Carlisle:
A bus is $73 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Exeter to Carlisle costing on average $126.
A bus is $821 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Exeter to Carlisle costing on average $874.
The fastest way to travel from Exeter to Carlisle is by train with an average journey time of 6h 5m.
Other travel options to Carlisle take longer:
Flight takes on average 6h 38m.
Bus takes on average 10h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Exeter and Carlisle including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter to Carlisle among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Exeter to Carlisle Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 11h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 11h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Compare prices and tickets Exeter to Carlisle 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.
Mon
Aug 17
Aug 17
Tue
Aug 18
Aug 18
Wed
Aug 19
Aug 19
Thu
Aug 20
Aug 20
Fri
Aug 21
Aug 21
Sat
Aug 22
Aug 22
Sun
Aug 23
Aug 23
Why should you book Exeter to Carlisle buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Exeter to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Exeter 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 to find the best option for your trip from Exeter 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Exeter 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 to find the best option for your trip from Exeter to Carlisle.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Exeter to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Exeter to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Exeter to Carlisle run on average 4 times per day, taking around 10h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $46 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 17:15. The fastest bus covers the 289 miles (466 km) distance in 11h 35m.
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 289 miles (466 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 11h 35m |
First bus 12:50 AM |
Last bus 5:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 from Exeter to CarlisleYou can travel by bus between Exeter to Carlisle with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $46. 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
17h 35m
Cheapest Price
$50
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
11h 35m
Cheapest Price
$46
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.
Complete guide to Carlisle
Things to do in Carlisle
Discover the best of Carlisle — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carlisle trip today.
- Recommended
Tullie House Military Museum
Major museum inside Carlisle Castle exploring Cumbria's military past, regimental history, and border conflicts.
- Recommended
Roman Frontier Gallery
Hands-on Roman frontier gallery at Tullie House presenting Hadrian's Wall finds and frontier life in Cumbria.
- Recommended
Bitts Park
Large central park with historic features, play areas, walks, and frequent events near the city centre.
- Recommended
Rickerby Park
Popular riverside park with trails, picnic areas, and open green space ideal for walking or relaxing by the Eden.
- Recommended
Eden Riverside Walk
Attractive riverside walk near the castle and cathedral, offering green views and one of Carlisle's best strolls.
Cumberland Sausage
Cumberland Sausage is the area’s signature coiled pork sausage, seasoned with pepper and herbs. It is a protected regional specialty long associated with Cumbria.
- Gluten-free
Cumberland Hotpot
A hearty hotpot of lamb or mutton with onions and sliced potatoes, linked to old Cumbrian farm cooking and valued for its simple, filling character.
- Gluten-free
Carlisle Broth
This traditional Cumbrian soup combines ham broth, split peas and vegetables. It reflects frugal northern cooking and is still a comforting local staple.
Alexanders
Established city-centre restaurant known for polished modern British cooking, tasting menus and a refined but relaxed atmosphere.
Fellinis Restaurant
Well-regarded independent bistro focused on locally sourced British food, steaks and seasonal specials in a casual setting.
The Howard Arms
Historic traditional pub serving cask ales and classic British dishes in a characterful setting close to Carlisle Castle.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than major cities, while local buses and trains are standard regional prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up small cafe bills and taxi fares.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Carlisle Railway Station -> Carlisle City Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Single bus fares in England are capped at £2 on many routes, but check the operator before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available on Stagecoach buses; use the Stagecoach Bus app for tickets and live tracking.
FAQs: Bus from Exeter to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Exeter 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 Exeter to Carlisle can start from as little as $46 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Exeter to Carlisle is $54 ; 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 Exeter to Carlisle is 11h 35m to travel the 289 miles (466 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 Exeter to Carlisle leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Exeter to Carlisle leaves at 5:15 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Exeter to Carlisle 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 Exeter to Carlisle, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Carlisle. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Exeter and Carlisle and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Exeter , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court, Exeter, Honiton Road . When arriving in Carlisle , you can end your journey in bus stations like Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street), Carlisle, Penrith, Brunswick Road (Booths) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Carlisle from Exeter is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Exeter to Carlisle is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Exeter and Carlisle including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Exeter to Carlisle:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Exeter to Carlisle for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Exeter 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 Exeter to Carlisle.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Exeter 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 Exeter 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 Exeter 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 Exeter to Carlisle with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Exeter to Carlisle with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Exeter to Carlisle with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Exeter 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Exeter 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 Exeter to Carlisle
Most Exeter to Carlisle buses use the Exeter, Honiton Road to Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) station pair, with some services arriving at Carlisle. Use this guide to compare Exeter and Carlisle bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Exeter
Arrival bus stations in Carlisle
Which Exeter station do buses to Carlisle leave from?
Buses from Exeter to Carlisle leave from Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court. The station is from Exeter city centre at Exeter Coach Station, Bampfylde St, Exeter EX1 2JX, UK.
Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover CourtExeter Coach Station, Bampfylde St, Exeter EX1 2JX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court from Exeter city centre
Bus173 · 5m · $1 · every ~1 min
A, E · 6m · $2 · every ~21 min
Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court bus station facilities and services
Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court. ATMs are available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter, Bampfylde Street / Stover Court: Wheelchair accessible.
Exeter, Honiton RoadHoniton Road, Exeter, EX2 7NL, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Exeter, Honiton Road from Exeter city centre
Exeter, Honiton Road is 3 km from Exeter city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus9, 9A, 44, 44A, 4A, 4 · 13m · $2 · every ~29 min
9, 9A, 44, 44A, 4A, 4 · 14m · $2 · every ~29 min
Coly 8 · 18m
78 · 33m
Exeter, Honiton Road bus station facilities and services
Exeter, Honiton Road 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).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exeter, Honiton Road.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exeter, Honiton Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exeter, Honiton Road: Ramps.
Which Carlisle station do buses from Exeter arrive at?
Buses from Exeter to Carlisle most often arrive at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street). Some services arrive at Carlisle, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Carlisle arrival station.
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)Lonsdale St, Carlisle, UK
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
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) bus station facilities and services
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street). ATMs are available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street): Wheelchair accessible entrances and paths present.
CarlisleCarlisle, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Carlisle from Carlisle city centre
Bus67, 63, 63A, 61, 62, 64 · 5m · $11 · every ~50 min
Carlisle bus station facilities and services
Carlisle has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carlisle. ATMs are available at Carlisle.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carlisle.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carlisle: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carlisle: Wheelchair accessible entrance and services.
Most popular bus connections from Exeter
More options for your journey from Exeter to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carlisle and Exeter
Most popular bus connections to Carlisle
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
