- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Carlisle
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$31
Average price
$32
Fastest journey
2 h 53 m
Average duration
3 h 48 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
277 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Carlisle will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Birmingham for Carlisle on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 277 km distance in an average of 3 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 53 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 4 h 43 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.
8:07 AM4h43Birmingham12:50 PMCarlisle$311One-way0 transfers- 7:07 AM2h53Birmingham10:00 AMCarlisle$341One-way0 transfers
- 7:07 AM2h53Birmingham10:00 AMCarlisle$341One-way0 transfers
- 8:07 AM4h43Birmingham12:50 PMCarlisle$311One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Birmingham to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a flight costs an average of $57.
Distance: 172 miles (277 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$57 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $129 Average price | $82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 27m Average total duration 2h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 34m Average total duration 6h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 Birmingham to Carlisle is a bus with an average price of $28.
This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Carlisle:
A bus is $29 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Carlisle costing on average $57.
A bus is $101 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Birmingham to Carlisle costing on average $129.
The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Carlisle is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.
Other travel options to Carlisle take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 57m.
Bus takes on average 6h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Birmingham and Carlisle including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Carlisle among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 30m faster (2h 57m by train vs 3h 27m by car) and roughly $26 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($57 vs $82). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Avanti West Coast.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Birmingham to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Carlisle trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:07 AM Birmingham | 2h50 | 10:57 AM Carlisle | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:07 AM Birmingham | 2h50 | 11:57 AM Carlisle | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:07 PM Birmingham | 2h56 | 5:03 PM Carlisle | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Birmingham 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
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Aug 06
Aug 06
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Aug 07
Aug 07
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Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Birmingham to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Birmingham to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Carlisle run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $20 but you can travel from only $17 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:28, the last at 20:08. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (277 km) distance in 2h 50m.
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
Bus from $17
Distance 172 miles (277 km) |
Average train duration 2h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 1:28 AM |
Last train 8:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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
Bus from $17
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Birmingham to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Birmingham and Carlisle from $17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$20
Avanti West Coast frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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
- £4.80
To the city center
Carlisle Railway Station -> Carlisle City Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses in Carlisle are operated by Stagecoach; contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses.
- Carlisle city centre is walkable from Carlisle Railway Station, so you may not need a bus for central trips.
FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Carlisle by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Carlisle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $20, while the average price is around $57.
The train from Birmingham to Carlisle takes 2h 50m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Birmingham to Carlisle leaves at 1:28 AM.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Carlisle is 172 miles (277 km).
The last train from Birmingham to Carlisle leaves at 8:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Carlisle.
Yes, there is a direct train from Birmingham to Carlisle. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Carlisle.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Carlisle is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Carlisle is by bus, with a cost of around $17.
The train journey from Birmingham to Carlisle offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District and the rolling hills of the West Midlands. Passengers can enjoy sights of lush countryside, charming villages, and historical landmarks along the route.
A day trip from Birmingham to Carlisle is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 50m. However, trains run frequently with 5 trips per day, covering the distance of 172 miles (277 km).
To explore Carlisle, including its historic attractions like Carlisle Castle and Tullie House Museum, and to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty such as the Lake District or Hadrian's Wall, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Carlisle.
Since neither Birmingham 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.
Popular day trips by train from Carlisle include Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Preston, Dumfries.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Carlisle among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Birmingham to Carlisle
Most Birmingham to Carlisle trains use the Birmingham New Street to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre
Bus16 · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min
Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services
Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.
Birmingham InternationalBirmingham International station, Stationlink Road, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham International from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 9m · $6 · every ~8 min
BusX1 · 39m · $5 · every ~23 min
X1 · 40m · $5 · every ~23 min
17A · 53m · $5 · every ~19 min
Birmingham International train station facilities and services
Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Birmingham Snow HillBirmingham Snow Hill station, Colmore Row, Birmingham, West Midlands, B3 2BJ
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham Snow Hill from Birmingham city centre
Bus52 · 0m · $2 · every ~18 min
Birmingham Snow Hill train station facilities and services
Birmingham Snow Hill has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Snow Hill.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Snow Hill. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is available on the station concourse, by the Ticket Office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Birmingham arrive at?
Trains from Birmingham to Carlisle arrive at Carlisle. Carlisle is 0 miles (1 km) from Carlisle city centre.
CarlisleCarlisle station, Court Square, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1QZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Carlisle from Carlisle city centre
Bus67, 63, 63A, 61, 62, 64 · 5m · $11 · every ~50 min
Carlisle train station facilities and services
Carlisle has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Carlisle.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Carlisle.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carlisle. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carlisle: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Carlisle: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carlisle: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Lifts available to platforms via subway. Alternatively there is a ramped footbridge. Staff are available to assist on request, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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