- 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 Bristol to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
$139
Average ticket price on Aug 29
$165
Fastest journey on Aug 29
4 h 28 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
4 h 46 m
Trains on Aug 29
2
Distance
383 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bristol to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Carlisle will cost around $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $139.
Fast trains
On Sat, Aug 29, we found 2 trains from Bristol to Carlisle, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 383 km distance in an average of 4 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 28 m .
On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 5 h 3 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.
1:00 PM5h03Bristol6:03 PMCarlisle$1391One-way0 transfers- 10:33 AM4h28Bristol3:01 PMCarlisle$1911One-way0 transfers
- 10:33 AM4h28Bristol3:01 PMCarlisle$1911One-way0 transfers
- 1:00 PM5h03Bristol6:03 PMCarlisle$1391One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bristol to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $31 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 13m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, while a train costs an average of $74.
Distance: 237 miles (383 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$74 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $54 Average price | $116 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 45m Average total duration 4h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 41m Average total duration 8h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 13m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.3kg 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 Bristol to Carlisle is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Bristol to Carlisle:
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bristol to Carlisle costing on average $54 (€43).
A bus is $43 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Carlisle costing on average $74 (€60).
The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Carlisle is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 13m.
Other travel options to Carlisle take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 15m.
Bus takes on average 8h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bristol and Carlisle including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Carlisle among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 32m faster (4h 15m by train vs 5h 47m by car) and roughly $42 (€34) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($74 (€60) vs $116 (€94)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bristol to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Carlisle trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:33 AM Bristol | 4h28 | 3:01 PM Carlisle | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:00 PM Bristol | 5h03 | 6:03 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 Bristol 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.
Sat
Aug 29
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Why should you book Bristol to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Bristol to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Bristol 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol 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 Bristol to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bristol to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bristol to Carlisle run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 (€48) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 18:08. The fastest train covers the 237 miles (383 km) distance in 4h 27m.
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 $26 (€21)
Distance 237 miles (383 km) |
Average train duration 4h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 (€48) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 27m |
First train 5:20 AM |
Last train 6:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $26 (€21)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Bristol to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Bristol and Carlisle from $26 (€21). 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
4h 27m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$59 (€48)
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
4h 23m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
$375 (€302)
Cross Country frequency
10 a day
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 Bristol to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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 Bristol to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $59 (€48), while the average price is around $74 (€60).
The train from Bristol to Carlisle takes 4h 27m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Bristol to Carlisle is 237 miles (383 km).
The first train from Bristol to Carlisle leaves at 5:20 AM.
The last train from Bristol to Carlisle leaves at 6:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Carlisle.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bristol to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Carlisle.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Carlisle is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Bristol to Carlisle is by bus, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
The train journey from Bristol to Carlisle offers varied scenery, including the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, the rolling hills of the Midlands, and the scenic views of the Lake District as you approach Carlisle.
A day trip from Bristol to Carlisle is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 27m. Trains run 6 times per day.
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 Bristol to Carlisle.
Since neither Bristol 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol 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 Bristol to Carlisle
Most Bristol to Carlisle trains use the Bristol Temple Meads to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bristol
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Bristol Temple MeadsStation Approach, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol Temple Meads from Bristol city centre
Bus16 · 7m · $5 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · $5 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · $5 · every ~22 min
Bristol Temple Meads train station facilities and services
Bristol Temple Meads has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Bristol arrive at?
Trains from Bristol 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.
More options for your journey from Bristol to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Bristol
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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