- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carlisle to Cambridge
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
CHF87
Average ticket price on Sep 18
CHF92
Fastest journey on Sep 18
5 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
5 h 48 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
361 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carlisle to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carlisle to Cambridge will cost around CHF92 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF87.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Carlisle to Cambridge, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 361 km distance in an average of 5 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 38 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 5 h 57 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.
8:24 AM5h38Carlisle2:02 PMCambridgeCHF871One-way0 transfers
7:05 AM5h57Carlisle1:02 PMCambridgeCHF971One-way0 transfers
- 8:24 AM5h38Carlisle2:02 PMCambridgeCHF871One-way0 transfers
- 7:05 AM5h57Carlisle1:02 PMCambridgeCHF971One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Carlisle to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF56 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 34m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF56, while a flight costs an average of CHF363.
Distance: 224 miles (361 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
CHF133 Average price | CHF56 Average price Cheapest | CHF363 Average price | CHF78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 11m Average total duration 4h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 30m Average total duration 9h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 1h 34m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Carlisle to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of CHF56.
This is compared to other travel options from Carlisle to Cambridge:
A bus is CHF77 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Carlisle to Cambridge costing on average CHF133.
A bus is CHF307 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Carlisle to Cambridge costing on average CHF363.
The fastest way to travel from Carlisle to Cambridge is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 34m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 41m.
Bus takes on average 9h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Carlisle and Cambridge including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Cambridge among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around CHF133 compared to roughly CHF78 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF-54.45. The journey takes 4h 41m versus 4h 41m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Carlisle to Cambridge train times
The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Cambridge trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:05 AM Carlisle | 5h57 | 1:02 PM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:24 AM Carlisle | 5h38 | 2:02 PM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carlisle to Cambridge 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Why should you book Carlisle to Cambridge trains with Omio?
Caledonian Sleeper as well as Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Carlisle to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs Caledonian Sleeper?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Caledonian Sleeper, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Cambridge.
- 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 Caledonian Sleeper with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Cambridge.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Cambridge.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carlisle to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carlisle to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF82 but you can travel from only CHF46 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:05, the last at 22:08. The fastest train covers the 224 miles (361 km) distance in 4h 12m.
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 CHF46
Distance 224 miles (361 km) |
Average train duration 4h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF82 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 12m |
First train 5:05 AM |
Last train 10:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 CHF46
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, Lumo, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail from Carlisle to Cambridge trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Lumo, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail trains will get you between Carlisle and Cambridge from CHF46. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
4h 24m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
CHF82
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Lumo Price
CHF164
Lumo frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
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 12m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
CHF149
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
CHF170
Northern Rail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Recommended
Scott Polar Research Institute Museum
Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.
- Must visit
The Backs
The city's most famous riverside walking area, lined with college gardens and views. Classic place for strolling, punting and photography.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with market stalls, buskers and everyday city life. A practical and lively base for sightseeing and shopping.
- Recommended
Jesus Green
Leafy riverside common ideal for walking, picnics and broad views of the college skyline. Popular with locals and visitors year-round.
- Vegetarian
Cambridge Burnt Cream
A creamy dessert of whipped cream, meringue and raspberry coulis, created at Cambridge’s Trinity College and named after the River Cam.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Trinity Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College. It has a rich custard base with a hard caramelised sugar top.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire Asparagus
Tender local asparagus from the Cambridgeshire fens, prized in spring for its sweetness and freshness, often served simply with butter or eggs.
Midsummer House
Elegant riverside fine dining restaurant known for refined British tasting menus and polished service in a historic setting.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
Historic city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart, intimate atmosphere.
The Eagle
Well-known Cambridge pub and dining room offering classic British dishes, cask ales and a lively, traditional atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Cambridge Railway Station -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank cards are accepted on Stagecoach buses in Cambridge; ask the driver for the best fare if unsure.
- Cambridge has no tram or metro. Most local public transport is by bus, and fares can vary by operator and route.
FAQs: Trains from Carlisle to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Carlisle to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF82, while the average price is around CHF133.
The train from Carlisle to Cambridge takes 4h 12m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Carlisle to Cambridge is 224 miles (361 km).
The first train from Carlisle to Cambridge leaves at 5:05 AM.
The last train from Carlisle to Cambridge leaves at 10:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Carlisle to Cambridge.
There is no direct train service currently available from Carlisle to Cambridge.
Yes, there is a night train from Carlisle to Cambridge.
The train station in Carlisle that goes to Cambridge is Carlisle station (CAR), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Carlisle to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around CHF46.
The train journey from Carlisle to Cambridge offers a scenic experience as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the North Pennines and the rolling countryside of East of England, providing views of charming villages and lush greenery.
A day trip from Carlisle to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 12m, covering a distance of 224 miles (361 km). Trains run 5 times per day.
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlisle to Cambridge.
Since neither Carlisle nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Carlisle to Cambridge
Most Carlisle to Cambridge trains use the Carlisle to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge South. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Cambridge train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Carlisle
Arrival train stations in Cambridge
Which Carlisle station do trains to Cambridge leave from?
Trains from Carlisle to Cambridge leave from Carlisle. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Carlisle city centre at Carlisle station, Court Square, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1QZ.
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 · CHF9 · 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.
Which Cambridge station do trains from Carlisle arrive at?
Trains from Carlisle to Cambridge most often arrive at Cambridge. Some services arrive at Cambridge South, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cambridge arrival station.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · CHF2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · CHF2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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: No.
Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
Most popular train connections from Carlisle
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cambridge and Carlisle
Most popular train connections to Cambridge
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