Carlisle to Edinburgh train with Transpennine Express

Fri, Oct 30
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Scotrail
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Scotrail
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 30

Cheapest price on Oct 30

$28

Average ticket price on Oct 30

$49

Fastest journey on Oct 30

1 h 17 m

Average journey duration on Oct 30

1 h 19 m

Trains on Oct 30

6

Distance

119 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carlisle to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Carlisle to Edinburgh will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.

Fast trains

On Fri, Oct 30, we found 6 trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh, including 6 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 30 the direct trains cover the 119 km distance in an average of 1 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 17 m .

On Fri, Oct 30 the slowest trains will take 1 h 22 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.

  • Avanti West CoastW34144
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine ExpressW85164
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW33941
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine ExpressW85177
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine ExpressW85168
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Carlisle to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 (€13) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 23:10. The fastest train covers the 73 miles (119 km) distance in 1h 13m.

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 $11 (€9)

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance73 miles (119 km)
  • Average train duration1h 23m
  • Cheapest ticket price$15 (€13)
  • Trains per day6
  • Direct trains5
  • Fastest train1h 13m
  • First train4:45 AM
  • Last train11:10 PM
  • Cheapest MonthOct
  • Cheapest DayFri
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayThu
  • Least Busy DayMon
  • Best time to book14 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 $11 (€9)

Frequently asked questions about your Carlisle to Edinburgh trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Carlisle to Edinburgh.

Train ticket prices from Carlisle to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15 (€13), while the average price is around $38 (€32).
The train from Carlisle to Edinburgh takes 1h 13m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Carlisle to Edinburgh is 73 miles (119 km).
The first train from Carlisle to Edinburgh leaves at 4:45 AM.
The last train from Carlisle to Edinburgh leaves at 11:10 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Carlisle to Edinburgh. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express.

Live departures

Carlisle to Edinburgh train times

The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transpennine ExpressW851648:17 AM Carlisle station (CAR)
1h24
9:41 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW342139:02 AM Carlisle station (CAR)
1h17
10:19 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8516810:16 AM Carlisle station (CAR)
1h21
11:37 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW3414411:02 AM Carlisle station (CAR)
1h18
12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8517712:10 PM Carlisle station (CAR)
1h22
1:32 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW339411:01 PM Carlisle station (CAR)
1h18
2:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Carlisle to Edinburgh trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Scotrail and more offer trains services from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Edinburgh.

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 Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, CrossCountry or Scotrail to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
  • 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, CrossCountry or Scotrail to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Edinburgh.

Train companies

Train companies from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh with Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, and Northern Rail. High-speed trains available on this route with Transpennine Express and Avanti West Coast. Regional trains available on this route with Northern Rail and Scotrail. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$15 (€13)
Transpennine Express frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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
1h 13m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$16 (€13)
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
2h 53m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$55 (€47)
Northern Rail frequency
3 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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$81 (€68)
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Scotrail

About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
3h 1m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$50 (€42)
Scotrail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Carlisle and Edinburgh

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
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.

Complete guide to Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum of Scotland

Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.

  • Must visit

National Gallery of Scotland

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.

British pound sterling (£)

Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.

Plan your visit to Edinburgh

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Edinburgh.

Yes, the train journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh is considered scenic, as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Borders and offers views of rolling hills and historic landmarks.
Popular day trips by train from Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
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 Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Carlisle to Edinburgh.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Most Carlisle to Edinburgh trains use the Carlisle to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh

Which Carlisle station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?

Trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh 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 1QZShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
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.

Train stations for Carlisle to Edinburgh

Check train stations information for Carlisle and Edinburgh, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Carlisle that goes to Edinburgh is Carlisle, which connects to Edinburgh Waverley.

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