- Must visit
Dean Castle
The town's leading museum in Dean Castle Country Park, showcasing local history, decorative arts, and musical instruments in a castle setting.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Carlisle to Kilmarnock
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to Kilmarnock among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $12, and a bus costs an average of $25.
Distance: 78 miles (127 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$28 Average price Cheapest | $43 Average price | $33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Carlisle to Kilmarnock is a train with an average price of $28.
This is compared to other travel options from Carlisle to Kilmarnock:
A train is $15 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Carlisle to Kilmarnock costing on average $43.
The fastest way to travel from Carlisle to Kilmarnock is by train with an average journey time of 1h 58m.
Other travel options to Kilmarnock take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlisle and Kilmarnock including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Kilmarnock among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 7m faster (1h 58m by train vs 2h 5m by car) and roughly $5 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($28 vs $33). 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 Scotrail, ScotRail.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Carlisle to Kilmarnock by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
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Why should you book Carlisle to Kilmarnock trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail and more offer trains services from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
- 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carlisle to Kilmarnock run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:22, the last at 22:43. The fastest train covers the 78 miles (127 km) distance in 1h 43m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 78 miles (127 km) |
Average train duration 1h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 43m |
First train 5:22 AM |
Last train 10:43 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Train companies: Scotrail, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, TransPennine Express from Carlisle to Kilmarnock trainsScotrail, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Carlisle and Kilmarnock from $12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
$37
Scotrail frequency
3 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
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 Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Price
$21
Transpennine Express frequency
2 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
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$132
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
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 Duration
2h 30m
Cheapest Price
$12
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
ScotRail
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 42m
Cheapest Price
$67
ScotRail frequency
5 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 14m
Cheapest Price
$88
TransPennine Express frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Kilmarnock
Things to do in Kilmarnock
Discover the best of Kilmarnock — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kilmarnock trip today.
- Must visit
Dumfries House
Nearby stately home with curated interiors and collections, giving context to Ayrshire aristocratic life and design.
- Recommended
Auchinleck House
Small local museum interpreting the life and work of rural poet Sir Alexander Boswell within the historic estate near Kilmarnock.
- Must visit
Dean Castle Country Park
Large country park with woodland walks, gardens, play areas, and the castle. Kilmarnock's standout green escape for families and walkers.
- Recommended
King Street
Historic town-centre street lined with traditional buildings, shops, and civic landmarks, ideal for understanding Kilmarnock's urban character.
- Recommended
Kay Park
Popular local park with open lawns, mature trees, sports facilities, and pleasant paths close to the town centre.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Irn-Bru
A soft fruit drink created in Kilmarnock in 1901. It is a proud local icon, strongly linked to the town’s identity and Ayrshire nostalgia.
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
Scotland’s national dish of minced sheep offal with oats, suet, and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties and common in local pubs.
Mince And Tatties Pie
An Ayrshire classic of minced beef and gravy topped with mashed potato, baked until golden. It is hearty comfort food found across local menus.
La Dragon
Established Italian restaurant known for pasta, pizza, and relaxed dining. A dependable local favourite for casual meals in the town centre.
The Balti House
Popular Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for curries, tandoori dishes, and friendly service in an informal atmosphere.
The Blues Restaurant
Stylish contemporary venue at The Park Hotel, serving Scottish and European dishes in a polished but approachable setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than major cities, while dining and local transport are similar to other Scottish towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up in taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.80
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Kilmarnock Railway Station -> Kilmarnock Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most Stagecoach West Scotland buses in Kilmarnock. Ask the driver for the cheapest fare if unsure.
- Kilmarnock is compact, and the rail station is a short walk from the town centre. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Carlisle to Kilmarnock
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Carlisle to Kilmarnock can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $28.
The train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock takes 1h 43m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock leaves at 5:22 AM.
The distance by train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock is 78 miles (127 km).
The last train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock leaves at 10:43 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
Yes, there is a direct train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Scotrail, ScotRail.
Yes, there is a night train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
The train station in Carlisle that goes to Kilmarnock is Carlisle station (CAR), which connects to Kilmarnock station (KMK).
The cheapest way to get from Carlisle to Kilmarnock is by train, with a cost of around $12.
Yes, the train journey from Carlisle to Kilmarnock offers scenic views, including rolling countryside, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes typical of the border region between England and Scotland.
A day trip from Carlisle to Kilmarnock is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 43m. However, there are 6 trains per day. The distance is 78 miles (127 km).
A stay of 1 to 2 days in Kilmarnock is generally sufficient to explore local attractions, enjoy the town's cultural offerings, and visit nearby sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlisle to Kilmarnock.
Since neither Carlisle nor Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock include Glasgow, Edinburgh, Troon, Dumfries, Rutherglen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas and on public transport. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated places at night. Scams are relatively uncommon but staying alert to unsolicited offers or overly aggressive street vendors helps 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 Kilmarnock
Most Carlisle to Kilmarnock trains use the Carlisle to Kilmarnock station pair. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock
Which Carlisle station do trains to Kilmarnock leave from?
Trains from Carlisle to Kilmarnock 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 · $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.
Which Kilmarnock station do trains from Carlisle arrive at?
Trains from Carlisle to Kilmarnock arrive at Kilmarnock. Kilmarnock is from Kilmarnock city centre.
KilmarnockKilmarnock station, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 2AF
City-centre transport
Getting to Kilmarnock from Kilmarnock city centre
Bus3, 6, 7 · 37m · $2 · every ~23 min
Kilmarnock train station facilities and services
Kilmarnock has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Kilmarnock.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kilmarnock.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kilmarnock. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kilmarnock: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kilmarnock: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kilmarnock: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. Level to platforms 1,2&3 underpass with lifts connecting platform 4. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 6, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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 Carlisle
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Kilmarnock
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kilmarnock and Carlisle
Most popular train connections to Kilmarnock
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