- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carlisle to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
€13
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€15
Fastest journey on Sep 18
1 h 8 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
1 h 9 m
Trains on Sep 18
3
Distance
126 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carlisle to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carlisle to Preston will cost around €15 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €13.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 3 trains from Carlisle to Preston, including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 126 km distance in an average of 1 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 8 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 1 h 12 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.
8:25 PM1h12Carlisle9:37 PMPreston€131One-way0 transfers- 8:49 AM1h08Carlisle9:57 AMPreston€151One-way0 transfers
- 8:08 AM1h08Carlisle9:16 AMPreston€181One-way0 transfers
- 8:49 AM1h08Carlisle9:57 AMPreston€151One-way0 transfers
- 8:08 AM1h08Carlisle9:16 AMPreston€181One-way0 transfers
- 8:25 PM1h12Carlisle9:37 PMPreston€131One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Carlisle to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €27 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 41m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €27, while a bus costs an average of €27.
Distance: 78 miles (126 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€27 Average price Cheapest | €27 Average price | €27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 26m Average total duration 2h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Carlisle to Preston is a train with an average price of €27.
This is compared to other travel options from Carlisle to Preston:
A train is €0.32 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Carlisle to Preston costing on average €27.
The fastest way to travel from Carlisle to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 56m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlisle and Preston including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 31m sooner (1h 11m by train vs 1h 42m by car). Tickets start at around €27 compared to roughly €27 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Carlisle to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Preston 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:08 AM Carlisle | 1h08 | 9:16 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:49 AM Carlisle | 1h08 | 9:57 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:25 PM Carlisle | 1h12 | 9:37 PM Preston | 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 Preston 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Why should you book Carlisle to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Carlisle to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Preston.
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, Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Preston.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carlisle to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carlisle to Preston run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €10 if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 78 miles (126 km) distance in 1h 4m.
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 (126 km) |
Average train duration 1h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price €10 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 1h 4m |
First train 4:15 AM |
Last train 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Lumo from Carlisle to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Lumo trains will get you between Carlisle and Preston from €10. 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
1h 4m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€12
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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
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 11m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
€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
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
1h 6m
Cheapest Lumo Price
€10
Lumo frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Preston; ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket.
- Most local travel is by bus from Preston Bus Station; check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app before you travel.
FAQs: Trains from Carlisle to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Carlisle to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €10, while the average price is around €27.
The train from Carlisle to Preston takes 1h 4m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Carlisle to Preston leaves at 4:15 AM.
The distance by train from Carlisle to Preston is 78 miles (126 km).
The last train from Carlisle to Preston leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Carlisle to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train from Carlisle to Preston. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express.
Yes, there is a night train from Carlisle to Preston.
The train station in Carlisle that goes to Preston is Carlisle station (CAR), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Carlisle to Preston is by train, with a cost of around €10.
The train journey from Carlisle to Preston offers scenic views of the picturesque Cumbrian countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, making it a pleasant and visually appealing route.
Yes, a day trip from Carlisle to Preston is feasible with a travel time of 1h 4m each way, a distance of 78 miles (126 km), and a train frequency of 6 per day.
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlisle to Preston.
Since neither Carlisle nor Preston 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 Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlisle to Preston 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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help 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 Carlisle to Preston
Most Carlisle to Preston trains use the Carlisle to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Preston 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 Preston
Which Carlisle station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Carlisle to Preston 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 · €9 · 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 Preston station do trains from Carlisle arrive at?
Trains from Carlisle to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · €9 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Carlisle
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Carlisle
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