- Must visit
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery
Leading city museum and gallery with Roman, Border Reiver, natural history, and art collections in a historic house.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester Airport to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€35
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€69
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 13 m
Trains on Sep 19
6
Distance
176 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester Airport to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester Airport to Carlisle will cost around €69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €35.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 6 trains from Manchester Airport to Carlisle, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 176 km distance in an average of 2 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 5 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 2 h 18 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.
W851699:04 AM2h14Manchester Airport (MIA)11:18 AMCarlisle station (CAR)€351One-way0 transfers- W851678:04 AM2h11Manchester Airport (MIA)10:15 AMCarlisle station (CAR)€441One-way0 transfers
- W8517610:04 AM2h05Manchester Airport (MIA)12:09 PMCarlisle station (CAR)€461One-way0 transfers
W33515+
G890459:29 AM2h23Manchester Airport (MIA)11:52 AMCarlisle station (CAR)€951One-way1 transfer- W33533+G8904710:29 AM2h18Manchester Airport (MIA)12:47 PMCarlisle station (CAR)€951One-way1 transfer
- W8517610:04 AM2h05Manchester Airport (MIA)12:09 PMCarlisle station (CAR)€461One-way0 transfers
- W851678:04 AM2h11Manchester Airport (MIA)10:15 AMCarlisle station (CAR)€441One-way0 transfers
- W851699:04 AM2h14Manchester Airport (MIA)11:18 AMCarlisle station (CAR)€351One-way0 transfers
- W33533+G8904710:29 AM2h18Manchester Airport (MIA)12:47 PMCarlisle station (CAR)€951One-way1 transfer
- W33734+G890638:29 AM2h18Manchester Airport (MIA)10:47 AMCarlisle station (CAR)€951One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Manchester Airport to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester Airport to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €30 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 44m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €30, while a train costs an average of €50.
Distance: 109 miles (176 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€50 Average price | €30 Average price Cheapest | €38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration 4h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester Airport to Carlisle is a bus with an average price of €30.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester Airport to Carlisle:
A bus is €20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle costing on average €50.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester Airport to Carlisle is by train with an average journey time of 2h 14m.
Other travel options to Carlisle take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester Airport and Carlisle including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester Airport to Carlisle 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 1m sooner (2h 14m by train vs 2h 15m by car). Tickets start at around €50 compared to roughly €38 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 Transpennine Express, 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
Manchester Airport to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester Airport to Carlisle trains for today, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W85168 | On time 8:04 AM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 2h10 | 10:14 AM Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34177+G89062 | Delayed 8:41 AM 8:29 AMManchester Airport (MIA) | 2h18 | 10:47 AM Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 transfer | |
| W85170 | On time 9:04 AM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 2h13 | 11:17 AM Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34254+G89045 | Delayed 9:42 AM 9:29 AMManchester Airport (MIA) | 2h20 | 11:49 AM Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 transfer | |
| W85177 | On time 10:04 AM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 2h05 | 12:09 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33912+G89047 | Delayed 10:41 AM 10:29 AMManchester Airport (MIA) | 2h18 | 12:47 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 transfer | |
| W85196 | On time 3:04 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 2h10 | 5:14 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34069+G89053 | Delayed 3:41 PM 3:29 PMManchester Airport (MIA) | 2h25 | 5:54 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 transfer | |
| W85201 | On time 4:04 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 2h12 | 6:16 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34082+G89055 | Delayed 4:41 PM 4:29 PMManchester Airport (MIA) | 2h20 | 6:49 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 transfer | |
| W85205 | On time 5:04 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 2h11 | 7:15 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89554+C01318 | On time 5:17 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 2h34 | 7:51 PM Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester Airport to Carlisle by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Why should you book Manchester Airport to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester Airport to Carlisle run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €17 but you can travel from only €16 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:29, the last at 08:29. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (176 km) distance in 2h 2m.
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 €16
Distance 109 miles (176 km) |
Average train duration 2h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price €17 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 2m |
First train 7:29 AM |
Last train 8:29 AM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 €16
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, Lumo from Manchester Airport to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, Lumo trains will get you between Manchester Airport and Carlisle from €16. 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
2h 6m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€17
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
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
2h 2m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
€19
Transpennine Express frequency
4 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
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 14m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
€20
Northern Rail frequency
2 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
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
2h 10m
Cheapest Lumo Price
€54
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 Carlisle
Things to do in Carlisle
Discover the best of Carlisle — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carlisle trip today.
- Recommended
Tullie House Military Museum
Major museum inside Carlisle Castle exploring Cumbria's military past, regimental history, and border conflicts.
- Recommended
Roman Frontier Gallery
Hands-on Roman frontier gallery at Tullie House presenting Hadrian's Wall finds and frontier life in Cumbria.
- Recommended
Bitts Park
Large central park with historic features, play areas, walks, and frequent events near the city centre.
- Recommended
Rickerby Park
Popular riverside park with trails, picnic areas, and open green space ideal for walking or relaxing by the Eden.
- Recommended
Eden Riverside Walk
Attractive riverside walk near the castle and cathedral, offering green views and one of Carlisle's best strolls.
Cumberland Sausage
Cumberland Sausage is the area’s signature coiled pork sausage, seasoned with pepper and herbs. It is a protected regional specialty long associated with Cumbria.
- Gluten-free
Cumberland Hotpot
A hearty hotpot of lamb or mutton with onions and sliced potatoes, linked to old Cumbrian farm cooking and valued for its simple, filling character.
- Gluten-free
Carlisle Broth
This traditional Cumbrian soup combines ham broth, split peas and vegetables. It reflects frugal northern cooking and is still a comforting local staple.
Alexanders
Established city-centre restaurant known for polished modern British cooking, tasting menus and a refined but relaxed atmosphere.
Fellinis Restaurant
Well-regarded independent bistro focused on locally sourced British food, steaks and seasonal specials in a casual setting.
The Howard Arms
Historic traditional pub serving cask ales and classic British dishes in a characterful setting close to Carlisle Castle.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than major cities, while local buses and trains are standard regional prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up small cafe bills and taxi fares.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Carlisle Railway Station -> Carlisle City Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses in Carlisle are operated by Stagecoach; contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses.
- Carlisle city centre is walkable from Carlisle Railway Station, so you may not need a bus for central trips.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester Airport to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester Airport to Carlisle by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Carlisle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester Airport to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €17, while the average price is around €50.
The train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle takes 2h 2m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle leaves at 7:29 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle is 109 miles (176 km).
The last train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle leaves at 8:29 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Transpennine Express.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
The cheapest way to get from Manchester Airport to Carlisle is by bus, with a cost of around €16.
The train journey from Manchester Airport to Carlisle offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District and the Pennines, providing travelers with a glimpse of the rolling hills and charming countryside of Northern England.
A day trip from Manchester Airport to Carlisle is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 2m. Trains run 10 times per day.
To explore Carlisle, including its historic attractions like Carlisle Castle and Tullie House Museum, and to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty such as the Lake District or Hadrian's Wall, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester Airport to Carlisle.
Since neither Manchester Airport nor Carlisle are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Carlisle include Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Preston, Dumfries.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester Airport to Carlisle among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Carlisle, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and transportation hubs. Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for help or transportation, as unofficial taxis or guides may overcharge. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed services helps ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Manchester Airport to Carlisle
Most Manchester Airport to Carlisle trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester Airport and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Manchester
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
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.
Most popular train connections from Manchester Airport
More options for your journey from Manchester Airport to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Manchester Airport
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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