- 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 Portsmouth to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 23
Cheapest price on Sep 23
$100
Average ticket price on Sep 23
$100
Fastest journey on Sep 23
6 h 11 m
Average journey duration on Sep 23
6 h 11 m
Trains on Sep 23
1
Distance
472 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Portsmouth to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Carlisle will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.
Fast trains
On Wed, Sep 23, we found 1 trains from Portsmouth to Carlisle, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Sep 23 the direct trains cover the 472 km distance in an average of 6 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 11 m .
On Wed, Sep 23 the slowest trains will take 6 h 11 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.
10:37 AM6h11Portsmouth4:48 PMCarlisle$1001One-way0 transfers
- 10:37 AM6h11Portsmouth4:48 PMCarlisle$1001One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Portsmouth to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $64 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $64, while a flight costs an average of $266.
Distance: 293 miles (472 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$202 Average price | $266 Average price | $64 Average price Cheapest | $125 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 5m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 1h 12m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 10h 36m Average total duration 10h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Portsmouth to Carlisle is a bus with an average price of $64.
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Carlisle:
A bus is $137 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Carlisle costing on average $202.
A bus is $202 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Portsmouth to Carlisle costing on average $266.
The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Carlisle is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 12m.
Other travel options to Carlisle take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 35m.
Bus takes on average 10h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Carlisle including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth 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 45m sooner (5h 35m by train vs 6h 20m by car). Tickets start at around $202 compared to roughly $125 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.
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
Portsmouth to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Carlisle trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:37 AM Portsmouth | 6h11 | 4:48 PM Carlisle | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Carlisle by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Portsmouth to Carlisle trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Lumo or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Lumo or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Lumo or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Portsmouth to Carlisle run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $187 but you can travel from only $56 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:42, the last at 20:08. The fastest train covers the 293 miles (472 km) distance in 5h 23m.
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 $56
Distance 293 miles (472 km) |
Average train duration 5h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $187 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 23m |
First train 1:42 AM |
Last train 8:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $56
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo from Portsmouth to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo trains will get you between Portsmouth and Carlisle from $56. 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
5h 23m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$187
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
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
6h 9m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$191
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
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
5h 38m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$203
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 Portsmouth to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $187, while the average price is around $202.
The train from Portsmouth to Carlisle takes 5h 23m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Portsmouth to Carlisle is 293 miles (472 km).
The first train from Portsmouth to Carlisle leaves at 1:42 AM.
The last train from Portsmouth to Carlisle leaves at 8:08 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
There is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Carlisle is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), which connects to Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Portsmouth to Carlisle is by bus, with a cost of around $56.
The train journey from Portsmouth to Carlisle offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of historic towns along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Carlisle.
Popular day trips by train from Carlisle include Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Preston, Dumfries.
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 Portsmouth to Carlisle
Most Portsmouth to Carlisle trains use the Portsmouth & Southsea to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Portsmouth
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Portsmouth station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Portsmouth to Carlisle leave from Portsmouth & Southsea. The station is from Portsmouth city centre at Portsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ.
Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.
Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services
Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Portsmouth arrive at?
Trains from Portsmouth to Carlisle arrive at Carlisle. Carlisle is 0 miles (1 km) from Carlisle city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Portsmouth
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