- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$13
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$18
Fastest journey on Sep 01
1 h 7 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
1 h 8 m
Trains on Sep 01
3
Distance
126 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Carlisle will cost around $18 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 3 trains from Preston to Carlisle, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 126 km distance in an average of 1 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 7 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 1 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.
7:14 AM1h07Preston8:21 AMCarlisle$131One-way0 transfers- 8:14 AM1h07Preston9:21 AMCarlisle$151One-way0 transfers
8:05 PM1h11Preston9:16 PMCarlisle$251One-way0 transfers
- 8:14 AM1h07Preston9:21 AMCarlisle$151One-way0 transfers
- 7:14 AM1h07Preston8:21 AMCarlisle$131One-way0 transfers
- 8:05 PM1h11Preston9:16 PMCarlisle$251One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 44m. 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 $14, while a bus costs an average of $30.
Distance: 78 miles (126 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$14 Average price Cheapest | $30 Average price | $33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 44m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 58m Average total duration 2h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 44m 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 Preston to Carlisle is a train with an average price of $14 (€12).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Carlisle:
A train is $16 (€13) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Preston to Carlisle costing on average $30 (€24).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Carlisle is by train with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Carlisle take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Carlisle including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Carlisle among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 30m faster (1h 14m by train vs 1h 44m by car) and roughly $19 (€15) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($14 (€12) vs $33 (€27)). 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 Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Preston to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Carlisle trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:14 AM Preston | 1h07 | 8:21 AM Carlisle | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:14 AM Preston | 1h07 | 9:21 AM Carlisle | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston 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.
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Why should you book Preston to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Preston to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Carlisle.
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 Preston 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston 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 Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Carlisle.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Carlisle run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 7 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 7m.
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 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€10) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 1h 7m |
First train 4:15 AM |
Last train 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 2 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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express from Preston to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Preston and Carlisle from $13 (€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 7m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$13 (€10)
Avanti West Coast frequency
13 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 12m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$44 (€36)
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
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 Caledonian Sleeper Duration
1h 16m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
$43 (€35)
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
3 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
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
1h 10m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
$68 (€55)
TransPennine Express frequency
10 a day
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 Preston to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13 (€10), while the average price is around $14 (€12).
The train from Preston to Carlisle takes 1h 7m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Preston to Carlisle leaves at 4:15 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Carlisle is 78 miles (126 km).
The last train from Preston to Carlisle leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Carlisle.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Carlisle. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Carlisle.
The train station in Preston that goes to Carlisle is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Carlisle is by train, with a cost of around $13 (€10).
Yes, the train journey from Preston to Carlisle is considered scenic, offering views of the picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Lake District.
Yes, a day trip from Preston to Carlisle is feasible with a journey time of 1h 7m, a distance of 78 miles (126 km), and a train frequency of 6 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 Preston to Carlisle.
Since neither Preston 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, Dumfries, Penrith.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston 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 Preston to Carlisle
Most Preston to Carlisle trains use the Preston to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Preston station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Preston to Carlisle leave from Preston. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
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 · $11 · 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.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston 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 Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Preston
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
