- 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 Reading to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$238
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$357
Fastest journey on Oct 13
4 h 41 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
4 h 44 m
Trains on Oct 13
13
Distance
404 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Carlisle will cost around $357 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $238.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Reading to Carlisle without transferring at least once.
9:15 PM5h00Reading2:15 AMCarlisle$2381One-way1 transfer- 6:15 AM4h45Reading11:00 AMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 7:15 AM4h41Reading11:56 AMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 8:15 AM4h44Reading12:59 PMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 9:15 AM4h46Reading2:01 PMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 7:15 AM4h41Reading11:56 AMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 8:15 AM4h44Reading12:59 PMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 11:15 AM4h44Reading3:59 PMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 6:15 AM4h45Reading11:00 AMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
- 10:15 AM4h45Reading3:00 PMCarlisle$3671One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Reading to Carlisle and enjoy the approximately 251 miles (404 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 22:26.
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 251 miles (404 km) |
First train 1:45 AM |
Last train 10:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Live departures
Reading to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Carlisle trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 AM Reading | 4h45 | 11:00 AM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 7:15 AM Reading | 4h41 | 11:56 AM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 8:15 AM Reading | 4h44 | 12:59 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 9:15 AM Reading | 4h46 | 2:01 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 10:15 AM Reading | 4h45 | 3:00 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 11:15 AM Reading | 4h44 | 3:59 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 12:15 PM Reading | 4h48 | 5:03 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 1:15 PM Reading | 4h48 | 6:03 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 2:16 PM Reading | 4h48 | 7:04 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 3:14 PM Reading | 4h45 | 7:59 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 4:15 PM Reading | 4h46 | 9:01 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 5:15 PM Reading | 4h46 | 10:01 PM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
| 9:15 PM Reading | 5h00 | 2:15 AM Carlisle | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Cross Country from Reading to Carlisle trainsCross Country trains will get you between Reading and Carlisle. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
4h 41m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
$238 (€200)
Cross Country frequency
12 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 Reading to Carlisle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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.
The distance by train from Reading to Carlisle is 251 miles (404 km).
The first train from Reading to Carlisle leaves at 1:45 AM.
The last train from Reading to Carlisle leaves at 10:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Carlisle.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Carlisle.
The train station in Reading that goes to Carlisle is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Carlisle station (CAR).
Yes, the train journey from Reading to Carlisle can be considered scenic, especially as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds and the rolling hills of the Lake District, offering beautiful countryside views along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading 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 Reading to Carlisle
Most Reading to Carlisle trains use the Reading to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Reading station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Reading to Carlisle leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · $2 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading 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.
More options for your journey from Reading to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Reading
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