- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
National museum covering science, design, world cultures and Scottish history. Excellent for varied collections and a dramatic central hall.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Carlisle to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for 26 Aug
Cheapest price
£21
Average price
£21
Fastest journey
5 h 35 m
Average duration
5 h 35 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
119 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Carlisle to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carlisle to Edinburgh will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £21.
Fast coaches
To travel from Carlisle to Edinburgh you need to make at least one change.
NX181 · NX5914:505h35Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)10:25Edinburgh, Bus Station£211One-way1 change
- NX181 · NX5914:505h35Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)10:25Edinburgh, Bus Station£211One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Carlisle to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £8, and a train costs an average of £7.
Distance: 119 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
£18 Average Price Cheapest | £18 Average Price |
3h 36m Average total duration 3h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Carlisle to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Edinburgh coaches for today, Tuesday 25 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX181 · NX591 | 4:50 Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 5h35 | 10:25 Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 change | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carlisle to Edinburgh by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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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26 Aug
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29 Aug
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Why should you book Carlisle to Edinburgh coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express or Borders Buses offer coaches services from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express or Borders Buses to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express or Borders Buses to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Carlisle to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Carlisle to Edinburgh run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 6m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £8 but you can travel from only £7 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 03:50, the last at 23:20. The fastest coach covers the 119 km distance in 4h 9m.
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
Train from £7
Distance 119 km |
Average bus duration 3h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 9m |
First bus 3:50 |
Last bus 23:20 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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
Train from £7
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express, Borders Buses from Carlisle to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Carlisle to Edinburgh with FlixBus, National Express, Borders Buses for as low as £7. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 9m
Cheapest Price
£8
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 35m
Cheapest Price
£18
National Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Borders Buses
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
£8
Borders Buses frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
Scottish National Gallery
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance to the late nineteenth century, beside Princes Street Gardens.
- Recommended
Fruitmarket
Contemporary art gallery in a converted schoolhouse, known for thoughtful exhibitions by Scottish and international artists near the Royal Mile.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, shops and public buildings. Ideal for first-time visitors on foot.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano with popular walking routes and broad views over the city and coast. A rewarding outdoor escape close to the centre.
- Recommended
Princes Street Gardens
Large public gardens below the castle, good for a break between Old and New Town sights, with monuments, lawns and seasonal planting.
- Gluten-free
Cullen skink
A rich Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, closely associated with east coast cooking and widely enjoyed in Edinburgh.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding of sheep’s offal, oats and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties at Burns suppers.
- Vegetarian
Cranachan
A classic Scottish dessert of raspberries, whipped cream, honey and toasted oats, often linked with soft fruit from eastern Scotland.
The Kitchin
Elegant dining room serving refined Scottish tasting menus focused on seasonal produce in a calm central setting.
Whiski Rooms
Popular traditional restaurant near the Castle, specialising in haggis, game and hearty Scottish comfort food.
The Cafe Royal
Stylish brasserie and oyster bar with Scottish seafood, shellfish and classic dishes in a grand city-centre space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Rooms and dining are pricier in peak season, but buses are affordable and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs usually do not expect tips.
Bus & Tram
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Edinburgh Bus Station -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment works on Lothian Buses and for adult single tram tickets. Tram contactless capping is available, but Lothian bus TapTapCap does not apply on trams.
- City Day tickets are valid on Lothian Buses and on Edinburgh Trams within the city zone only. Travel to or from Edinburgh Airport needs the appropriate airport or network fare.
Coaches from Carlisle to Edinburgh
Travelling from the Cumbrian city of Carlisle to the Scottish capital has never been easier, thanks to direct coaches from National Express. Passengers can expect journey times of three hours ten minutes along the 100-mile route, with service regularity continuing seven days a week. Each day, National Express offers two coaches, giving passengers access to the Scottish capital with comfort and ease.
Which coach companies travel from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
There is only one company offering coaches from Carlisle to Edinburgh and that is National Express. As the largest coach provider across the UK, National Express has a high standard of onboard facilities, including comfortable seating with generous legroom, personal air conditioning control, and free WiFi. Passengers are allowed two pieces of 20kg luggage each, which can be stored in the hold.
How long is the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
The coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh takes between three hours ten minutes and three hours 25 minutes to cover the 100-mile route. Often, the journey is completed more quickly, but National Express factor in road congestion when planning their routes.
How many coaches are there from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
Each day, National Express provides two direct departures between the two cities. This continues throughout the weekend, with both departures leaving Carlisle in the afternoon. The exact departure time may vary slightly, so passengers should check before travelling to ensure they do not miss their coach.
What are the departure and arrival stations for coaches from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
Departure bus station: Coaches depart from Carlisle Lonsdale Street. The centrally located station is a short five-minute walk from the train station. It is also served by several local bus routes. Facilities at the station are relatively limited, but the town centre gives travellers access to everything else they may need, including high street shops and restaurants.
Arrival bus station: Services terminate at Edinburgh Elder Street Coach Station. The busy Edinburgh Waverley train station is less than half a mile away, which will take passengers 10 minutes to walk. Passengers can choose to walk via Multrees Walk, full of high-end designer stores, or past St. Andrew's square and the more historic Melville Monument. Facilities at the station include toilets, though passengers will need some change to enter, payphones, ATMs, cycle storage and left luggage facilities.
FAQs: Carlisle to Edinburgh coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Edinburgh by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Carlisle to Edinburgh can start from as little as £8 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Carlisle to Edinburgh is £18; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh is 4h 9m to travel the 119 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh leaves at 3:50. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh leaves at 23:20.
There are 4 coaches a day from Carlisle to Edinburgh which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express, Borders Buses. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh, you can count on FlixBus, National Express, Borders Buses for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Carlisle and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Carlisle , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Carlisle, Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your route in coach stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station, Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB), Edinburgh, Drum Brae South, Edinburgh, St Andrew's House, Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF), Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1).Passengers board the coach most frequently from Carlisle, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Edinburgh from Carlisle is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 9m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlisle and Edinburgh including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh for coach company FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Carlisle to Edinburgh depends on the coach companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Carlisle to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Carlisle to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Carlisle to Edinburgh with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Carlisle and Edinburgh
Most Carlisle to Edinburgh buses use the Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Carlisle
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Which Carlisle station do buses to Edinburgh leave from?
Buses from Carlisle to Edinburgh leave from Carlisle. The station is from Carlisle city centre at Carlisle, UK.
CarlisleCarlisle, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Carlisle from Carlisle city centre
Bus67, 63, 63A, 61, 62, 64 · 5m · £8 · every ~50 min
Carlisle bus station facilities and services
Carlisle has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carlisle. ATMs are available at Carlisle.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carlisle.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carlisle: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carlisle: Wheelchair accessible entrance and services.
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)Lonsdale St, Carlisle, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) from Carlisle city centre
BusX95 · 6m · £4 · every ~1 min
63, 63A, 62, 64 · 6m · £8 · every ~19 min
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) bus station facilities and services
Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street). ATMs are available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street): Wheelchair accessible entrances and paths present.
Which Edinburgh station do buses from Carlisle arrive at?
Buses from Carlisle to Edinburgh most often arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Some services arrive at {secondaryArrivalStation}, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Edinburgh arrival station.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · £2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · £0.90 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · £4 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Edinburgh, St Andrew's HouseEdinburgh EH7 5BN, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, St Andrew's House from Edinburgh city centre
BusX19, 43, X18, X27, X28 · 6m · £2 · every ~36 min
15, 26, 44, X26 · 7m · £0.90 · every ~40 min
Uk090 · 8m · £0.90 · every ~1 min
Uk090 · 8m · £0.90 · every ~15 min
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1)Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 6TS, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) from Edinburgh city centre
Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) is 4 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1). ATMs are available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1): Bus stop is accessible with a curbside stop.
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Carlisle
Most popular bus connections
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