- Must visit
Tullie
City museum with Roman finds, natural history, fine art and local archaeology. An excellent introduction to Carlisle and Cumbria in one compact visit.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Manchester to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 06 Oct
Cheapest price on 06 Oct
£13
Average ticket price on 06 Oct
£22
Fastest journey on 06 Oct
3 h
Average journey duration on 06 Oct
4 h 13 m
Buses on 06 Oct
3
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Manchester to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Carlisle will cost around £22 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £13.
Fast coaches
On Tue 06 Oct, we found 3 buses from Manchester to Carlisle, including 2 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 164 km distance in an average of 4 h 13 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h .
The slowest buses will take 6 h 25 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.
FlixBus · FlixBus23:306h25Manchester, Shudehill Interchange5:55Carlisle£131One-way1 change
NX1811:353h15Manchester, Coach Station4:50Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)£231One-way0 changes- NX59015:103h00Manchester, Coach Station18:10Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)£281One-way0 changes
- NX59015:103h00Manchester, Coach Station18:10Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)£281One-way0 changes
- NX1811:353h15Manchester, Coach Station4:50Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street)£231One-way0 changes
- FlixBus · FlixBus23:306h25Manchester, Shudehill Interchange5:55Carlisle£131One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Carlisle run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £11 by train.
There are 2 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 164 km distance in 3h 0m.
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 £11
Distance 164 km |
Average bus duration 3h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 3h 0m |
First bus 0:45 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 £11
Live departures
Manchester to Carlisle bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Carlisle coaches for today, Monday 5 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 23:30 Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 6h25 | 5:55 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| Tuesday 6 October | |||||
| NX181 | 1:35 Manchester, Coach Station | 3h15 | 4:50 Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 0 changesdirect | |
| NX590 | 15:10 Manchester, Coach Station | 3h00 | 18:10 Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Carlisle coaches with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Manchester to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Manchester 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Manchester 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 to Carlisle.
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Manchester to CarlisleYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Carlisle with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £11. 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 FlixBus Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£13
FlixBus frequency
1 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 National Express Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
£23
National Express frequency
2 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.
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
Cumbria's Museum of Military Life
Military museum inside Carlisle Castle covering the regiment's history, campaigns and personal stories. Good for understanding the area's long army connections.
Settle to Carlisle Railway Trust Museum
Volunteer-run rail museum with restored locomotives, signals and railway memorabilia at a working station. A local favourite for transport history enthusiasts.
- Recommended
English Street
Central pedestrianised shopping street with historic buildings, markets and regular city activity. Useful for orientating yourself and seeing everyday Carlisle life.
- Recommended
Bitts Park
Riverside park beside the castle, popular for walks, events and open views across the Eden. A relaxing green space close to Carlisle's main heritage sights.
Rickerby Park
Broad riverside meadow with paths, sports space and pleasant views near the city centre. A quieter local favourite for walking and stretching your legs.
Cumberland Sausage
A traditional Cumberland sausage made with chopped pork and pepper, often coiled. It is a defining local speciality of Cumbria and the Carlisle area.
Cumberland Rum Nicky
A rich fruit cake from Cumbria made with currants, spices and often lard or butter. It is closely linked with local baking traditions.
- Vegetarian
Cumberland Fairings
A crumbly oat biscuit from Cumbria, usually baked on a griddle. It is a classic local teatime item in Carlisle and across the county.
Pentonbridge Inn
Stylish restaurant in the city centre serving modern British dishes, steaks and cocktails in a smart but relaxed setting.
Foxes Cafe Lounge
Popular independent café and restaurant for brunch, coffee and seasonal plates in a relaxed central Carlisle setting.
The Old Bank
Historic city centre pub known for traditional British meals, cask ales and a classic Carlisle atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in major cities, while local buses and everyday costs remain fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Cafés do not usually expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- >£3
To the city centre
Carlisle Station -> Carlisle Bus Station, Carlisle
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local services use Carlisle Bus Station; Cumberland Council publishes official timetables there.
- Stagecoach says contactless payment is available on its buses, and adult single fares in Carlisle are capped at £3.
Best day trips from Carlisle by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Carlisle are Keswick and Penrith. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Carlisle on Omio.
Day trip from Carlisle to Keswick by bus
Why visit Keswick for the day?
Keswick is a compact Lake District market town beside Derwentwater, known for fell walking and outdoor life. With Skiddaw above and Borrowdale nearby, it mixes slate-built streets, independent shops and literary links.
Day trip from Carlisle to Penrith by bus
Why visit Penrith for the day?
Penrith is a Cumbrian market town known for its red sandstone streets and easy access to the Lake District. It has a practical, lived-in feel, with independent shops, historic buildings, and nearby landmarks such as Penrith Castle.
How to get from Carlisle to Penrith by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:55, the last at 23:45. The fastest coach covers the 28 km distance in 35m.
FAQs: Manchester to Carlisle coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Carlisle 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 Carlisle, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Carlisle can start from as little as £13 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Carlisle is £28; 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 Manchester to Carlisle is 3h 0m to travel the 164 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 Manchester to Carlisle leaves at 0:45. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Carlisle leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 2 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Carlisle with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Carlisle, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Carlisle. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Carlisle and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Manchester , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange . When arriving in Carlisle , you can end your route in coach stations like Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street), Carlisle.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street), located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Carlisle including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Carlisle:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Carlisle for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Carlisle 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Manchester to Carlisle.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Carlisle:
- 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 Manchester to Carlisle:
- 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 Manchester to Carlisle. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Manchester to Carlisle with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Carlisle with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Carlisle with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Carlisle
Most Manchester to Carlisle buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street) station pair, with some services arriving at Carlisle. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Carlisle bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Manchester
Arrival bus stations in Carlisle
Which Manchester station do buses to Carlisle leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Carlisle leave from Manchester, Airport. The station is 3 km from Manchester city centre at Manchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom.
Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · £4 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · £0.89 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · £2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · £2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · £4 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · £4 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · £2 · every ~231 min
Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Coach 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), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange from Manchester city centre
Bus163, 118, 119, 18, 112, 114, 117, 81 · 3m · £2 · every ~69 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 2m · £2 · every ~23 min
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Which Carlisle station do buses from Manchester arrive at?
Buses from Manchester to Carlisle most often arrive at Carlisle, Bus Station (Lonsdale Street). Some services arrive at Carlisle, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Carlisle arrival station.
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.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carlisle and Manchester
Most popular bus connections
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