- 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Bedford to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bedford to Carlisle run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £129 but you can travel from only £40 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 08:08, the last at 19:49. The fastest train covers the 348 km distance in 3h 55m.
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
Coach from £40
Distance 348 km |
Average train duration 4h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price £129 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 55m |
First train 8:08 |
Last train 19:49 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Coach from £40
Why should you book Bedford to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Lumo offer trains services from Bedford to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford 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 Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Bedford 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Carlisle.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Lumo from Bedford to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast, Lumo trains will get you between Bedford and Carlisle from £40. 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
4h 4m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£129
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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
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
3h 55m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£129
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
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
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £3
To the city centre
Carlisle Railway Station -> Carlisle Bus Station, Carlisle
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses, and adult single fares in Cumbria and North Lancashire are capped at £3.
- For travel within Carlisle, Stagecoach says it does not offer return tickets because a DayRider is the cheapest city option.
Best day trips from Carlisle by train
The most popular day trips by train from Carlisle are Edinburgh, Glasgow, Penrith, Lancaster and York. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Carlisle on Omio.
Day trip from Carlisle to Edinburgh by train
Why visit Edinburgh for the day?
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital, known for its medieval Old Town and graceful Georgian streets. Historic landmarks, literary roots and a strong festival culture give the city a distinct, atmospheric character.
How to get from Carlisle to Edinburgh by train?
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 23:10. The fastest train covers the 119 km distance in 1h 13m.
Day trip from Carlisle to Glasgow by train
Why visit Glasgow for the day?
Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, known for grand architecture, a strong music scene and a friendly, direct character. Its industrial past on the Clyde still shapes a city that now balances major museums, lively neighbourhoods and a clear cultural confidence.
How to get from Carlisle to Glasgow by train?
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:22, the last at 22:54. The fastest train covers the 136 km distance in 1h 11m.
Day trip from Carlisle to Penrith by train
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 train?
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:43, the last at 22:40. The fastest train covers the 28 km distance in 14m.
Day trip from Carlisle to Lancaster by train
Why visit Lancaster for the day?
Lancaster is known for its castle, Georgian architecture and ties to the House of Lancaster. Its compact centre, River Lune setting and student energy give the city a historic yet easy-going feel.
How to get from Carlisle to Lancaster by train?
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 21:58. The fastest train covers the 92 km distance in 46m.
Day trip from Carlisle to York by train
Why visit York for the day?
York is known for its Roman and Viking heritage, medieval streets and the imposing York Minster. Its compact centre, old walls and busy mix of shops, pubs and museums make it easy to grasp the city's historic character.
How to get from Carlisle to York by train?
The earliest train runs at 01:32, the last at 21:32. The fastest train covers the 159 km distance in 2h 18m.
FAQs: Bedford to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford 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 cost of a train ticket from Bedford to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £129, while the average price tends to be around £142.
The train journey from Bedford to Carlisle covers a distance of 348 km and takes approximately 3h 55m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Bedford to Carlisle is 348 km.
The first train from Bedford to Carlisle leaves at 8:08.
The last train from Bedford to Carlisle departs at 19:49.
Trains from Bedford to Carlisle run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bedford to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Carlisle.
There is no night train service from Bedford to Carlisle.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Carlisle is Bedford station (BDM), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
Booking trains from Bedford to Carlisle in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bedford to Carlisle offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Peak District and the Pennines, showcasing rolling hills, charming villages, and lush countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Bedford to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bedford and Carlisle
Most Bedford to Carlisle trains use the Bedford to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Bedford and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bedford
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Bedford station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Bedford to Carlisle leave from Bedford. The station is 1 km from Bedford city centre at Bedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS.
BedfordBedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS
Bedford train station facilities and services
Bedford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bedford. ATMs are available at Bedford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bedford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Bedford arrive at?
Trains from Bedford to Carlisle arrive at Carlisle. Carlisle is 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 · £8 · 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 Bedford
More options for your journey from Bedford to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Bedford
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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