- 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 trains from Cambridge to Carlisle
Showing times and prices for 13 Aug
Cheapest price
£165
Average price
£189
Fastest journey
4 h 43 m
Average duration
5 h 8 m
Trains per day
25
Distance
361 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Carlisle will cost around £189 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £165.
Fast trains
To travel from Cambridge to Carlisle you need to make at least 2 changes.
7:225h21Cambridge12:43Carlisle£1651One-way3 changes- 9:265h20Cambridge14:46Carlisle£1651One-way3 changes
- 11:265h20Cambridge16:46Carlisle£1651One-way3 changes
- 13:265h33Cambridge18:59Carlisle£1651One-way3 changes
- 17:305h34Cambridge23:04Carlisle£1651One-way3 changes
15:004h43Cambridge19:43Carlisle£1781One-way2 changes- 13:004h56Cambridge17:56Carlisle£1781One-way2 changes
- 8:005h20Cambridge13:20Carlisle£2731One-way3 changes
- 9:265h20Cambridge14:46Carlisle£1651One-way3 changes
- 11:265h20Cambridge16:46Carlisle£1651One-way3 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Cambridge to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £46. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £46, and a train costs an average of £68.
Distance: 361 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£74 Average Price | £48 Average Price | £47 Average Price Cheapest |
5h 54m Average total duration 5h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 35m Average total duration 11h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cambridge to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Carlisle trains for today, Wednesday 12 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21:00 Cambridge | 10h15 | 7:15 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
| Thursday 13 August | |||||
| 5:15 Cambridge | 5h31 | 10:46 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
| 5:58 Cambridge | 5h48 | 11:46 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
 | 6:15 Cambridge | 5h31 | 11:46 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 6:57 Cambridge | 5h46 | 12:43 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
| 7:22 Cambridge | 5h21 | 12:43 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 8:00 Cambridge | 5h20 | 13:20 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 8:00 Cambridge | 5h46 | 13:46 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
| 8:19 Cambridge | 5h27 | 13:46 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 9:00 Cambridge | 5h46 | 14:46 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
| 9:26 Cambridge | 5h20 | 14:46 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 10:00 Cambridge | 5h21 | 15:21 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 10:00 Cambridge | 5h48 | 15:48 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
| 10:26 Cambridge | 5h22 | 15:48 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 11:00 Cambridge | 5h46 | 16:46 Carlisle | 2 changes | |
| 11:26 Cambridge | 5h20 | 16:46 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
| 12:00 Cambridge | 5h20 | 17:20 Carlisle | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Carlisle by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, train and flight 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.
Thu
13 Aug
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Sun
16 Aug
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19 Aug
19 Aug
Why should you book Cambridge to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Cross Country as well as Greater Anglia or Great Northern offer trains services from Cambridge to Carlisle.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Cross Country tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Cross Country?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Cross Country, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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 Cross Country with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cambridge to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cambridge to Carlisle run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £68 but you can travel from only £46 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 21:53. The fastest train covers the 361 km distance in 5h 20m.
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 £46
Distance 361 km |
Average train duration 5h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price £68 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 20m |
First train 1:45 |
Last train 21:53 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 £46
Train companies: Cross Country, Greater Anglia, Great Northern from Cambridge to Carlisle trainsCross Country, Greater Anglia, Great Northern trains will get you between Cambridge and Carlisle from £46. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
£165
Greater Anglia frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Great Northern
About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 31m
Cheapest Price
£168
Great Northern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 43m
Cheapest Price
£178
Cross Country 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
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.
FAQs: Cambridge to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £68, while the average price tends to be around £74.
The train journey from Cambridge to Carlisle covers a distance of 361 km and takes approximately 5h 20m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cambridge to Carlisle is 361 km.
The first train from Cambridge to Carlisle leaves at 1:45.
The last train from Cambridge to Carlisle departs at 21:53.
Trains from Cambridge to Carlisle run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cambridge to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Carlisle.
To get from Cambridge to Carlisle, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Cambridge to Carlisle.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Carlisle is Cambridge station (CBG), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Carlisle is by coach, costing approximately £46.
Booking trains from Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Carlisle offers a scenic experience, as it traverses picturesque landscapes, including the rolling hills of the East of England, the Pennines, and the scenic countryside of Cumbria.
A day trip from Cambridge to Carlisle is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 20m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 361 km.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Carlisle is sufficient to explore its historical attractions, such as Carlisle Castle, Tullie House Museum, and the Cathedral, along with enjoying the local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Carlisle
Most Cambridge to Carlisle trains use the Cambridge to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Cambridge station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Cambridge to Carlisle leave from Cambridge. The station is 2 km from Cambridge city centre at Cambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · £2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · £2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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: No.
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · £2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · £2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · £2 · every ~19 min
Cambridge North train station facilities and services
Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, 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.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Cambridge arrive at?
Trains from Cambridge 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 Cambridge
More options for your journey from Cambridge to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Cambridge
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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