- Must visit
West Highland Museum
Town museum covering local archaeology, Jacobite history, the West Highland railway and mountain life in Lochaber.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
22:5411h01Carlisle9:55Fort William£1791One-way1 change
- 22:5411h01Carlisle9:55Fort William£1791One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Carlisle to Fort William
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to Fort William among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £67. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 3m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £67, and a train costs an average of £108.
Distance: 253 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£108 Average Price | £80 Average Price Cheapest |
5h 33m Average total duration Fastest 5h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 37m Average total duration 7h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Carlisle to Fort William train times
The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Fort William trains for today, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22:54 Carlisle | 11h01 | 9:55 Fort William | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carlisle to Fort William 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.
Tue
04 Aug
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug
05 Aug
Thu
06 Aug
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug
10 Aug
Why should you book Carlisle to Fort William trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Carlisle to Fort William.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Fort William.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Fort William.
- 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Fort William.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Fort William.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Fort William.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carlisle to Fort William
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carlisle to Fort William run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £108 but you can travel from only £67 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 07:44, the last at 16:01. The fastest train covers the 253 km distance in 7h 53m.
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 £67
Distance 253 km |
Average train duration 5h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price £108 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 53m |
First train 7:44 |
Last train 16:01 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 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
Coach from £67
Train companies: Scotrail, Avanti West Coast from Carlisle to Fort William trainsScotrail, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Carlisle and Fort William from £67. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 53m
Cheapest Price
£108
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
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 Duration
11h 1m
Cheapest Price
£179
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Fort William
Things to do in Fort William
Discover the best of Fort William — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Fort William trip today.
- Recommended
The Ice Factor National Centre for Mountain Rescue
Small museum on Scotland's mountain rescue history, with equipment, stories and displays connected to Ben Nevis and Lochaber.
- Recommended
Glenfinnan Station Museum
Seasonal heritage centre at Glenfinnan Station with exhibits on the West Highland Line, local history and famous film locations.
- Must visit
Glen Nevis
Scenic glen south of town with walking and cycling routes, river views and the main access area for Ben Nevis footpaths.
- Recommended
Cow Hill Circuit
Popular long-distance walking and cycling route along a former railway, linking Fort William with countryside and lochside scenery.
- Recommended
Fort William Seafront
Promenade area beside Loch Linnhe for short walks, sunsets and views across the water towards the Ardgour hills.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A warming Highland soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Popular across the west coast and well suited to the local fishing tradition.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding made with sheep offal, oats and spices. A classic supper in Highland inns and restaurants.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Clapshot
A traditional side of mashed potatoes with butter and greens, often kale or cabbage. Common with Highland meat and game dishes.
The Wildcat
Well-known local café and bakery for breakfasts, soups, sandwiches and cakes. Casual, dependable stop in the town centre.
Ben Nevis Inn
Lively traditional pub serving hearty Scottish meals and local drinks. Good choice for haggis, fish dishes and an easy-going evening.
Crannog Seafood Restaurant
Relaxed modern bistro known for Highland produce, seafood and steaks. Popular central spot with a polished but informal atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the Highlands: lodging and tours can be pricey in peak season, but pub meals, buses and casual cafés are manageable versus busier UK tourist hubs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food, bakery items or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a pub or restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for a higher-end dinner.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional but appreciated. In restaurants, leave 10-12.5% for good service if not included. Round up in cafés and taxis.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Fort William Station -> Fort William Transport Centre
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment cards are accepted on Highland Council buses, and mobile tickets are available in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Fort William Station is close to the town centre, so walking is often quickest for central stops and the Transport Centre.
FAQs: Carlisle to Fort William train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Fort William 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 Fort William, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Carlisle to Fort William can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £108, while the average price tends to be around £108.
The train journey from Carlisle to Fort William covers a distance of 253 km and takes approximately 7h 53m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Carlisle to Fort William is 253 km.
The first train from Carlisle to Fort William leaves at 7:44.
The last train from Carlisle to Fort William departs at 16:01.
Trains from Carlisle to Fort William run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Carlisle to Fort William.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Carlisle to Fort William.
To get from Carlisle to Fort William, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Carlisle to Fort William.
The train station in Carlisle that goes to Fort William is Carlisle station (CAR), and it arrives at Fort William station (FTW).
The cheapest way to get from Carlisle to Fort William is by coach, costing approximately £67.
Booking trains from Carlisle to Fort William in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Carlisle to Fort William is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, offering views of rolling hills, forests, and lochs.
A day trip from Carlisle to Fort William is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 53m. There are 2 trains per day covering the distance of 253 km.
In Fort William, you can enjoy a scenic journey on the Jacobite Steam Train, explore the Nevis Range Mountain Resort for skiing and mountain biking, and take a hike to the dramatic Steall Waterfall. Attend the Fort William Mountain Festival to celebrate mountain culture, and take boat trips on Loch Linnhe for wildlife spotting. Visit Ben Nevis for challenging hikes, explore the picturesque Glen Nevis, and delve into local history at the West Highland Museum. Don't miss Neptune's Staircase for its engineering marvel and the historical ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle.
Spending 2 to 3 days in Fort William allows for exploring the town, hiking Ben Nevis, and visiting nearby attractions like Glen Nevis and the West Highland Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlisle to Fort William.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Carlisle and Fort William
Most Carlisle to Fort William trains use the Carlisle to Fort William station pair. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Fort William train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Carlisle
Arrival train stations in Fort William
Which Carlisle station do trains to Fort William leave from?
Trains from Carlisle to Fort William leave from Carlisle. The station is 1 km from Carlisle city centre at Carlisle station, Court Square, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1QZ.
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.
Which Fort William station do trains from Carlisle arrive at?
Trains from Carlisle to Fort William arrive at Fort William. Fort William is 1 km from Fort William city centre.
Fort WilliamFort William station, Tom-na-Faire, Station Square, Fort William, Highland, PH33 6TQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Fort William from Fort William city centre
Bus521, 147, 146, 46, 47, 522, X47 · 6m · £2 · every ~6 min
592 · 11m
Fort William train station facilities and services
Fort William has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Fort William.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Fort William.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Fort William. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fort William: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Fort William: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fort William: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
Most popular train connections from Carlisle
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Fort William
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Fort William and Carlisle
Most popular train connections to Fort William
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
