- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Carlisle to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 31 Aug
Cheapest price on 31 Aug
£13
Average ticket price on 31 Aug
£20
Fastest journey on 31 Aug
1 h 5 m
Average journey duration on 31 Aug
1 h 27 m
Trains on 31 Aug
5
Distance
126 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Carlisle to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carlisle to Preston will cost around £20 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.
Fast trains
On Mon 31 Aug, we found 5 trains from Carlisle to Preston, including 5 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 126 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 37 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.
7:132h37Carlisle9:50Preston£131One-way0 changes- 9:101h05Carlisle10:15Preston£151One-way0 changes
- 8:081h08Carlisle9:16Preston£161One-way0 changes
16:311h14Carlisle17:45Preston£281One-way0 changes- 21:331h11Carlisle22:44Preston£281One-way0 changes
- 9:101h05Carlisle10:15Preston£151One-way0 changes
- 8:081h08Carlisle9:16Preston£161One-way0 changes
- 21:331h11Carlisle22:44Preston£281One-way0 changes
- 16:311h14Carlisle17:45Preston£281One-way0 changes
- 7:132h37Carlisle9:50Preston£131One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Carlisle to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlisle to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £13 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 43m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £13, while a coach costs an average of £23.
Distance: 126 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£13 Average Price Cheapest | £23 Average Price |
1h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 44m Average total duration 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Carlisle to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Carlisle to Preston trains for tomorrow, Monday 31 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:13 Carlisle | 2h37 | 9:50 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:08 Carlisle | 1h08 | 9:16 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:10 Carlisle | 1h05 | 10:15 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:31 Carlisle | 1h14 | 17:45 Preston | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carlisle to Preston by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
Mon
31 Aug
31 Aug
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01 Sept
01 Sept
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02 Sept
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Thu
03 Sept
03 Sept
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06 Sept
Why should you book Carlisle to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Carlisle to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlisle to Preston.
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 Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Preston.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlisle to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Carlisle to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Carlisle to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Carlisle to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Carlisle to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 126 km distance in 1h 5m.
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
Distance 126 km |
Average train duration 1h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £11 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 1h 5m |
First train 4:15 |
Last train 23:15 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express from Carlisle to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Carlisle and Preston from £11. 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
1h 5m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£12
Avanti West Coast frequency
14 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
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
1h 15m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£11
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Caledonian Sleeper Duration
1h 19m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
£76
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
£45
TransPennine Express frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
The Egypt Centre
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
- Recommended
Ribble Steam Railway and Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
- Must visit
Avenham Park
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
- Recommended
Miller Park
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
- Recommended
Preston Docklands
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
- Vegetarian
Simnel Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
263 Restaurant
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Angelo's
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
The Continental
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Preston Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Most local buses in Preston support contactless Tap and Go; fares are capped at the Day Ticket price on participating Preston Bus services.
- Check the operator before boarding. Preston fares and app tickets may differ from other bus operators in the city.
FAQs: Carlisle to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlisle to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Carlisle to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £11, while the average price tends to be around £13.
The train journey from Carlisle to Preston covers a distance of 126 km and takes approximately 1h 5m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Carlisle to Preston is 126 km.
The first train from Carlisle to Preston leaves at 4:15.
The last train from Carlisle to Preston departs at 23:15.
Trains from Carlisle to Preston run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Carlisle to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train between Carlisle and Preston. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express.
To get from Carlisle to Preston, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
Yes, there is a night train from Carlisle to Preston.
The train station in Carlisle that goes to Preston is Carlisle station (CAR), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Carlisle to Preston is by train, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Carlisle to Preston in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Carlisle to Preston is considered scenic, offering views of the rolling hills of the Lake District and the lush landscapes of the Cumbrian countryside.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Carlisle to Preston. The journey takes 1h 5m and covers a distance of 126 km. There are 6 trains per day.
To fully explore Preston's key attractions, such as the Harris Museum, Avenham and Miller Parks, and the Ribble Steam Railway, a stay of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Carlisle to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Carlisle and Preston
Most Carlisle to Preston trains use the Carlisle to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Carlisle and Preston 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 Preston
Which Carlisle station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Carlisle to Preston 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 Preston station do trains from Carlisle arrive at?
Trains from Carlisle to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Carlisle
More options for your journey from Carlisle to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Carlisle
Most popular train connections to Preston
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