- 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 Cheltenham to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Oct
Cheapest price on 15 Oct
£137
Average ticket price on 15 Oct
£141
Fastest journey on 15 Oct
3 h 45 m
Average journey duration on 15 Oct
3 h 47 m
Trains on 15 Oct
2
Distance
338 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Carlisle will cost around £141 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £137.
Fast trains
On Thu 15 Oct, we found 2 trains from Cheltenham to Carlisle, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 338 km distance in an average of 3 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 45 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 49 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.
7:123h45Cheltenham10:57Carlisle£1371One-way0 changes- 10:123h49Cheltenham14:01Carlisle£1451One-way0 changes
- 7:123h45Cheltenham10:57Carlisle£1371One-way0 changes
- 10:123h49Cheltenham14:01Carlisle£1451One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Cheltenham to Carlisle and enjoy the approximately 338 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:43, the last at 18:11.
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 338 km |
First train 5:43 |
Last train 18:11 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 70 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
Live departures
Cheltenham to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Carlisle trains for tomorrow, Thursday 15 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:12 Cheltenham | 3h45 | 10:57 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:12 Cheltenham | 3h49 | 14:01 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Cross Country from Cheltenham to Carlisle trainsCross Country trains will get you between Cheltenham and Carlisle. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
3h 44m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£222
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.
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: Cheltenham to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham 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 train distance from Cheltenham to Carlisle is 338 km.
The first train from Cheltenham to Carlisle leaves at 5:43.
The last train from Cheltenham to Carlisle departs at 18:11.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cheltenham to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cheltenham to Carlisle.
There is no night train service from Cheltenham to Carlisle.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Carlisle is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
Booking trains from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Carlisle offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds and the rolling hills of the Lake District, providing a visual treat for travellers.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cheltenham and Carlisle
Most Cheltenham to Carlisle trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Carlisle leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · £4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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