- 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 Colchester to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£143
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£143
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
4 h 54 m
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
4 h 54 m
Trains on 09 Oct
1
Distance
420 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Colchester to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Carlisle will cost around £143 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £143.
Fast trains
On Fri 09 Oct, we found 1 trains from Colchester to Carlisle, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 420 km distance in an average of 4 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 54 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 54 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.
13:004h54Colchester17:54Carlisle£1431One-way0 changes
- 13:004h54Colchester17:54Carlisle£1431One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Colchester to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Colchester to Carlisle run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £104 but you can travel from only £44 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 19:49. The fastest train covers the 420 km distance in 4h 17m.
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 £44
Distance 420 km |
Average train duration 4h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £104 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 4h 17m |
First train 1:45 |
Last train 19:49 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 £44
Why should you book Colchester to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Colchester to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Colchester 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 Trip, Wanderu 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 Colchester to Carlisle.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail from Colchester to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast, Northern Rail trains will get you between Colchester and Carlisle from £44. 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 17m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£104
Avanti West Coast frequency
6 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
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
6h 14m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£174
Northern Rail frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at 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 on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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: Colchester to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester 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 Colchester to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £104, while the average price tends to be around £137.
The train journey from Colchester to Carlisle covers a distance of 420 km and takes approximately 4h 17m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Colchester to Carlisle is 420 km.
The first train from Colchester to Carlisle leaves at 1:45.
The last train from Colchester to Carlisle departs at 19:49.
Trains from Colchester to Carlisle run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Colchester to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Carlisle.
There is no night train service from Colchester to Carlisle.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Carlisle is Colchester station (COL), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
Booking trains from Colchester 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 Colchester to Carlisle offers a mix of scenic and urban views, including picturesque landscapes as it traverses through the English countryside, particularly in the latter stages as the route heads through the Lake District area.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Colchester and Carlisle
Most Colchester to Carlisle trains use the Colchester to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Colchester
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Colchester station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Colchester to Carlisle leave from Colchester. The station is 2 km from Colchester city centre at Colchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre
Colchester is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · £0.89 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · £2 · every ~31 min
Colchester train station facilities and services
Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Colchester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester. ATMs are available at Colchester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, 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 Colchester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: 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.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Colchester arrive at?
Trains from Colchester 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 Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Colchester
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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