- 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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Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Darlington to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Darlington to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £49. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £49, and a train costs an average of £13.
Distance: 98 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£64 Average Price | £49 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 55m Average total duration 14h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Darlington to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Darlington to Carlisle trains for today, Wednesday 19 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 18:07 Darlington | 2h20 | 20:27 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Darlington to Carlisle 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.
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Why should you book Darlington to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Darlington to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Darlington 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 London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Darlington 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Darlington to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Darlington to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Darlington to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Darlington to Carlisle run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:54, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 98 km distance in 2h 6m.
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 98 km |
Average train duration 1h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 2h 6m |
First train 5:54 |
Last train 20:45 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 5 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
Train companies: Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited from Darlington to Carlisle trainsNorthern Rail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Darlington and Carlisle from £13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
£36
Northern Rail frequency
10 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
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
£78
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
10 a day
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 7m
Cheapest Price
£53
Cross Country frequency
6 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Price
£13
Northern Trains Limited frequency
2 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: Darlington to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Darlington 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 Darlington to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £64.
The train journey from Darlington to Carlisle covers a distance of 98 km and takes approximately 2h 6m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Darlington to Carlisle is 98 km.
The first train from Darlington to Carlisle leaves at 5:54.
The last train from Darlington to Carlisle departs at 20:45.
Trains from Darlington to Carlisle run approximately 10 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Darlington to Carlisle.
Yes, there is a direct train between Darlington and Carlisle. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Northern Trains Limited.
To get from Darlington to Carlisle, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Darlington to Carlisle.
The train station in Darlington that goes to Carlisle is Darlington station (DAR), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Darlington to Carlisle is by train, costing approximately £13.
Booking trains from Darlington to Carlisle 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 Darlington to Carlisle is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Northern Pennines and offers views of rolling hills, lush countryside, and charming villages.
A day trip from Darlington to Carlisle is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 6m. However, trains run 8 times per day over a distance of 98 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 Darlington to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Darlington and Carlisle
Most Darlington to Carlisle trains use the Darlington to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Darlington and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Darlington
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Darlington station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Darlington to Carlisle leave from Darlington. The station is from Darlington city centre at Darlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA.
DarlingtonDarlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Darlington from Darlington city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement coach services depart from the station entrance
Darlington train station facilities and services
Darlington has practical services for this route, including 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 Darlington.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Darlington.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darlington.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darlington: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Darlington: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darlington: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: text phones are available and staff are on hand to assist as required due to no low level phones, Accessible taxis: Generally available but advance booking recommended, 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 Darlington arrive at?
Trains from Darlington 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 Darlington
More options for your journey from Darlington to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Darlington
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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