- 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 Kilmarnock to Carlisle
Showing times and prices for 01 Aug
Cheapest price
£17
Average price
£21
Fastest journey
1 h 46 m
Average duration
2 h 17 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
127 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kilmarnock to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kilmarnock to Carlisle will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £17.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Kilmarnock for Carlisle every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 127 km distance in an average of 2 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 41 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.
17:282h20Kilmarnock19:48Carlisle£171One-way0 changes- 12:032h41Kilmarnock14:44Carlisle£171One-way0 changes
- 9:282h20Kilmarnock11:48Carlisle£231One-way0 changes
6:551h46Kilmarnock8:41Carlisle£271One-way0 changes
- 6:551h46Kilmarnock8:41Carlisle£271One-way0 changes
- 17:282h20Kilmarnock19:48Carlisle£171One-way0 changes
- 9:282h20Kilmarnock11:48Carlisle£231One-way0 changes
- 12:032h41Kilmarnock14:44Carlisle£171One-way0 changes
Live departures
Kilmarnock to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Kilmarnock to Carlisle trains for today, Friday 31 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:59 Kilmarnock | 1h43 | 11:42 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 11:54 Kilmarnock | 1h43 | 13:37 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:57 Kilmarnock | 1h43 | 15:40 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 15:53 Kilmarnock | 1h50 | 17:43 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:55 Kilmarnock | 1h43 | 18:38 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19:53 Kilmarnock | 1h44 | 21:37 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 21:58 Kilmarnock | 1h47 | 23:45 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| 22:53 Kilmarnock | 6h41 | 5:34 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| Saturday 1 August | |||||
| 6:55 Kilmarnock | 1h46 | 8:41 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kilmarnock to Carlisle by train
Compare 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.
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01 Aug
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03 Aug
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07 Aug
Why should you book Kilmarnock to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as Transpennine Express or ScotRail offer trains services from Kilmarnock to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kilmarnock to Carlisle.
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 Transpennine Express or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Kilmarnock 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 Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Kilmarnock to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kilmarnock to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Kilmarnock to Carlisle run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:22, the last at 21:58. The fastest train covers the 127 km distance in 1h 43m.
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 127 km |
Average train duration 1h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 43m |
First train 5:22 |
Last train 21:58 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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: Scotrail, Transpennine Express, ScotRail from Kilmarnock to Carlisle trainsScotrail, Transpennine Express, ScotRail trains will get you between Kilmarnock and Carlisle from £17. 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
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
£27
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
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 Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
£10
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
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
ScotRail
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
£49
ScotRail frequency
7 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: Kilmarnock to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £23.
The train journey from Kilmarnock to Carlisle covers a distance of 127 km and takes approximately 1h 43m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Kilmarnock to Carlisle is 127 km.
The first train from Kilmarnock to Carlisle leaves at 5:22.
The last train from Kilmarnock to Carlisle departs at 21:58.
Trains from Kilmarnock to Carlisle run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Kilmarnock to Carlisle.
Yes, there is a direct train between Kilmarnock and Carlisle. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by ScotRail.
To travel from Kilmarnock to Carlisle, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Kilmarnock to Carlisle.
The train station in Kilmarnock that goes to Carlisle is Kilmarnock station (KMK), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Kilmarnock to Carlisle is by train, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock to Carlisle offers scenic views, including picturesque countryside landscapes and charming small towns, making it a visually pleasant experience.
A day trip from Kilmarnock to Carlisle is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 43m. Trains run 6 times per day, and the distance is 127 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 Kilmarnock to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Kilmarnock and Carlisle
Most Kilmarnock to Carlisle trains use the Kilmarnock to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Kilmarnock and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Kilmarnock
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Kilmarnock station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Kilmarnock to Carlisle leave from Kilmarnock. The station is from Kilmarnock city centre at Kilmarnock station, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 2AF.
KilmarnockKilmarnock station, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 2AF
City-centre transport
Getting to Kilmarnock from Kilmarnock city centre
Bus3, 6, 7 · 37m · £2 · every ~23 min
Kilmarnock train station facilities and services
Kilmarnock has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Kilmarnock.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kilmarnock.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kilmarnock. 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 Kilmarnock: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kilmarnock: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kilmarnock: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. Level to platforms 1,2&3 underpass with lifts connecting platform 4. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 6, 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: Yes.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Kilmarnock arrive at?
Trains from Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock
More options for your journey from Kilmarnock to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Kilmarnock
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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