- 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 Reading to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Nov
- Cheapest price on 12 Nov
- £271
- Average ticket price on 12 Nov
- £271
- Fastest journey on 12 Nov
- 4 h 41 m
- Average journey duration on 12 Nov
- 4 h 44 m
- Trains on 12 Nov
- 11
- Distance
- 404 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Carlisle will cost around £271 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £271.
Fast trains
To travel from Reading to Carlisle you need to make at least one change.
6:15 4h45 Reading 11:00 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change7:15 4h41 Reading 11:56 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change8:15 4h44 Reading 12:59 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change9:15 4h46 Reading 14:01 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change10:15 4h45 Reading 15:00 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change
7:15 4h41 Reading 11:56 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change8:15 4h44 Reading 12:59 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change11:15 4h44 Reading 15:59 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change6:15 4h45 Reading 11:00 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change10:15 4h45 Reading 15:00 Carlisle £271 1 One-way 1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Carlisle run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £104 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 404 km distance in 3h 58m.
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 404 km |
Average train duration 4h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price £104 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 58m |
First train 1:45 |
Last train 22:26 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Reading to Carlisle trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Reading to Carlisle.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £104, while the average price tends to be around £145.
The train journey from Reading to Carlisle covers a distance of 404 km and takes approximately 3h 58m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Carlisle is 404 km.
The first train from Reading to Carlisle leaves at 1:45.
The last train from Reading to Carlisle departs at 22:26.
Trains from Reading to Carlisle run approximately 4 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Carlisle.
Live departures
Reading to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Carlisle trains for tomorrow, Thursday 12 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 Reading | 4h45 | 11:00 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| 7:15 Reading | 4h41 | 11:56 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| 8:15 Reading | 4h44 | 12:59 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| 9:15 Reading | 4h46 | 14:01 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| 10:15 Reading | 4h45 | 15:00 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| 11:15 Reading | 4h44 | 15:59 Carlisle | 1 change | |
| 12:15 Reading | 4h48 | 17:03 Carlisle | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Reading to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Lumo offer trains services from Reading to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Carlisle.
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 Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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 Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Carlisle.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Lumo from Reading to Carlisle trainsAvanti West Coast, Lumo trains will get you between Reading and Carlisle from £104. 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
3h 58m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£104
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
4h 31m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£115
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Reading and Carlisle
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Reading to Carlisle.
There is no night train service from Reading to Carlisle.
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.
Plan your visit to Carlisle
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Carlisle.
The train journey from Reading to Carlisle offers scenic views, particularly as it traverses through the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds and the Lake District, featuring rolling hills, charming villages, and stunning lakes.
FAQs: Reading to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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.
Booking trains from Reading to Carlisle in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Carlisle
Most Reading to Carlisle trains use the Reading to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Reading and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Reading station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Reading to Carlisle leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · £2 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, 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 Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading 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.
Train stations for Reading to Carlisle
Check train stations information for Reading and Carlisle, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Reading that goes to Carlisle is Reading, and it arrives at Carlisle.
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Reading
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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