- 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 Southampton to Carlisle
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 04 Sept
Cheapest price on 04 Sept
£151
Average ticket price on 04 Sept
£152
Fastest journey on 04 Sept
5 h 46 m
Average journey duration on 04 Sept
5 h 46 m
Trains on 04 Sept
2
Distance
456 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Carlisle will cost around £152 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £151.
Fast trains
On Fri 04 Sept, we found 2 trains from Southampton to Carlisle, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 456 km distance in an average of 5 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 46 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.
8:155h46Southampton14:01Carlisle£1511One-way0 changes- 9:155h46Southampton15:01Carlisle£1531One-way0 changes
- 9:155h46Southampton15:01Carlisle£1531One-way0 changes
- 8:155h46Southampton14:01Carlisle£1511One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Southampton to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £32 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 10m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £32, while a flight costs an average of £99.
Distance: 456 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£82 Average Price | £32 Average Price Cheapest | £99 Average Price | £89 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 1m Average total duration 5h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 6m Average total duration 9h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Carlisle is a coach with an average price of £32.
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Carlisle:
A coach is £49 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Carlisle costing on average £82.
A coach is £66 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Southampton to Carlisle costing on average £99.
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Carlisle is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.
Other travel options to Carlisle take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 31m.
Coach takes on average 9h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Southampton and Carlisle including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 34m faster (5h 31m by train vs 6h 5m by car) and roughly £8 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£82 vs £89). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Southampton to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Carlisle trains for tomorrow, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:15 Southampton | 5h46 | 14:01 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:15 Southampton | 5h46 | 15:01 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Carlisle by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight 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.
Fri
04 Sept
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Why should you book Southampton to Carlisle trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Southampton to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Carlisle.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Carlisle.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Carlisle run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £47 but you can travel from only £27 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 456 km distance in 5h 45m.
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 £27
Distance 456 km |
Average train duration 5h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price £47 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 45m |
First train 1:45 |
Last train 21:30 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £27
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country from Southampton to Carlisle trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton and Carlisle from £27. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£47
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£223
Cross Country frequency
12 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: Southampton to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £47, while the average price tends to be around £82.
The train journey from Southampton to Carlisle covers a distance of 456 km and takes approximately 5h 45m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Carlisle is 456 km.
The first train from Southampton to Carlisle leaves at 1:45.
The last train from Southampton to Carlisle departs at 21:30.
Trains from Southampton to Carlisle run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Carlisle.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Carlisle.
To get from Southampton to Carlisle, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Carlisle.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Carlisle is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Carlisle is by coach, costing approximately £27.
Booking trains from Southampton 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 Southampton to Carlisle offers varied scenery, including picturesque views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and charming towns, making it a pleasant and scenic route.
A day trip from Southampton to Carlisle is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 45m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 456 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 Southampton to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Carlisle
Most Southampton to Carlisle trains use the Southampton Central to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Southampton station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Carlisle leave from Southampton Central. The station is 1 km from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · £2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre
Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · £3 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · £2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · £2 · every ~37 min
Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
SholingSholing station, Station Road, Sholing, Hampshire, SO19 8HH
City-centre transport
Getting to Sholing from Southampton city centre
Sholing is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour · 15m · £3 · every ~2 min
BusX4, X5 · 7m · £2 · every ~20 min
7 · 10m · £2 · every ~10 min
7, 15, 19, 19a · 16m · £2 · every ~45 min
Sholing train station facilities and services
Sholing has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Sholing.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Sholing.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sholing: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Sholing: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sholing: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - There is step-free access to Platform 2 (for trains to Fareham) using a long ramp (40m) at approx 1:10 gradient (up to 1:7 in places). There is no step-free access to Platform 1 (towards Southampton, which is accessed via a stepped footbridge only). Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton 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 Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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