- 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Sunderland to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Sunderland to Carlisle run on average 12 times per day, taking around 1h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:50, the last at 21:19. The fastest train covers the 99 km distance in 1h 41m.
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 99 km |
Average train duration 1h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 1h 41m |
First train 5:50 |
Last train 21:19 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Sunderland to Carlisle trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Sunderland to Carlisle.
The cost of a train ticket from Sunderland to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £5, while the average price tends to be around £20.
The train journey from Sunderland to Carlisle covers a distance of 99 km and takes approximately 1h 41m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Sunderland to Carlisle is 99 km.
The first train from Sunderland to Carlisle leaves at 5:50.
The last train from Sunderland to Carlisle departs at 21:19.
Trains from Sunderland to Carlisle run approximately 12 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Sunderland and Carlisle. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by Northern Rail.
Live departures
Sunderland to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Sunderland to Carlisle trains for today, Tuesday 10 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 C31759 | 8:19 Sunderland station (SUN) | 1h59 | 10:18 Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 changesdirect | |
C31915+ TW042000 | 8:36 Sunderland station (SUN) | 2h13 | 10:49 Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 change | |
| C31766 | 9:31 Sunderland station (SUN) | 1h51 | 11:22 Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C31919+TW034000 | 9:48 Sunderland station (SUN) | 2h01 | 11:49 Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 change | |
| C31770 | 10:32 Sunderland station (SUN) | 1h50 | 12:22 Carlisle station (CAR) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C31945+TW038900 | 10:36 Sunderland station (SUN) | 2h13 | 12:49 Carlisle station (CAR) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sunderland to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as London North Eastern Railway offer trains services from Sunderland to Carlisle.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sunderland 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 to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland 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 Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Carlisle.
Train companies: Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway from Sunderland to Carlisle trainsNorthern Rail, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Sunderland and Carlisle from £5. 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 Northern Rail Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£5
Northern Rail frequency
12 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
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£27
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Carlisle.
There is no night train service from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Carlisle offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Northumberland and the Tyne Valley, featuring rolling hills and charming rural vistas.
FAQs: Sunderland to Carlisle train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sunderland 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 Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Carlisle.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Sunderland and Carlisle
Most Sunderland to Carlisle trains use the Sunderland to Carlisle station pair. Use this guide to compare Sunderland and Carlisle train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Sunderland
Arrival train stations in Carlisle
Which Sunderland station do trains to Carlisle leave from?
Trains from Sunderland to Carlisle leave from Sunderland. The station is from Sunderland city centre at Sunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP.
SunderlandSunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP
City-centre transport
Getting to Sunderland from Sunderland city centre
Onward travel informationBusline 0871 200 2233
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off in Fawcett Street, near to the Travel Centre entrance in Athenaeum Street, outside Wilkinsons.
MetroTyne and Wear metro station close to the station. 0191 203 3333
Sunderland train station facilities and services
Sunderland has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Sunderland.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sunderland.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sunderland: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Sunderland: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sunderland: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Lifts to all platforms for disabled passengers from the North end of the station. Open for all services, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Located on the North Concourse and accepts cash and cards, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Carlisle station do trains from Sunderland arrive at?
Trains from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Carlisle
Check train stations information for Sunderland and Carlisle, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Sunderland that goes to Carlisle is Sunderland, and it arrives at Carlisle.
Most popular train connections from Sunderland
More options for your journey from Sunderland to Carlisle
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carlisle and Sunderland
Most popular train connections to Carlisle
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