- 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 Sunderland to Carlisle
Showing times and prices for 11 Aug
Cheapest price
£14
Average price
£16
Fastest journey
1 h 47 m
Average duration
1 h 47 m
Trains per day
25
Distance
99 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Sunderland to Carlisle is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sunderland to Carlisle will cost around £16 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £14.
Fast trains
Of the 25 trains that leave Sunderland for Carlisle every day 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 99 km distance in an average of 1 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 47 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 48 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.
7:311h51Sunderland9:22Carlisle£141One-way0 changes- 8:191h55Sunderland10:14Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 9:311h48Sunderland11:19Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 10:321h47Sunderland12:19Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 11:321h48Sunderland13:20Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 10:321h47Sunderland12:19Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 12:331h47Sunderland14:20Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 16:331h47Sunderland18:20Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 9:311h48Sunderland11:19Carlisle£141One-way0 changes
- 10:551h48Sunderland12:43Carlisle£181One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Sunderland to Carlisle
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Sunderland to Carlisle among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £8, and a coach costs an average of £39.
Distance: 99 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£14 Average Price Cheapest | £44 Average Price |
2h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 15m Average total duration 10h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Sunderland to Carlisle train times
The table below shows live departures for Sunderland to Carlisle trains for today, Monday 10 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:31 Sunderland | 1h48 | 10:19 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 11 August | |||||
| 7:31 Sunderland | 1h51 | 9:22 Carlisle | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sunderland 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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11 Aug
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Fri
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Why should you book Sunderland to Carlisle trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Northern Trains Limited 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 Northern Trains Limited 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Sunderland to Carlisle
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Sunderland to Carlisle run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 if you book in advance.
There are 1 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 47m.
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 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 47m |
First train 5:50 |
Last train 21:19 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 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, Northern Trains Limited from Sunderland to Carlisle trainsNorthern Rail, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Sunderland and Carlisle from £8. 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
1h 47m
Cheapest Price
£8
Northern Rail frequency
8 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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 47m
Cheapest Price
£14
Northern Trains Limited frequency
25 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: 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Sunderland to Carlisle can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £14.
The train journey from Sunderland to Carlisle covers a distance of 99 km and takes approximately 1h 47m. Trains run 9 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 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Sunderland to Carlisle.
Yes, there is a direct train between Sunderland and Carlisle. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Northern Trains Limited.
To get from Sunderland to Carlisle, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Sunderland to Carlisle.
The train station in Sunderland that goes to Carlisle is Sunderland station (SUN), and it arrives at Carlisle station (CAR).
The cheapest way to get from Sunderland to Carlisle is by train, costing approximately £8.
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.
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.
A day trip from Sunderland to Carlisle is not feasible as the travel duration is 1h 47m. However, the journey is serviced by trains 5 times per day, covering a distance of 99 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 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.
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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