A train trip from Cardiff Central to Carlisle takes about 5hrs 55 mins on average, covering roughly 236 miles (380 kilometres). With around 25 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £38.20, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Carlisle |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Central |
Frequency | 25trains per day |
Journey Time | from5hrs 1 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:33 / 23:54 |
Distance | 236miles (380 km) |
9 Routes | Via Crewe Via Bristol Parkway & Birmingham New Street Via Crewe & Preston (Lancs) Via Chester & Warrington Bank Quay Via Birmingham New Street Via Crewe & Warrington Bank Quay Via London Paddington & London Euston Via Crewe & Manchester Piccadilly Via Newport (South Wales) & Crewe |
7 Train Operators | Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, GWR, Avanti West Coast |
Prices | from£38.20 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Carlisle – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Carlisle by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!
On average, the journey takes around 5hrs 55 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Carlisle), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 5hrs 1 mins. With roughly 25 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 236-mile (380 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, GWR, Avanti West Coast, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!
The best part? Tickets start from just £38.20 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.
So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Carlisle!
The travel time between Cardiff Central and Carlisle by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 55 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 1 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Carlisle is 5hrs 1 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Carlisle can start from as little as £38.20 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Carlisle vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 25 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:54.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Carlisle typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Carlisle can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Central and Carlisle. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Carlisle, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Carlisle. However, there are 25 possible journeys which require a change.
Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Rail, CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, GWR and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Carlisle.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Carlisle, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Friday 25th April | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 13:53 Cardiff Central | 19:04 Carlisle | 1 change | Crewe | 5 hrs 11 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:45 Cardiff Central | 20:00 Carlisle | 1 change | Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 15 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:50 Cardiff Central | 20:00 Carlisle | 1 change | Crewe | 5 hrs 10 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:54 Cardiff Central | 20:00 Carlisle | 2 changes | Bristol Parkway Birmingham New Street | 5 hrs 6 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:51 Cardiff Central | 20:52 Carlisle | 2 changes | Crewe Warrington Bank Quay | 5 hrs 1 min | Get Tickets | |
| 16:16 Cardiff Central | 21:04 Carlisle | 1 change | Crewe | 4 hrs 48 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:53 Cardiff Central | 22:01 Carlisle | 1 change | Crewe | 5 hrs 8 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 17:22 Cardiff Central | 22:53 Carlisle | 2 changes | Chester Warrington Bank Quay | 5 hrs 31 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 20:18 Cardiff Central | 05:07 Carlisle | 2 changes | London Paddington London Euston | 8 hrs 49 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 21:24 Cardiff Central | 06:47 Carlisle | 2 changes | Crewe Manchester Piccadilly | 9 hrs 23 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 22:22 Cardiff Central | 07:54 Carlisle | 1 change | Crewe | 9 hrs 32 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 23:47 Cardiff Central | 11:00 Carlisle | 2 changes | Newport (South Wales) Crewe | 11 hrs 13 mins | Get Tickets | |
Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.
Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.
The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.
This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!
Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.
Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Cumbria, Carlisle train station is a hub of connectivity, offering a gateway to the scenic wonders of Northern England and beyond. Strategically positioned, the station blends history with modern amenities, catering to a myriad of travelers who seek both adventure and convenience. Whether you're a seasoned commuter or an enthusiastic explorer, Carlisle is ready to serve your travel needs.
Carlisle station is equipped with a robust ticketing system, featuring a ticket office with extensive hours from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 9:00 am on Sundays. There are ticket machines for easy access and collection, including accessible options for those with disabilities. The station ensures comfort and ease with step-free access, available lifts, and ramp assistance across all platforms, making travel uncomplicated for everyone.
The waiting areas are plentiful, with seating on all platforms, and for those unexpected longer waits, there are refreshment facilities and a newsagent to help pass the time. Although there’s no First-Class lounge, the station does offer standard amenities like 24-hour toilets on platforms 4/6, complete with a changing place for those requiring it.
Travel from Carlisle doesn't end at the railway tracks. For those venturing beyond the station, a rail replacement service is positioned conveniently at the front of the station, ensuring hassle-free transitions even in times of service disruptions. If you prefer wheels to rails, Hertz car hire is available, along with bicycle hire from Peddalpushers at Brampton, a short ride away. Looking to navigate the city by bus? Your onward journey is supported by detailed online guides accessible through a click here.
Carlisle serves as a starting point for numerous popular routes. Whether you're bound for the vibrant cityscape of Newcastle or the serene environs of the North Lakes in Penrith, your journey begins here. For those eyeing a visit to cultural capitals, direct trains whisk you to London Euston, or the charming urban vibes of Glasgow Central and Edinburgh. What if you're planning a jaunt across the border, to scenic locales like Dumfries or Gretna Green? Carlisle has you covered there as well.
The story of travel isn’t just about the destination, but also about the journey. Carlisle train station provides this seamless connection, marrying a historical backdrop with the demands of the modern traveler. As you plan your next journey, remember Carlisle not just as a layover but as a place where the travel stories you cherish begin. From purchasing your tickets with ease to exploring the vast travel links, your ticket to discovery could start here at Carlisle station.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip, book your tickets, and let Carlisle's charm whisk you away to your next great adventure!