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Trains from Colchester Town to
Carlisle

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Colchester Town to Carlisle by train

A train trip from Colchester Town to Carlisle takes about 6hrs 17 mins on average, covering roughly 261 miles (420 kilometres). With around 23 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 £29.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Colchester Town to Carlisle Key Stats

Arrival Station

Carlisle

Departure Station

Colchester Town

Frequency

23trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 13 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:12 / 23:31

Distance

261miles
(420 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£29.30

Travelling from Colchester Town to Carlisle by Train

Hop on a Train from Colchester Town to Carlisle – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Colchester Town 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 6hrs 17 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 13 mins. With roughly 23 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 261-mile (420 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Abellio Greater Anglia, Caledonian Sleeper, 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 £29.30 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!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Colchester Town and Carlisle

Curious about your trip from Colchester Town to Carlisle? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Colchester Town and Carlisle by train?

The travel time between Colchester Town and Carlisle by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 17 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 13 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Colchester Town and Carlisle by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Colchester Town to Carlisle is 5hrs 13 mins.

How much does the train from Colchester Town to Carlisle cost?

Train ticket prices from Colchester Town to Carlisle can start from as little as £29.30 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 23 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:12, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:31.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle?

First class tickets on trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle?

Amenities on trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Colchester Town to Carlisle by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Colchester Town 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.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Colchester Town to Carlisle?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Colchester Town & Carlisle. However, there are 23 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Colchester Town to Carlisle?

Abellio Greater Anglia, Caledonian Sleeper and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Colchester Town and Carlisle.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Colchester Town and Carlisle, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Colchester Town to Carlisle Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Colchester Town to Carlisle on Monday 5th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Monday 5th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
22:44 Colchester Town09:21 Carlisle3 changesColchester
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
10 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
23:00 Colchester Town10:47 Carlisle3 changesColchester
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
11 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
23:07 Colchester Town11:49 Carlisle3 changesThorpe-Le-Soken
London Liverpool Street
London Euston
12 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Colchester Town to Carlisle journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Colchester Town to Carlisle start from as little as £29.30

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Colchester Town to Carlisle start from £127.00 one way, or £168.80 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Colchester Town to Carlisle are available for £152.00 one way, or £218.40 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Colchester Town Station

Welcome to Colchester Town Station

Are you planning a trip that starts or ends at Colchester Town Station? You're in the right place for detailed insights on what the station has to offer. Colchester Town Station is a vital hub in Essex, seamlessly connecting both locals and visitors to some of the region’s finest destinations. Whether you're commuting to work or indulging in a day trip, you’ll find everything you need here.

Facilities and Amenities at Colchester Town Station

Colchester Town Station is set up to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for all travelers. The ticket office is open from 06:10 to 20:15 on weekdays and slightly shorter hours on Saturdays, providing ample opportunity for passengers to purchase and collect tickets. There's no need to worry if you’re catching an early or late train, as ticket machines are available around the clock, and they even support smartcard validators.

For those requiring assistance, station staff are on hand to offer help and support during ticket office hours. There are also help points and screens to keep you informed about departures. Notably, the station offers step-free access, making it easy for everyone to navigate, and it's equipped with an induction loop for those with hearing impairments.

Need a quick refreshment before you board? Stop by the 'Steam' kiosk for a coffee and snack. Free parking is available at a local council-managed car park, minus accessible spaces, but if you're arriving by bike, there are sheltered stands for safe storage. Unfortunately, the station doesn’t offer luggage storage or accessible toilets, but basic toilet facilities are available during select hours.

Travel Connections at Colchester Town

Stepping out of Colchester Town Station, you'll discover various transport links to continue your journey. It’s only a five-minute walk to the Colchester Bus Station. When there are engineering works or service disruptions, the local bus services, including routes 61, 62, 65, and 66, accept rail tickets to help passengers reach alternative nearby stations. Just keep an eye out for the replacement bus stop near the Magistrates' Court if you need a shuttle due to planned engineering works.

Destination Inspiration from Colchester Town

If you’re wondering where the rails might take you, Colchester Town Station connects to a host of popular locations. For a city break, you can take a train to London Liverpool Street or head to Chelmsford. If a coastal trip is on your itinerary, catch a direct ride to charming seaside towns like Clacton-on-Sea or Frinton-on-Sea. There's also the historical appeal of Ipswich or delightful escapes like Wivenhoe and Dovercourt.

Your Gateway to Exploration

Colchester Town Station is your launchpad for discovering both local gems and metropolitan wonders. Whether it’s business or leisure, the station equips travelers with necessary facilities, comfort, and easy ticket purchases, all while providing vital connections to other modes of transport. Bookmark this station for your next journey and enjoy seamless travel in and around Essex and beyond!

Everything you need to know about Carlisle Station

Welcome to Carlisle Train Station

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.

Station Facilities and Amenities

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.

Onward Travel Options

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.

Popular Train Routes

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.

Concluding Your Journey

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Colchester Town