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Trains from Gainsborough Stations to
Carlisle

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Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle by train

A train trip from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle takes about 5hrs 6 mins on average, covering roughly 135 miles (217 kilometres). With around 16 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 £16.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle Key Stats

Arrival Station

Carlisle

Departure Station

Gainsborough Stations

Frequency

16trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 13 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

07:04 / 00:06

Distance

135miles
(217 km)

5 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£16.90

Travelling from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle by Train

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

Planning to travel from Gainsborough Stations 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 6 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 4hrs 13 mins. With roughly 16 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 135-mile (217 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of London North Eastern Railway, Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, 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 £16.90 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 Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle

Curious about your trip from Gainsborough Stations 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 Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle by train?

The travel time between Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 6 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 13 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle is 4hrs 13 mins.

How much does the train from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle cost?

Train ticket prices from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle can start from as little as £16.90 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 Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 16 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 07:04, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:06.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Gainsborough Stations 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 Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Gainsborough Stations & Carlisle. However, there are 16 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle?

London North Eastern Railway, Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, East Midlands Railway and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Gainsborough Stations and Carlisle?

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

When are Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle on Thursday 1st May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 1st May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
07:04 Gainsborough Lea Road11:45 Carlisle2 changesRetford
Newcastle
4 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
07:44 Gainsborough Lea Road12:09 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
09:07 Gainsborough Lea Road12:44 Carlisle2 changesDoncaster
Newcastle
3 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
09:37 Gainsborough Lea Road14:10 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
10:39 Gainsborough Lea Road15:16 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
11:42 Gainsborough Lea Road16:14 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
12:09 Gainsborough Lea Road16:44 Carlisle2 changesDoncaster
Newcastle
4 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
12:36 Gainsborough Lea Road17:14 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
13:49 Gainsborough Lea Road18:16 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
14:14 Gainsborough Lea Road19:02 Carlisle2 changesDoncaster
Newcastle
4 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
14:36 Gainsborough Lea Road19:15 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
15:42 Gainsborough Lea Road20:16 Carlisle2 changesSheffield
Manchester Piccadilly
4 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Gainsborough Stations 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 Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle start from as little as £16.90

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.

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 Gainsborough Stations to Carlisle are available for £68.60 one way, or £86.90 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

Gainsborough Stations

The following stations are part of this group. Click a station for more information.

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!