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Carlisle to Edinburgh train ticket prices
€14.01
On Mon 06 Jul
Carlisle to Edinburgh train timetable
From Carlisle to Edinburgh, take the fastest train in 1h 15m, typically 1h 21m. Daily, 18 trains depart from Carlisle, with the first at 06:50 and the last at 22:54. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
22:17 Carlisle | 1h 24m, Direct | 23:41 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
22:54 Carlisle | 7h 53m, 1 change | 06:47 Edinburgh (Waverley) | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
22:54 Carlisle | 8h 37m, 1 change | 07:31 Edinburgh (Waverley) | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
Carlisle to Edinburgh train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Avanti West Coast vs TransPennine Express: Compare the onboard experience
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Avanti West Coast | 1h 17m | Carlisle | Budget, business, speed, upgrade options | Cheaper Advance tickets, fastest trains, Standard Premium Class (First Class benefits at a lower price) |
TransPennine Express | 1h 22m | Carlisle | Business, first departures | Onboard catering, First Class upgrade option |
- Avanti trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh are slightly faster, calling at only Haymarket in between. Fares are also the cheapest when you book ahead. Choose from three train classes with various onboard amenities.
- TransPennine Express is the best option for getting the first train to Edinburgh. Like Avanti, refreshments are available on board. If you fancy a quieter and more relaxing environment, you can upgrade to Carlisle to Edinburgh First Class accommodation.
Train travel from Carlisle to Edinburgh
Travel the length of the 74-mile (119-kilometre) route from Carlisle to Edinburgh Waverley in comfort and master every stage of the journey like a frequent commuter.
Carlisle: Getting to the platform
A major stop on the West Coast Main Line, the Grade II-listed Carlisle station is where your journey to Scotland begins. The Cumbrian railway hub is right by Carlisle Citadel and a 13-minute walk from the city centre and castle. Alternative ways to reach the station include local buses and taxis.
- Navigating the station: Carlisle has eight platforms connected to the main concourse by a footbridge and ramps, as well as via a subway and lifts. The Carlisle to Edinburgh train mostly stops at platform 1 or 3. These are the furthest away from the ticket hall, so give yourself enough time to get to the right platform.
- Fancy a drink? Grab a beverage from WHSmith by the ticket hall or something caffeinated from Café Local between platforms 1–3. The newly renovated pub on platform 4, The Scott & Brassey, pulls pints of locally sourced beers.
On board trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh
This cross-country trip from Carlisle to Edinburgh Waverley combines speed with dreamy landscapes. Unwind with the modern facilities, from comfy seating to air conditioning, and get your fill of the onboard menus if you want a quick snack.
- Scenery from your seat: Enjoy wide open views of the rolling countryside on both sides of the border, the River Esk just before Gretna, and the Beattock Summit. These sights are best spotted from the left side of the train.
- Recline and dine: Treat yourself to a selection of food and drink during the journey. Carlisle to Edinburgh First Class passengers can tuck into exclusive menus at no extra charge.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley
Serving as a major gateway into the Scottish capital and beyond, Edinburgh Waverley is the well-connected arrival point for trains from Carlisle. Find the best exit and method to get around the city.
- Princes Street exit: Edinburgh Waverley’s main exit is at the northern end of the station, connecting passengers to the New Town, high-street favourites and the city centre.
- Market Street exit: Take this exit to reach the Old Town, the University of Edinburgh or the Royal Mile. One of the station’s taxi ranks is also by this exit.
- Waverley Bridge exit: Two parallel roadways by platforms 12 and 17 provide access to the other taxi rank, as well as bus stops for sightseeing tours and the Airlink 100 to the airport.
- Calton Road exit: Located near platform 2, this exit has a pick-up point for drivers giving passengers a lift.
- Edinburgh transport: With top landmarks being clustered in the city centre, Edinburgh is considered walkable - albeit hilly. There are several modes of transport to help you travel across the city. Hop on Edinburgh Trams from St Andrew Square or the local Borders or Lothian buses from Princes Street, North Bridge or The Mound. Two taxi ranks are next to Waverley station (on Market Street and Waverley Bridge) for point-to-point transfers.
Carlisle to Edinburgh train travel guide
Taking the train from Carlisle to Edinburgh is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Carlisle, you can arrive at Edinburgh in just 1h 15m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
Ticket prices from Carlisle to Edinburgh average around €14.01, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
How do I find the best train route from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
What is the fastest train from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
The fastest train journey time from Carlisle to Edinburgh is 1h 15m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
No, there are no direct trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Carlisle to Edinburgh trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Carlisle to Edinburgh trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do Carlisle to Edinburgh trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Carlisle to Edinburgh route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Carlisle to Edinburgh route?
The train from Carlisle to Edinburgh is operated by Avanti West Coast. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Carlisle to Edinburgh train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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