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Carlisle to Edinburgh train ticket prices
€13.91
On Sat 04 Apr
Carlisle to Edinburgh train timetable
The journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh on the fastest train in 1h 13m, usually 1h 21m. Each day, 17 trains leave from Carlisle, starting at 06:50 and ending at 22:54. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
14:15 Carlisle | 1h 21m, Direct | 15:36 Waverley | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
15:02 Carlisle | 1h 16m, Direct | 16:18 Waverley | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
16:16 Carlisle | 1h 24m, Direct | 17:40 Waverley | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
17:05 Carlisle | 1h 15m, Direct | 18:20 Waverley | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
18:18 Carlisle | 1h 22m, Direct | 19:40 Waverley | TransPennine Express | 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: Carlisle to Edinburgh trains
Getting from Carlisle to Edinburgh with Avanti West Coast takes around two hours and fifty minutes.
You'll travel through the serene, painterly landscapes of Cumbria and cross into the Scottish Borders on your way to Edinburgh.
Avanti West Coast mainly runs services on the West Coast Mainline, ensuring reliable connections amongst key cities in England, Scotland, and Wales, like Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Liverpool.
Departing from Carlisle
Carlisle Train Station is conveniently located in the city centre on Court Square, near Carlisle Citadel. Avanti West Coast and Northern mainly use this station. The station itself is a beautiful and stately piece of Victorian architecture that integrated Tudor and Gothic styles. It was opened to the public in 1847.
Because it's so central, it's a great station to leave from on your way to Edinburgh. It's close to Carlisle Central Travelodge and the Ibis Hotel Carlisle, and there are tons of restaurants and pubs nearby if you have time to wait before your journey. There is also a taxi rank, and buses stop right outside of the station.
Main stops
Luckily, there's only one stop between Carlisle and Edinburgh—Haymarket—when you take Avanti West Coast. If you opt for TransPennine Express, there is an additional stop at Lockerbie. However, it's important to remember that these stops may change due to scheduling, engineering works, or adverse weather conditions, so it's advised to check the schedule before you travel.
Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley
Edinburgh Waverley is situated in the heart of Edinburgh, between the ‘old’ and ‘new’ towns along Princes Street. The station features four entrances, making it easy to reach public transport once you leave the station. These exits are at Market Street, Carlton Road (accessible via lift), Waverley Bridge (accessible via ramp), and Princes Street. Afterwards, Market Street hosts a taxi rank, while public bus services and trams can be found on Princes Street and North Bridge.
Edinburgh Waverley is a great place to arrive at as there are so many things to do on your doorstep. So, if you’re up for some exploring after your train journey, you can hop over to the ‘old’ town on foot to check out the city’s Medieval history or be terrified with a visit to The Edinburgh Dungeon. Or you might prefer to head over to the ‘new’ town to soak up more history at The Georgian House or hit the whisky bars instead if you’d like. Edinburgh has it all.
Avanti West Coast train classes
- Standard Class: Avanti West Coast Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
- First class: A Carlisle to Edinburgh First Class ticket with Avanti West Coast gives you access to more legroom, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, complimentary food and drink, and First Class lounge access.
Avanti West Coast train travel advice
- Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. You must book a space for your bike before you travel.
- Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can benefit from discounted tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
- Passenger Assist: Assist with boarding and alighting trains, book wheelchair space and seating, offer comprehensive rail information, and help with animals or pets.
TransPennine Express: Carlisle to Edinburgh trains
Traveling from Carlisle to Edinburgh with TransPennine Express is a convenient and scenic journey, typically taking around 1.5 hours. As you head north, you'll pass through the picturesque landscapes of Cumbria and the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders before arriving in the vibrant city of Edinburgh.
TransPennine Express operates services across the North of England and into Scotland, providing essential connections between major cities such as Manchester, Leeds, and Glasgow. The route from Carlisle to Edinburgh offers a comfortable and efficient travel option, with modern trains equipped to ensure a pleasant journey to the Scottish capital.
TransPennine Express train classes
- Standard Class: TransPennine Express Standard Class offers walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and charging plugs for your devices.
- First Class: A Carlisle to Edinburgh First Class ticket with TransPennine Express will give you access to more legroom, reclining seats, free Wi-Fi and complimentary food and drink.
TransPennine Express train travel advice
- Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. You must book a space for your bike before you travel.
- Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can save 50% on their tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
- Passenger Assist: Providing ramps for entering and exiting trains, luggage support, and station guidance, with help for stairs and provision of wheelchairs or buggies for covering greater distances.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
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 13m, 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?
The average fare from Carlisle to Edinburgh is approximately €13.91, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
How do I find the best train route from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
What is the fastest train from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
The quickest train journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh takes 1h 13m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Carlisle to Edinburgh. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Carlisle to Edinburgh trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Carlisle to Edinburgh trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Carlisle to Edinburgh is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
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?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
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 Carlisle to Edinburgh route is operated by Avanti West Coast. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the 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
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals 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
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
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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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