No booking fees on the app
Best Price Promise
Delay Repay
24/7 customer support
Carlisle to Edinburgh train ticket prices
£11.80
On Sat 3
Carlisle to Edinburgh train timetable
The journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh on the fastest train in 1h 10m, usually 1h 20m. Each day, 23 trains leave from Carlisle, starting at 06:50 and ending at 22:17. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:50 Carlisle | 1h 31m, 1 change | 08:21 Haymarket | ScotRail | Find tickets |
06:50 Carlisle | 1h 36m, 1 change | 08:26 Edinburgh (Waverley) | ScotRail | Find tickets |
08:17 Carlisle | 1h 17m, Direct | 09:34 Haymarket | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
08:17 Carlisle | 1h 24m, Direct | 09:41 Edinburgh (Waverley) | TransPennine Express | Find tickets |
09:02 Carlisle | 1h 11m, Direct | 10:13 Haymarket | 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.
Why book Carlisle to Edinburgh trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Carlisle to Edinburgh start from just £11.80 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast on the Carlisle to Edinburgh route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Carlisle to Edinburgh train travel guide
The train journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Carlisle, you can get to Edinburgh in just 1h 10m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
The average fare from Carlisle to Edinburgh is approximately £11.80, 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 fastest train journey time from Carlisle to Edinburgh is 1h 10m. 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, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Carlisle to Edinburgh. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the 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?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Carlisle to Edinburgh train timetables?
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?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed 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 TransPennine Express. 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
-
Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
-
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.
-
Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
-
Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
-
Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
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?
More train routes
* 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.
New user welcome pack