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Carlisle to Edinburgh train ticket prices
€13.55
On Tue 18 Aug
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
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 €13.55, 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.
What is the best way to travel from Carlisle to Edinburgh by train?
What is the fastest train from Carlisle to Edinburgh?
The quickest train journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh takes 1h 10m . 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, 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, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
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
How do I find Carlisle to Edinburgh train timetables?
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?
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 route from Carlisle to Edinburgh are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Carlisle to Edinburgh route?
The train from Carlisle to Edinburgh is operated by Lumo . 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
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.
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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
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
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.
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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
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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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