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Find Carlisle (Cumbria) to London bus tickets

from
Carlisle (Cumbria), United Kingdom
to
London, United Kingdom

Why Choose Bus from Carlisle (Cumbria) to London

Traveling from Carlisle (Cumbria) to London presents several transportation options, each with its unique benefits. Choosing the right mode of transport can significantly enhance your journey experience in terms of time, cost, and convenience.

💰 Cost-Effectiveness

pros
  • Bus tickets from Carlisle to London are generally more affordable than train tickets, allowing travelers to save money for their stay in London.
  • Routes such as those operated by National Express or FlixBus offer competitive pricing, especially when booked in advance.
cons
  • Bus travel may include additional transfer times, which could slightly increase overall travel time compared to direct trains.

🛎️ Scenic Views

pros
  • Traveling by bus offers beautiful views of the English countryside, especially on routes that pass through scenic areas.
  • The panoramic windows of most buses provide an excellent opportunity for photography and enjoying the landscapes along the way.
cons
  • The length of the journey, especially the 9-hour trips, can lead to fatigue, making it less appealing for those needing to rest.

⭐ Convenience and Accessibility

pros
  • Buses operate from central locations in Carlisle, such as Carlisle Bus Station, making them easily accessible for most travelers.
  • Frequent departures mean that you can choose a time that best fits your schedule, reducing waiting times.
cons
  • Routes with multiple transfers, like those requiring a change at Newcastle, may complicate travel for those with heavy luggage or mobility difficulties.

highlights:

Travel time can be longer than trains, and transfers may add complexity to the journey, which should be planned in advance.

Affordable ticket prices compared to train travel, especially with advanced booking options.

The opportunity to enjoy picturesque views of the countryside throughout the journey.

Frequent and easily accessible bus services from Carlisle enhance convenience for travelers.

Bus Options from Carlisle (Cumbria) to London

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingStagecoach Cumbria / FlixBusCarlisle Bus Station, CarlisleLondon Finchley Road, London08:00, 09:0017:40, 18:40Every 2 hours9h 40m
£
30-50
Newcastle
ConnectingNational ExpressCarlisle Lonsdale Street, CarlisleLondon Golders Green, London07:00, 09:0015:05, 17:05Daily8h 5m
£
25-40
ConnectingStagecoach Cumbria / FlixBus / National ExpressCarlisle Bus Station, CarlisleLondon Finchley Road, London10:00, 11:0020:05, 21:05Every 3 hours10h 5m
£
35-55
Newcastle,Sheffield
ConnectingStagecoach Cumbria / MegabusCarlisle Bus Station, CarlisleLondon Finchley Road, London09:30, 14:3019:00, 23:00Every 4 hours9h 30m
£
28-48
Newcastle
DirectNational ExpressCarlisle Lonsdale Street, CarlisleLondon Golders Green, London08:15, 15:1516:20, 23:20Twice daily8h 5m
£
26-45

Comparison of Bus Operators from Carlisle (Cumbria) to London

Comparing bus operators servicing the route from Carlisle to London is essential for travelers seeking the best options in terms of pricing, amenities, and overall travel experience. This route features several operators, each with their unique offerings, making it important to assess key criteria such as price, amenities, baggage allowance, and accessibility to find the most suitable choice for your journey.

CriteriaStagecoach CumbriaFlixBusNational Express
Price Range£ 20 - £ 35£ 25 - £ 45£ 30 - £ 55
pricing policies
refund policyNo refunds for purchased tickets unless canceled 24 hours before departure.Tickets are non-refundable but can be rescheduled for a fee.Refund available if requested 24 hours before the journey.
Ticket ChangesTickets can be changed for a fee of £5 if notified 48 hours in advance.Free changes if made 48 hours before departure.Changes allowed with a £5 fee up to 4 hours before departure.
discounts15% discount for students and seniors.Special promotional discounts available seasonally.20% discount for advance bookings and children.
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Charging ports, Restroom facilitiesAir conditioning, Free snacks and drinks, Entertainment optionsExtra legroom, Onboard refreshments, Travel guides
baggage allowance
free allowanceOne piece of luggage up to 20kg and a small carry-on.One suitcase and one carry-on item per passenger.Up to two bags with a total weight of 30kg.
Additional Fees£10 for additional baggage over the allowance.£5 for every additional piece of luggage.£15 for oversized baggage.
accessibilityFully accessible buses with ramps and designated seating.Buses equipped with wheelchair access and assistance available.Buses designed for easy access, with designated seating available.

Each bus operator offers various benefits, and the choice primarily depends on individual preferences regarding price sensitivity, desired amenities, and accessibility needs. Stagecoach Cumbria may appeal to budget-conscious travelers, FlixBus is ideal for those looking for comprehensive amenities, while National Express caters to those who prefer more comfort and flexibility in their travel plans.

Bus Stops and Stations from Carlisle (Cumbria) to London

Knowing the main bus stops and stations is crucial for a smooth travel experience between Carlisle and London.

Main Bus Stations in Carlisle (Cumbria)

Carlisle Bus Station

Situated in the city center, close to landmarks such as Carlisle Cathedral and The Lanes shopping area.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Local buses (several routes available)
  • Train services from Carlisle railway station located nearby
  • Taxi and rideshare services available outside the station
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles nearby
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to find your bus and sort any ticketing issues.
  • Be aware that security checks may be performed at busy times, so factor this into your arrival time.
  • Avoid peak hours from 8-9 AM and 4-6 PM for a less crowded experience.
  • Explore nearby amenities such as shops and restaurants if you have time to spare.

Main Bus Stations in London

Victoria Coach Station

Located in Central London, just a short walk from iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with comfortable seating
  • Ticket counters and information desks
  • Cafés and a variety of food options
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (elevators, ramps)
Transportation Links
  • Local bus services providing extensive connections throughout London
  • Underground stations within walking distance (Victoria Line, District Line)
  • Taxi and rideshare services readily available outside the station
  • Private parking nearby for those who drove
  • Arrive at least 20-30 minutes early to ensure a smooth arrival after your bus journey.
  • Familiarize yourself with the layout of the station as it can get busy, especially during peak hours.
  • To avoid crowds, plan travel outside of weekday rush hours, especially in the evenings.
  • Check out nearby attractions like cafes and shops if you have some time before continuing your journey.

En Route Stops

Penrith

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting area
  • Food vending machines

M6 Motorway Services

Duration: 30m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Dining options (various fast-food outlets)
  • Shops for snacks and travel necessities

Birmingham Coach Station

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Food and drink concessions

Familiarizing yourself with the bus stations and significant stops between Carlisle and London can enhance your travel experience and ensure a smooth journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Enjoy Scenic Views

    The bus route from Carlisle to London offers stunning views as you traverse the picturesque English countryside. Make sure to sit on the upper deck for the best panoramic experiences, particularly as you pass through the Lake District.

  • 📍 Pack Snacks from Local Shops

    Before departing from Carlisle, grab some traditional Cumbrian snacks like Herdwick lamb pies or Cumberland sausage rolls from local bakeries. This will enhance your journey and support local businesses.

  • 🚍 Plan for Breaks at Service Stations

    The journey includes stops at various service stations. Use these breaks to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or even explore small shops. It's a good opportunity to refresh before continuing your journey.

  • 🎭 Travel During Off-Peak Times

    If possible, aim to travel during off-peak hours to avoid crowded buses and enjoy a more comfortable experience. Early morning or late evening rides often offer more space and a quieter atmosphere.

  • 🏛 Explore Historical Sites

    Take note of historical landmarks along the way, such as Hadrian's Wall. Consider looking them up and planning an extended trip in the future to explore these rich historical sites in more detail.

FAQ

Most buses on this route are equipped with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and restrooms. Some may even feature entertainment screens for your convenience.
The journey from Carlisle to London typically takes around 7 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and the number of scheduled stops along the route.
Key stops usually include Penrith, Lancaster, Manchester, and services at major highway rest areas. Each stop offers opportunities for quick refreshment and breaks.
Standard bus travel regulations apply, but also be mindful of local customs, such as keeping noise to a minimum and respecting fellow travelers during the journey.
Yes, you can bring larger luggage, but it's essential to check with your bus operator for specific weight limits and additional fees. It's advisable to label your bags for easier identification.

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