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Carlisle (Cumbria) to Edinburgh from $21: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Carlisle to Edinburgh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$21 by busBest price
119.3 kmDistance
1h 18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Carlisle (Cumbria) to Edinburgh with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express
Train
Average Duration
1h  18m
Estimated price
$26-150
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$21-29
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 119.3 km
Duration: 1h 18m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  52m
Estimated price
$30-45
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Traveling From Carlisle (Cumbria) to Edinburgh

The journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh offers a fascinating contrast, with Carlisle's serene charm and rich history giving way to Edinburgh's vibrant culture and dramatic architecture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and attractions for visitors.

Old Town
• Home to historic attractions like Edinburgh Castle.
• Vibrant street life and unique shops abound.
New Town
• Known for its elegant Georgian architecture.
• Plenty of modern cafes and boutiques to explore.
Leith
• Offers a bustling waterfront with eateries and bars.
• Famous for the Royal Yacht Britannia and scenic views.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Timing your visits to key attractions can greatly enhance your Edinburgh experience.

Edinburgh Castle
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Holyrood Palace
Afternoons on weekdays offer a quieter exploration of the palace.
Arthur's Seat
Early mornings or weekdays provide a peaceful hike and breathtaking scenery.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a maritime climate with mild summers and chilly winters, making it essential to check forecasts before your trip. Visiting in late spring or early autumn often brings drier weather, which can significantly enhance your sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Dining in Edinburgh: A Culinary Contrast

For a truly memorable experience, try Haggis, Neeps and Tatties at a traditional Scottish pub like The Albanach, where the lively atmosphere paired with locally sourced ingredients delivers a culinary adventure distinct from Carlisle's more rustic offerings. The bold flavors of haggis, combined with the rich heritage reflected in the restaurant's decor, create a dining moment that celebrates Edinburgh's vibrant culture.

Carlisle (Cumbria) - Edinburgh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Carlisle (Cumbria) and Edinburgh, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/

Train from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$45-150
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671
Website
https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/

Train from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$26-65
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Carlisle to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$21-29

Carlisle to Edinburgh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Carlisle (Cumbria) and Edinburgh offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh, covering a driving distance of 149.7 km in just under 2 hours. 💷 Enjoy the flexibility of cost options, with prices ranging from £24 to £36 for the road trip from Carlisle to vibrant Edinburgh.
Average price
£23 - £35
🕒 The train services depart hourly, making it easy to plan your trip according to your schedule. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes, allowing passengers to reach their destination quickly and comfortably. 💷 Ticket prices for the train from Carlisle to Edinburgh vary between £21 to £118, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the class and fare that suits their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Carlisle station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh, the main operator is LNER (London North Eastern Railway). They offer a catering service that includes a selection of snacks, drinks, and hot meals available for purchase onboard. You can pre-order your meal to enjoy a more streamlined experience. Visit their website for menu options: lner.co.uk
• The LNER trains on this route offer a variety of seating options, including Standard Class and First Class. Standard Class has comfortable seats with power outlets and Wi-Fi, while First Class provides more spacious seating, complimentary snacks, and access to a quieter carriage. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, consider upgrading to First Class.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh Waverley Station, expect to see clear signage directing you to various exit points and connecting transport options. The station does have facilities for luggage storage, and restrooms are available. If you're looking to freshen up, check for nearby hotels or public facilities, though shower services are generally limited at the station. To reach the city center quickly, take Tram Line 1 from Waverley to Princes Street, which runs frequently and is a quick journey.
🚌 The journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh by bus is a convenient and direct route operated by FlixBus. 🚌 The bus departs once daily from Carlisle and arrives at Edinburgh Bus Station, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. 🚌 Prices for the bus ticket between Carlisle and Edinburgh typically range from £17 to £23, offering an affordable and efficient travel option between these two historic cities.
Departure Point
Carlisle station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at Carlisle Bus Station at least 20 minutes early to find your bus platform easily, as it can get busy, especially if you're taking the FlixBus, which typically departs once daily.
• Bring a snack and water for the journey; although the bus provides a comfortable ride that lasts around 3 hours and 25 minutes, having refreshments will enhance your travel experience as there are often limited dining options en route.
• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Bus Station, head to the upper level where you'll find clear signs directing you to public transport options, including tram services to the city center and surrounding areas—be sure to check the tram schedule for efficient onward travel. For more info, visit: edinburghshuttle.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Carlisle (Cumbria) to Edinburgh.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Carlisle and Edinburgh is approximately 119.1 km. If you choose to drive, it would take around 1 hour 52 minutes. Taking the train is a quicker option, with a travel time of 1 hour 22 minutes from Carlisle to Edinburgh. However, if you decide to take the bus, it would take around 3 hours 38 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Carlisle.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Carlisle to Edinburgh is by bus, which costs between £6 and £28 and takes approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes. This is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. However, if you're looking for the quickest way to reach Edinburgh, the train is your best bet. It takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes and costs between £35 and £110.
The prices for a train journey from Carlisle to Edinburgh can range from £35 to £110, depending on factors such as the class of service and time of travel. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey from Edinburgh to Carlisle can vary between £6 and £28.
To travel from Carlisle to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can opt for a car journey. The distance between the two cities is approximately 149.7 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes by car. The cost of the journey by car can vary from £24 to £35, depending on factors like fuel consumption and toll charges.
The best way to travel from Carlisle to Edinburgh without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes and fares range from £35 to £110.
Yes, there is a direct link between Carlisle and Edinburgh. You can take a direct train operated by TransPennine Express, which departs from Carlisle station and arrives at Edinburgh station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus operated by Borders Buses, which departs from Market Hall in Carlisle and arrives at North Bridge in Edinburgh. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes.
There are numerous accommodation options near Edinburgh, offering a wide range of choices to suit various budgets and preferences. There are over 1382 hotels available in Edinburgh, with prices starting at £33 per night.

Trips from Carlisle (Cumbria)

Trips to Edinburgh