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Carlisle (Cumbria) to Fort William from $49: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Carlisle (Cumbria), United Kingdom
to
Fort William, United Kingdom

How to Get from Carlisle to Fort William: 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.

$49 by carBest price
323 kmDistance
3h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Carlisle (Cumbria) to Fort William 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
various
Train
Average Duration
6h  55m
Estimated price
$48-170
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$49-71
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 323 km
Duration: 3h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
6h  28m
Estimated price
$77-181
Company
various
Bus
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
7h  11m
Estimated price
$120-162

Traveling From Carlisle (Cumbria) to Fort William

Traveling from Carlisle, where historic charm meets Cumbrian countryside, to Fort William, known for its stunning Highland scenery and outdoor adventures, offers a fascinating contrast between rural tranquility and dramatic landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Fort William

Fort William offers diverse neighborhoods, each enhancing your Highland experience.

Town Centre
• Vibrant shops and local eateries
• Close proximity to public transport
Caol
• Scenic views of Loch Linnhe
• Friendly community atmosphere
Banavie
• Access to the Caledonian Canal
• Ideal for walking and cycling enthusiasts

Best Times To Visit Fort William's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your Fort William experience.

Ben Nevis
Early mornings during weekdays offer breathtaking views and fewer hikers.
West Highland Museum
Visit on rainy days for a quiet, enriching experience inside.
Jacobite Steam Train
Book the early summer departures for stunning scenery and fewer tourists.

Fort William Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Fort William experiences a maritime climate, with mild summers and cool, wet winters. While summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities, be prepared for changing conditions year-round, as the weather can impact your travel plans and adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Fort William

For a unique culinary experience, try the haggis at The Grog & Gruel, which embodies traditional Scottish flavors and local ingredients, distinct from the hearty fare found in Carlisle. The inviting atmosphere, combined with a selection of craft beers, makes your dining experience in Fort William a refreshing departure from the more classic offerings of Cumbria.

Carlisle (Cumbria) - Fort William operators

Explore transport companies operating between Carlisle (Cumbria) and Fort William, 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 Glasgow Central

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
481-483
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671
Website
https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/

Train from Carlisle to Glasgow Central

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
485-486
Contact phone
+44 344 811 0141
Website
https://www.scotrail.co.uk/

Train from Carlisle to Glasgow Central

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
488-489

Train from Glasgow Queen Street to Crianlarich

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
1700-481

Train from Crianlarich to Fort William

Average Duration
1h 49m
Estimated price
1701-486

Train from Pitlochry to Dalwhinnie

Average Duration
34m
Estimated price
1704-1705
Website
https://sleeper.scot

Train from Glasgow Queen Street Low Level to Fort William

Average Duration
4h 7m
Estimated price
489-484
Bus
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Carlisle to Glasgow

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
1709-1200

Bus from Glasgow to Pitlochry

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
1201-1700
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Pitlochry Fishers Hotel bus station

Average Duration
1h 47m
Estimated price
1201-1202
Taxi
Contact phone
+44 7971 540 282
Website
https://highland-travel.co.uk

Taxi from Dalwhinnie to Fort William

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
17040-482

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

Traveling between Carlisle (Cumbria) and Fort William 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.

If you're planning a train trip from Carlisle to Fort William, it's important to note that there is no direct service. Instead, travelers will need to transfer at least once during the journey. The total travel time, including transfers, takes approximately 6 hours and 55 minutes. There are several routes available, each with its own transfer points and varying journey times. Some options include transfers at stations such as Glasgow Queen Street, Crianlarich, Motherwell, Edinburgh Waverley, Dumbarton Central, Haymarket, and London Euston. Passengers have the choice of train services operated by Avanti West Coast and First ScotRail Service, with ticket prices ranging from £50 to £145. The distance covered by the routes ranges from 360 km to 430 km, offering scenic views of the British countryside throughout the journey.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Carlisle and Fort William in the United Kingdom is 254.3 km by road. The typical travel time by train is 6 hours and 55 minutes, while taking a train and then a bus takes approximately 5 hours and 34 minutes. If you choose to drive, it will take around 3 hours and 43 minutes to reach Carlisle from Fort William by car. Alternatively, traveling by bus will take about 6 hours and 16 minutes to reach Fort William from Carlisle.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Carlisle to Fort William is by bus, with prices ranging from £40-£64. However, this option takes the longest, with a travel time of 6 hours and 16 minutes. If time is a priority, driving is the quickest option, with a travel time of 3 hours and 43 minutes, though it does cost slightly more at £52-£75.
When traveling by train from Carlisle to Fort William, the prices can range from £51 to £147. Alternatively, taking a bus from Fort William to Carlisle can cost between £40 and £61.
To travel from Carlisle to Fort William without public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 323.5 km, and it takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes to drive. However, please note that the prices for renting a car for this journey can range between £52 and £75.
To travel from Carlisle to Fort William without a car, the best option is to take a train and bus combination. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 34 minutes and costs between £44-£143. You can take a train from Carlisle to a nearby station such as Glasgow Queen Street, and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Fort William.
There is no direct link between Carlisle and Fort William by train. However, you can take a train from Carlisle to Fort William with transfers in Glasgow Queen Street and Crianlarich, which takes approximately 6 hours and 55 minutes. Alternatively, there is no direct bus connection either, but you can take a bus from Carlisle Bus Station to Fort William Bus Station with a transfer at Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow, which takes around 6 hours and 16 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Fort William. With over 473 hotels to choose from, ranging in price starting at £6, there is something to suit every budget. You can find a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in and around the town, offering a range of amenities and services.

Trips from Carlisle (Cumbria)

Trips to Fort William