Getting from Carlisle to Penrith by train
Travelling from Carlisle to Penrith is a simple rail route for day trips, onward travel, and quick journeys deeper into Cumbria. It’s an easy way to leave the border city behind and reach one of the main gateways to the North Lakes without driving.
Leaving Carlisle, the line runs through the Eden Valley, with open fields, low fells, and long views towards the Pennines before the approach into Penrith.
You can get from Carlisle to Penrith in as little as 14 minutes, so you can travel from one place to another quickly and affordably, with tickets from as little as £3.50 if you book in advance.
Find the cheapest train tickets from Carlisle to Carlisle
To make the most of your trip, you don’t want to spend all your budget on getting there. To help you get the most out of your money, we offer a range of cheap train tickets and discounts to Railcard holders, seniors, and group travellers.
Whether you’re travelling in Peak, Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak hours, we will help you find a ticket at the right price at a departure time that suits you.
Plus, if you’re heading away for a short break, we offer a range of 2 For 1 offers to attractions and events, so you can find a deal to make your visit really special.
For regular travellers or commuters, we have a range of Season Tickets, benefits, and reward schemes that can help you save money or even upgrade to First Class.
Travelling in comfort with Avanti
Settle in for a wonderfully comfortable journey from Carlisle to Penrith, with plenty to enjoy both on board and out of the window. Enjoy the view from our big reclining seats as you’re driven the 17 miles to your destination.
Stay connected on the go with our fast, reliable WiFi, perfect for catching up on emails or the latest headlines. With power sockets at every seat and a choice of snacks and drinks available onboard, you’ll arrive feeling ready for what’s next.
Make your journey even more relaxing by booking advance tickets. This way, you’ll get the cheapest ticket with a departure time that suits you. Or, if you’re making a last-minute trip, you can use our Live Train Status Tracker to check that your train is running on schedule.
Travelling from Carlisle?
Carlisle is a border city where Roman history, medieval streets, and a walkable centre sit close together. Carlisle Castle is the landmark most visitors head for first, with fortress walls and interiors that tell the story of centuries of conflict and royal history on the English-Scottish border.
A short walk away, Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery brings together Roman Carlisle and wider Cumbrian history in one place. If you want time outdoors before you travel, Bitts Park runs along the River Eden, with its level paths and open lawns, and is easy to fit in for a short walk before heading back to the station.
Carlisle Station sits right by the city centre, so it’s easy to reach on foot from the main streets, and taxis and local buses are close by if you’re coming from further out. Inside, you’ll find the essentials for a smooth departure, with places to pick up food and drink and clear areas to wait before you board.
Travelling to Penrith?
Penrith is a market town set between the Eden Valley and the North Lakes, which makes it a natural base for walks, scenic drives, and short stays in Cumbria. In the centre, Penrith Castle gives you a ruined medieval landmark within easy reach of the main streets, while St Andrew’s Church adds older stonework and local history close by.
For bigger views, Penrith Beacon rises above the town and opens out across the surrounding countryside, with the Lakeland fells visible on a clear day. If you’re staying in town, the centre also has independent shops, pubs, and cafés that make it easy to relax during your stay.
Penrith Station sits just outside the centre, so it’s straightforward to walk into town once you arrive. Inside the station, you’ll have the practical essentials covered, with waiting areas, ticketing facilities, and toilets before you head out.
First Class service
If you’d like a more luxurious and relaxing journey from Carlisle to Penrith, you can upgrade to First Class with Avanti West Coast.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks, a wider seat, a guaranteed table and socket, and more leg-stretching room. These are the benefits of upgrading to First Class with Avanti West Coast.
Find out everything about First Class tickets here.
