Travel south on the train from Carlisle to Preston for work, weekends away, football, shopping, and easy onward connections.

Getting from Carlisle to Preston by train

Travelling from Carlisle to Preston by train is a straightforward way to reach central Lancashire without driving on the M6. It works well for business trips, university visits, shopping days, and connections to the Fylde Coast, Manchester, and Liverpool.

Along the way, you can look out over Cumbrian fields, the Lune Valley, low fells, and broad stretches of open countryside before the line reaches Lancashire.

You can get from Carlisle to Preston in as little as 1 hour and 5 minutes, so you can travel from one city centre to another quickly and affordably, with tickets from as little as £8.50.

Find the cheapest train tickets from Carlisle to Preston

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 Preston, 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 79 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 has a compact city centre with a lot of history that can be experienced all in a short walk. You can visit Carlisle Castle, see the cathedral, and spend time in the streets around the old citadel before heading to the station. The city centre also has independent shops, cafés, and Georgian buildings that make it easy to fill a few hours without needing to go far.

The city also makes a good base for Roman history and border landscapes. Tullie is close by for exhibitions and local history, and Hadrian’s Wall sites are within easy reach for a longer day out. You can also use Carlisle as a starting point for walks, scenic drives, and trips into the northern Pennines or towards the Solway coast.

Carlisle Station is centrally located, offering convenient access to local attractions and amenities. With shops and cafes available at the station, it’s easy to grab a quick snack or coffee before boarding your train to Preston.

Travelling to Preston?

When you arrive in Preston, take a stroll through Avenham and Miller Parks for beautiful riverside views. Or, explore the city’s vibrant market scene where you can find independent shops offering a range of boutique goods.

The city also boasts a history of sports and live events. Deepdale Stadium is a short trip from the centre, and Preston gives you a handy starting point for places such as Lytham, Blackpool, and the Ribble Valley. You can also use the city as a base for exploring more of Lancashire by rail or road, with coastal towns, market towns, and open countryside all within reach.

Preston Station is conveniently located close to the city centre, providing easy access to these attractions. Whether you’re here for a brief visit or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty to do right on your doorstep.

First Class service

Upgrade your journey from Carlisle to Preston with Avanti’s First Class service.

Enjoy the luxury of wider seats with extra legroom, a guaranteed table, and complimentary refreshments, including snacks, hot drinks, and cold beverages. Our high-speed WiFi and power sockets ensure you stay connected and charged throughout the trip.

With attentive service and a more relaxed atmosphere, First Class offers a premium travel experience. Whether you're travelling for business or leisure, our First Class service ensures you arrive in style.

Learn more about travelling First Class here.