Carlisle
Carlisle
Barrow-in-Furness
Barrow-in-Furness
Train Driving

Carlisle to Barrow-in-Furness

Updated: 28 May 2026

Barrow-in-Furness is located on the tip of the Furness peninsula. The journey from Carlisle is a long but scenic trip along the Cumbrian coast. By train, the Cumbrian Coast Line is the most direct route. By road, you will take the A595 and then the A590. The distance is approximately 130 kilometers. Expect a travel time of 2 hours by car or 2 hours 30 minutes by train. It is a town with a deep maritime and industrial history.

Total Distance: 130 km driving, 105 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the A595 and A590 takes 2 hours.
Cheapest Way
Northern Rail train tickets booked in advance.
Compare Carlisle to Barrow-in-Furness Routes
Train
Direct
Driving
Direct
Duration 2 hours 30 minutes 2 hours
Avg Price 20-25 GBP 25-35 GBP fuel
Operator Northern Rail N/A
Route Cumbrian Coast Line A595 and A590
Tip The train journey is very scenic. The A590 can be busy near Ulverston.
Travel Tips
  • Train Views
    The coastal scenery is beautiful.
  • Parking
    Use the town center car parks.
  • Local Food
    Try the local seafood.
  • Weather
    The coast is windy; bring a jacket.
  • Planning
    Check the Northern Rail website for delays.
Safety Tips
  • Road Safety
    The A590 has many junctions; stay alert.
  • Station Safety
    Keep your belongings secure at the station.
  • Night Safety
    Stick to well-lit areas in the evening.
  • Emergency
    Keep a map handy if your GPS fails.
People Also Ask
  • Is the train direct?
    Yes, Northern Rail operates direct services.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 2 hours.
  • Is Barrow worth visiting?
    Yes, it has a rich history and beautiful surroundings.
  • Are there buses?
    Yes, but the train is faster.
  • What is the best way to travel?
    The train is the most relaxing option.
Quick Info
  • From Carlisle, Cumbria, United Kingdom
  • To Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Summer for visiting the nearby beaches.

Things to Do in Barrow-in-Furness
1
Furness Abbey
Explore the ruins of this 12th-century abbey. It is a stunning historical site.
2
Dock Museum
Learn about the town's shipbuilding history. It is a fascinating museum.
3
Walney Island
Visit the nature reserve on the island. It is great for birdwatching.
4
Piel Island
Take a ferry to the island and visit the castle. It is a unique experience.
Tags
Carlisle to Barrow Cumbrian Coast Line A590 Barrow-in-Furness travel Cumbria transport Northern Rail driving to Barrow coastal train