Every key Lake District Train station: Which is best for you?

The Lake District is one of the most stunning parts of the UK; all mountains, lakes, and cosy villages, and the best part is, you don't even need a car to get there. Trains run straight into the National Park from cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow, making it surprisingly easy to swap city life for open fells and lakeside walks.

While the area doesn't have a large local train network, four key stations open the door to every corner of the National Park: Oxenholme Lake District, Windermere, Penrith, and Carlisle. Each connects you to different landscapes and attractions. From these stations, it's easy to continue your journey using local buses, taxis, or seasonal shuttles, which link directly to major lakes and walking trails.

Oxenholme Lake District Station is the main gateway to the southern Lake District, the town of Kendal, and parts of the Yorkshire Dales. It's just a few minutes from Kendal by train or taxi, and from here you can reach popular spots like Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere in under an hour. It's the perfect entry point for anyone travelling north by rail who wants quick, easy access to the Lakes without the hassle of driving.

Rail lines

The station sits on two critical routes. The West Coast Main Line connects it with major UK cities, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, with services run by Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express. It's also where the Lakes Line begins, a short branch operated by Northern Trains that links Oxenholme with Windermere via Kendal, Burneside, and Staveley.

Popular connections from major cities

Travelling here is straightforward. From London Euston, direct trains take around 2 hours 39 minutes. From Manchester Piccadilly, it's approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, and from Glasgow Central, just under 1 hour and 45 minutes. Birmingham New Street is about 2 hours and 17 minutes away, making Oxenholme one of the most connected rural stations in the UK.

Transfer links for onward travel

Once you're here, it's easy to continue your journey. The Lakes Line gets you to Windermere in about 20 minutes, taxis are right outside, and Stagecoach buses connect you with Kendal and the rest of the Lakes. Car hire options are nearby, too.

Nearby highlights

If you've got time before your train, take a short walk up The Helm for lovely views, stop for food at The Station Inn, or hop into Kendal for attractions like Kendal Castle, the Quaker Tapestry Museum, and Brewery Arts.

Windermere Station is the main entry point for visitors heading to the central Lake District. It serves the town of Windermere, the lakeside resort of Bowness-on-Windermere, and the surrounding area of Lake Windermere.

Rail lines

The station marks the end of the Lakes Line, a short but scenic 10-mile branch running from Oxenholme in the Lake District. Operated by Northern Trains, it stops at Kendal, Burneside, and Staveley before reaching Windermere.

From Oxenholme, you can easily connect to the West Coast Main Line, which links to major cities across the UK, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Edinburgh (see above for more information).

Popular connections from major cities

Reaching Windermere by train is a quick and straightforward process. The fastest journey from London Euston takes approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes, with one change at Oxenholme.

From Manchester Piccadilly, direct services take 1 hour and 48 minutes, and trains from Manchester Airport take around 2 hours and 21 minutes. Journeys from Glasgow or Edinburgh (Waverley) via Oxenholme take just over 2 hours, while those from Birmingham take around 2 hours 15 minutes.

Transfer links for onward travel

When you step off the train, you're right next to the main bus interchange, which connects you to almost every corner of the Lakes. The #599 runs to Bowness, Ambleside, and Grasmere, while the #555 continues north to Keswick. The #508 heads towards Ullswater and Patterdale.

There's a taxi rank just outside, and if you prefer driving, you can hire a car from Co-Wheels or a nearby Enterprise location.

Nearby highlights

There's plenty to see right from the station. Orrest Head is an easy 25-minute walk with stunning views across the lake. Down in Bowness, enjoy The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, the Windermere Jetty Museum, or a scenic cruise.

Penrith (North Lakes) Station serves as the main access point for the northern Lake District, the Eden Valley, and the historic town of Penrith. It's the perfect starting point for exploring quieter spots, such as Ullswater, Derwentwater, and Bassenthwaite Lake. The town itself is just over a mile away, making it easy to stroll to local shops, cafes, and landmarks such as Penrith Castle.

Rail lines

The station is situated on the West Coast Main Line, one of the UK's busiest and fastest rail routes. Services are operated by Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express, linking Penrith directly to London, Glasgow, Manchester, and Liverpool.

While Penrith isn't a junction for scenic branch lines, passengers can connect to the Settle-Carlisle Line at Carlisle for breathtaking views or travel via Oxenholme to reach the Lakes Line, which offers access to Windermere and Kendal.

Popular connections from major cities

Penrith is well-connected for city travellers. From London Euston, the journey takes just over 3 hours. Direct services from Manchester take around 1 hour and 30 minutes, while those from Liverpool take about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Glasgow and Edinburgh are both reachable in roughly 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Transfer links for onward travel

Outside the station, a bus interchange provides routes to Keswick, Ullswater, and Eden Valley villages. The #508 and X4/X5 buses run regularly, while taxis offer direct travel to remote spots or attractions. Car hire in the area allows for flexible exploration, and walking is easy to nearby sites, such as the town centre and Penrith Castle.

Nearby highlights

In Penrith town, explore Penrith Castle, Eden Museum, and Penrith Beacon for spectacular views. Nearby historic estates, including Lowther Castle, Brougham Castle, and Dalemain Mansion & Gardens, add cultural interest to your visit.

Kendal Station acts as the main gateway to the market town of Kendal and the southern Lake District. It is the first stop on the Lakes Line from Oxenholme, providing access to nearby tourist hotspots such as Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere. The station is also convenient for visitors exploring the Lyth Valley, Staveley, and the surrounding fells.

Rail lines

Kendal lies on the Lakes Line, a branch that runs between Oxenholme Lake District and Windermere. Northern Trains operates this line with frequent services, typically hourly, ensuring reliable connections to both Oxenholme and Windermere.

Although Kendal is not directly on a mainline, it benefits from its proximity to Oxenholme, where passengers can access the West Coast Main Line for long-distance travel across the UK.

Popular connections from major cities

Travellers from London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Birmingham connect via Oxenholme, where Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express services are available.

Direct services from Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport are available, with journey times as fast as 90 minutes, providing easy access for both business travellers and tourists seeking the Lake District's natural and cultural attractions.

Transfer links for onward travel

From Kendal Station, onward travel is straightforward. The nearby Kendal Bus Station offers frequent routes to Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere, and Keswick, including the scenic #599 open-top bus and Stagecoach #555 service.

Taxis are readily available at the station forecourt, and several local car hire providers allow visitors to explore the region at their own pace.

Nearby highlights

Kendal itself offers numerous attractions within walking distance, including Kendal Museum, the Brewery Arts Centre, and the historic 1657 Chocolate House. Beyond the town, visitors can reach Sizergh Castle and Gardens, the Lyth Valley, and family-friendly destinations like Lakeland Maze Farm Park and Staveley Mill Yard.

Staveley Station is the key access point for the village of Staveley and the Kentmere Valley in the eastern Lake District. It is especially popular with walkers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore the fells, rivers, and trails of this quieter corner of the national park.

Rail lines

The station lies on the Lakes Line, a branch connecting Oxenholme Lake District with Windermere. Operated by Northern Trains, Staveley is an intermediate stop between Kendal and Windermere.

This line provides an essential link for locals and tourists alike, combining picturesque scenery with practical access to the larger rail network via Oxenholme, where mainline connections are available on the West Coast Main Line.

Popular connections from major cities

Travellers from major UK cities usually transfer at Oxenholme. From London Euston, passengers take Avanti West Coast services to Oxenholme before continuing on the Lakes Line.

Similarly, journeys from Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Birmingham follow the same pattern. Direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport are available, taking around 1 hour 45 minutes, making Staveley easily reachable for weekend breaks or day trips from the North West.

Transfer links for onward travel

Staveley Station offers multiple options for continuing your journey. Northern Trains offer direct trips to Windermere in approximately 10 minutes, while nearby bus stops serve routes such as the Stagecoach #555 and seasonal open-top #599, connecting the village with Ambleside, Keswick, and Bowness.

Taxis are available for a more personalised travel experience, and walking or cycling routes from the station provide access to the Kentmere Valley and surrounding fells, making onward travel flexible and convenient.

Nearby highlights

The station is within easy walking distance of Staveley Mill Yard, a lively hub of cafes, artisan shops, and bike stores. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the River Kent, take on the challenging Kentmere Horseshoe, or enjoy scenic valley walks.

Carlisle Station serves as the primary gateway to the city of Carlisle and its surrounding region. Its central location provides easy access to historic sites, shopping, and dining in the city centre.

Beyond the urban area, the station serves as a key starting point for exploring the Scottish Borders, Hadrian's Wall, and the northern Lake District, including quieter destinations such as Ullswater and Keswick. It also acts as a terminus for the Settle-Carlisle Railway, a scenic route through the Yorkshire Dales, making the station a vital hub for both tourism and local travel.

Rail lines

Carlisle Station is a major junction for several important lines. It sits on the West Coast Main Line, connecting London, Birmingham, and Glasgow. The Settle-Carlisle Line provides a scenic route to Leeds via the Yorkshire Dales. Northern Trains and ScotRail operate many of these services, while Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express provide long-distance trains.

Popular connections from major cities

Carlisle is easily accessible from across the UK. Direct trains run from London Euston, taking just over three hours, while journeys from Manchester Piccadilly take under two hours.

Scottish cities, such as Glasgow and Edinburgh, are linked by journeys of around 1 to 2 hours. Newcastle and Leeds are also connected via the Tyne Valley and Settle-Carlisle Lines, making Carlisle a convenient hub for both regional and long-distance travellers.

Transfer links for onward travel

Beyond trains, Carlisle Station provides convenient onward travel by bus, taxi, and on foot. The nearby bus station offers services to the Northern Lake District, Scottish Borders, and Hadrian's Wall sites.

A taxi rank enables direct journeys to more remote destinations, while the compact city centre allows for walking to attractions such as Carlisle Castle, Tullie House Museum, and Carlisle Cathedral.

Nearby highlights

The station is conveniently located near Carlisle's historic and cultural attractions. Carlisle Castle, just opposite the station, offers a glimpse into medieval history. Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery showcases local art, history, and natural science, while Carlisle Cathedral, dating back to 1122, is a highlight for visitors.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Kingmoor Nature Reserve, Talkin Tarn Country Park, and Bitts Park offer walking trails and scenic views.

Exploring the Lake District by train is a relaxing and scenic way to enjoy the region, but it works best with a bit of planning. Start by planning connections, since many stations are served by local buses that link to popular lake towns. For instance, from Windermere, Staveley, or Penrith stations, buses can take you to Bowness, Ambleside, Keswick, or other key destinations, making it easy to reach attractions even without a car.

To secure the best fares, it's advisable to book tickets in advance, especially on long-distance routes from London, Manchester, or Edinburgh. Advance booking with providers such as Avanti West Coast or TransPennine Express can save a significant amount compared with buying on the day, especially during weekends and peak tourist season.

For more flexible travel, consider using day passes, such as the Stagecoach "Explorer" ticket, which allows unlimited bus travel in the Lake District for a day or longer. This makes it simple to hop between towns and explore multiple areas without worrying about individual fares. Combining train travel with local buses, a rail and bus combo itinerary, is another great way to see the region efficiently, giving access to scenic rail lines and remote valleys alike.

Trip.com is a great tool for planning, allowing you to compare train routes, travel times, and prices to find the most convenient options. Finally, remember to pack a small day bag for walking or hiking, as many of the Lake District's highlights, such as fells, lakes, and riverside paths, are best explored on foot after arriving by train.