Route 104 is more than just a bus service; it’s a bridge between two of Cumbria’s most historic settlements, tracing the spine of the Eden Valley. Connecting the ancient “Great Border City” of Carlisle with the market town of Penrith and the woodland retreat of Center Parcs, this route offers a reliable and scenic alternative to driving the A6.
Whether you are a local commuter, a student, or a visitor looking to explore the rolling Cumbrian countryside without a car, the 104 provides a vital link through the heart of the county.
Why this route is special
While the Lake District often steals the headlines, the Eden Valley offers a gentler, more pastoral beauty, and Route 104 gives you a front-row seat. This journey takes you away from the frantic pace of the M6 motorway, instead following the historic A6 road. You’ll trade concrete barriers for hedgerows, stone-built villages, and glimpses of the Pennine hills in the distance.
It is a route of contrasts. You start in the bustling urban centre of Carlisle, drift through quiet ribbon villages that seem paused in time, and finish in the dense, pine-scented tranquillity of Whinfell Forest. It’s also an incredibly practical connection for hikers, connecting seamlessly in Penrith with services heading deeper into the National Park.
A journey through the heart of Cumbria
The route begins in Carlisle, a city steeped in over 2,000 years of history. Before you hop on board, you might spare a moment to admire the imposing Carlisle Castle or the stunning Cathedral, both just a short walk from the bus station.
As the bus heads south, it navigates the suburbs, passing Petteril Bank and the area of Garlands. Quickly, the urban sprawl gives way to open fields as you reach Cumwhinton and Cocklakes. This section of the journey is characterised by lush farmland and the expansive skies typical of the Solway borders.
Continuing south, the bus passes Scalesceugh Hall, a stunning estate that hints at the area’s grand history. The route then threads through the twin villages of Low Hesket and High Hesket. These are classic Cumbrian linear settlements, where stone cottages line the road, offering a picturesque snapshot of rural life.
As you close in on Penrith, you pass through Plumpton and Bowscar. On a clear day, keep your eyes peeled to the east for the dramatic rise of the North Pennines, and to the west for the jagged silhouette of the Lakeland fells.
The bus then arrives in Penrith. Known as the “Hub of the Lakes,” this red-sandstone town is perfect for a stopover. You can explore the ruins of Penrith Castle, browse independent shops, or grab a coffee in the bustling town centre.
Finally, the service concludes at Whinfell Forest Centre Parcs. Here, the scenery shifts dramatically to deep woodland. While access to the accommodation lodges is for guests, the bus terminus serves as a vital transport link for staff and day visitors using the facility’s specific amenities.
When does the route run?
Stagecoach operates the 104 service seven days a week, making it a dependable option for both work and leisure.
- Monday to Saturday: The service is frequent, typically running every 30 minutes during peak times and hourly during quieter periods.
- Sundays and Bank Holidays: A reduced service operates, usually hourly, which is still excellent for a weekend day out.
The first buses leave early in the morning (ideal for commuters), and the last services run late into the evening, allowing you to enjoy dinner in Carlisle or Penrith before heading home.
Value for money
Bus travel in Cumbria is currently offering exceptional value. The national fare cap scheme is active on this route, meaning a single journey is capped at just £3.00. Whether you are travelling two stops or the full distance from Carlisle to Center Parcs, you won’t pay more than the price of a coffee.
For those planning to make a return journey or hop onto other buses (like the X4 or X5 to Keswick), a DayRider ticket is often the best choice.
- North West Explorer: This ticket allows unlimited travel on Stagecoach buses across Cumbria and North Lancashire.
- Carlisle or Penrith DayRider: Cheaper zone-specific tickets are available if you are only travelling within the immediate town boundaries, though for the full 104 route, the Explorer or a simple single fare is usually best.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit on the right (heading South): If you are travelling from Carlisle to Penrith, sit on the right-hand side of the bus for the best views of the Lake District fells appearing on the horizon.
- Charge up: Many of the modern buses on this route are equipped with USB charging ports and free Wi-Fi, letting you plan your day as you travel.
- Check the X4/X5 connection: If you want to go further into the Lake District, the 104 is timed well to connect with the X4/X5 services at Penrith Bus Station, opening up access to Keswick, Cockermouth, and Workington.
Planning a day out on this route
Option 1: The Market Town Explorer
Start in Carlisle with a morning visit to the Castle. Catch the 104 to Penrith for lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the unique “yards” and independent shops of Penrith, before catching an evening bus back.
Option 2: The Forest Walk
Take the bus all the way to the Whinfell Forest Centre Parcs terminus. While the resort is private, the surrounding area offers public footpaths and bridleways that let you enjoy the fresh air and dense woodlands of the Eden Valley.
Year-round appeal
The 104 is a route for all seasons. In spring and summer, the fields around High Hesket are bright with crops and wildflowers. In autumn, the approach to Whinfell Forest is a spectacular display of copper and gold leaves. Even in winter, the reliable service keeps the communities connected, and the views of snow-capped Cross Fell from the top deck of the bus are truly magical.
