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Carlisle Historic City
Carlisle Historic City
City of Carlisle
City of Carlisle

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Carlisle

Standing proudly between the Lake District National Park and Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle is a modern metropolis which has seen its fair share of history - at least 2,000 years’ worth! Located on the border of England and Scotland, in the once ominously named ‘Debatable Lands’, it has been at the centre of many a conflict, fought over by Vikings, Scots, the English and the Border Reivers.

Today, it is Cumbria’s capital city; and technically the biggest city in England, by area. A bustling hub in the north, it’s packed with great places to eat and drink; a vibrant array of shops; stylish places to stay; and so much more.

Given its rich history it is hardly surprising that the city’s imposing castle – where Mary Queen of Scots was once held – is one of the most impressive fortifications in England; and was built using stones nicked from the nearby Hadrian’s Wall. Not far from the castle is the beautiful cathedral, itself only a few steps from the pedestrianised Greenmarket in the city centre - a focal point for street entertainment, farmers’ markets and Christmas celebrations.

As you’d expect from a vibrant city, there’s a packed programme of events to go along with the busy nightlife and bustling restaurant scene. The City of Lights celebration, the Spectacular Fire Show, and the year round markets including summer and Christmas are just a few of the annual highlights.

Culture & Heritage

Carlisle’s turbulent history is very well told in the displays and exhibits of the Tullie House Museum: a museum housed within a Grade One listed Jacobean building, with a modern art gallery extension creating a blend of old and new.

Not far away, Carlisle Castle has history embedded in its very walls, chambers and passageways. With a commanding position at the northern end of town, this impressive monument – founded by William II in 1092 and built from stones taken from Hadrian’s Wall – has protected the city from invasion since Norman times.

Just a stone’s throw away stands Carlisle Cathedral. Founded in 1122, it has seen a number of changes throughout its time: from the rebuilding of its choir in the Gothic style in C13, to its restoration between 1853 - 1870 by Ewan Christian. Its magnificent east window contains stained glass from the 14th century; there are also fine wood carvings, medieval painted wall panels and the Brougham Triptych altarpiece.

In the city centre, the medieval Guildhall offers the chance to discover Carlisle’s ancient trade guilds and its civic history: it is now a museum housing treasures such as the great iron-clad chest that stored the city's documents, the medieval stocks, and the rare Carlisle Bells (the oldest horseracing prizes in England).

Modern Carlisle wears its past well but is more focused on the future. With a wide choice of restaurants, a handful of fantastic events venues, and a nightlife scene to keep you going until the small hours, it’s the perfect place to be.

Surrounding Areas

Away from the city centre, there’s an abundance of beautiful places to visit around Carlisle. Stay in the city, and enjoy day trips to these beautiful locations.

Brampton - the picturesque market town of Brampton is set amidst the gently rolling countryside of the Irthing Valley and Geltsdale, which is perfect for woodland walks. A 200+ year old Moot Hall serves as the town’s tourist information centre, and there’s plenty to explore - from independent shops and cafes to a rich culture and heritage.

The weekly Wednesday market, and the Farmers Market held on the last Saturday of each month, are well worth a visit.

Wetheral - Surrounded by rolling farmland, the village of Wetheral stretches along the River Eden, offering many delightful countryside views. A market cross decorates the triangular village green, surrounded by 18th century houses of local sandstone and Victorian buildings of yellow brick.

Wetheral is home to the 16th century Church of the holy trinity and at the end of the village stands a lovely red sandstone Priory gatehouse.

Bowness-on-Solway - the coastal village of Bowness-on-Solway hugs the coast on the western side of Cumbria along the Solway Firth, and marks one end of the Hadrian’s Wall Path. It is part of the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Beauty, making it a fascinating hub for wildlife - it’s particularly good for bird watching. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the firth, with views towards Scotland.

Dalston - the town of Dalston and its home of Caldew Valley were originally part of the territory of the Carvetti, a Brigantian tribe of Celts. This is evidenced by the local place names of Cumdivock (‘valley of the little black stream') and Cummersdale (‘valley of the Cymri').

Talkin Tarn Country Park - a peaceful oasis not far from the city, Talkin Tarn Country Park features farmland and woodland, spread across 120 acres. There’s a tarn for watersports, and outdoor events in summer.

Hadrian’s Wall - built in AD122 to protect the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, Hadrian’s Wall celebrated its 1900th anniversary in 2022. Celebrations took place along this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site, with everything from live music to archaeological exhibitions at #HW1900.

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Highlights

Cumbrian Coastal Route 200 - Add on 2 - Alston and The North Pennines AONB

Discover Alston and The North Pennines AONB Travel along the A686, once voted one of the AA’s ‘Top…

Dance Anthems Orchestra

We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will coming to the stunning Carlisle Castle…

The Halston Aparthotel

The Halston is a luxury Aparthotel in the heart of Carlisle city centre which houses Barton's Yard,…

Carlisle Cathedral

Visit Carlisle Cathedral, centrally located in the heart of the city. Whether for worship, events,…

Bitts Park

Bitts Park is a peaceful haven only 800 metres from Carlisle City Centre, comprising formal…

Cumbrian Coastal Route 200 - Add on 1 - Carlisle to Birdoswald - The Roman Frontier

Cumbrian Coastal Route 200 - Add on 1 - Carlisle to Birdoswald - The Roman Frontier Discover the…

Saturday Recital by Sempre Amabile women's choir

Join us for a delightful musical experience as our series of free Afternoon Recitals continues with…

UK PROMS IN THE PARK

We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will be coming to the stunning Carlisle…

Vivaldi Four Seasons at Christmas by Candlelight

The Piccadilly Sinfonietta will be performing at Carlisle Cathedral. Enjoy an exceptional musical…

Walby Farm Park Gift Shop - The Gift Shed

The Walby Farm Park Gift Shop, “The Gift Shed” has been stocked with farm and countryside lovers in…

Father Christmas on the Farm 2024 at Walby Farm Park

Our popular 'Father Christmas on the Farm' event is back in 2024! BOOK TICKETS NOW Team Walby is…

Cowshed Café at Walby Farm Park

We’re sure that you will work up an appetite on your day out at Walby Farm Park so our café – ‘The…

Run Carlisle

Half Marathon & 10k in Carlisle

Barton's Yard Cafe Bar at The Halston Aparthotel

From breakfast to lunch, coffee to cocktails, Bartons Yard Café Bar is the perfect place to meet,…

Organ Recital with Edward Taylor

We look forward to hearing Edward Taylor on Wednesday 15th January, at his next Organ Recital…

Carlisle Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival

Come and experience Carlisle Cathedral's first ever Christmas Tree Festival, with 30 trees on…

Hadrian’s Wall Edge of Empire Tour with Great Guided Tours

Hear about Carlisle Luguvalium, the Wall fort Uxcellodunum then, off to visit our fabulous Wall as…

Accordion Duo - Julie Best and Jean Corrighan

Our series of free Afternoon Recitals continues, we are delighted to welcome back Julie Best and…

Buses to and through Carlisle

Buses to and through Carlisle: 38 Carlisle - Wigton - Silloth - Skinburness. 39/39A Carlisle -…

The Winter City Walking Tour

Many important national and local events happened during the winter months, Christmas, and New Year…

Auto Europe Car & Campervan Hire

Auto Europe’s strong partnership with both local and international car hire suppliers operating in…

Hadrian's Wall Bus (AD 122)

Sit back and relax as we take you to enjoy the sights and sounds of Hadrian's Wall by bus.

Recharge on a multi-day Electric Vehicle tour of the Lake District

As EV (Electric Vehicle) sales outstrip petrol and diesel car sales for the first time, it looks…

Penny Blue Restaurant & Bar at The Halston Aparthotel

Serving up creative tapas & grill dishes as well as offering classic & contemporary cocktails,…

Hadrian's Wall the northern frontier of the Roman Empire

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Organ Recital with Edward Taylor

Address

Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228 548151

Events@carlislecathedral.org.uk

Carlisle

We look forward to hearing Edward Taylor on Wednesday 27 November, at his next Organ Recital organised as part of the Free Live Music Series at Carlisle Cathedral.
This event is free to enter; there will be a retiring collection at the end of the…

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Walby Farm Park Gift Shop - The Gift Shed

Address

Walby Farm Park, Walby, Crosby-on-Eden, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA6 4QL

Telephone
01228 573056

info@walbyfarmpark.co.uk

Crosby-on-Eden, Carlisle

The Walby Farm Park Gift Shop, “The Gift Shed” has been stocked with farm and countryside lovers in mind. Our range of toys, books and gifts is complemented by a hand-picked selection of children’s clothing, which can be handy if you’ve forgotten…

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Tourism For All

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591 reviews
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Buses to and through Carlisle

Address

Carlisle City Centre, Carlisle, CA3 8JW

Telephone
0871 200 22 33

tourism@carlisle.gov.uk

Carlisle

Buses to and through Carlisle:
38 Carlisle - Wigton - Silloth - Skinburness.
39/39A Carlisle - Wigton - Fletchertown.
71 Silloth - Kirkbride - Carlisle.
Caldbeck Rambler 73/73A Carlisle/Keswick - Caldbeck - Keswick - seasonal.
75 Carlisle -…

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Gabrieli ROAR: A Grand Georgian Christmas

Address

Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228548151

marketing@carlislecathedral.org.uk

The Abbey, Carlisle

Following their successful Praetorius tour in 2022, Gabrieli Roar presents A Grand Georgian Christmas. Led by Gabrieli Artistic Director Paul McCreesh, over 4,000 late-primary and secondary students will join Gabrieli's world-class musicians across…

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Little Stars at Carlisle Cathedral

Address

Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228548151

marketing@carlislecathedral.org.uk

The Abbey, Carlisle

LITTLE STARS
A group for toddlers and young children that takes place under the stars in Carlisle Cathedral on Fridays at 10am. Enjoy themed stories, singing, prayers and crafts in the beautiful setting of Carlisle Cathedral.
Special…

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Accordion Duo - Julie Best and Jean Corrighan

Address

The Fratry Hall, Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228548151

Events@carlislecathedral.org.uk

The Abbey, Carlisle

Our series of free Afternoon Recitals continues, we are delighted to welcome back Julie Best and Jean Corrighan Accordion Duo.
Entry to our afternoon concerts is free; there is a collection taken at the end of each concert - please give what you…

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The Winter City Walking Tour

Address

Carlisle Tourist Information Centre, Old Town Hall, Market St, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8JE

Telephone
01228 598596

carol@greatguidedtours.co.uk

Market St, Carlisle

Many important national and local events happened during the winter months, Christmas, and New Year. Join this interesting, guided walking tour around our city centre. See heritage buildings and hear about many historic winter events that shaped the…

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Carlisle Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival

Address

Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228548151

marketing@carlislecathedral.org.uk

The Abbey, Carlisle

Come and experience Carlisle Cathedral's first ever Christmas Tree Festival, with 30 trees on display across the Cathedral and Undercroft.
Take time out of the hustle and bustle of the season to explore the trees, which will be decorated to…

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Recharge on a multi-day Electric Vehicle tour of the Lake District

Address

As EV (Electric Vehicle) sales outstrip petrol and diesel car sales for the first time, it looks like this cleaner and greener travel option is on the rise. So, you are all charged up, but where can you go? Well, thanks to the Low Carbon Lake…

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Bitts Park

Address

Dacre Street, CARLISLE, Cumbria, CA3 8UZ

Telephone
01228 817200

parks@carlisle.gov.uk

CARLISLE

Bitts Park is a peaceful haven only 800 metres from Carlisle City Centre, comprising formal gardens, riverside walks, a children’s play area and splash park, running routes and sports facilities.

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Run Carlisle

Address

Brunton Park, warwick road, cumbria, Cumbria, CA11LL

Telephone
+447915338945

getmuddy@geltgladiator.com

cumbria

Half Marathon & 10k in Carlisle

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The History and Making of the Bells at Carlisle Cathedral

Address

The Fratry Hall, Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228548151

marketing@carlislecathedral.org.uk

The Abbey, Carlisle

The presentation will explore a brief history of Bell Ringing
at Carlisle Cathedral to the present day, with the installation of the millennium peal of thirteen bells.
We will also explore how the new bells were cast, tuned, hung in the tower and…

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Barton's Yard Cafe Bar at The Halston Aparthotel

Address

Bartons Yard, 20-34 Warwick Rd, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1AB

Telephone
01228 210240

info@thehalston.com

Carlisle

From breakfast to lunch, coffee to cocktails, Bartons Yard Café Bar is the perfect place to meet, eat & drink.

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Dance Anthems Orchestra

Address

Carlisle Castle, Carlisle Castle, Castle Way, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8UR

Telephone
00000000001

Info@ukacgroup.org

Castle Way, Carlisle

We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will coming to the stunning Carlisle Castle in 2025 as part of a UK wide tour of eight iconic historic locations including Whitby Abbey,Pendennis Castle and Kenilworth Castle.
Featuring the…

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Penny Blue Restaurant & Bar at The Halston Aparthotel

Address

Penny Blue Restaurant & Bar, 20-34 Warwick Rd, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1AB

Telephone
01228 210 241

pennyblue@thehalston.com

Carlisle

Serving up creative tapas & grill dishes as well as offering classic & contemporary cocktails, Penny Blue is a stylish and contemporary place to eat & drink. Now also serving delicious afternoon tea.

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Cowshed Café at Walby Farm Park

Address

Walby Farm Park, Walby, Crosby-on-Eden, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA6 4QL

Telephone
01228 573056

info@walbyfarmpark.co.uk

Crosby-on-Eden, Carlisle

We’re sure that you will work up an appetite on your day out at Walby Farm Park so our café – ‘The Cowshed Café’ offers tasty home-cooked dishes made with locally produced ingredients – and all in a great setting in the beautiful Cumbrian…

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Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
591 reviews
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Carols by Candlelight Concert

Address

Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228548151

marketing@carlislecathedral.org.uk

The Abbey, Carlisle

Every Christmas, the Carlisle Cathedral choirs join forces for the annual Christmas Concert; this year the boy and girl choristers, Consort and Lay Clerks will be singing Carols by Candlelight - the perfect pre-Christmas musical treat, including…

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Hadrian’s Wall Edge of Empire Tour with Great Guided Tours

Address

Tullie, Castle St, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TP

Telephone
01228 670578

carol@greatguidedtours.co.uk

Carlisle

Hear about Carlisle Luguvalium, the Wall fort Uxcellodunum then, off to visit our fabulous Wall as you tour the north Cumbrian landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy wonderful scenery along the Wall route.

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Father Christmas on the Farm 2024 at Walby Farm Park

Address

Walby Farm Park, Walby, Crosby-on-Eden, Cumbria, CA6 4QL

Telephone
01228 573056

info@walbyfarmpark.co.uk

Crosby-on-Eden

Our popular 'Father Christmas on the Farm' event is back in 2024!
BOOK TICKETS NOW
Team Walby is thrilled to announce that Father Christmas and his Festive Friends will be visiting Walby Farm Park again in 2024 for our magical Father Christmas on…

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Christmas Angels' View Tours at Carlisle Cathedral

Address

Carlisle Cathedral, The Abbey, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TZ

Telephone
01228548151

marketing@carlislecathedral.org.uk

The Abbey, Carlisle

Please join us for a special tour of Carlisle Cathedral this Christmas.
Climb up to our clerestory to experience the Cathedral in a unique way. Get up close to our medieval stained glass in the East Window and see the starry ceiling and the…

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