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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.
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.
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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Fun facts and tantaliaing trivia about Carlisle. Click for more details
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Hadrian's Wall the northern frontier of the Roman Empire
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Castle Way, Carlisle
We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will be 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.
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Carlisle
Kingmoor North is a wildlife haven sandwiched between a growing industrial city. Assess by foot is gained from Kingstown Broadway, Bankend Road, A689 ,Chandler Way, Coopers Way various entrances from Kingmoor Park and also from Kingmoor South Nature…
CARLISLE
Pay and display car park with 321 general use spaces, 6 disabledspaces,1 motorcycle space and 16 spaces for Coach, Caravan, Minibuses, Motor Caravan and Camper use.
Carlisle
Once the home of Carlisle's horse racing course, Kingmoor South is now a tranquil woodland situated in the north of Carlisle.
Carlisle
Petteril Valley Park is situated on the southern edge of Carlisle City, open all day, every day, all year round.
Carlisle
Chances Park is specially landscaped to offers great views of the city of Carlisle. The main entrance to Chance's Park and the community centre is off the Wigton Road (A595) where there is a free car park for visitors. There is pedestrian access off…
Carlisle
Hammonds Pond is a busy local park with many recreational opportunities. It is situated at Upperby, to the south of the City of Carlisle.
Carlisle
At Acantha Crystals we sell ethically sourced and sustainably packaged crystals so that those seeking holistic healing and enlightenment can manifest their dreams and be their best authentic selves, thanks to mother Earth.
Carlisle
Foxes is a bustling cafe and bar with live music, an art gallery and film nights, serving local produce and beers in the heart of Carlisle’s "Historic Quarter".
Kingstown Industrial Estate, Carlisle
Carlisle Brewing Co is a small, family-run brewery based in Cumbria's capital city. We make beer because we simply love it - real ale is awesome! We've spent more years than we care to remember drinking real ale of all styles and flavours.
Carlisle
The Last Zebra is a vibrant restaurant and bar in the centre of Carlisle known for serving superb craft beers and colourful, signature cocktails.
Scotch St, Carlisle
The Market Hall, Carlisle, one of the few covered Victorian Markets remaining in the Country has a wide variety of stalls.
Carlisle
Open since 1993, we're still passionate about cooking fresh, traditional and innovative dishes for our guests and are committed to ensuring that you have a great time.
Carlisle
Based in the heart of Carlisle, John Watt & Son, as we know it today, is founded upon closely guarded recipies and a rich history that spans over 150 years.
W Walls, Carlisle
Discover a hidden gem in the historic heart of Carlisle—West Walls Brewing Co., Cumbria’s first city-centre microbrewery nestled within the iconic Twisted Wheel nightclub. Our venue blends rich history with modern flair, offering tourists an…
Carlisle
Producers of luxury topped pork pies, traditional meat pies, sausage rolls, pasties and quiche. Handmade in the centre of Carlisle.
Carlisle
Welcome to The Thorne Tree Bistro where amazing food meets a cosy home environment.
Carlisle
Standing proudly in the city it has dominated for nine centuries, Carlisle Castle remained a working fortress until well within living memory. Today's highlights include the Prisoners' beautiful carvings, the exhibition and wall walk.
Carlisle
Museum, art gallery, community hub, generally great place. We offer a forward-thinking programme of special exhibitions and events. Proudly caring for an almost 1 million-strong collection of objects that tell the story of Carlisle and Cumbria.
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL