Carlisle is known as The Border City due to its proximity to
Scotland and this town is soaked in history. Having been an early Roman Settlement it was built to be close to forts along Hadrian’s Wall.
One of the main tourist attractions in Carlisle is Carlisle Castle which at one time served as a prison for Mary Queen of Scots. Now it houses a museum for the Border Regiment of the Duke of Lancaster. Another impressive building is Carlisle Cathedral.
Carlisle Mini Guide
Tell me About The “Border City”
Carlisle is proud of its place as the largest city of the Lake District. It is steeped in a rich history and surrounded by the myth and legend of times gone by. Fans of Mel Gibson’s ‘Brave Heart’ will be interested to know that the area was reportedly besieged by the legendary William Wallace himself. It has its own medieval castle, a 12th century cathedral and is home to the wonderful Tullie House Museum which leads you on a journey through the history of Cumbria.
Out and About
Carlisle is on the route of Hadrians Wall and if you follow the signs out of the city you can walk the route of the wall to the Irish sea coast. In the other direction, you'll walk fifty miles to the North Sea coast along one of England's oldest defences.
Want to Flex Your MasterCard?
Well you’ve come to the perfect place. When you’ve had your fill of the past why not head into the centre of town for some serious retail therapy. There are some excellent shopping centres filled with everything from big department stores to small souvenir shops that stock all the necessary gifts for your friends and family back home. From designer outlets to thrift stores there’s no shortage of choice, the only problem you’ll encounter is trying to fit it all in your suitcase!
Feeling Peckish?
Why not start your evening with a good meal and visit one of the local restaurants to sample some fine English cooking. Feeling a little more adventurous? Then try something more exotic. From the most trendy sushi bars to a traditional Lebanese meze, fresh lobster to doner kebabs you can travel the flavours of the globe without leaving Carlisle.
For The Night Owls
After dark, the city comes into its own, and it’s time to join the party. Whether you fancy a quiet drink and some good music or an all night trance experience, real ale or Cosmopolitans, there are bars and clubs to cater for all tastes. Carlisle by night will not disappoint even the diehard critics amongst you.
Useful Links:
- Radio 1's 'Big Weekend' returns to Carlisle for the weekend of the 14th and 15th May. The musical theme continues later in the year with a concert by boy band JLS.