Carlisle is the only city in the county town of Cumbria. Originally, Carlisle was a roman settlement designed to support the forts along Hadrian’s Wall. Today it remains a compact historical city with the cathedral and castle very much intact.
5 Unmissable Things To Do In Carlisle
Carlisle Castle is in the heart of Carlisle, in the English county of Cumbria. The castle is over 900 years old and its walls have a lot of history to tell. The castle is also close to the ruins of Hadrian’s Wall.
You can explore interesting and ancient chambers, stairways and dungeons. There is so much history to discover at the castle. Why not take a trip to Carlisle and discover what it has to offer? There is so much to see and do. If you love history, you will love Carlisle Castle. Carlisle Castle is a fantastic medieval fortress, which watched over the city of Carlisle for centuries. It is a popular tourist attraction to locals and from around the world.
Don’t forget the gift shop which is full of medieval souvenirs, making it a place to remember or a gift for friends and family.
Carlisle Railway
Carlisle Railway is also known as Carlisle Citadel Station and is a Grade II listed railway station for the city of Carlisle Cumbria. It is a major station on the West Coast Main Line. Carlisle Railway is one of the most beautiful and impressive railways in England. It has viaducts, tunnels and countryside scenery of the North Pennines, Eden Valley and Yorkshire Dales. It would make a lovely weekend out with the family, especially if the weathers nice!
The Railway was the last great mainline railway to be built in England and had taken six years to build, starting in 1876. Back in the 19th century, engineers presented an amazing challenge to their ingenuity, skills and abilities. Carlisle Railway offers 72 miles of track, with 21 viaducts and 14 tunnels, advertised as the most picturesque route to Scotland. There is so much history at Carlisle Railway, as well as many fun events that take place, making it a must see destination when visiting Carlisle.
Why don’t you take a scenic train ride and go for a walk and enjoy the countryside? There is so much to do and see in Carlisle, which offers something for everyone.
Solway Aviation Museum
Solway Aviation Museum is independently run aircraft museum, located at Carlisle Lake District Airport in Cumbria. It is home to a great collection of aircraft, aviation artefacts and displays, which show Britain’s position as a world leader in aircraft design. There is so much history to learn about at the Aviation Museum and the museum’s main objective is the preservation of the Aviation heritage, its display and interpretation.
There are so many displays to see and learn about, making a great day out for people interested in the Royal Air Force and aviation. Why not visit Carlisle and learn all about Britain’s aircraft collection? There is so much to see and do. The museum is run by a team of volunteers, who are enthusiastic about aviation and from the Solway Aviation Society. Their aircraft collection is based on Britain’s post war with the Royal Air Force during the 1950’s and 60’s.
Hadrian's Wall
Hadrian’s Wall has been a World Heritage Site since 1987 and is an amazing feat of engineering. It is famous for the best-preserved frontier of the Roman Empire. Hadrian’s Wall is a must see if you plan on visiting Carlisle.
There is so much to explore and learn about in Carlisle, as it offers so much history. It has great countryside with many walks and attractions to go with friends and family.Visitors can still walk around Hadrian’s Wall, which is still standing in various areas. Housesteads is one of the Wall’s most preserved forts with the foundations of a hospital and barracks. The ruins of the Roman bridge that made the Wall’s route across the Eiver Irthing still remain.
Talkin Tarn Park
Talkin Tarn Park is a glacial lake and beautiful country park near Brampton, Cumbria. The scenic lake is a kettle hole lake, formed over 10,000 years ago by large glacial action.
At Talkin Tarn Park, there is also a lot of wildlife to see with many great picture opportunities.There is so much to see and do in Talkin Tarn Park, such as camping, water-sports, exhibitions and many other events. After an action packed day, with many activities to choose from, why not relax and with an afternoon tea at the Boathouse? – There’s nothing better than an afternoon tea with scenic views around the park and lake.
Top 4 Things To Do In Carlisle With The Kids
There's so much to see and do in Carlisle and plenty to keep the kids entertained!
Bitts Park
Bitts Park is the perfect day out for families and offers a large range of activities including its beautiful gardens. It offers a fun children’s adventure playground on site, with many fun slides and modern play equipment – Who wouldn’t want to play in the Pirate Ship? There is also a fantastic crazy golf course and a mini maze, which kids will love!
Children can also enjoy the FunSplash water park in the summer, with many interactive features like spray jets and other fun water features. After an active afternoon, why not enjoy a walk along the riverside or take a stroll through the Japanese gardens? There is also the Hadrian’s Wall Trail to discover, which also passes through Bitts Park.
There are many events that take place throughout the year, which are perfect for entertaining the kids and also families – Don’t miss out on the fantastic fireworks in November and Love Parks week in July! Bitts Park is a must see if you’re visiting Carlisle, with many scenic gardens and countryside to discover. Why not make a weekend of it or stay a little longer? There are many popular places to stay.
Ullswater Steamers
Ullswater Steamers offers the perfect opportunity to explore the area and is known as the ‘Dark Lake’, as it is believed that monsters used to live beneath the dark waters of Ullswater! Ullswater offers so many fun activities and attractions for the whole family.
The valley is home to various species of wildlife, hidden in the ancient woodlands and fells – You might even see some of the rarer species! If your children love an adventure, they will love walking around and exploring Ullswater. It offers peaceful and beautiful scenery, making a perfect day out with family.
There are also many fun events for kids during the school holiday, such as the Tail Trail Gang, where you will learn all about Sammy the squirrel and his friends.
Eden Rock
Eden Rock is the place to be for adventure and climbing, the kids will love it! There is also a range of kids clubs and activities that run every day of the week where they can learn and build up their fitness.
If your children are new to climbing, there are many induction courses that Eden Rock offers – They will be pros in no time! It’s a great place to take the kids during the school holidays, to keep them entertained all day! There is so much to do and see in Carlisle, especially for families.
Lazonby Swimming Pool
Lazonby Swimming Pool is perfect for sunny and hot days, as it offers a 6m outdoor heated pool. The swimming pool is perfect for families and a great activity to do during the school holidays.
Lazonby Swimming Pool is a registered charity and a valued community place, run by volunteers and professional lifeguards.
Where To Eat In Carlisle?
On your visit to Carlisle, take your time to enjoy the city and relax with one of these most popular restaurants - From family meals to fine dining!
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