Things to do in Carlisle

Carlisle is a 2000-year-old city filled with historic castles, museums and culture and is surrounded by two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The city is nicknamed the ‘Border City’ due to its close proximity to the Scottish border. Carlisle is the largest settlement in Cumbria and is the county’s only city, meaning there is plenty to do here!

  • Carlisle Cathedral

Carlisle Cathedral isn’t the most well-known or largest cathedral in the UK, but it is one of the most impressive. The red sandstone building is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Carlisle. It has survived on the border with Scotland for nine centuries, with the building dating back to 1133, when it was founded by King Henry I. It’s notable features include figurative stone carvings, a set of medieval choir stalls and the largest window in the Flowing Decorated Gothic style in England. The cathedral is still used for worship today and is open to everyone.

  • Carlisle Castle

Standing proudly over the city as it has done for over 900 years, Carlisle Castle remains in outstanding condition considering it has withstood many battles and sieges from the Celts and the Scots. The castle has remarkably been continuously occupied since its foundation by William II in 1092 and was the principal fortress of England’s north-western border with Scotland. The castle once held Mary Queen of Scots prisoner here!  This amazing piece of history is open to explore today; visitors can look around the medieval castle rooms, wander through the dungeons, walk on the castle walls and learn about the fortresses’ turbulent history through exhibitions.

  • Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Roman structures found in Britain. The wall stretched over 73 miles from coast to coast and was constructed in AD 122 under the rule of Emperor Hadrian to guard the wild north-west frontier. The wall runs from Wallsend on the River Tyne in the east, to Bowness-on-Solway in the west. The nearest roman fort on the wall is Birdoswald Fort. Banks Turrett is also nearby and is the best-preserved observation tower on Hadrian’s Wall.

  • Birdoswald Roman Fort

Birdoswald is one the main forts on Hadrian’s Wall and is less than 30 minutes away from Carlisle.  This particular fort is one the best preserved sections along the wall. You can explore the ruins of the Roman fort, a turret and milecastle. From here, you can view the longest, most preserved stretch of the wall as far as your eye can see.

  • Solway Aviation Museum

Privately run at Carlisle Lake District Airport, the Solway Aviation Museum is one the most impressive aviation and war history attractions in the country. Here you can learn about the various aircraft designs throughout history, including ones used by Britain during both world wars, and see a collection of aircraft, artefacts and displays reflecting Britain’s position as a world leader in aircraft design and innovation through the years.  The museum is run by passionate and dedicated volunteers. Children over 7 can climb inside the cockpit of the Vulcan Bomber and fly a WWII Spitfire in an interactive simulator!

  • Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery

Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery is situated in the heart of the city’s historical quarter and is an award winning museum showcasing displays reflecting the regions history. Exhibitions range from prehistoric history, to the civil war period all the way up to modern day art. The museum houses an impressive Roman collection, specifically focusing on Hadrian’s Wall and Carlisle Castle. There’s also a lookout area that offers a panoramic view of the city’s castle and cathedral.

  • Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life

Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life is located beside the castle and showcases more than 300 years of army history in Cumbria. You can see a huge variety of items including uniforms, medals, weapon and silver dating from 1700 to present day, alongside interactive displays.  A recent addition features an immersive exhibition recreating a First World War trench environment. The museum, which has been operating for over 80 years, aims to reinforce the strong link between Cumbria’s regiments and the local community. It provides a source of information for former soldiers and families as well as those interested in learning more about the region’s military history.