You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Areas of Cumbria > Carlisle & Hadrian’s Wall
Inextricably linked with the iconic Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle’s fusion of old and new brings together 2000 years of history with some laid-back city living and urban café culture.
Located in the north of the county, Carlisle is Cumbria’s only city. Its modern shops, eateries and attractions share space with historic landmarks telling the tale of its storied past, from Roman soldiers to Royal prisoners.
Explore the fantastic eateries and shops which line places like Devonshire Street, get inspired and learn more at museums and galleries, and stroll through the picturesque surrounds of Bitts Park.
Surrounding Carlisle is an abundance of nature and wildlife, with two National Landscapes - the Solway Coast and the North Pennines - on its doorstep. There are also pretty towns and villages, and Hadrian’s Wall: a UNESCO World Heritage Site with plenty to discover.
Standing on the Scottish border, the city of Carlisle is home to a rich history and heritage which spans back thousands of years.
There’s no shortage of history in Carlisle itself, where the formidable fortress of Carlisle Castle stands proud over the city. It was once the home of an imprisoned Mary Queen of Scots, and endured the last siege suffered by a fortress in England!
Be sure to visit Carlisle Cathedral: built in 1122, today it is over 900 years old. It’s known for its ceiling painted with stars, and visitors can enjoy special tours which offer a deeper insight into its history.
There are plenty of things to do in and around Carlisle: whether you’re after arts & culture, history, live music, or just a little retail therapy you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Discover art galleries and museums offering an insight into local history, as well as welcoming visiting works from internationally renowned artists. Catch a show or a concert at an independent venue, or enjoy a day at the races.
Keep an eye out for events throughout the year including Taste Carlisle: a food festival which celebrates local produce. During the festive season, a Christmas market takes over the city centre with a vibrant array of stalls to peruse. Carlisle Light District sees landmarks across the city light up as part of an impressive light and sound display.
Explore the edge of an ancient empire by walking in the footsteps of the Romans along Hadrian’s Wall: part of the Frontiers of the Roman Empire World Heritage Site, which runs through Carlisle. Visit the Roman Army Museum at Greenhead near Brampton to learn more about the wall’s history.
There are several Roman forts to visit just a short distance from Carlisle’s city centre, too, including Birdoswald Roman Fort, where you’ll find a visitor centre and cafe, and Banks Turret. Nearby, explore the 13th century Lanercost Priory which is located on another Roman site.
Want to get active? Explore via the long distance cycle route, Hadrian’s Cycleway - Route 72, or challenge yourself to walk the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail.
Away from the city centre, there’s plenty to discover in the areas surrounding Carlisle. To the west, visit the Solway Coast National Landscape: hugging the Cumbrian coastline, it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature. The coastal village of Bowness-on-Solway marks the end of the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, and is home to epic sunsets with majestic views across the water to Scotland.
To the east, discover the family-friendly Talkin Tarn Country Park. Featuring a glacial lake at its centre, there’s an accessible path suitable for a range of users, and tramper hire available through Outdoor Mobility. Visitors can enjoy watersports, picnics, and stargazing in the Talkin Tarn Stargazing Pavilion.
There are also interesting museums and attractions like the Solway Aviation Museum as well as Roman history along Hadrian’s Wall.
The nearby market town of Brampton is filled with independent retailers, characterful pubs and delicious eateries. Surrounded by gentle rolling countryside, there’s also easy access to the more rugged landscapes of the North Pennines National Landscape. The high, scenic setting of Tindale Tarn is just one unexpected delight.
Funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is supported by Cumberland Council and Sellafield.
Explore
Join us this summer for a fortnight of live music, spend Thursday evening enjoying A Musical…
While entry to our concerts is complimentary, we encourage contributions during the collection at…
We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will coming to the stunning Carlisle Castle…
Supporting local artisan producers, crafters and artists Carlisle's monthly farmers' market can be…
Our popular monthly market in Maryport isn't to miss! The market offers one-of-a-kind items you…
Get ready to come face to face with moving dinosaurs in the Tullie Exhibition Gallery! Coming this…
Our series of Live Music in the Afternoon continues with an organ recital in the Cathedral from our…
Weekly Friday Market. Good range of Local fresh produce and cakes. Also gifts and household…
We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will be coming to the stunning Carlisle…
Mud Run 3000 people all ages and abilities
Our series of free live music in the afternoons continues with an organ recital from Philip Crozier…
Visitors to the museum can join one of our knowledgeable volunteers for a guided tour around the…
We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will coming to the stunning Carlisle Castle…
All are welcome for a night of Scottish Dancing with the Tailgate Buskers, with friends old & new,…
Join me in the beautifully picturesque village of Lanercost near Carlisle in Cumbria for this…
Fun weekend for all, from emergancy services displays, live music, Fair, Stalls, Food & Drink,…
This summer, discover a different kind of Lake District experience. Yoga in the Park is your…
Ida returns to the Cathedral for a special performance of Bach Transcriptions in the Fratry Hall.…
We are delighted to announce that the UK Proms Weekend will be coming to the stunning Carlisle…
Wendy Long Wendy Long studied violin and piano as a junior exhibitioner at the Royal Academy…
Join us on the last Friday of each month at the Cathedral Cafe and Bar for our monthly quiz…
Hadrian's Wall the northern frontier of the Roman Empire
Number of results: 52
, currently showing 1 to 20.
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.
Carlisle
From breakfast to lunch, coffee to cocktails, Bartons Yard Café Bar is the perfect place to meet, eat & drink.
Market St, Carlisle
A relaxed and easy walking tour around the heart of the historic city of Carlisle. Discover some surprising stories and gruesome facts about Carlisle’s 2000 year history.
Silloth
Stanwix Park is located on the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Self Catering Caravans and Apartments to hire for 3,4 and 7 night breaks (some pet friendly accommodation). Fully serviced pitches for Tents, Touring Caravans and Motorhomes. Camping Pods…
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…
Silloth
Stanwix Park is located on the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Self Catering Caravans and Apartments to hire for 3,4 and 7 night breaks (some pet friendly accommodation). Fully serviced pitches for Tents, Touring Caravans and Motorhomes. Camping Pods…
Brampton
We are a team of well-trained and enthusiastic local people who delight in sharing our extensive knowledge of Carlisle, Hadrian's Wall and its rich history and heritage. Uncover Roman heritage and walk in their footsteps.
Brampton
Inspired by the landscape and set on a hilltop adjacent to Hadrian's Wall in Cumbria, Garthside Farm Holidays provides thoughtfully positioned glamping pods, with outstanding views of the beautiful countryside, North Pennine Fells and Northern Lake…
Silloth
Stanwix Park is located on the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Self Catering Caravans and Apartments to hire for 3,4 and 7 night breaks (some pet friendly accommodation). Fully serviced pitches for Tents, Touring Caravans and Motorhomes. Camping Pods…
Carlisle
The Halston is a luxury Aparthotel in the heart of Carlisle city centre which houses Barton's Yard, a relaxed yet vibrant bistro and wine bar which is open to guests and non-guests.
Brampton
High ceilings, impressive opulent decor and calming views over the ornamental lake and fountain make the Michelin star restaurant, the Cedar Tree by Hrishikesh Desai, the perfect place to enjoy a fine dining experience.
Brampton
The Blacksmiths Arms is a traditional English country in located in the village of Talkin, near Brampton. Come cosy up to the real wood fire in our lounge and enjoy our selection of local cask ales available from the bar. We serve lunch and…
Carlisle
Visit Carlisle Cathedral, centrally located in the heart of the city. Whether for worship, events, family activities, refreshments or simply a moment of peace - a warm welcome awaits.
Brampton
A contemporary art gallery 9 miles east of Carlisle. located close to Hadrian’s Wall, the Scottish Borders, Eden Valley, and English Lake District, so it should be no surprise that we have a wealth of artistic talent to call upon.
Brampton
Nestled in the charming market town of Brampton, The Howard Arms beckons to those seeking an enchanting escape, both for themselves and their four-legged companions. A mere stone's throw from the majestic North Pennines and in close proximity to…
Silloth
Stanwix Park is located on the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Self Catering Caravans and Apartments to hire for 3,4 and 7 night breaks (some pet friendly accommodation). Fully serviced pitches for Tents, Touring Caravans and Motorhomes. Camping Pods…
Gilsland, Brampton
Situated in the heart of Hadrian's Wall country, Bush Nook is the perfect venue for a short break with a group of friends or for a family celebration.
Silloth
Stanwix Park is located on the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Self Catering Caravans and Apartments to hire for 3,4 and 7 night breaks. (some pet friendly accommodation). Fully serviced pitches for Tents, Touring Caravans and Motorhomes. Camping Pods…
Carlisle
From breakfast to lunch, coffee to cocktails, Bartons Yard Café Bar is the perfect place to meet, eat & drink.
Brampton
Abbey Farm House is located in the north of the county very close to Hadrian's Wall, plenty of dog walks and normal walks nearby.
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL