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There’s a packed calendar of events to enjoy in and around Cumbria’s city of Carlisle. From live music and theatre to markets and festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling cultural and artistic hub.
When it comes to music, Carlisle has plenty to offer. Outdoor concerts take place in the centrally located Bitts Park – Little Mix, Jess Glynn and Sir Tom Jones are just a few of the artists who have played here over the years. There are indoor gigs too, with internationally renowned musicians regularly including the city on their tour circuits; alongside comedy and theatre too. And in the city centre, live music can be found in vibrant pubs and bars.
Talking of shows, Carlisle knows how to put on a spectacle in its own right. The city is awash with rainbow colours during the annual Pride Festival, which features plenty of amazing events including music, markets, and the iconic parade through the city. The annual November fireworks display is not to be missed, while come Christmas you can enjoy lights switch on events and festive markets.
There is so much entertainment to enjoy in Carlisle and Hadrian's Wall. Make sure to check out what’s on and plan ahead so you don’t miss anything!
You may leave the Lake District, but once you’ve been, it’ll never leave you.

Number of results: 21
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Carlisle
Beneath the ancient skyline of Carlisle, hidden stories linger in every red-brick shadow and echo off cathedral spires. This self-guided audio tour turns your walk through Caldewgate into a vivid adventure, unwrapping secrets and scandals most…
The Abbey, Carlisle
We, the bell ringers of Carlisle Cathedral are delighted to have been given the opportunity by the Dean and Chapter to share our hobby, pastime, and passion with both the congregation and visitors to this special place.
An exhibition is planned…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Carlisle
Our series of free Afternoon Recitals continues, we are delighted to welcome Tilly Green and Jamie Rogers to the Fratry Hall. Organised as part of the free recital series.
While entry to our concerts is complimentary, we encourage contributions…
Hallbankgate, Brampton
Guided walk at RSPB Geltsdale looking at how nature and agriculture and history co-exist in the English uplands. We'll look at management for breeding waders, Black Grouse, the 're-wiggling' of Howgill Beck and the Bruthwaite Forest native woodland…
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
Blow away the Monday blues...at the races!
Join for an afternoon of flat racing at Carlisle Racecourse - there is no better way to start the week!
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
STEAK NIGHT RACE NIGHT!
Steak and Racing! Is there a much better way to spend a Tuesday night?
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
The Abbey, Carlisle
We look forward to hearing Edward Taylor on Wednesday 17th June, organised as part of the Free Live Music Series at Carlisle Cathedral.
This event is free to enter; there will be a retiring collection at the end of the concert - please give what…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Tarn Road, Brampton
Outdoor theatre suitable for all ages at Talkin Tarn Country Park.
The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present a brand-new riff on the fiendishly famous case.
How can one show possibly contain so much action and adventure?…
Talkin Tarn Country Park, Brampton
The Abbey, Carlisle
Jack McNeill – clarinet & bass clarinet, percussion & whistles
Eleanor McIntosh – soprano
Kate Halsall – piano and harmonium & piano
The Almanac returns this Summer. A musical stirring that combines instrumental music with poetry, song,…
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
Be part of history at Carlisle Racecourse this summer as we host one of the most iconic fixtures in the racing calendar – The Carlisle Bell, the world's oldest sporting trophy, first contested in 1599.
This historic race is the centrepiece of a…
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
The Abbey, Carlisle
Acclaimed pianist Ida Pelliccioli returns to the Cathedral's Fratry Hall in 2026 presenting a new programme of pieces celebrating the work of Claude Debussy and his influences.
This programme aims to create echoes between the music of Debussy and…
Carlisle
Our series of free Afternoon Recitals continues, we are delighted to welcome Alastair Savage to the Fratry Hall. Organised as part of the free recital series.
While entry to our concerts is complimentary, we encourage contributions during the…
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
NOW ON A SATURDAY!
Get your summer plans sorted and join us for an unforgettable evening at Carlisle Racecourse!
It's glamour, style, and racing at its finest – and it's not just off the track! Carlisle's Ladies Night is proud to feature the…
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
Tarn Road, Brampton
Outdoor theatre suitable for all ages at Talkin Tarn Country Park.
Join the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company on a breathless race through the centuries in this delightfully inventive show that tells the entire story of Britain in…
Talkin Tarn Country Park, Brampton
The Abbey, Carlisle
Our popular Block Printing Workshops return to the calendar on Saturday 30 May and Saturday 18 July!
Our friendly workshops take place in the Undercroft, and guests will use a beautiful selection of printing blocks and an appealing choice of colours…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Maryport
Maryport is welcoming back Taste Cumbria on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August 2026 for the Taste of the Sea festival.
After the success of expanding it over two sites last year, that will happen again this Summer, ensuring it makes the very best use…
Tarn Road, Brampton
Outdoor theatre suitable for all ages at Talkin Tarn Country Park.
The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present their own brand of Shakespearean mayhem in the Bard's comedy of fools, duels and dual identities.
"Some are born great,…
Talkin Tarn Country Park, Brampton
Carlisle
Join us at the 10th Anniversary Blacknose Beauties National Show & Sale — the pinnacle event in the Valais Blacknose Society calendar, celebrating the famous Valais Blacknose sheep, often known as the "world's cutest sheep."
Held in Carlisle,…
The Abbey, Carlisle
We are delighted to welcome Hot Aire Concert Band organised as part of the Free Live Music Series at Carlisle Cathedral.
While entry to our concerts is complimentary, we encourage contributions during the collection at the end of each…
Carlisle Cathedral, Carlisle
Carlisle
A free 2 hour outdoor concert in the grounds of Carlisle Castle. If the weather is wet you will find Hot Aire! Concert Band upstairs in the Museum of Military Life.
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