72 hours in Carlisle & Hadrian’s Wall

From Roman history to vibrant city life, the Carlisle & Hadrian’s Wall area offers a perfect mix of culture, adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks, enjoying family-friendly attractions, or spending time in nature, there’s plenty to fill a long weekend. Read on for our guide to spending 72 hours in the Carlisle & Hadrian’s Wall are - and watch our video to get inspired.

Day 1

Carlisle Cathedral

Begin your day with a trip to Carlisle Cathedral: home to over 900 years of history and known for its star covered ceiling. Keep an eye out for events and activities like art exhibitions, concerts, ‘Little Stars’ groups for children, and Angels’ View tours which offer the chance to see the Cathedral from a different perspective. 

Feeling hungry? The Cathedral Cafe serves delicious food & drink, as well as afternoon teas (advance booking required).

Cranstons Carlisle Food Hall

Known for their expert, award-winning butchery and locally sourced food & drink, Cranstons Carlisle Food Hall is a great place to stock up on a wide variety of Cumbrian and Northern produce. Plus, they serve hot food and takeaway coffees if you want to refuel on the go.

Walby Farm Park

A stone’s throw from Carlisle’s city centre, Walby Farm Park is a must-visit attraction for all the family to enjoy. It’s home to animals including alpacas, goats, reindeer and more, with interactive sessions offering the chance to get closer. Outdoor activities like a nature trail and sand play area await, while there’s also Cumbria’s largest indoor adventure play area - home to everything from a ball pool to 24-foot Demon Drop slide.

Top tip: Great Guided Tours to learn more

Want to learn more about this fascinating area? Great Guided Tours run a variety of tours both on foot and by coach, including a Carlisle Secret City Walking Tour and a Hadrian’s Wall Guided Coach Tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, they offer the chance to delve deeper into the area’s history and learn hidden tales and fascinating facts.

Day 2 

Solway Aviation Museum

Discover the history of local aviation at the fascinating Solway Aviation Museum (open March - October). Located on the site of a former RAF training ground, there are several military aircraft on display - including the mighty AVRO Vulcan XJ823. You’ll also find exhibitions showcasing everything from uniforms and radio equipment to the history of the nearby Carlisle airport.

Gallery North West

Located in the town of Brampton, this contemporary art gallery showcases works by artists from across the north of England and southern Scotland. With the aim of supporting talent across all genres, you’ll find everything from ceramics and jewellery to paintings and glassware. The exhibition programme changes every three months, so there’s always something new to see. 

Talkin Tarn (Outdoor Mobility)

After a morning of cultural exploration, head to Talkin Tarn Country Park for an afternoon spent in beautiful natural surroundings. At the heart of this scenic recreation area is a glacial lake, circled by an accessible footpath and woodland trails. Enjoy a gentle stroll or try your hand at watersports; there’s also a cafe and kids play area.

Top tip: a tramper is available to hire with Outdoor Mobility, with advance booking online.

Day 3

Roman Army Museum

Take a journey back in time at this interactive, family friendly museum telling the tale of Roman life along Hadrian’s Wall. Home to life-sized replicas and real artefacts from the Roman fort at Vindolanda, you can explore fascinating exhibits, try your hand at archery, learn more in the Roman classroom and even see live excavations at the Roman Fort of Magna next door between April - September.

Walk along the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail or cycle Hadrian’s Cycleway - Route 72

Then, it’s time to head outdoors to walk or cycle in the footsteps of the Romans! The Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail runs across the north of Cumbria, with one end located in the coastal village of Bowness-on-Solway. 

Prefer to travel by bike? The Hadrian’s Cycleway - Route 72 runs through Brampton, Carlisle and Bowness on Solway before continuing down the Cumbrian coast.

Where to stay

• The Halston - Stylish apart-hotel in the centre of Carlisle. Enjoy relaxed dining from breakfast to dinner at Barton’s Yard Cafe Bar, or head to Penny Blue Bar & Restaurant for creative tapas and grill dishes.
• Crown & Mitre - Centrally located hotel in Carlisle offering a mix of Edwardian grandeur and modern comforts, complete with pool area. Relax with a drink in the Mitre Bar or enjoy a meal at the Peace and Plenty restaurant.
• Howard Arms - A cosy 8-bedroom country inn offering dog friendly accommodation in the market town of Brampton, with a home-from-home feel and hearty dishes served in the pub downstairs.
• Farlam Hall - 1-Michelin Key country house hotel near Brampton. Home to the 1-Michelin starred Cedar Tree Restaurant by Hrishikesh Desai as well as the more casual Bistro Enkel, there’s also self-catering accommodation available.
• Pentonbridge Inn & Netherby Hall - Stylish accommodation at a 1-Michelin starred restaurant with rooms, some of which are dog friendly. There’s also self catering accommodation at the nearby Netherby Hall, with cottages and apartments set on a private estate.
• Garthside Farm Holidays - Luxury adults only glamping pods in a peaceful countryside location along the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail. Relax in your private outdoor hot tub, toast marshmallows over the firepit, and enjoy countryside views.
• Dandelion & Hoglet Holiday Cottages - Tucked away in the Cumbrian countryside, these peaceful holiday cottages offer a luxurious escape. Choose from either Dandelion or Hoglet: each boasts cosy wood burning stove, stylish interiors and private hot tub. 
• The Tranquil Otter - Luxury holiday lodges set around a private lake, with rowing boat for guests to enjoy. Relax and unwind in your private hot tub, enjoy a walk around the lake and watch the wildlife from an on-site bird hide. 
• Abbey Farm House B&B - Located next to Lanercost Priory and just a stone’s throw from Hadrian’s Wall, this dog-friendly farmhouse B&B offers relaxing accommodation, home cooked food and a warm welcome.

Public Transport

Getting around car-free is easy, whether you’re travelling by bus or by train! Carlisle’s centrally located train station is served by direct services from major UK cities including London, Birmingham, Glasgow and Edinburgh; while Stagecoach bus services operate across the area, connecting places like Carlisle, Bowness-on-Solway and Brampton.