Let's Go Car-free - Explore Carlisle Car-free

Explore Cumbria’s only city on this Car Free itinerary taking in Carlisle and neighbouring villages.

With its historical and cultural attractions, niche shops, delicious eateries and compact location the city of Carlisle is the perfect choice for a car free break, as the train station is literally in the centre of town and everything can be easily reached on-foot.  Add to that, excellent bus links to neighbouring villages, the area has everything you could wish for in a weekend away.

Avanti train in Carlisle Railway Station

Arrive by train

Travel by train to Carlisle train station with Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express or Northern. From here the fun can begin as the station is located right in the centre of the city, so just a short stroll north and you’ll find yourself reaching Carlisle Cathedral.  Before entering take time to admire the architecture, also worth noting are the other buildings which lay within the Abbey precinct that houses the Cathedral. These include the Deanery, Prior’s Tower, Bishop Smith’s Registry and Canons’ houses. Once inside be sure to plan enough time to enjoy the main highlights including the choir ceiling, the stained glass windows, painted panels and runic inscriptions.  There is also a gift shop and adelightful café, which would be an ideal place for a spot of lunch. The Cathedral is free to enter, although donations are welcome.  Visitors on the first Saturday of the month will also be treated to the tastes and creations of Cumbrian locals at the regular farmer’s market.

Carlisle Cathedral

From the Cathedral continue north towards the imposing Carlisle Castle.   Learn all about the Castle’s rich and turbulent past and former residents including Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, Kinmot Willie Armstrong, Scottish King David I and King of England Richard III.  Discover the role Cumbria played in both World Wars at the Museum of Military Life.  Don’t forget to also visit the Castle prison where intricate stone carvings in the walls are said the be the work of bored prison guards and show their support of the ruling family of the time. Tickets to the Castle cost from £6.80 for children and £10 for concessionary adults. Show your bus or train ticket on arrival and receive 20% discount off the entry fee.  Discounted family tickets are also available.

Also make time to visit Tullie House. The museum and art gallery is one of Carlisle’s finest visitor attractions and houses considerable collections of fine and decorative art, human history and natural sciences.

After all the culture be sure to save some time to explore Carlisle’s alleys and lanes, taking in the combination of independent and chain stores.

Dine out at the Penny Blue Restaurant & Bar at The Halston Aparthotel.

Penny Blue Restaurant and bar at The Halston, Carlisle

Day 2

Brampton

It’s time to explore further afield and a great local village to take in is Brampton, a little over 20 minutes on Stagecoach’s 685 bus route from Carlisle Bus Station.  En-route why not stop off at Warwick Bridge Corn Mill and try one of their traybakes made from the mill’s own flour.

The buses on this route generally run every 30 mins, so there’s enough time for a relaxing explore before continuing the journey to Brampton.  This charming small town epitomises a typical north Cumbria town and has lovely shops for antiquing or take in the architecture of the octagonal Moot Hall.  For those competent with a map and happy with both on and off road walking, Brampton acts as a great starting point for exploring more widely.  The picturesque Talkin Tarn is a lovely spot for a picnic, or alternatively head up to Hadrian’s Wall.

Return to Carlisle on the 685 for your journey home by train.

Talkin Tarn Country Park

Top tips

• Public Transport - Travel by Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express or Northern to Carlisle. Stagecoach offers a regular service between Carlisle and Brampton on the 685 service.
• Travelling with Dogs on Public Transport - When travelling by train, dogs are generally allowed on board. However, we recommend checking ahead for guidance on how to travel with your dog.Dogs are allowed to travel on Stagecoach buses at the discretion of the driver. Please be aware that the driver will consider things like if there is already another pet on the bus when making their decision. Assistance and guide dogs can travel at all times.
• Accommodation and tourist information: Visit our accommodation page for lots of information on places to stay and things to do.