Capital of Cumbria.

This historic cathedral city with its turbulent history lies very close to the Scottish border and has been besieged over the centuries. The magnificent Castle stands proud overseeing the city scape. Luguvalium as it was named by the Romans was the northern frontier with the mighty Carlisle Castle keeping watch for some 900 years. This stunning building has witnessed many attacks from the Celts, Romans, Border Reivers and invading armies, what an intriguing legacy, and given its unsettled past is remarkably well preserved and looked after by English Heritage. We loved our visit and learnt so much especially from the on-site Cumbria Museum of Military Life.

There is so much to see and do here, from the lovely Tullie House (opposite the Castle) a museum and art gallery, which takes you on a journey from the present back to neolithic times. Housing exhibitions and events along with family fun including hands on exhibits and a costume collection.

History abounds with Hadrian’s wall just a stone’s throw – unbelievable to think it reached almost 80 miles coast to coast across the country and built by a force of 15,000 men in under six years. Set amongst dramatic countryside you will discover ramparts, forts and barracks. A treasure trove of the past awaits.

The railway station, built in 1847, is an impressive Grade 11 listed building and has step free access to all platforms and here you can board the train to Settle, which traverses 73 miles of dramatic diversity, crossing the wild Dales & Pennines, one of the most scenic rail journeys in the country. In the 1980’s it was scheduled to close, but thanks to rail groups and enthusiasts it now attracts visitors all year round. The Hallmark Hotel stands next to the station and was built for the arrival of Queen Victoria in 1853 and even had its own special entrance so she could walk straight from the rail carriage to the hotel.

You only have to look around at glorious significant buildings, such as the courthouse, constructed in 1810 to an original design by the one and only Thomas Telford and until recently these two immense oval towers, in red sandstone with battlement parapets were used as civil courts. The Guildhall Museum is housed in Carlisle’s only medieval house, built in 1407. For nature lovers and families, visit Bitts Park – a beautiful outdoor space with children’s play area, river walk and pop-up shops in the summer, located behind the Castle. Or just outside the city is Rickerby Country Park, a stunning traditional Victorian green space with walks along the banks of the river Eden, next to the golf course. Definitely worth the journey is Talkin Tarn Country Park with its splendid lake, café and play area.

Great shops can be found in and around the market square, with good eateries, high street brands and independent shops. A monthly market with stalls takes place in the square and the tourist information centre is located in the majestic Old Town Hall. The Lanes – just off the square – is an indoor centre with over 60 stores and toddlers’ fun area. Pop along to old style Victorian Market Hall, an amazing little indoor area off the court with independent food and coffee shops.

Last but not least, the beautiful Cathedral which was founded in 1122 and rebuilt several times throughout the centuries. With its figurative stone carvings, wonky Norman arches, medieval choir stalls and a large flowing decorative Gothic style window. Initially this was a monastic church and in 1745 rebellion Jacobite prisoners were imprisoned in the Nave. The Cathedral Treasury houses a display of items recovered from past excavations including a 13^th century crucifix made from Whitby jet along with coins and artefacts. But for me and hubby, walking under the incredible blue and gold barrel-vaulted painted starry ceiling was the ‘icing on the cake’. The Cathedral is inviting people this summer to rest under the stars in deck chairs and take a break from the weariness of the pandemic. What a brilliant idea. With free entry, dog friendly and a café, what more could you want.

What better way to visit Carlisle, soak up its history, enjoy its food then travel back home on the train or bus. There is plenty of parking and a great public swimming pool and sports centre. Come pay a visit.