Carlisle on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure

Explore Carlisle without breaking the bank - budget-friendly adventures await!

21 June 2023

A trip to Carlisle, United Kingdom on a limited budget can be an affordable yet culturally enriching experience. Explore its historic landmarks like the Carlisle Castle, or the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, or simply wander through its picturesque parks. Cheap accommodation, such as budget hotels and hostels, and affordable dining options can make this trip accessible to anyone looking for an English adventure on a budget.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Carlisle

  • Check into the County Hotel, a historical building with affordable rates and family-friendly rooms.
  • Visit Carlisle Cathedral, founded in 1122, with stunning stained-glass windows and medieval architecture.
  • Walk along Hadrian's Wall, built by the Romans in AD 122, which passes through Carlisle.
  • Enjoy a traditional British lunch at the Thin White Duke, a pub with a great selection of cask ales and hearty food.
  • Visit Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, with exhibits on local history, art and nature.
Day 2

Excursions out of town

  • Take a train from Carlisle to the Lake District National Park, only 30 minutes away, and enjoy hiking or boating in stunning scenery.
  • Visit the Scottish Borders, less than an hour's drive from Carlisle, and explore historic abbeys, castles and gardens.
  • Discover the Solway Coast, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with sandy beaches and wildlife reserves.
  • Have dinner at the Halston Aparthotel, a stylish restaurant with locally sourced ingredients and a view of the city skyline.
  • Attend a show or concert at the Sands Centre, a modern entertainment venue with a varied program.
Day 3

Shopping and culture

  • Visit the Victorian Covered Market, with over 30 independent stalls selling artisan food, crafts and vintage items.
  • Have a coffee break at the Varvick Coffee Bean, a cozy café with homemade cakes and specialty blends.
  • Explore Carlisle Castle, a fortress built in the 12th century and used by the military until 1959.
  • Browse the Old Fire Station, a contemporary art gallery and community space with changing exhibitions and events.
  • Treat yourself to a dinner at Rascills Restaurant, a Michelin-recognized eatery with a creative menu and attentive service.
Day 4

Heritage and nature

  • Take a guided tour of Carlisle's historic city walls, built in the 14th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Visit the Cumbria Wildlife Trust's Nature Reserve, a peaceful oasis with birdwatching hides and wildflower meadows.
  • Have lunch at the Siskins Café, a friendly eatery located in the Birdwatching Centre, with homemade soups and sandwiches.
  • Visit the Carlisle and Border Regiment Museum, with artefacts and stories from the local regiment's long history.
  • Enjoy a drink at the Griffin, a traditional pub with a cozy fireplace and a selection of ciders and real ales.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Carlisle, United Kingdom by plane is to fly to Newcastle International Airport and then take a train from Newcastle to Carlisle. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly to Manchester Airport and take a direct train to Carlisle which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Carlisle, United Kingdom by car is to take the M6 motorway and exit at junction 43 which leads directly into Carlisle. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from London.

Train

The best way to get to Carlisle, United Kingdom by train is to take a direct train from London Euston station to Carlisle. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train from Glasgow which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Boat

There are no direct boats to Carlisle, United Kingdom as it is an inland city. The closest port is the Port of Liverpool which is approximately 140 miles away.

Bus

The best way to get to Carlisle, United Kingdom by bus is to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach station to Carlisle. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Glasgow Bus station which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Destination

Carlisle

Looking for a place where sheep outnumber people, and history is always within reach? Look no further than a small city nestled in the northern hills, Carlisle.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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Carlisle on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure

A trip to Carlisle, United Kingdom on a limited budget can be an affordable yet culturally enriching experience. Explore its historic landmarks like the Carlisle Castle, or the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, or simply wander through its picturesque parks. Cheap accommodation, such as budget hotels and hostels, and affordable dining options can make this trip accessible to anyone looking for an English adventure on a budget.

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