Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Carlisle, UK

Discover the charm and history of Carlisle, the heart of the Scottish Borders.

03 May 2023

Carlisle, located in the scenic county of Cumbria, North West England, is a perfect tourist spot for nature lovers. Famous for its historic castle, museums, and galleries, Carlisle offers a delightful blend of contemporary and traditional architecture. The city has a range of outdoor attractions, including the Lake District National Park, which offers breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and watersports.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Carlisle

  • Hotel: Abbey House Bed and Breakfast
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Abbey House Bed and Breakfast
  • Visit the must-see medieval fortress, Carlisle Castle
  • Head to the Tullie House Museum, which showcases the city's history with artifacts and interactive exhibits
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Bitts Park and finish up with a pint of ale at The Thin White Duke, a local institution serving craft beers and live music
  • For dinner, head to the Foxborough Smokehouse for some delicious American-style BBQ cuisine
Day 2

Discovering Hadrian's Wall

  • Start early and head to the remains of the Roman Empire at Hadrian's Wall, a short drive or bus ride from Carlisle
  • Get a guided tour to dig into the history of the wall and learn about the lives of Roman soldiers
  • Visit the charming towns of Brampton and Haltwhistle nearby for some traditional British food
  • Drive back to Carlisle and marvel at the Cathedral, an architectural gem in the heart of the city
  • Head to the Vallum Farm for dinner where you'll experience a farm-to-table feast of locally sourced produce and meat
Day 3

A Day Trip to the Lake District

  • Get an early start and take a scenic drive to the Lake District, just an hour away from Carlisle
  • Visit the stunning Lake Windermere and take a boat ride or kayak in the lake
  • Visit the quaint village of Grasmere and experience the picturesque settings that inspired William Wordsworth's poetry
  • Stop by the Hawkshead Brewery for some craft beer tasting and delicious pub meals
  • Drive back to Carlisle and have dinner at the quirky and vibrant The Old Bank City Pub and Chop House
Day 4

Historical Tour of Carlisle

  • Start the day with breakfast at Hidden River Café, a cozy café near the River Eden
  • Take a walk on the city walls and admire the view of the city from above
  • Head to the Guildhall Museum for a glimpse into the political and social history of the city
  • Visit the Stanwix Arts Theatre and watch a play, or listen to a live concert
  • For dinner, head to the Thin White Duke again for a taste of their vegan cuisine
Day 5

Exploring Wildlife and Nature

  • Drive to the forested area of Geltsdale for a scenic walk and a chance to spot wild red kites and birds of prey
  • Take a walk near the Talkin Tarn Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife
  • Have lunch at the Lanercost Tea Room and Garden before visiting the nearby priory
  • Take a stroll in the Carlisle urban park, Chances Park, and treat yourself to some ice cream from the local ice cream truck
  • For a magical end to your stay, head to the Appleby Horse Fair after 4 pm, the largest horse fair in Britain which takes place annually in June.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

Carlisle on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

With a limited budget, a trip to Carlisle in the United Kingdom can still be enjoyable. Explore historic landmarks like Carlisle Castle and Hadrian's Wall for free. Budget-friendly accommodations and affordable local eateries are also available for a satisfying trip.

Weekend in Carlisle: Castle, Wall, and Gastronomy

A trip to Carlisle, United Kingdom as a tourist offers magnificent historical sites, outdoor recreational activities and a diverse culinary scene. Visit Carlisle Castle, Hadrian's Wall and Tullie House Museum to experience the rich history of the city. Go hiking, mountain biking or fishing in the Lake District or indulge in a gastronomic adventure with local foods at Carlisle's numerous restaurants.

Romantic Long Weekend Getaway to Carlisle, UK

Carlisle, located in the northwestern part of England, is a great destination for a romantic trip. With its rich history and stunning landscapes, you can visit historical sites, stroll around the castle, and explore nature. At the end of the day, indulge in a candlelit dinner and cozy accommodations.