Carlisle on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

Discover the charm of Carlisle while sticking to your budget.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information

Day 1

Arriving in Carlisle

Check into The County Hotel, a budget hotel with a central location and cozy rooms
Take a stroll through Bitts Park and admire the impressive Carlisle Castle
Fuel up with some pub grub at The Howard Arms, a local favorite
Visit the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, featuring local history and beautiful artwork
Catch a performance at the Sands Centre, a popular venue for live music and theater

Day 2

Exploring the City

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the Thin White Duke, a trendy café with delicious coffee
Walk along Hadrian's Wall and see some of the UK's most stunning scenery
Visit Carlisle Cathedral, a beautiful and historic church with stunning stained glass windows
Grab a quick lunch at the quirky Little Italy Cafe, serving up delicious Italian sandwiches
Spend the evening at The Old Fire Station, a converted fire station turned arts venue hosting live music and performance art

Day 3

Adventure Day

Take a day trip to Lake District, a beautiful national park known for its stunning vistas and outdoor activities
Go hiking or mountain biking through the lush green forests
Stop at The Wild Olive Tree for a quick sandwich or some ice cream
Head back to Carlisle for dinner at The Border Rambler, serving up pub classics and local brews
End the night with a visit to The Brickyard, a popular music venue with a lively atmosphere

Day 4

Shopping and History

Head to Carlisle Market to browse local crafts and artisanal products
Visit the Cumbria's Museum of Military Life and learn about the history of military life in the region
Stop at The Thin White Duke for a light lunch
Check out Carlisle Golf Course, a stunning course with great views of the surrounding countryside
Grab a bite at the family-friendly Just Baked, serving up hearty sandwiches and delicious cakes

Day 5

Departure Day

Check out of The County Hotel and say goodbye to Carlisle
Head to the Carlisle Train Station and hop on a train to your next destination
Grab a quick breakfast at The Thin White Duke or Just Baked before you board your train
Look back over the picturesque landscape of Carlisle for one last time as you go.

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.