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

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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

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.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

Forts, Food, and Family Fun: A 4-Day Adventure in Carlisle

Carlisle, located in the North West of England, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. The city is known for its rich history, offering interesting attractions such as Carlisle Castle and Tullie House Museum that will surely captivate both children and adults alike. Additionally, its beautiful natural surroundings, like the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall, provide opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic walks that will make your trip to Carlisle an enjoyable and memorable experience for the whole family.

Uncovering Carlisle: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

A trip to Carlisle on a limited budget can be an exciting and worthwhile experience. With numerous free attractions such as the Tullie House Museum and castle ruins, exploring the city's rich history is both educational and affordable. Cheap accommodations can be found at local hostels or budget-friendly hotels, and sampling local cuisine at affordable restaurants and cafes can add to the overall enjoyment.

Border Bliss: The Ultimate Carlisle Day Trip

A visit to Carlisle in the United Kingdom offers a rich cultural experience that immerses you in the history of the city. The Carlisle Castle, Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, and the Carlisle Cathedral are some of the top attractions that take you on a journey through time. Additionally, the scenic beauty of the Lake District and the Scottish Borders nearby makes for a perfect countryside escape.