Situated just 10 miles south of the Scottish border in the county of Cumbria, Carlisle has served as a frontier town and defensive stronghold for everyone from the Romans to the Tudors. Visit Carlisle Castle to discover the city’s military history, or browse the archives of its magnificent cathedral to see its legends brought to life.

Carlisle is a hub of great culture, and was recently voted the happiest place to live in the UK. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal at popular restaurant Eaten by Monsters, then head to The Last Zebra to wash it down with a pint of real ale straight from Cumbria’s famous microbreweries. Meet your friends at one of the city’s themed club nights, or catch your favourite band at alternative music venue The Brickyard. 

Carlisle doubles as a gateway to the Lake District, a spectacular landscape filled with placid lakes and soaring, pure air peaks. Head just a few miles out of the city and you could find yourself admiring the view from the top of Scafell Pike, the country’s highest mountain, or hiking the length of Hadrian’s Wall. The splendour of the Lake District has inspired countless writers, from William Wordsworth to Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin. 

If you feel like venturing further afield, Carlisle’s train station offers direct routes to major centres including London, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The city also boasts a wealth of practical amenities including supermarkets, pharmacies and excellent local transport links.