What to see and do

A 2000 year old city

Discover a world of times gone by at the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery.
Step back in time and visit Carlisle Castle, one of the temporary addresses of Mary Queen of Scots.
Art in action at The Millennium Gallery offers an excellent choice of exhibits all year round.
Carlisle Cathedral offers you the chance to view a fine example of Medieval architecture. The 14th century stained glass east window and magnificently decorated ceiling once looked down on the marriage of Sir Walter Scott and his French bride.
Visit Carlisle Racecourse for an enjoyable - and hopefully profitable - day of flat or National Hunt racing.

New for 2008 is the Border Reivers Cycle Trail. With three circular routes to cater for all levels of cyclist, the Border Reivers Cycle Trail covers over 100 miles of spectacular and unspoilt countryside.
Enjoy spectacular sunsets, rare wildlife and inspiring views along the Solway Firth salt marshes and dunes - an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Walk in the footsteps of the Legions, along the Hadrian's Wall National Trail and around the beautiful surrounding areas or take a trip on Hadrian's Wall Bus, visiting some of the friendly market town and villages along the way.
Visit the fascinating interactive visitor centre at Birdoswald Roman Fort and find out about 2000 years of history in one of the most impressive locations on Hadrian's wall.
Talkin Tarn is a wonderful retreat away from it all. Near Brampton, this beauty spot offers something to suit all ages from the very active to those who like a steadier pace of life.
Discover Pre-Raphaelite treasures in St Martin's Church in Brampton, or the peaceful setting of Lanercost Priory nearby.
Meander through the wonderful countryside around the Eden Valley, or travel a little further afield south to experience the magnificent Lake District and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Relax and enjoy the views from the Carlisle to Settle Railway - the most spectacular railway journey in England.

Walking - Step out along the new 84 mile Hadrian's Wall National Trail and the 150 mile Cumbria Coastal Way or if you fancy something a little gentler, pick up our City Walks leaflet and try a guided or self guided walk around the city.
Cycling - Carlisle is the hub where the national Inverness to Dover route crosses the Cumbria Cycle Way and C2C route over the North Pennines. The Eden Valley Circular Cycle Route is an enjoyable way to explore the region, and links to plenty of smaller routes suiting cyclists of all abilities. New for 2008 is the Border Reivers Cycle Trail. Please call 01228 625600 for more information.
Fishing - The rivers Eden, Esk and their tributaries are well known for salmon, sea trout and brown trout.
Pony trekking - Kershope Forest is home to the Bailey Mill Riding Centre, and north of the city is the Cargo Riding Centre offering BHS approved tuition.
Watersports - Talkin Tarn offers canoeing, rowing boat hire, wind surfing and sailing.
There's plenty to do at Carlisle's six sport and leisure facilities - including the fine Victorian turkish baths. Whatever your leisure time, Carlisle has something to suit all ages and abilities. Information and advice is available from the TIC, the Sands Centre and the Swifts.