an introduction to carlisle...

This great border city and capital of Cumbria sits on 2000 years of human occupation. Overlying this rich heritage is a vibrant town centre of modern shops, pavement cafes and leisure facilities that rivals most other cities in the north of England. The majestic Cathedral is within a few minutes walk of the spacious pedestrianised Greenmarket - a focal point for street entertainment, Farmers' Markets and Christmas celebrations. Tullie House Museum excels at bringing Carlisle's history and heritage to life, while the formidable fortress of Carlisle Castle invites exploration of its many chambers and passageways. Nearby Botchergate, once witness to Roman armies marching south, now welcomes those in search of evening entertainment with numerous clubs and bars lining the busy thoroughfare.

Carlisle is well served by public transport. The city's elegant railway station serves four railway routes - the West Coast main line between Scotland and England, the Tyne Valley cross-country route to Newcastle, the Cumbria Coast Railway to Barrow-in-Furness, and the famous Settle to Carlisle railway. Local and national buses operate out of the city's central bus station. Those arriving by car have a choice of three exits from the M6 motorway, allowing easy access into the city centre from the north, south or east.