Carlisle is a city in the county of Cumbria. Situated in North West England, Carlisle is found near the rivers Eden, Caldew and Petteril. The city has a population of around 105,000 people and is the largest settlement in Cumbria. It is also the administrative centre for both Carlisle City and Cumbria County Councils. Carlisle has first recorded history as a Roman settlement when the town was used to serve the forts on Hadrian’s Wall. Today it houses the University of Cumbria, Carlisle Castle, Carlisle Cathedral and many award-winning parks and heritage centres.
Carlisle Castle was built over 900 years ago on the border between England and Scotland. It is located to the north of the city centre in a prominent location and is now a very popular tourist attraction. Since the castle was built, by William the Conqueror’s son, it has faced many attacks. However, the castle is now in safer hands as part of English Heritage. The castle is now open to the public, where you can browse through displays of military weapons, explore the dungeons or take a tour of the stone-lined passageways and rooms. Another popular attraction in Carlisle is the Cathedral, which is at the centre of the historic quarter. The impressive building has been in place for almost a millennium; however, it has been rebuilt twice since its founding in 1122. Carlisle is also known for its racecourse fixtures, excellent high street shopping facilities and its award-winning parks.
Carlisle is linked to the rest of England by the M6 motorway, which makes it is easily accessible for tourists via car. Carlisle also has its own railway station which is served by the West Coast Main Line and provides direct links with Newcastle, Leeds and West Cumbria.
