Situated in the scenic north-west of England near the Scottish border, Carlisle offers a great starting point for picturesque drives taking in coast and countryside.
But don’t hit the road before checking out the city’s best attractions.
Historic landmarks and must-see museums
One sight you can’t miss in Carlisle is the castle, a grand medieval fortress that’s loomed over the city skyline for more than 900 years. Built to secure England’s northern border, it played an important role in battles including the Jacobite rising in 1745, and was also used as a prison, with Mary Queen of Scots being held here in the 16th century.
You can buy joint admission tickets which also provide access to the Museum of Military Life, situated in the castle grounds. Opening times vary throughout the year, so it’s best to check online before you arrive.
Another landmark that’s well worth a visit is Carlisle Cathedral, located at the heart of the city on Castle Street. Don’t miss the chance to step inside and admire its beautiful blue and gold ceiling and intricate stained-glass East Window, parts of which date back to medieval times.
Just a short distance from the cathedral is Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, a Jacobean mansion that now houses an excellent array of paintings and historical objects. Highlights include its display of Pre-Raphaelite art and extensive collection of Roman artefacts, as well as the zoological collections.
By the sea
With a hire car in Carlisle, it’s easy to visit the attractions that lie just beyond the city walls. A short drive west will lead you to the Solway Coast, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
One of the largest estuaries in the UK, it’s home to a diverse array of birds and wildlife and boasts some fantastic beaches, including Rockcliffe in the north and Maryport to the south. Leave your hire car in one of the conveniently-located car parks and head out along one of the scenic walking paths to explore this rugged and beautiful area of coastline.
The Solway Villages Trail takes you through countryside and historic settlements, while the Eden Estuary Trail allows you to get a glimpse of the birds and wildlife – if you’re visiting in winter, look out for peregrine falcons feeding along the coast.
Roman remains
Hiring a car in Carlisle also offers an opportunity to see one of the world’s most famous Roman landmarks. Once the north-western frontier of a powerful ancient empire, Hadrian’s Wall still attracts visitors from all over the world today.
Take the short drive from Carlisle to Birdoswald to see the longest surviving stretch of the wall, as well as the remains of a Roman fort. Alternatively, head west towards the coast to the Senhouse Museum in Maryport, where you can see one of the UK’s most important collection of Roman objects, many of them found at the nearby fort of Alauna.
Don’t miss the reconstructed Roman watchtower, where you can enjoy spectacular views over the surrounding coastline. With car hire in Carlisle, it’s easy to explore all this and more during your stay.