DISCOVER CARLISLE 2017

Transcription

1 DISCOVER CARLISLE

2 CONTENTS With a holiday or short break in historic Carlisle, you can relive the fascinating heritage of a 2000 year old city, indulge in some serious shopping and then relax in accommodation of the highest quality. Close by, in Hadrian s Wall Country, you can marvel at the legacy of a once mighty Empire, walk or cycle through beautiful countryside or unwind by tranquil lakes and streams. 4 Welcome 6 Alive with History 8 Walk in the Footsteps of Roman Legionaries 10 Explore the Wall 12 Find Adventure 14 Hidden Treasures 16 City Trail 20 Enjoy Shopping Heaven 22 Time Out 24 Tourist Information Centre 26 Carlisle & Beyond 28 Getting & Staying Here 30 Carlisle Events 2017 Every effort has been taken to ensure that the information within this guide is accurate. Discover Carlisle cannot accept responsibility for any error or omission that may have occurred. Designed and produced by Carlisle City Council Discover Carlisle. All material printed in this guide is the copyright of the parties mentioned and cannot be reproduced in any form without written permission. info@discovercarlisle.co.uk Photography courtesy of: Laura Boyle; D&H Photographers; Charlie Hedley; English Heritage, Lydia Leith; Graeme Peacock Photographic Imagery; Hadrian s Wall Map, Vertigo; Fiona Smith Photography; Stuart Walker Photography; Jonathan Becker; 2 Jenny Woolgar Photography; The Lanes Shopping Centre and 3

3 WELCOME Welcome to Carlisle, City of the Lakes! Carlisle has over 2000 years of history. Celts, Romans, feuding Border Reivers and invading armies have all left an intriguing legacy for you to explore. Visit Carlisle s Historic Quarter, where you will find a mighty medieval Castle, founded in 1092 by William Rufus. Explore Tullie House and its fascinating galleries, which will take you on a journey from the present day back to Neolithic times. Get close to history at Cumbria s Museum of Military Life located in the castle grounds. Marvel at the magnificent painted ceiling at the Cathedral or explore ancient trades in the 15th Century Guildhall Museum. Shop til you drop! Carlisle offers one of the most compact, level and visitorfriendly city centres in the country. Whether you re here for a spending spree or simply wish to explore, you will find everything that you need in Carlisle. When you re all shopped out, you can relax at one of our quirky coffee houses or unique watering holes with impeccable food and a good choice of real ales and fine wines. Carlisle is serviced by excellent rail and road links and has an easy public transport system. Discover 2000 years of history on one of our walking tours around our city. Contact our friendly Tourist Information Centre on for further details and help and advice on getting the most out of your stay in Carlisle. 4 5

4 ALIVE WITH HISTORY Carlisle was once enclosed by mighty walls. The West Walls, dating from the 12th Century, are all that remain, but give a good impression of the city s ancient defences. Carlisle s commercial success is revealed in the Guildhall Museum. Built in 1407, it was once a meeting place of the medieval trade guilds. Check opening times with the Tourist Information Centre, telephone The Citadel is an impressive pair of oval towers guarding the city s southern entrance. The twin drum bastions were built by Henry VIII as a precaution against reprisals from Europe for the dissolution of the monasteries. Two new towers were added in the early 19th Century using masonry from the demolished east walls. The Old Town Hall in the heart of the city centre dates from 1668 and is the home of the award-winning Tourist Information Centre. The Historic Quarter continues to evolve and remains at the heart of Carlisle s business, social and cultural life. 6 7

5 Hadrian s Cavalry Live WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ROMAN LEGIONARIES On Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July, the largest Roman cavalry re-enactments ever seen in the UK will take place throughout the day at Bitts Park in Carlisle as part of Hadrian s Cavalry. A troop (turma) of 30 Roman cavalrymen will come together to perform training exercises described by Hadrian himself 2,000 years ago. The Turma promises to be a spectacular event at the heart of the Hadrian s Cavalry exhibition. It was Agricola, Britain s first Roman Governor, who wanted to tame the wild barbarians in the north. When Hadrian arrived in AD 122, the barbarians were still at large, so to defend his empire s boundaries he ordered the building of a mighty barrier stretching from the Solway Firth in the west to Wallsend on the North Sea coast, now one of the most important designated World Heritage Sites in Britain. Roman images courtesy of English Heritage, Today, there are many Roman sites and museums to discover along its route. Explore the stunning landscape on foot or by bike, or by using one of the many published booklets, taking in market towns and quaint villages. The 84 mile Hadrian s Wall Path National Trail allows you to walk in the footsteps of legionary soldiers on a fascinating journey across northern England, taking in some of the country s greatest archaeological monuments and relics from the Roman occupation. 8 9

6 EXPLORE THE WALL East of Carlisle, spectacular stretches of Hadrian s Wall are still intact at Birdoswald Roman Fort with fine examples of a turret and milecastle nearby. The Visitor Centre at Birdoswald traces the history of the Fort via audio-visuals, excavated artefacts and a three dimensional interpretation. The section of Wall east of Birdoswald is the longest continuous span still in existence. The 84 mile (135 km) Hadrian s Wall Path National Trail stretches from the Solway to Wallsend, with links to a number of short walks. To the west of Carlisle, the Trail offers a pleasant walk through to Bowness on Solway, providing spectacular views to Scotland and the Galloway Hills The 174 mile (280 km) Hadrian s Cycleway gives those on two wheels access to inspiring views as the route undulates across country. Starting at Ravenglass Roman Fort (Glannaventa), with its Roman bath house remains, on the west coast, Sustrans route 72 heads alongside the Solway to Carlisle and on through Northumberland to its final destination, Arbeia Roman Fort, South Shields. Full details of both walking and cycling routes can be found on For information on Guided Tour Buses and Public Transport, please contact Carlisle Tourist Information Centre

7 FIND ADVENTURE Carlisle and Hadrian s Wall Country offer an unparalleled choice of ways for all the family to get active! Whether it s an outdoor or indoor pursuit, you can enjoy your favourite activity here. Bird Watching The Solway is a superb place for birdwatching. The RSPB s bird reserves at Campfield Marsh, near Bowness on Solway, and the moorland bird reserve at Geltsdale, are both worth a visit. Golf Carlisle offers a fantastic golfing experience with many top class courses situated in and around the city. For further information on the courses visit Brampton and Crosby on Eden All welcome visitors. Pony Trekking Kershope Forest near Newcastleton is home to Bailey Mill Riding Centre and to the south is Rookin House Equestrian & Activity Centre, just eight miles from Penrith. Blackdyke Riding School is just north of the city for those wanting arena-based riding lessons. Cycling Carlisle is a hub for cycling and many long distance cycling routes pass through the city. These include the Reivers Cycle Way, Hadrian s Cycle Trail and the Lochs & Glen Cycle Route. Call Carlisle Tourist Information Centre for more information on or visit Watersports Talkin Tarn Country Park which is close to the historic town of Brampton is great for water based activities, hire a rowing boat, canoe or kayak for some fun on the water. Fishing The river Eden which flows through the city parks is considered one of the best salmon rivers in the north of England. Fishing permits are available from Carlisle Tourist Information Centre on Also close by is New Mills trout fishing park. Swimming The Pools in Carlisle has three heated pools and magnificent Victorian Turkish baths. Horse Racing Racing in Carlisle dates back to the 16th Century. There s racing every month and accompanied children aged 18 and under can go free to most events. Urban Adventure A High Ropes course with integrated climbing wall and zip wire is located within Bitts Park

8 HIDDEN TREASURES The beautiful landscapes around Carlisle contain many hidden treasures that are sure to delight everyone looking for a unique day out. Talkin Tarn Country Park, nine miles east of Carlisle, is set amid 120 acres of farmland and mature woodland. It s ideal for just a quiet stroll or an active day of watersports and bike riding. It hosts outdoor theatrical productions during the summer. On the river Esk to the north of Carlisle is the quiet town of Longtown, once the centre of the turbulent Debatable Lands, the stronghold of the feuding Border Reivers. Reiving was a way of life for these families who held no allegiance to the crown. Learn more about the Reivers in Tullie House Museum. The beautiful Arthuret Church near Longtown, built in 1609 by public conscription, was the burial place of Archie Armstrong, the favourite court jester of King James I and King Charles I. Travel further north into the debatable lands and you will find the imposing Hermitage Castle in Newcastleton or explore the atmospheric Bewcastle famous for its Anglo Saxon Cross, which has stood in the churchyard for over 1000 years. Crossing the region is the Carlisle to Settle railway with 14 tunnels and 17 major viaducts. The 72 mile trip travels through the Eden Valley before continuing into the breath-taking Yorkshire Dales. On special steam days, you can experience the sights, sounds and smells of the great steam railway era at first hand. The CUMBERLAND SHOW This long-established event has been celebrating agriculture and rural life for over 175 years. This year s event will be held at East Park, Brisco on Saturday 17 June. There will be a wide range of livestock on show alongside rural crafts and entertainment. A great family day out! 14 15

9 CITY TRAIL Start in the city centre next to the Market Cross, outside the Tourist Information Centre. The cross dates back to 1682, replacing an earlier one. It is a symbol of the city s right to hold weekly markets and an annual fair. When there was no other public timepiece in the city, the sundials on the Cross were important to market traders. A fine was levied on those who opened their stalls before 8am, hence the expression forestall. Outside the Old Town Hall you will see a reproduction Victorian post box. It commemorates the first pillar box in England, which was installed in Carlisle in Rickergate CARLISLE CATHEDRAL The Old Town Hall replaced the medieval Moot Hall and is where you will now find Carlisle s Tourist Information Centre. The central part dates from 1668, with the clock tower over a later extension. Pop in to see sections of the medieval floor and wall which were unearthed during refurbishments in Victoria Viaduct Collier Ln 16 HISTORIC QUARTER LEISURE EDUCATION FACILITIES OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES CIVIC BUILDINGS TRANSPORT HUBS

10 ...CITY TRAIL To the left of the Old Town Hall is a timber-framed building known as the Guildhall. Dating from the 15th Century, it was originally called Redness Hall after its owner, Richard de Redness, and later became the meeting place for the City s trade guilds. It s a very impressive building and well worth a look inside. Please enquire at the TIC for opening times. To the left of the Guildhall is Castle Street, which will take you to the Cathedral. Guides are available to show you the beautiful interior, including a magnificent painted ceiling, intricately-designed east window and medieval wall paintings. Leave the Cathedral grounds by the bottom gates and continue down Abbey Street until you reach Tullie House Museum. The entrance will be on your right. Old Tullie House is a classical Jacobean building set in beautiful gardens and home to a nationally important collection of works by Pre-Raphaelite artists. The main part of the museum contains fascinating galleries that will take you on a journey from the present day back to the Neolithic era. Tullie House is an experience not to be missed! Exit Tullie House onto Castle Way and take the underpass to the Castle. On the way you will find the Cursing Stone. The sculpture features just over 300 words from a 1069 word curse which dates back to the 16th Century. The curse was first invoked by the Archbishop of Glasgow, Gavin Dunbar, in 1525 against cross border families, known as the Reivers. You will see some of the Reivers surnames etched into the floor of the underpass. The Castle was founded in 1092 by William Rufus, son of William the Conqueror. As well as being a medieval fortress it became a temporary royal residence for Edward I during his Scottish campaigns, was reinforced by Henry VIII in the early 1540s, and held Mary, Queen of Scots, under house arrest in Located in the Castle grounds is Cumbria s Museum of Military Life, displaying a huge range of military artefacts from 1702 to the present day. FESTIVE EVENTS Our famous Carlisle Fireshow takes place in Bitts Park on Saturday 4 November. Our Christmas Lights Switch-On sets off a packed festive programme of activities and attractions. This year s event will be held on Sunday 19 November. Retrace your footsteps back to Tullie House. Turn right past BBC Radio Cumbria to the end of the road. Here you will find the last remaining section of the city walls, which were built between 1122 and The western walls are largely intact despite centuries of attack. Follow the walls to Heads Lane on your left. Along here you will find St Cuthbert s Church. Pop inside to see an unusual pulpit mounted on rails. Continue down St Cuthbert s Lane into the city centre to finish the trail. 18

11 ENJOY SHOPPING HEAVEN Carlisle offers one of the most compact, level and visitor-friendly city centres in the country. Whether you re up for a spending spree or simply wish to explore its many local food and craft outlets, it s a vibrant and convenient destination for all shoppers. The Lanes Shopping Centre has over 70 stores including well-known high street retailers as well as several independent ones. Undercover, The Lanes is an ideal all weather destination and has been awarded the Park Mark for its 600 secured parking spaces. The award-winning Victorian Market Hall has an unhurried, traditional atmosphere. Here you will find a wide variety of stalls, selling everything from fresh local meat and vegetables to haberdashery, clothing and flowers. The city centre hosts regular Carlisle Farmers Markets on the first Saturday of every month, offering an excellent choice of local produce and crafts. Carlisle also takes on an international theme with the arrival of the popular International Market with stallholders from around the world. Check dates with the Carlisle Tourist Information Centre on Visitors with mobility difficulties can take advantage of the free Shopmobility scheme providing wheelchairs and powered scooters. Contact Shopmobility on level two of The Lanes car park or telephone

12 TIME OUT Carlisle caters for every gastronomic taste and pocket too! Restaurant listings and contact details can be found on There s an excellent selection of live music venues throughout the city, catering for every genre. The Sands Centre is Cumbria s premier live arts venue, hosting classical, pop and rock music plus superb theatre, drama and ballet productions. You can also experience recitals at Carlisle Cathedral and amateur dramatic productions at West Walls Theatre. The city s newest arts centre, the Old Fire Station offers a packed and varied programme of live music, comedy, theatre and exhibitions. Visit oldfirestation. carlisle.city to find out what s on. One of Carlisle s open air cafés is the perfect location for street entertainment or just watching the world go by. When the sun goes down, Carlisle has many vibrant areas for entertainment and is a magnet for those looking for a lively way to celebrate the arrival of the weekend! Close to the city centre are many unique watering holes with comfy sofas, impeccable food and a great choice of real ales and fine wines. For the latest blockbuster films, head to the seven-screen Vue Cinema on Botchergate. Enjoy the thrill of Laserquest or a bounce at Energi Trampoline Park, whilst AMF Bowl offers excellent 10-pin bowling. Or, if it s a challenge you want, try the indoor Eden Rock Climbing Centre at Durranhill

13 TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Carlisle is proud to welcome visitors to our newly refurbished, state-of-the-art Tourist Information Centre (TIC). The TIC is located in the iconic Old Town Hall, which is a stone s throw from the city s historic quarter, shopping centre and restaurants. The friendly team at the TIC are here to help you make the most of your time in Carlisle. Our knowledgeable staff can provide information on attractions, transport, outdoor activities, shopping, places to eat, events and much more. The TIC is also a great place to discover the excellent range of accommodation on offer in Carlisle and the surrounding area, and offers an accommodation booking service. In addition, you can find a wide range of literature for local and national destinations and purchase tickets for many regional events. Our fully stocked gift shop sells a range of souvenirs, many produced in Cumbria, as well as maps and guides to help make your holiday or short break as memorable as possible. Carlisle Tourist Information Centre Old Town Hall, Carlisle, CA3 8JE tourism@carlisle.gov.uk Mention Hadrian and get 10% discount off full price souvenirs from our Tourist Information Centre shop. Opening Times November February Monday Saturday, 10am 4pm March June & September October Monday Saturday, 9.30am 5pm July August Monday Saturday, 9.30am 5.30pm May August Sundays, 10.30am 4pm Bank Holiday Monday, 10.30am 4pm 24

14 CARLISLE & BEYOND Carlisle is a gateway to many fabulous attractions... To the north is Gretna Green, the famous Scottish village renowned for its runaway marriages. A visitor centre can be found in the Old Blacksmiths Shop. From Gretna, it is only a short drive to the Devil s Porridge Museum, a fascinating insight into the region s role during the Great War. If retail therapy is more your thing, then head to the Gretna Gateway retail outlet village with designer shops and outlets. West of Gretna, you will come to the Galloway Coast, a delightful idyll of quiet coves and sandy beaches. South of Carlisle is the beautiful Lake District National Park, with its spectacular mountains and lakes providing some of the most dramatic scenery in England. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities here. If you prefer a gentler pace, the picturesque villages and tranquil lake cruises offer something for everyone. To the west of Carlisle is the atmospheric Solway Coast, a perfect place for birdwatching and escaping the bustle of city life. Bowness on Solway is the starting point for the Hadrian s Wall Path National Trail. In 1307, the body of King Edward I was laid out in the church at Burgh by Sands before being taken for burial in Westminster Abbey. A monument to the fallen king can be seen on Burgh Marsh. Further along the Cumbrian coast you come to the traditional Victorian seaside town of Silloth, with its spectacular views across the Solway. To the south is Maryport, home to the Senhouse Roman museum, which houses a huge collection of Roman altars and other Roman relics. Go east and visit Hadrian s Wall World Heritage Site. A great way to experience the Wall is on foot along the popular Hadrian s Wall Path National Trail. Near Haltwhistle, the geographical centre of Britain, the national trail crosses the Pennine Way. For those who prefer travelling by two wheels, the 174 mile long Hadrian s Cycleway passes through Carlisle. For an alternative view of the Wall, visit Northumberland National park at night. The region is Europe s largest Dark Sky Park, which hosts regular star gazing events throughout the season Also east of Carlisle is Lanercost Priory, which was founded by Augustinian canons in 1169 and largely built of stones taken from Hadrian s Wall. It thrived until Henry VIII dissolved the monastery in The Priory church survived and is still in use today. St. Martin s Church in the market town of Brampton (10 miles east of Carlisle) is the only church built by the Pre-Raphaelite architect, Phillip Webb, and has an exquisite collection of stained-glass windows designed by Edward Burne-Jones and manufactured by William Morris. 26

15 GETTING & STAYING HERE By road Carlisle is linked directly with the North West, Yorkshire and Humberside by the M6, M61, M62 and adjoining motorways. Take the M25, M1 (or M40) and M6 for a speedy journey from London and the South East. The M74/A74, A7 and A69 are the quickest routes from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Newcastle respectively. Carlisle is approximately a two hour drive from the ferry ports at Cairnryan and North Shields. By rail Virgin trains from London (Euston) reach Carlisle in under four hours on their way to Glasgow and Edinburgh. Northern Rail provide an excellent service to Carlisle from stations across the whole of Northern England. The City s Citadel Station is the terminus for three of the country s scenic railways: The Tyne Valley line from Newcastle, The Cumbrian Coast line from Lancaster and the historic Settle to Carlisle line which brings passengers from Yorkshire across the Pennines and along the Eden Valley For National Rail enquiries telephone By coach National Express operate services to Carlisle from all major cities. For further information, call There are regular bus services from Newcastle. Telephone for details. By air Carlisle Airport can accept most pre-arranged private and commercial aircraft. Car hire For further information, please contact Carlisle Tourist Information Centre, Taxis Are available from all the major transport hubs. For further information, please contact Carlisle Tourist Information Centre on Stay a while in Carlisle! Choose from a fantastic range of first-class accommodation and enjoy a great night s rest as a very welcome guest. Whatever your budget, there is no shortage of accommodation on offer in Carlisle. Be pampered in luxury hotels or appreciate the homely touch of a comfortable guest house. Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of a self-catering country cottage or stay in one of our convenient modern hostels. For those who like adventures in the great outdoors, there is a good selection of well-equipped camping and caravan sites close to the city. To find your ideal accommodation in Carlisle, contact the Tourist Information Centre on for a free guide or visit accommodation 29

16 CARLISLE EVENTS 2017 Thursday 13 - Monday 17 April Easter International Market, Carlisle city centre Monday 1 May Carlisle Spring Fayre, Carlisle city centre Friday 2 June UB40 and Level 42, Brunton Park Saturday 3 June Olly Murs, Brunton Park Saturday 17 June Cumberland Show, East Park, Brisco Saturday 1 - Sunday 2 July Hadrian s Cavalry Live in Carlisle, Bitts Park Saturday 8 July Jess Glynne, Carlisle Racecourse Saturday 15 July Bryan Adams, Bitts Park Sunday 16 July Little Mix, Bitts Park Saturday 4 November Fireshow, Bitts Park Sunday 19 November Christmas Lights Switch-On, Carlisle city centre Saturday August Carlisle Pageant, Carlisle city centre including the Best Of Carlisle (19-22 August) and International Market (23-28 August) To find out more about all of our events during 2017, visit 30

17 F E S T F E S T I V A L S WIN a luxury weekend break at The Halston Aparthotel, Carlisle. Visit TALKIN TARN Country Park Experience fun activities unique wildlife Explore woodland easy paths glacial tarn Enjoy tearoom treats stunning views family adventures DISCOVER F E QUALITY ACCOMMODATION IN CARLISLE S I V A The Angus Scotland Road Carlisle, CA3 9DG Tel: Web: hotel@angus-hotel.co.uk Follow us on 32

18 Visit The Market Hall Carlisle and enjoy a relaxing shopping experience in its beautiful Victorian Covered Market, Arcade Shops and T.K. Maxx & Wilko Stores. OPENING TIMES Based in the Old Fire Station, McGrew s is the perfect place to enjoy a light snack or lunch Monday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm Sunday: 12 noon - 4pm The venue is also available for private bookings including weddings To book a table or make a private booking, call us on The Market Hall Monday to Saturday 8am 5pm Stall opening times vary Wilko Monday to Saturday 8am 6pm Sunday 10.30am 4.30pm T.K. Maxx Monday Saturday 9am 6pm Sunday 11am 5pm (Times subject to change) THE MARKET HALL, SCOTCH STREET, CARLISLE (01228) Hotspot for live music, comedy and drama visit Old Fire Station Cumbria s Museum of Military Life in Carlisle Castle tells the story of Cumbria s County Infantry and its soldiers past and present. Get closer to history at our award winning, family friendly Museum. A great variety of items including uniforms, medals, weapons and silver from 1702 to present day. T: (01228) E: enquiries@cmoml.org NEW for 2017 Joint ticket with Carlisle Castle. Throughout the year we hold special events and temporary exhibitions. For further information please visit Alma Building, The Castle, Carlisle CA3 8UR 34

19 Whatever the weather, we ve got it covered Over 70 stores under one roof. Your one-stop shopping destination in the heart of Carlisle.