Carlisle

About

Carlisle was one of the strongest British settlements by the time the Romans arrived and used the town to serve the forts on the nearby Hadrian’s Wall. Just a stone’s throw from the Scottish border, Carlisle was an important military stronghold through the Middle Ages, changing hands several times, its castle even being used to imprison Mary, Queen of Scots. The Industrial Revolution saw Carlisle transform into a major mill and railway town, and the region’s cultural and commercial center. Today, the city is still guarded by its 11th century castle, where you can tour its imposing fortifications, view the ‘licking-stones’ where prisoners got their water, or step into Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life to learn the 300-year history of the region’s regiments. Afterwards, head to the Cathedral, where you can still see elements from its 12th century origins alongside, 14th century stained-glass windows and star-painted ceiling, and the exceptional 16th century Flemish Brougham Triptych.