Things To Do
Carlisle is a vibrant city steeped in history and brimming with attractions. Explore its imposing Carlisle Castle, a medieval fortress with a rich past dating back to the 11th century. Wander through the historic streets lined with charming shops, bustling markets and inviting cafes like John Watt & Son.
Visit Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, highlighting Carlisle's heritage and culture. Below is a full calendar of events from local markets to live entertainment and major events like The Cumberland Show.
Use our City of Carlisle events service to find out more about what's on in Carlisle or venture south to enjoy events in Eden Valley.
Visit Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery, highlighting Carlisle's heritage and culture. Below is a full calendar of events from local markets to live entertainment and major events like The Cumberland Show.
Use our City of Carlisle events service to find out more about what's on in Carlisle or venture south to enjoy events in Eden Valley.
General Markets
Wigton Market, every Friday 9am to 5pm
Farmer's Markets
Carlisle city centre, 1st Saturday of the month from 9.30am - 4pm.
Cumbrian Castles
Carlisle Castle: Standing proud in the city it has dominated for nine centuries, Carlisle Castle remained a working fortress until well within living memory. It has withstood many sieges, held captive a royal prisoner, and been home to the King's Own Royal Border Regiment. The castle is home to Cumbria's Museum of Military Life.
Family Fun
South Lakes Safari Zoo: The zoo is home to over 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered animals in unique natural environments which enable you to get as close as physically possible to experience the amazing creatures with which we share our planet. Wander amongst kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Be amazed as free-flying macaws soar overhead. Participate in animal feeding experiences or be a zookeeper for a day.
Grizedale Forest: Explore the forest on two wheels, foot or horse back and keep your eyes peeled along the way for our unique sculptures which are dotted throughout the forest. Adrenaline junkies should head to the Treetop Challenge or Zip Trekking Adventure if seriously high-level tree-top crossings and incredible zip wire flights get your pulse quickening.
Treetop Nets: Bounce, slide and explore your way along this unique adventure set high up in the trees of Windermere. Treetop Nets will see you enjoying 1-2 hours of bouncy fun, with ball parks, a crawl tunnel, super-fast slides and aerial walkways to get stuck into. This family-friendly activity under the tree canopy is the perfect option for mini-adventurers and parents who want a guaranteed early night.
Must See
Max The Miracle Dog: Kerry Irving, Max’s owner, created an online community through daily livestreams of their walks throughout the pandemic. Max was awarded a PDSA Order of Merit, known as the amimal OBE, for his work in improving the nation’s mental health. Kerry had Max trained as a therapy dog in 2016 and during the pandemic he became a virtual therapy dog for the nation.
