Car Hire Carlisle - Mini guide to Carlisle

Beautifully situated on the banks of the Eden River, Carlisle is administrative center of the northern England county of Cumbria. The town and surrounding countryside are world-famous for their architectural and archaeological heritage, as well as for their vast tracts of pristine wilderness areas.

To the north of Carlisle lies its principal attraction, Hadrian's Wall. The Roman fort of Birdoswald is one of sixteen such forts originally situated along the Hadrian’s Wall frontier system and now designated a World Heritage Site. The views from the fort are spectacular, and the ruins themselves include all the components of the Roman frontier system. The curtain walls and three gateways of the fort are excavated and can be clearly seen, as can the remains of the original granaries and basilica.

Places of historical interest within the town include the remains of the medieval Carlisle Castle, Carlisle Cathedral and Tullie House, which contains a museum and art gallery. On the site of present-day Carlisle were the ancient Roman defense post of Luguvalium and the later British settlement of Caer Lue, ruins of which can be found around the town. Carlisle Castle, built in 1092, became a strategic English bulwark during the wars with the Scots in the following centuries.

Carlisle has some of the finest hotels, guest houses and B&Bs in the country, as well as some great restaurants. The nightlife is varied, from up-market clubs to down-to-earth country-style pubs.

The surrounding region of Cumbria is a unique place of outstanding natural beauty and heritage, from enthralling heritage sites to stunning landscapes and coastal scenery. The Lake District National Park forms the heart of the area and is perfect for outdoor pursuits including waters sports, climbing, horse riding, walking and cycling.

Manchester International Airport offers scheduled services to destinations throughout Europe and some trans-Atlantic destinations. A direct train leaves London Paddington every other hour bound for Scotland (duration: 4 hours), while motorists can exit the M6 at junction 43 up the west coast.

The major suburbs in Carlisle are: Belah, Botcherby, Cummersdale, Denton Holme and Stanwix.