Essential Hotels > England > Cumbria > Carlisle

Carlisle is the county town and the only city in the county of Cumbria. Geographically it sits to the north of the county. The Scottish borders are roughly ten miles further north, while the edge of the celebrated Lake District National Park is around fifteen miles south of the city. The history of Carlisle is intriguing and diverse. Like much of the area Carlisle was Celtic in origin, but was considered useful enough for the Romans to build a fort here. Birdoswald Roman Fort still stands as an example of the Roman settlement, and a little of Hadrian’s Wall remains on the outskirts of the city. They called the town Luguvalium, but the name ‘Carlisle’ is thought to be Celtic in origin, a testament to the influential strength of the city’s original inhabitants.

Unfortunately the area’s location close to Scotland meant that it was unavoidably involved in border skirmishes as different cultures fought for control. The Saxons followed in the Romans’ wake, but Carlisle was later attacked by Danish and Scottish forces. Finally, after the Battle of Hastings the Normans advanced. Carlisle Castle was built by the Normans in the 11th century, and it was here that Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned by Elizabeth I. Similarly, Carlisle Cathedral was built in the 1100s. Despite being ravaged and rebuilt over the following centuries it remains a wonderfully historic Carlisle landmark.

During the Industrial Revolution Carlisle became a Mill Town, and the railways soon followed. This made Carlisle somewhat of a transport hub, a reputation which is still held today. From here visitors can easily head north into Scotland or explore further into Cumbria’s rural Lakeland beauty, taking in such sights as the glacial-formed lakes of Windermere and Grasmere. Staying in Carlisle, the city centre is built over its medieval heart, with little pieces of history interspersed with modern amenities and shopping centres. Carlisle is also home to the University of Cumbria, meaning it is a modern university and academic city.