The city of Carlisle is the largest of all settlements that you will find in Cumbria, England. Along with being the administrative centre for the city and the County of Cumbria, it also houses the main campus for the University of Cumbria. Carlisle vacations are ideal for those who would like to discover more about this historic city.

Actually getting to Carlisle could not be any easier. The main roads that links this city with not only the Southern part of England but also to Scotland are the M6 (for the South) and M74/A74 (takes you towards Glasgow and the Northern part of England). However, actually getting around the city itself in a car can prove quite eventful especially when the rush hours are in full flow.

If you do not intend driving to the city then there are regular train services that come directly in to its railway station. The railway station has through routes from London, Glasgow, Leeds and Newcastle upon Tyne. That said, the line from Glasgow actually travels through Dumfries on its journey.

When you actually arrive in the city for your vacation, there is plenty of things for one to do and see whilst staying there. Carlisle is famous for both it’s castle and the cathedral.

Since it was built over nine hundred years ago, the castle has marked the western edge of the city and is close to the border between England and Scotland. It has witnessed many conflicts and even been subject to the occasional siege. Today, these are but memories as you tour the dungeons, stairways and chambers. It is in the dungeons you will discover the legendary “Licking Stones” that the thirsty Jacobite prisoners which were being held in them would lick desperately to obtain moisture to help them stay alive.

As for the Cathedral this was founded in 1122 and remains a dominate feature of the city’s skyline when you look from anywhere across the city. Not only is beautifully decorated but a visit down into the crypt and you will find a display which looks at more than a 1,000 years of Christian history relating to the county of Cumbria.

However, if you are looking for a little more excitement when visiting Carlisle then a day or an evening at the races should be considered. The racecourse is located on the outskirts of the town and is set in beautiful countryside and this is why the course undulates somewhat. Throughout the year top quality horse racing events take place with the National Hunt ones taking place between September and April and the flat races taking place between April and August.

Carlisle vacations are ideal for those who are looking for a quiet romantic time away with their partner. But they are also the place for families who are looking for a little adventure and fun during their Carlisle holiday.