Carlisle

 Introduction

This afternoon I am reporting on Carlisle a city of 108,000 persons in NW England. 

Market Square

Information on Carlisle.

The city impresses as being prosperous with a large and diversified number of shops in and around the Market Square district. 

Carlisle is famous for it's impressive castle and Roman heritage. As regards the latter, the city is located close to the western end of Hadrian's Wall in addition to which an extensive new Roman era site is under investigation at the Cricket Ground with evidence suggesting a very high status recreational facility which Emperor, Septimus Severus (Emperor from AD193-211) may have patronised or even used as a base. Latest information on the site can be found here.

Close to the city flows the River Eden which has caused significant flooding damage in the past.To the east are the hills of the North Pennines whilst to the SW is the Lake District with it's scenic fells (hills)| and lakes.

River Eden 

 Carlisle Castle

The newly refurbished Tullie Museum and Art Gallery (near to the castle) hosts rolling Roman period exhibitions. 

Also close to the city centre is Carlisle Cathedral. This very impressive, 800 year old building is fully deserving of a visit.

A connection with the U.S.A. exists in the form of the mother of President Thomas Woodrow Wilson who was born in the city. President Wilson visited Carlisle in 1918.

Here is a portfolio of relevant images:

 River Eden approaching Carlisle

Carlisle Railway Station

Part of the Old Town


Sundial atop Carlisle Cross in the Market Square. The cross was erected in 1682 on the site of an earlier cross. The Lion on top has one of it's paws on the Dormant Book of the city. Below are four sundials.

Plaque commemorating President Wilson's visit in 1918.

Fine interior of the18th century Anglican Church, St Cuthbert with St Mary's.

NB: It should be remembered that Scotland's unofficial anthem 'Loch Lomond' ("By yon bonnie banks and by yon bonnie braes") has it's origins with Carlisle Castle. The lyrics tells the story of two Jacobite (Scottish) prisoners one of which was to be hanged at the fortification.

Carlisle is well served with road and rail communications. There is a small airport which is used for private and military flights but not regular passenger services.  

More information

The publication Visitors’ Guide to Scotland provides a wide range of information on Hadrian's Wall. The ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. This book is also available via Kindle.

 

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