Carlisle Castle
- from GBP 11.30
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Why go
- Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life, covering local infantry regiments and militia.
- The Captain’s Tower, a preserved gatehouse.
Opening hours
Today10:00 – 17:00Show all
Don't miss
- Medieval doorLook for the etched markings on the door.In the keep.
- Castle exhibitionThe exhibition tells the stories of Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Kinmont Willie Armstrong.At the castle.
Know before you go
- Tickets are valid for the whole day of your visit.
- Booked school groups must bring their visit permit.
Legends and hidden details
- A 14th-century poem tells of Sir Gawain staying at the castle during a hunting expedition.
- Some accounts identify the castle as Camelot, the mythical seat of King Arthur’s court.
With kids
- Schools can arrange self-led visits and explore the castle at their own pace.
- Expert-led sessions help students investigate the lives of people who lived and worked at the castle.
- A teachers’ kit provides historical information and activities for before, during and after a visit.
Interesting facts3
Shorts
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Carlisle Castle | united KingdomHomegrown Happiness
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Inside the Carlisle Castle 🏰🏴🏴Mumu Gardi
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The Walls of Carlisle CastleRobert the Bruce - Genius of Bannockburn
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Beautiful Carlisle castleMark Ward
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Just another reason to love Carlisle Castle!The Ruin Rambler
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Carlisle Castle 🏰 Britain’s Most Besieged Castle?Redhand1872_
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CARLISLE CASTLE - a slight detour in way to ScotlandTHE CREATIVE CRUISER - CHRISTINE FISHER KEEBLE
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Carlisle Castle in Cumbria, the most besieged castle in England.International Man of History
History
The castle later endured Scottish attacks, including a siege in 1315. The castle was besieged during the English Civil War and occupied by Jacobite forces in 1745. Parts were demolished in the 19th century, and the remaining buildings became a regimental depot.
- 11th c.William II ordered a Norman motte-and-bailey castle to guard the northern border.
- 1122Henry I ordered the castle to be rebuilt in stone.
- 1315Andrew Harclay led the defence against a Scottish siege.
- 1568Mary, Queen of Scots was held in the Warden’s Tower for several months.
- 1644The castle endured an eight-month siege during the English Civil War.
Show all
- 1745Jacobite forces seized and fortified the castle before it was recaptured.
- 19th c.Parts of the castle were demolished for building materials.
- 1873The castle became a regimental depot.
Accessibility
- Parking
Sources: Carlisle Castle - Wikipedia · Carlisle - Wikivoyage (see) · Carlisle Castle | English Heritage · Plan Your Visit to Carlisle Castle | English He… · Prices and Opening times for Carlisle Castle | … · Carlisle Castle - Wikipedia · Château de Carlisle - Wikipedia · School Visits Carlisle Castle | English Heritage · checked 29 Oct 2026
- Phone
- 01228591922
Questions and answers
How do I get to Carlisle Castle?
Carlisle Castle is on Castle Way in Carlisle. You can reach it by bus, train or bicycle.
Is there parking at Carlisle Castle?
Yes, the castle has parking.
Can school groups visit Carlisle Castle?
Yes. Schools can arrange self-led visits or expert-led sessions. Booked groups must bring their visit permit.
Is there a museum at Carlisle Castle?
Yes. Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life covers local infantry regiments and militia.
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