Premier Inn Carlisle

Yes, Carlisle is definitely worth a visit, especially if you're exploring the north of England or heading towards Scotland. It’s a historic border city packed with heritage, green spaces and easy access to nature. You’ve got the impressive Carlisle Castle, one of England’s most intact medieval fortresses, and the beautiful Carlisle Cathedral right in the city centre. It’s also a great base for visiting Hadrian’s Wall or even taking a day trip to the Lake District. With its mix of history, culture, and relaxed pace, it makes for a really enjoyable stop on any UK trip. 

Carlisle is best known for its Roman and medieval history, being a key site along Hadrian’s Wall and a strategic location during the Anglo-Scottish border conflicts. The Carlisle Castle is one of its most iconic landmarks and has seen over 900 years of battles, sieges, and royal drama. In modern times, it's appreciated for its blend of history, greenery, and proximity to the Lakes and Scottish border. 

Carlisle is well-placed for exploring both Cumbria and southern Scotland. Nearby towns include: 

• Penrith – around 20 miles away, a gateway to the Lake District. 

• Gretna Green – just over the Scottish border. 

• Wigton – a traditional market town to the west.  

• Brampton – great for countryside walks and Roman ruins. 

• Keswick – in the heart of the Lake District, about an hour’s drive away. 

Carlisle is special because of its unique position as a historic border city. It’s been at the heart of some of Britain’s most important moments, from Roman times right through to the modern era. Its combination of a medieval castle, ancient cathedral and Roman ruins gives the city real depth. But there’s also plenty of green space, parks, museums and a walkable city centre. Whether you're into history, walking, or just soaking up some Northern charm, Carlisle offers a bit of everything in one place. 

Carlisle itself doesn’t have a beach, as it’s inland, but you’re not too far from the coast. The nearest beaches are along the Solway Firth, which you can reach in around 30–40 minutes by car. Places like Silloth or Allonby offer long stretches of sand and great coastal views. These spots are great for a day trip if you fancy getting out of the city and breathing in some sea air. 

Yes, there’s plenty to do in Carlisle whether you’re there for a day or a weekend. History lovers will enjoy Carlisle Castle, the Tullie House Museum, and the Cathedral. You can also walk sections of Hadrian’s Wall, with nearby spots like Birdoswald Roman Fort for stunning countryside views. For something more relaxed, there are parks, riverside walks and a great selection of pubs and cafes. It’s also a good spot for shopping, catching a show at The Sands Centre, or just soaking in the laid-back Northern vibe. 

A perfect day in Carlisle could start with a visit to Carlisle Castle, followed by a walk through the historic city centre to see the Cathedral and nearby Tullie House Museum. Grab a drink at one of the local pubs or cafes, then head out for a short drive or walk along part of Hadrian’s Wall for some Roman history and countryside views. In the evening, you could catch a performance at The Sands Centre or enjoy dinner and drinks in one of the city’s friendly local spots.  

Carlisle has a decent selection of shops, especially for a city its size. The main shopping area is The Lanes, a pedestrianised zone with high street stores, independent boutiques and plenty of places to stop for coffee. There’s also the Market Hall, one of the few remaining Victorian indoor markets in the country, selling everything from fresh produce to crafts. It’s not a major shopping destination like Newcastle or Manchester, but it’s a solid spot for a browse. 

Flex – Pay now or on arrival, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Our most flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 1pm on the day of arrival. You can also amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Semi-Flex – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to three full days before arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to three full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Advance – Pay now, fully refundable with free cancellation up to 28 full days before arrival, free to amend thereafter until the day of arrival. Fairly flexible rate – you can cancel and get a full refund up to 28 full days before arrival. No refunds after that date. You can also amend your booking date at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Standard – Pay now, non-refundable. Free to amend booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival. Slightly flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel and get a full refund, but you can amend your booking at the same hotel up to 1pm on the day of arrival (additional room rate charges may apply depending on your new stay date).

Non-Flex – Pay now. No amends or refunds. Our least flexible rate – you won’t be able to cancel or amend your stay after booking.

Our standard check-in time is 3pm. For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

Checkout is by 12 noon on your departure date. If luggage storage is available, our teams will be happy to store any bags for you if you’d like to check out before 12pm.

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

For an additional fee*, you can start your stay sooner with early check-in from 11am. Add early check-in to your stay while making your booking, or afterwards by managing your stay in your Premier Inn account. Early check-in is subject to availability and not available at all Premier Inn hotels. 

*Prices and times will vary depending on date and location. 

In 2020 we launched Premier Inn CleanProtect™, our rigorous, daily cleaning method that’s used throughout our UK & Ireland hotels. Developed in partnership with Diversey, a global leader in cleaning and hygiene products for the healthcare and hospitality industries, our promise seeks to give you extra peace of mind so you can always book and stay with confidence.

Check-in - minimising contact at reception and providing hand sanitiser in most public areas for peace of mind. 

Bed linen and towels - laundering all our linen and towels at over 60°C to thermally disinfect them, so you can enjoy a great night’s sleep. We’ve also placed spare pillows in a zip-up bag, for extra peace of mind.

Equipping our teams - providing our team members with all the equipment and sanitisers they need, as well as always operating in the safest way possible for our teams and guests.

A generous serving of safety - you can relax knowing that enhanced cleaning measures are in place throughout our restaurants. Tables are cleaned between visits and contactless payment is in place too, so you can dine safely and comfortably with us every time.

Clean on request - if you'd like your room cleaned during your stay with us, just let us know at reception and use the handy door hanger on the back of your door by 12pm each day.

Most Premier Inns have specially-adapted rooms allowing easier access for customers with disabilities. If there is no specially-adapted room available at the hotel of your choice, we will be happy to offer you alternative accommodation at a nearby Premier Inn. If you have difficulty walking, but do not need a specially-adapted room, please feel free to request a room near reception on the ground floor for easy access. 

If you'd like get in touch, you can reach out to our specialist team via email at pi.accessible@whitbread.com or call us on 0333 0919 817 between 9am and 5pm Monday-Friday (calls charged at local rate).

Unfortunately, with the exception of trained assistance dogs, we don't allow pets to stay at our hotels.