Carlisle cottages

Carlisle holiday cottages

Browse our cottages and holiday homes in Carlisle, one of England's great border cities, and discover a place where Roman history, medieval landmarks and beautiful Cumbrian scenery meet. Sitting close to the Scottish border and within easy reach of the Lake District, North Pennines and Solway Coast, Carlisle makes an excellent base for family holidays, walking breaks and short stays in Cumbria.

There are more than 100 Carlisle cottages to choose from, with over two-thirds of them accepting dogs. Step out of a characterful city-centre cottage and discover ancient walls and cobbled streets lined with independent shops and a Victorian market hall. Pick a lodge in the Cumbrian countryside to find tranquil woodland walks from your front door or head to the Kingmoor Nature Reserve from a dog-friendly cottage, which is perfect for four-legged friends to stretch their legs.

The majority of our Carlisle cottages come with on-site parking and around half come with features such as wood-burning fire and hot tub to elevate your Cumbrian getaway, whether you are gathering family and friends in a luxury holiday home for a special celebration or booking a spontaneous romantic getaway.

Things to do in Carlisle

Whether you’re visiting as a couple, with friends or as a family group, there are plenty of things to do during a Carlisle getaway, from riverside walks with four-legged friends to browsing art galleries and museums. The fascinating centre is crammed full of character with cobbled streets and ancient city walls where you’ll find independent shops and a Victorian market hall. For entertainment, enjoy live music, comedy and theatre at The Old Fire Station and Sands Centre, or spend an evening exploring the city's bars and restaurants.

Carlisle's Roman heritage is impossible to miss. From the collections at Tullie House Museum to the dramatic remains of Hadrian's Wall just outside the city, there's plenty to discover for anyone interested in Britain's ancient past. Carlisle Cathedral in the heart of the city is known for its striking stained glass and intricate medieval architecture and is a must-visit site during a Carlisle getaway. History lovers can also visit Cumbria's Museum of Military Life and Lanercost Priory, one of the county's best-preserved monastic sites.

Carlisle is a great destination for families with Bitt’s Park and Hammond’s Pond both offering play areas, large green spaces and picnic spots. Walby Farm Park lies 6 miles out of the city and is a 30-acre site offering animal encounters, indoor and outdoor play, picnic areas and a café. There is plenty for children of all ages, but even the grown-ups will think twice about tackling the 24-foot Demon Drop Slide! Older children and adults can enjoy an action-packed competitive adventure at the city's laser quest centre. . Eden Rock climbing centre is well worth a visit and caters from children, beginners and experienced climbers with its multiple state-of-the-art bouldering rooms.

Explore Cumbria from a Carlisle cottage

Holiday accommodation in Carlisle places you within easy reach of some of northern England's most spectacular landscapes. Head west to the Solway Coast for coastal walks and wildlife watching, east to the rugged North Pennines, or south to the Lake District National Park for walking, cycling and waterside adventures.

The famous Settle to Carlisle Railway offers one of England's most scenic train journeys, passing through the Eden Valley, Yorkshire Dales and North Pennines. Other nearby highlights include Talkin Tarn Country Park, Kielder Water and Forest Park, Bassenthwaite Lake and the vibrant market town of Keswick.

Carlisle provides the perfect base for exploring Cumbria's rich history, dramatic landscapes and outdoor attractions. For more inspiration look at our other Lake District collections including cosy cottages for two, dog-friendly holiday homes and large group accommodation.