The Citadel, Carlisle: Historic Twin Towers at the City's Southern Gateway
Explore Carlisle’s iconic twin sandstone towers, a historic gateway blending Tudor defense and judicial heritage in the city’s heart.
The Citadel in Carlisle is a striking historic landmark featuring two grand sandstone towers that once housed civil and criminal courts. Built originally in the 16th century under Henry VIII’s national defense scheme and rebuilt in the early 19th century, the Citadel stands as a symbol of Carlisle’s rich judicial and military history. The West Tower is open to the public, offering views of courtrooms and cells, while the exterior showcases impressive battlements and architectural details. Located on English Street beside Carlisle Train Station, it remains a key cultural attraction.
A brief summary to The Citadel
- 91 English St, Carlisle, CA3 8LU, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance through the Carlisle tourist information center to access the interior courts and cells.
- Visit the West Tower to see restored courtrooms including the Grand Jury Room with historic portraits.
- Explore the exterior features like cannons and battlements freely any time for great photo opportunities.
- Combine your visit with a stop at Carlisle Train Station, located adjacent to the Citadel.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Carlisle Citadel is adjacent to Carlisle Train Station, served by Northern and Avanti West Coast trains. Travel times include approximately 1h 6m from Lancaster and 3h 57m from London. The station is open daily with ticket offices operating from early morning until evening. No parking is needed for train arrivals.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Carlisle city center with surrounding areas, with stops near English Street. Typical bus journey times from the city outskirts range from 10 to 30 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Buses run frequently during the day but may have limited service evenings and Sundays.
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Car
Driving to the Citadel is possible with parking available in nearby city center car parks such as the Castle Car Park. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £10 for a few hours. Note that city center traffic can be busy during peak times and some streets are pedestrianized.
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Walking
If staying in central Carlisle, the Citadel is within a 10-15 minute walk from key locations such as Carlisle Cathedral and the city center. The terrain is flat and suitable for most walkers, with well-maintained pavements and street lighting.
The Citadel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Citadel
Architectural Heritage and Historical Roots
The Citadel dominates the southern entrance to Carlisle with its immense oval sandstone towers, originally constructed in the 16th century as part of Henry VIII’s national defense strategy following the dissolution of the monasteries. The fortress replaced the earlier Botcher Gate, featuring a central square tower flanked by round towers designed to withstand artillery attacks. In 1810-1811, the towers were rebuilt based on designs by Thomas Telford and Sir Robert Smirke, incorporating assize courts and a prison. Despite these changes, some 16th-century masonry survives in the lower levels of the Eastern Tower, preserving a tangible link to its Tudor origins.Judicial Significance and Public Access
The Citadel’s twin towers served judicial functions until recently, with the East Tower housing civil courts and the West Tower criminal courts. The West Tower has undergone major restoration, partly funded by English Heritage, and is now open to the public. Visitors can explore oak-paneled courtrooms including the Number One and Number Two Courts, the Grand Jury Room adorned with portraits of notable local figures, and the historic cells. Guided tours offer deeper insight into the Citadel’s role as a court of justice and its strategic importance in border defense.Location and Surroundings
Situated at 91 English Street, the Citadel forms a striking gateway to Carlisle’s city center. Its proximity to Carlisle Train Station makes it easily accessible for visitors arriving by rail. The site’s prominent sandstone towers stand as an iconic visual landmark, complemented by a statue of the Earl of Lonsdale, who was instrumental in the 19th-century rebuilding efforts. The surrounding area includes other historic Carlisle attractions, enhancing the Citadel’s appeal as part of a broader cultural itinerary.Visitor Experience and Tours
While the exterior of the Citadel is freely accessible year-round, interior access requires booking guided tours through the Carlisle tourist information center. These tours typically last around 45 minutes and provide detailed narratives about the building’s architecture, history, and judicial past. Special group and evening tours may also be arranged. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exterior features such as cannons, archways, and battlements, which evoke the Citadel’s defensive heritage.Architectural and Cultural Importance
Both towers of the Citadel are Grade I listed buildings, underscoring their exceptional architectural and historic significance. The structure embodies a fusion of Tudor military design and early 19th-century neoclassical influences. Its preservation and restoration efforts highlight the community’s commitment to maintaining Carlisle’s cultural heritage. The Citadel remains a powerful symbol of the city’s strategic importance on the Anglo-Scottish border and its rich judicial history.Engagement with Local Heritage
The Citadel offers a unique window into Carlisle’s past, connecting visitors with stories of border defense, law, and governance. The Grand Jury Room’s paintings celebrate local dignitaries, while the preserved courtrooms and cells evoke the atmosphere of historic trials and justice administration. The site’s integration with the city’s urban fabric invites exploration of Carlisle’s broader historical landscape, making it an essential stop for heritage enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market Cross Monument
0.3 km
Historic 1682 Market Cross in Carlisle, a Grade I listed monument marking centuries of market heritage and civic pride.
Guildhall Museum
0.4 km
Explore Carlisle’s medieval heritage in the historic Guildhall Museum, a Grade I listed building and former guild meeting place dating back to 1407.
Westmorland Street
0.8 km
Experience the heart of Carlisle at Westmorland Street, your essential transit hub to explore historic attractions and local charm.
King Edward Monument
9.3 km
A solitary sandstone pillar on windswept Burgh Marsh marking the final resting place of King Edward I, the Hammer of the Scots.
Hare Hill - Hadrian's Wall
18.5 km
Explore Hare Hill, Cumbria’s tallest surviving stretch of Hadrian's Wall, where Roman history stands proudly amidst tranquil countryside.
Brow Well
33.8 km
Explore Brow Well, a historical landmark in Dumfries, Scotland, rich with heritage and natural beauty, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
33.8 km
Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Lowther Castle & Gardens
33.9 km
Explore the majestic Lowther Castle & Gardens, where history meets natural beauty in the heart of the Lake District.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
34.3 km
Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.
Keswick War Memorial
34.8 km
A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.
National Trust - Acorn Bank
34.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Acorn Bank, a National Trust garden in Temple Sowerby, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Keswick Methodist Church
34.9 km
Explore the serenity and community spirit at Keswick Methodist Church, a historical landmark in the heart of Keswick, perfect for quiet reflection and local events.
Aira Force Waterfall
35.1 km
Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.
National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
35.1 km
Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Friars Crag
36.1 km
Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Sportsman Inn
0.3 km
A welcoming family-run pub in Carlisle offering traditional British fare, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the city center.
Carlisle Cathedral
0.5 km
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and rich history of Carlisle Cathedral, a must-visit Anglican church and tourist attraction in the heart of Carlisle.
Carlisle Castle
0.8 km
Explore nearly a millennium of history at Carlisle Castle, a medieval fortress and royal prison on England’s historic border.
Cumbria's Museum of Military Life
0.8 km
Explore 300 years of military history in the historic Carlisle Castle, home to Cumbria's Museum of Military Life.
Walby Farm Park
6.1 km
Award-winning all-weather farm park near Carlisle offering interactive animal encounters, indoor play, and family fun year-round.
Wetheral Priory Gatehouse
6.7 km
Explore Cumbria’s finest medieval gatehouse, a fortified monastic gateway offering rich history and scenic views by the River Eden.
Caledonia Park Designer Outlet
14.1 km
Discover unbeatable designer discounts and a diverse brand selection at Caledonia Park Designer Outlet, South Scotland’s premier shopping destination.
Welcome To England Sign
14.2 km
Capture the moment at the iconic Welcome to England Sign in Gretna, your gateway to exploring the rich culture and beauty of England.
Talkin Tarn Country Park
14.6 km
Explore Talkin Tarn Country Park’s glacial lake, accessible trails, rich wildlife, and family-friendly outdoor activities set against stunning Pennine Hills.
Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop
15.1 km
Where centuries of runaway lovers have sealed their vows over the iconic blacksmith’s anvil in Scotland’s most romantic village.
Famous Blacksmiths Gretna Green Experience
15.1 km
Experience the timeless romance of Scotland’s iconic wedding venue where history, tradition, and love unite at the Famous Blacksmiths Shop.
Courtship Maze
15.2 km
Explore the heart-shaped Courtship Maze in Gretna Green, where love’s journey is celebrated through winding paths and scenic views.
Old Harbour Wall, Port of Carlisle
17.2 km
Historic sandstone harbour wall from 1823, a gateway to Carlisle’s canal era and a serene spot for coastal wildlife watching.
Lanercost Priory
17.3 km
Discover the enchanting Lanercost Priory, a historical landmark steeped in rich heritage, stunning architecture, and serene natural beauty near Brampton.
Glasson Moss Nature Reserve
17.4 km
Explore the serene, restored peat bogs of Glasson Moss, a vital wetland sanctuary rich in wildlife on the scenic Solway Coast.
Essential places to dine
In The Meantime
0.1 km
A lively Carlisle restaurant offering modern British cuisine with standout vegan and gluten-free options in a relaxed, buzzy atmosphere.
Thin White Duke
0.1 km
Vibrant restaurant and bar in Carlisle serving inventive dishes with local flair in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Last Zebra
0.2 km
A lively gastropub and wine bar in Carlisle, serving world-inspired small plates, craft cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
David's Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant British and European fine dining in a charming Victorian townhouse at the heart of Carlisle.
The Old Bank
0.5 km
Historic charm meets creative British cuisine in Carlisle’s beloved gastropub with a quirky, welcoming atmosphere and excellent service.
Fini’s. The Restaurant at Willowbeck Lodge
3.8 km
Charming countryside dining with fresh, locally inspired dishes at Willowbeck Lodge near Carlisle.
Lounge on the Green
3.9 km
Contemporary British dining in Houghton, with inventive dishes, local flavours, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.
The Royal Oak Inn
10.3 km
Experience authentic Cumbrian gastropub charm with hearty food and warm service in the tranquil village of Curthwaite.
Skitby
11.0 km
Skitby blends rustic barn charm with contemporary British cuisine and warm hospitality in Carlisle’s countryside.
Hidden River Cafe
15.0 km
A charming riverside cafe in Cumbria offering locally sourced dishes in a peaceful natural setting, perfect for families, food lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
Solway Lounge & Garrison Bistro
19.2 km
Bright, modern bistro with home-cooked meals and local ingredients in the heart of rural Bowness-on-Solway.
Pentonbridge Inn
21.2 km
A Michelin-starred haven blending exquisite Cumbrian cuisine with luxurious countryside charm near Carlisle.
The Clickham Inn
25.5 km
A stylish Mediterranean tapas inn near Penrith offering authentic flavors, warm hospitality, and a dog-friendly atmosphere on the edge of the Lake District.
Blenkinsopp Castle Inn - Bistro, Bar, Bed & Breakfast, Gardens
27.6 km
Historic charm and cozy hospitality meet in a scenic Northumberland inn set within the ancient stable block of Blenkinsopp Castle.
Four & Twenty
28.0 km
A charming Penrith bistro serving fresh, seasonal British dishes with global flair and a curated wine and cocktail selection.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Warwick Bazaar
0.1 km
Discover Carlisle’s quirky vintage haven filled with retro treasures, eclectic curios, and a vibrant cultural vibe.
Carlisle World Shop Cooperative Ltd
0.3 km
Discover ethical treasures and fair trade crafts in Carlisle’s welcoming cooperative gift shop.
The Lanes Shopping Centre
0.4 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in Carlisle city centre, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Souvenir Antiques
0.6 km
Explore authentic Roman coins and antiquities in Carlisle’s historic Bookcase, connecting you to Hadrian’s legacy and Roman Britain.
The Emporium
0.7 km
A vibrant creative hub in Carlisle offering gifts, art supplies, painting lessons, and community events in a historic setting.
Cumbria Curiosity Shop
0.9 km
Explore Carlisle’s hidden gem for antiques and vintage treasures, where history and unique finds come alive in every corner.
Much Love X
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Much Love X, a charming gift shop in Currock, Carlisle, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Suziebou
6.4 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish fashion, and locally sourced homewares in the welcoming boutique of Suziebou in Dalston, Carlisle.
Simply Gorgeous Gifts with Scotia Framing
13.9 km
A charming gift shop and picture framing service in Brampton’s market building, offering candles, jewellery, cards, and bespoke frames for thoughtful presents and cherished memories.
Historic Gifts
22.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts made from historic materials, celebrating heritage and craftsmanship in peaceful Canonbie.
The Unicorn
27.8 km
Discover unique gifts and artistic treasures in Penrith’s beloved independent shop, The Unicorn, open Monday to Saturday.
The Barn
31.9 km
Discover locally sourced gifts, quality outdoor gear, and delightful treats at The Barn in scenic Pooley Bridge.
Mellow Yellow
32.9 km
Discover Mellow Yellow, Alston’s quirky and welcoming gift shop with a treasure trove of vintage and contemporary finds at the top of Front Street.
Booths, Keswick
34.9 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
34.9 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Griffin
0.1 km
A vibrant Carlisle pub blending historic charm, local ales, and lively sports atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Bar Solo
0.1 km
Historic Victorian bar in Carlisle’s city centre, famed for its exquisite tiles, cozy atmosphere, and quality drinks near the train station.
Open Mind
0.1 km
A cozy and quirky bar in Carlisle offering great drinks, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere from noon till late weekend nights.
The Caledonian
0.1 km
A welcoming and affordable pub in Carlisle with friendly staff, lively karaoke nights, and a true local atmosphere.
The Arcade Morgan’s Bar
0.1 km
Cozy speakeasy-style bar in Carlisle’s Lowther Arcade, known for live music, cocktails, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere.
The Crescent Bar
0.1 km
A lively Carlisle bar with live music, a welcoming beer garden, and a diverse drink menu for vibrant evenings out.
Deja Vu 60's 70's 80's Bar
0.1 km
Step back in time with classic 60s, 70s, and 80s hits at Carlisle’s lively Deja Vu Bar, where retro music and dance come alive every weekend.
Bartons Yard
0.2 km
A stylish café bar in Carlisle offering artisan coffee, cocktails, afternoon teas, and unique masterclasses in a vibrant city centre setting.
No 15, Gin bar
0.2 km
A lively gin bar in Carlisle offering quality spirits, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all gin enthusiasts.
Yellowjacket
0.2 km
Discover Yellowjacket, Carlisle’s intimate cocktail bar known for unique décor and expertly crafted drinks in a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
Coco Mill
0.3 km
Lively brewhouse and cocktail bar in Carlisle offering crafted drinks, hearty British food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Apple Tree
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming pub at Carlisle’s heart, offering classic dishes, live sports, and inclusive menus in a cozy community setting.
The Kings Head
0.4 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Carlisle’s heart, famed for award-winning real ales, hearty British fare, and a lively courtyard with live music.
The Boardroom
0.5 km
A traditional, welcoming pub in Carlisle city centre offering local ales, hearty meals, and a warm atmosphere near the historic cathedral.
The Lane Bar
0.6 km
Discover The Lane Bar’s cozy underground charm and stylish cocktails in the heart of Carlisle’s vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
