Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Bassenthwaite

"Carlisle's brooding, rust-red castle lurks on the north side of the city. Founded around a Celtic and Roman stronghold, the castle's Norman keep was added in 1092 by William Rufus, and later refortified by Henry II, Edward I and Henry VIII (who added the supposedly cannon-proof towers). From the battlements, the stirring views stretch as far as the Scottish borders. The castle also houses Cumbria's Museum of Military Life, which has collections of military memorabilia associated with the region's regiments."

"Of course, it wouldn’t be a summer in Carlisle without a trip to the city’s iconic castle. The city itself has over 2,000 years of history, from Celts and Romans to invading armies and bloody battles. Carlisle castle was built way back in 1092 by William Rufus, and is now in the hands of English Heritage."

"The ruins of Caerlaverock Castle, by Glencaple on a beautiful stretch of the Solway coast, are among the loveliest in Britain. Surrounded by a moat, lawns and stands of trees, the unusual pink-stoned triangular castle looks impregnable. In fact, it fell several times, most famously when it was attacked in 1300 by Edward I: the siege became the subject of an epic poem, ‘The Siege of Caerlaverock’."

"Seven miles east of Caerlaverock Castle, in tiny Ruthwell, a church holds one of Europe’s most important early Christian monuments. The 6m-high 7th-century Ruthwell Cross is carved top to bottom in New Testament scenes and is inscribed with a poem called ‘The Dream of the Rood’; written in a Saxon runic alphabet, it’s considered one of the earliest examples of English-language literature. Bus 79 running between Dumfries and Annan stops in Ruthwell."

"Consecrated as an Augustinian Priory in the 12th century, Carlisle Cathedral is the second-smallest cathedral in England after Oxford. One reason for this is that a big piece of the nave was torn down in the English Civil War to bolster Carlisle Castle. The architecture is Gothic, mostly from the 13th and 14th centuries."

"48 Abbey Street, Carlisle EnglandItalian, Pizza, MediterraneanLunch, DinnerReservations, Seating, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service[email protected]+44 1228 658021http://www.amatos.co.uk/"

"Known for offering some of the best pub grub in Keswick the food is traditional, uncomplicated, and all locally sourced. http://royaloakkeswick.co.uk/food-drink/"

"Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic evening for two, a night out with friends or a family affair, this Keswick restaurant is the perfect spot. Located within a popular hotel, Inn on the Square boasts an AA Rosette-award-winning steakhouse, as well as two quirky bars. The Brossen Steakhouse is one of the best places to eat in Keswick, offering delectable meat including oak-smoked rump, juicy ribeye, and tender fillets – all accompanied by a yummy choice of over 15 sides and around 50 wine pairings."

"Located in the centre of Keswick the inn on the Square has various options for you. The bar overlooking Keswick main street serving fantastic coffee and scones for a little snack or there is also a full bar menu that’s worth sampling. For the evening, the steak restaurant is exceptional we took Dave for Father’s Day and he keeps asking when he can go back, bless him – definitely worth a visit if you like your steaks."