Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Plumbland

"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."

"It has withstood many sieges, contained a valuable royal prisoner, and been home to the King's Own Royal Border Regiment. Discover the castle's turbulent past in the fascinating family-friendly exhibition. Explore medieval castle rooms as well as 19th century military buildings, and visit Cumbria's Museum of Military Life"

"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."

"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."

"6 The Crescent, Carlisle CA1 1QW EnglandItalian, PizzaLunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late NightDelivery, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service+44 1228 534472http://www.lamezzalunacarlisle.co.uk/"

"Sometimes people just feel in the mood to go to and get a classic pizza. Woodstone Pizza and flame grill is definitely the place for that. It's a family friendly restaurant which supplies fabulous pizzas cooked in a stone hot oven and also offers steaks and burgers."

"Casual relaxed spot that serves BBQ meats, burgers, Kebabs and stone baked pizzas. Again, in high season this place can get busy. The handmade, stone baked pizzas are really good and it’s another that’s worth a visit."

"Merienda has cafes and restaurants in both Keswick and Cockermouth. The food is best described as international café fare, using seasonal ingredients drawing influences from around the world. It aims to have a simple but eclectic evening menu and offers a great selection of wine and beer."