Car Rental Carlisle

Parking in Carlisle

Carlisle has an abundance of car parks in and around its centre.

• Viaduct Car Park is located just behind the train station along the River Caldew. There are two separate lots, Upper and Lower, with over 200 spaces.
• Castle Car Park is the main facility for Carlisle Castle, with over 320 spaces available. It’s also close to other top attractions such as Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery.
• Lanes Shopping Centre Car Park is right in the heart of Carlisle, with direct access to the shopping centre. 

Rules of the road

Driving in Carlisle, as in the rest of the UK, is on the left-hand side of the road.

Local speed limits vary, but will typically be 30mph (48km/h) in built-up areas, and 40, 50 or 60mph on nearby country lanes and A-Roads. Simply check signs for changes.

Motorways such as the M6 usually have a 70mph (112km/h) limit. 

How to get from Carlisle Train Station to Lake Windermere

Nearest car park: Rayrigg Meadow Car Park,Rayrigg Rd, Windermere, LA23 1BP. 

The simplest way to reach Lake Windermere from Carlisle city centre is via the M6:

1.      Head east out of Carlisle centre on Victoria Pl and Warwick Road
2.      At the roundabout, take the third exit onto the M6 towards Penrith
3.      Stay on the M6 for 26 miles (47km), then exit the motorway at junction 39
4.      Merge onto the A6 and follow as it becomes Winter Lane and the A591
5.      Take the 1^st exit at the roundabout and look out for the car park on the right

Roads and highways

Main routes in and around Carlisle

• M6 – Located east of Carlisle, this runs south from the border of Scotland and down northern England towards Birmingham.
• A7 – Begins just north of the city and travels through Scotland towards Edinburgh.
• A595 – Starts south west of Carlisle and loops around the whole west side of Cumbria to Barrow-in-Furness.

Carlisle to Penrith

The quaint town of Penrith, on the edge of the Lake District, is only around a 30-minute drive from Carlisle. Head east of the centre to join the M6 south.

On arrival in Penrith, park up and explore the town’s rich heritage including Penrith Castle and Penrith and Eden Museum.

Carlisle to Kendal

Around an hour to the south you will find Kendal, a market town known for its historic railway connections and cobbled streets. Again, join the M6 from Carlisle, this time exiting the motorway to join the A6 towards Kendal.

Wander around the various museums and galleries – or try some of the famous ‘Kendal mint cake’.

What to see and do in Carlisle

Carlisle Castle

Carlisle Castle is a proud beacon of the city which had stood tall for more than nine centuries. Previously used as a fortress and prison, the castle even held Mary Queen of Scots captive in the 16th century.

Now, guests can wander the grounds to soak up the remains of history – or explore Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life.

Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of England’s most significant landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Only around a 30-minute drive from Carlisle, head out through rolling countryside to reach this striking barrier constructed by the mighty Roman Empire.

Park up and explore the remains, see rare artifacts and soak up the incredible views. There’s parking near the site (at postcode CA8 7DD).

Settle-Carlisle Railway

Explore Cumbria the old-fashioned way – aboard a steam train. The Settle-Carlisle Railway is a 71-mile (116km) journey through viaducts, market towns and the Yorkshire Dales.

Park your rental car up for the day and climb aboard one of England’s greatest railway adventures.

Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery

Nestled in the centre of Carlisle, Tullie House is a fun day out for the whole family. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of artifacts and art – covering everything from Roman pieces to contemporary design – as well as plenty of learning resources for kids.

There are temporary exhibitions and events to enjoy too, so check the calendar before you arrive to see what’s on.

Carlisle’s best hotels

Willowbeck Lodge         

Located just 10 minutes outside of Carlisle, this five-star countryside lodge is the perfect rural getaway. There are five bedrooms in the main lodge, as well as several cottages around the complex for group stays, all decorated in a contemporary style. 

The hotel also has a restaurant and parking is free to all guests. 

The Halston

Luxury awaits you at this central hotel. Boasting two bars and restaurants, spa facilities and meeting rooms, The Halston has everything you need for a pleasant stay. 

Their self-catered apartments offer the comfort of a hotel with the freedom of home. You can also upgrade to a luxury lodge on the outskirts of Carlisle.

Dalston Hall Hotel

If you’re looking for an authentic English stay, Dalston Hall Hotel is a prime choice. This four-star hotel is characterfully decorated with rustic touches throughout. 

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, around a 15-minute drive from Carlisle, it also has beautiful gardens to explore.

Best places to eat in Carlisle 

Pentonbridge Inn

This country inn on the outskirts of Carlisle is a firm favourite with the locals. Their produce is fresh, often caught or harvested that very day, with a menu that matches the season.

Foxborough Restaurant

This award-winning city centre restaurant is not to be missed. Secluded in a basement, the cosy, candle-lit atmosphere and hearty English meals feel like something from a fantasy book.

David’s Restaurant

Enjoy an evening of fine dining at this elegant establishment, located in Carlisle’s historic centre. With locally sourced dishes delivered in a romantic setting, expect an evening of splendour. 

Discover all this and more – and book Carlisle car rental with Hertz today.