Set in the scenic surroundings on the northern outskirts of Carlisle, the castle built by William Rufus in the late 11th century to be rebuilt in the mid-12th century, has watched over this historic city for more than nine hundred years.
The castle has a stirring history, it lived through turbulent border warfare and offers visitors an exciting time exploring the lives of William Rufus, Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. It has fascinating, ancient dungeons where you can almost feel the icy chill of fear felt by Jacobite prisoners as they made their way through dark secret passages to meet their fate at Gallows Hill.
Carlisle Castle is the home to the Border Regiment Museum which thrills visitors with the legendry stories and displays of the rich history of Cumbria's County Infantry Regiment, the Border Regiment, the King's Own Border Regiment and the local Militia.
The castle forms a striking backdrop for historical re-enactments, when large numbers of people enjoy seeing knights in shining armour engaged in battle, or jousting tournaments when knights fight for the favour of a fair maiden.
In the castle keep there is a model of Carlisle depicting the city of 1745. There is also an exhibition focusing on the Bonnie Prince and the Jacobite rising. Visitors can see the legendry "licking stones" which parched prisoners licked in an ill-fated attempt to stay alive.
Carlisle Castle is in the care of English Heritage. Visitors to the castle may part-take of a guided tour of the castle, tour alone, or attend a special "Themed" guided tour during a special event day. These tours cover the Ghostly and Ghastly history of the castle, the Siege of Carlisle, The Bravehearts, Border Reivers Escape and The Gunpowder Plot to name but a few.
The castle is open for most of the year, official closing days are normally 24th-26th December and the 1st January.
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