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Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in Carlisle guide
Where to go
Lake District National Park
Spread out over 912 square miles, the Lake District National Park is characterized by low-lying mountains and soaring mountains that are ideal for challenging treks and climbs. Along with 16 large lakes—including the deepest lake in England (Wastwater) and the country's longest (Windermere)—the park features a handful of tarns, a type of small mountain pool. Popular activities include cycling, stargazing, boating, and swimming.
North Pennines AONB
East of Carlisle, the North Pennies AONB is a UNESCO Global Geopark characterized by moors, dales, rivers, and forests, with plenty to explore on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback. The park is home to 16 Dark Sky Discovery Sites, ideal for nighttime stargazing, along with dozens of hiking and biking trails. You can get all the information you need to start your adventure at the Bowlees Visitor Centre, just over an hour’s drive from Carlisle.
Northumberland National Park
The most remote (and least-visited) national park in England and Wales, Northumberland National Park is the place to go if you've had it with people and want a bit of peace and solitude. It's a great place for hikes and cycling trips, and there are loads of caravan sites and campsites throughout the park, a few of which are right by Hadrian's Wall.
When to go
Carlisle gets rain throughout the year, though autumn and winter tend to get more days of rainfall than spring and summer. The climate is cool, but mild, and while temperatures rarely drop below freezing, Carlisle rarely sees temperatures higher than 20 degrees, even in the peak of summer. If you're a fan of the performing arts, consider visiting in March to attend the Carlisle and District Music and Drama Festival, a festival of music, speech, and drama founded in 1896.