Carlisle Castle

Standing proudly in the city it has dominated for nine centuries, Carlisle Castle was a constantly updated working fortress until well within living memory. Now its rich and varied visitor attractions reflect its long and eventful history. Today, the castle still plays a prominent role in Cumbria as one of its best-loved landmarks.

With a new exhibition, a programme of guided tours, a picnic area, a unique gift shop and being so close to Hadrian's Wall, the castle makes for a full family day out. And kids are well catered for with stories of daring rescues, thrilling battles and warring clans on their journey around the castle, brought to life a little more with games, dressing up and interactive exhibits.

Kids will love the doll's house style model of the keep, plus the chance to put their learning to the test and match the projectiles to the weapons that fire them! It's worst noting that Cumbria's Museum of Military Life isn't run by English Heritage and so is not included in the Castle's admission.

Picnicking is welcome in the Outer Ward, there are also vending machines and the chance to buy coffees and ice creams, plus loos and baby changing facilities.