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Church

Carlisle Cathedral

Photo: Carlisle Cathedral

About Carlisle Cathedral

Marvel at nearly 900 years of history at this stunning medieval cathedral, where families can explore magnificent architecture and peaceful grounds. Wheelchair accessible with nearby parking and picnic areas.

What's nearby

  • Castlegate Coffee House next door
  • Subway next door
  • Crown & Mitre Hotel next door
  • TK Maxx next door
  • Tullie - Museum & Gallery next door

Distances as the crow flies, via Google

Good to know

Parking

  • ✓Free street

Accessibility

  • ✓Accessible parking
  • ✓Accessible entrance
  • ✓Accessible toilet

Payment

  • ✓Contactless

Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.

Photos

Photos via Google

Opening hours

Monday
7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Tuesday
7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday
7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday
7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday
7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday
7:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What visitors say

A

Carlisle Cathedral is a striking 900-year-old red sandstone masterpiece on the Anglo-Scottish border, famed for its wonky Norman arches and magnificent 51-foot-high East Window. Deep inside, its unique Treasury exhibition showcases 2,000 years of history through rare artifacts like a 13th-century jet crucifix and a Tudor battle helmet. After exploring, you can relax at the Cathedral Café located right outside in the precinct, a modern pavilion where you can enjoy fresh homemade scones at outdoor courtyard tables with peaceful views of the cathedral.

· via Google

John Robbie Clark

Beautiful cathedral with an incredible blue starry sky ceiling. This cathedral is completely free and supported by donations. It is excellent. The guides are knowledgeable and very friendly. The interior is beautiful and contains so much history. It has the nations favourite stained glass window! The star (no pun intended) is the blue starry skied ceiling. It's incredible to see in person. Highly recommend a visit!

· via Google

David Hunter

Had a lovely visit to Carlisle Cathedral this afternoon. The Cathedral is said to be over 900 years old with previous residents on the same ground, going as far back as the vikings and romans. Built in red stone the architecture has gargoyles stunning lead glass windows, beautiful carvings, and amazing high vaulted ceilings. We were greeted by a member of staff offering us a tour guide and a brief insight to the buildings history. There is lots to see and read about the history of the Cathedral, the various Bishops and respected gentry that have played an important part in the history of the church of England and Carlisle. While we were visiting we had the pleasure of the listing to the Cathedral organ being played which added to the atmosphere. Outside there's a lovely cafe that is fairly new, built in keeping of the Cathedral grounds. There's touch door entry, making it easy for disabled to enter. The section of food is good and reasonably priced. The toilets are unisex and kept nice and clean. Upstairs there looks to be an area for private functions/ further seating. Outside there is a courtyard again with further seating ideal in good weather. Staff are friendly and keep the cafe clean. Doing an excellent job. 👏 Very welcoming place to grab a bite to eat and drink in wonderful surroundings looking out at the Cathedral. Entry is free but donations are welcome to help preserve the history. An highlight if you're visiting Carlisle.

· via Google

Tracey Smith

This is a lovely old cathedral that looks so much better on the inside than the outside. The blue ceiling is amazing. The guides were very helpful but discrete. It is free to enter with a donation box by the entrance. The glass walled cafe looked inviting but we had a train to catch so we're unable to visit. Within easy walking distance from the train station.

· via Google

See all reviews on Google →

Visitors say this cathedral features stunning Gothic architecture, impressive stained glass windows, and a remarkable blue starry-sky ceiling. They also highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the knowledgeable, friendly staff. Guests mention the convenient on-site cafe with good food and drinks, and that entry is free with donations welcome.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
The Abbey, Carlisle, CA3 8TZ Get directions
Category
Sightseeing & Attractions
Guest rating
4.7 / 5 (2,291 reviews)
Suitable for
All Ages
Setting
Indoor
Toilets on site
Yes
Destination
Carlisle