Things to Do in Southwaite

Horse Riding

Happy Hooves Riding Centre

Experience the countryside on horseback with lessons suitable for every skill level, plus pony experience days and beautiful trail rides through Penrith's scenic landscapes at this welcoming equestrian centre.

Climbing & Bouldering

Eden Rock

Scale indoor climbing walls at this Durranhill Industrial Estate facility offering challenges for various skill levels, with onsite parking and snacks available during your visit.

Bowling Alleys

Hollywood Bowl Carlisle

Strike up family fun at this Currock Road bowling centre offering ten-pin lanes plus arcade games, air hockey and pool tables, with an onsite restaurant and full accessibility features.

Indoor Soft Play

Aztec Soft Play

Let little ones burn energy in Carlisle's multi-level indoor playground, featuring safe zones for babies through to pre-teens, complete with baby changing rooms and pushchair-friendly access throughout.

Laser Tag Arenas

Laser Quest Carlisle

Battle through futuristic arenas in this action-packed laser tag venue at Victoria Viaduct, offering wheelchair-accessible fun for families with older children and convenient onsite parking.

Adventure & Activity Centres

Brickstation

Indoor Soft Play

Magic Castle Adventure Playground

Let little ones burn off energy at this indoor play centre featuring soft play equipment, with an on-site restaurant and baby facilities to keep the whole family comfortable during your visit.

Cinema & Theatre

Vue Carlisle

This seven-screen cinema on Botchergate brings Hollywood's newest releases to Carlisle families, with wheelchair access, on-site parking and snacks available for your movie experience.

Sightseeing & Attractions

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.

Museums & Galleries

Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery

This Carlisle museum welcomes families with accessible facilities throughout, including an onsite restaurant and picnic-friendly spaces. Discover engaging exhibits with convenient nearby parking and full amenities for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Castles & Palaces

Carlisle Castle

Step into 900 years of dramatic border history at this impressive medieval fortress, complete with dungeons, towers and an on-site restaurant for family refreshments.

Parks & Play Areas

Bitts Park

A green space perfect for family picnics with a playground for children, though facilities are limited. Snacks can be purchased on-site and parking is accessible from Dacre Road.

Museums & Galleries

Cumbrias Museum of Military Life

Explore centuries of regional military heritage through fascinating displays and artifacts housed within historic castle walls, with wheelchair access, family facilities, and onsite dining available.

Swimming & Leisure Centres

The Sands Leisure Centre

A popular Carlisle leisure facility offering swimming and fitness activities with an onsite restaurant and convenient parking, though families should note limited baby facilities.

Lidos & Outdoor Pools

Lazonby Swimming Pool

Take a refreshing dip at this charming village lido where families can pack their own picnic for a budget-friendly outdoor swimming adventure in the Eden Valley countryside.

Swimming & Leisure Centres

Greystoke and District Outdoor Pool

Take a refreshing dip at this open-air swimming facility in the heart of Greystoke village, complete with onsite parking, toilet facilities and snacks available to purchase during your visit.

Farm Parks

Pumpkin Picking at Walby Farm Park

Head to this family-friendly farm park for seasonal pumpkin picking fun, complete with accessible facilities, refreshments and picnic areas—perfect for pushchairs and little ones.