Visit Carlisle Castle in Cumbria. Explore this mighty Norman fortress with a turbulent history of warfare, sieges, and royal prisoners on the Anglo-Scottish border.

A Strategic Stronghold

Carlisle Castle, in the city of Carlisle, is one of the most important fortresses in northern England. Built by William II in 1092, it was designed to secure the Anglo-Scottish border and control access to the north. For more than 900 years, it played a key role in wars, rebellions, and political struggles between England and Scotland.

Norman Origins and Medieval Battles

The first timber castle was soon replaced by a stone keep and curtain walls. Carlisle Castle endured numerous sieges, including during the reign of King David I of Scotland, who briefly captured it in the 12th century.

The castle was repeatedly fought over during the long Anglo-Scottish wars, making it one of the most besieged castles in England.

Mary, Queen of Scots and the Civil War

In 1568, Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned at Carlisle Castle after fleeing Scotland. The castle later played a role in the English Civil War, changing hands between Royalists and Parliamentarians.

During the 1745 Jacobite Rising, Carlisle was besieged and captured by Bonnie Prince Charlie’s army, only to be retaken by government forces soon after.

Exploring Carlisle Castle

Today, Carlisle Castle is managed by English Heritage and remains a commanding presence. Visitors can see:

The Great Keep – A Norman tower with medieval chambers.

Captain’s Tower Gatehouse – One of the best-preserved medieval gateways in Britain.

Prisoner carvings – Intricate 15th-century graffiti made by soldiers held in the castle.

The Regimental Museum – Home of the King’s Own Royal Border Regiment.

Learn more on the English Heritage website

Things to Do Nearby

Carlisle Castle is close to many historic and cultural attractions:

Carlisle Cathedral – A beautiful 12th-century Gothic church.

Tullie House Museum – Exhibiting art, archaeology, and Roman finds.

Hadrian’s Wall – Roman forts and ruins just a short drive away.

See our guides on UK castles and palaces

Why Visit Carlisle Castle?

Carlisle Castle is a fortress with centuries of frontier history. From Norman power to Scottish wars, royal prisoners, and Jacobite sieges, it offers a dramatic journey through England’s turbulent past.