Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Gilcrux

"The poet William Wordsworth was born on 7 April 1770 at this handsome Georgian house at the end of Main St. Built around 1745, the house has been meticulously restored based on accounts from the Wordsworth archive: the kitchen, drawing room, study and bedrooms all look much as they would have to a young William. Costumed guides wander around the house for added period authenticity. Outside, the walled kitchen garden was mentioned in Wordsworth's autobiographical epic The Prelude."

"Carlisle's brooding, rust-red castle lurks on the north side of the city. Founded around a Celtic and Roman stronghold, the castle's Norman keep was added in 1092 by William Rufus, and later refortified by Henry II, Edward I and Henry VIII (who added the supposedly cannon-proof towers). From the battlements, the stirring views stretch as far as the Scottish borders. The castle also houses Cumbria's Museum of Military Life, which has collections of military memorabilia associated with the region's regiments."

"Of course, it wouldn’t be a summer in Carlisle without a trip to the city’s iconic castle. The city itself has over 2,000 years of history, from Celts and Romans to invading armies and bloody battles. Carlisle castle was built way back in 1092 by William Rufus, and is now in the hands of English Heritage."

"There may not be a castle in England that has lived through as much carnage as Carlisle Castle. It was established by the Normans on top of a Roman fort during the reign of William II at the end of the 11th century. For the next 650 years there was near-constant conflict."

"If you’re in Carlisle with kids in tow, Hammond’s Pond in the southern Upperby suburb comes into its own in summer. The pond and its surrounding park are on a hill, and has ducks and swans, as well as an aviary and dovecote. You can rent rowboats on the east end of the pond in summer, and the park has a miniature railway that operates in the summer holidays, along with two separate play areas, one for toddlers and the other for bigger kids."

"Lake Road, Keswick (15 min walk) — Art Gallery and cafe in Keswick, serving great lunches. One of The Independent’s top 50 coffee shops in the UK. Same family ownership as Bristowe Hill."

"This top-notch museum is centred on a Grade I-listed Jacobean mansion from the start of the 17th century. The museum opened inside in the 1890s, and modern extensions were made in the 90s and early 2000s. The Tullie House Museum has enthralling artefacts from the Roman forts in Carlisle, including Petriana, which was the largest on Hadrian’s Wall."

"For those all too frequent rainy days during the British summer, a trip to the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery is a must. Your kids can learn all about the city’s rich history through engaging exhibitions and interactive displays. There are even games they can play which are both informative and exciting."

"Last but not least on our list of best Keswick restaurants is The George Hotel, Restaurant & Bar. The hotel dates back to 1665, making it one of the oldest hotels in the Lake District and Keswick. Admire the characterful features as you enjoy a spot of pub grub at this traditional restaurant in Keswick."

"This is a spit-and-sawdust pub that claims to be the oldest drinking den in town. It’s owned by Jenning’s Brewery, so you can sup on a pint of Cumberland or Sneck Lifter while you make pals with the locals."

"14-16 Devonshire Street, Carlisle CA3 8LP EnglandItalian, Contemporary, HealthyServes Alcohol, Reservations, Seating, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Digital Payments, Free Wifi[email protected]+44 1228 548481http://www.hellbelow.co.uk/"