It may be compact but Carlisle is in fact England’s largest city by area.
It is a place that really packs a punch when it comes to food and drink.
This melting pot of world cuisine has led to an explosion of cafes, bars, restaurants and producers.
Like any modern cosmopolitan city, visitors and locals can enjoy food from around the globe including Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.
With easy transport links by train and bus and a visitor friendly centre, Carlisle is easy to explore on foot, indulging in food and drink on every corner.
A monthly farmers' market, set in the historic grounds of Carlisle Cathedral, brings in an even wider choice from a wide variety of artisans showcasing their unique creations.
The city is packed full of great places to dine in from dawn until dusk including John Watt and Son, Thorne Tree Bistro, Coco Mill, The Last Zebra, Casa Romana, The Old Bank, Eaten by Monsters and Print Yard.
Meanwhile, local boutique hotel The Halston also has a variety of venues for drinking and dining.
Devonshire Street and other parts of the city centre will be offering new alfresco dining from summer 2024.
Carlisle offers many opportunities to combine dining with culture including Carlisle Cathedral’s Angel’s View Tour and afternoon tea package in their delightful on-site cafe.
It's not just the city centre that is booming when it comes to food and drink.
Take a short car journey out of town to the likes of Carlisle Brewing Company or Great Corby Brewhouse to sample ales from producers using the most traditional methods with a modern twist to create a whole new world of beers, ales, lagers and stouts.
Another must-visit is Cranston’s Food Hall, where all types of local produce from meat and fish to vegetables, pasties, cheese and pasta can be purchased.
Everything is made by local artisans or comes direct from Cranston’s own farm.
Cranston’s also stocks a drinks range including local tea/coffee blends, local soft drinks and beers alongside fine wines.
Enjoying the city’s food and drink doesn’t have to end once at home, with many places offering UK-wide online delivery.
Order pie boxes from Pie Demand, cheese treats from Thornby Moor Dairy, or the finest charcuterie from Stonehouse Smokery.
Carlisle is currently being highlighted by a new campaign funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and this is supported by Cumberland Council and Sellafield.
For further information about these and other Cumberland venues visit http://www.visitlakedistrict.com/taste
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