Carlisle also has plenty of shops, ranging from high street chains to specialist local stores. The city has a varied nightlife with a wide range of pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Other entertainment in the city includes cinemas, live music venues and arts events.

Carlisle has an interesting history, its location near the English / Scottish border means it has been the scene of many feuds and battles over the location of the border. Carlisle Castle, founded in 1092 by William the Conqueror's son, stands as testament to this. The Castle is open to the public as is the Tullie House Museum.