Carlisle City Hostel happens to be the only independent hostel within the city walls. Better yet it has ultra secure bike storage for anyone tackling Hadrian’s wall

The Hostel open since 2013 remains a favourite of cyclists and amateur historians alike. Being so close to Hadrian’s wall its easy to see this as a natural start or end point for the coast to coast journey. Maybe stopping for a day or two to enjoy the historic city of Carlisle with it’s beautiful architecture and tasty eating establishments. Whether touring on public transport or on bike you’re sure to not be disappointed, the hostel has a secure cellar for bikes and equipment.

Stay in the aesthetic of the street on which the hostel sits is a row of pastel shaded Georgian terraces opposite the formal garden of Tullie House museum and art gallery.

There is a trend among city hostels towards a sort of ‘industrial-dystopia-made-pleasant’ styling. With added skinny lattes. You know what I mean: chrome, exposed pipes, huge office-block style windows, a scattering of graffiti art. I will admit that in some environments this looks cool and futuristic. And in the livelier quarters of clubs and bands and with asymmetric haircuts it fits in perfectly. But here at Carlisle City Hostel a different aesthetic lives.
For a start, the street on which the hostel sits is a row of pastel shaded Georgian terraces opposite the formal garden of Tullie House museum and art gallery. On their social media feed, there is charming footage of the cherry blossoms falling like rain on to the cobbled road. At the far end, the road ducks beneath the an archway in the old city walls made of the striking red sandstone that characterises the big civic buildings. See! A swish glass tower wouldn’t fit in would it?
Inside, the elegant lightness of touch continues. Yes, there’s a communal kitchen and secure storage for bikes and luggage – so far so functional. But take a look at the gallery of pictures on their website, surely you must warm to that airy, welcoming decor?
Carlisle City Hostel seems to be a lovely place to be based to explore the area. The city itself is small and compact, full of history and charm. Nearby are Hadrian’s Wall, The Lake District, the coast at Solway. And then afterwards you return to the warm arms of this Georgian gem.

Carlisle City Hostel has a unqiue location on historic Abbey Street.

Not long now till the blossom is out. Why not book your stay at Carlise City Hostels while there is still plenty of availability for April and May. The hostel has a unqiue location on historic Abbey Street at the heart of the town. Just a few minutes walk from Carlisle’s historic sights (Carlisle Castle and museum), the high steet shops and restaurants. A handy location for trips to the Lake District, Hadrian’s Wall and a good stop off overnight on the way to Scotland. Jusst a few minutes drive from the M6 motorway, with parking nearby and only 5 minutes walk from the train and bus station.