Last update:
21 October 2004

Cumbria use the mouse pointer on the map to identify the areas

Local towns and areas: Ambleside Carlisle Grasmere Kendal Keswick Windermere

Cumbria is home to the Lake District one of England's finest examples of natural beauty. This area is dotted with mountains and lakes and pleasant town's in-between. The area is so renowned for its beauty, which is reflect during the summer months when it is literally packed with people.

However Cumbria has more to offer than the Lake District. There are numerous delightful seaside towns to explore, many of which you can see Scotland from, and on a clear day the Isle of Man. These offer great places for watching marine bird life, enjoying a leisurely stroll along the beach, or simply relaxing by the sea. For the more energetic among use why not try some of the many water sports that are available.

The Historical town of Carlisle is also in Cumbria to the north. Here you can discover the ancient local history, amble through the shops, or enjoy the night life. You can also visit the most complete Roman fort in Britain, Hadrian's Wall. Which is the most important monument built by the Romans in Britain. It was built over a six-year period from AD122, it is 73 miles long, stretching from Wallsend in the east to Bowness in the west, and originally stood 5 meters high. It was built to keep the Scottish out and protect the Romans from what they termed the Barbarians of the north.

Just a short journey by car from Carlisle will take you to Gretna Green, one of the first towns over the boarder in Scotland, and is famous for the young people who elope there to be wed, as the laws on marriage differ between England and Scotland. Today people still elope there.

There are so many different environments to explore in Cumbria, but amazing countryside and scenic views surround all. With many attractions from wildlife walks, to shopping Cumbria has a lot to offer.