Some of the attractions include

Queen Mary’s Tower

Visit the turret in which Mary, Queen of Scots was held captive from 1567, by order of her cousin Queen Elizabeth I. Fleeing from her rebellious Scottish subjects, Mary was heir-apparent to the English throne. She was also a Catholic, and ally of the French, so far too dangerous to be allowed to remain free. 

She was imprisoned in the tower under the watchful eye of Sir Francis Knollys. He allowed the Queen to take walks at the front of the castle on what is now known as ‘Lady’s Walk’.

Prisoners’ Carvings

Uncover the truth behind the mysterious stone carvings found in the castle keep.  The beautifully crafted pieces of grafitti include images of a knight, a mermaid and many animals. See if you can spot a stag, a fish, and a boar…

Originally thought to have been carved by prisoners, recent research suggests that they may be the work of bored prison guards. Probably dating back to the 15th century they show support for the ruling family of the time, the Dacres, and include images of their crests.

Warden’s Apartment

Step into this suite of rooms, once the bedroom of the King of England, Richard III. It's now known as the Warden's Apartments. Carlisle Castle was the seat of the Lord Warden of the West March, and Richard, Duke of Gloucester, later King Richard IIl filled this role.

Don't forget to visit the Captain's Tower, which is one of the best preserved gatehouses in the country.