Engine Lonning
Location
Engine Lonning lies to the west of Carlisle City Centre, next to
the River Eden, just downstream from the confluence with the River
Caldew. This former rail yard can be accessed via Coledale
Meadows off Newtown Road.
There is another access point off Willow Holme Road. The
Hadrian's Wall National Trail runs east - west
through Engine Lonning along the Eden side.
Facilities
Engine Lonning is a wildlife haven just a stone's throw from the
City Centre. There are numerous informal footpaths through
the site. The going can get rather muddy in places, sturdy
walking boots are essential.
Engine Lonning was once a busy rail yard for
the London & North Eastern Railway. The
rail yard closed in the early sixties and nature has been swift to
reclaim the area, which now chimes with the sounds of wildlife.
The grasslands are rich with wild flowers and herbs – birds foot
trefoil, orchids and bed straw can all be found.
Park Opening Times: All day, every day.
For more of Carlisle's great railway heritage see History of Engine Lonning and Kingmoor Sidings
Carlisle City Council gratefully acknowledges the kind
photographic contributions of Peter Burgess, David Hey and Ron
Fisher.