If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful border city of Carlisle, nestled in the north of Cumbria near the Scottish border, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. From historical landmarks and cultural attractions to the nearby Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle offers plenty to explore—but after a long day of sightseeing, you’ll want somewhere cozy and welcoming to rest. That’s where a bed and breakfast in Carlisle comes in—offering not just a place to sleep, but a true home away from home.
Among the many places to stay in the region, Arkale Lodge is one of the most popular and top-rated bed and breakfast hotels in Carlisle. With friendly hospitality, comfortable rooms, and a location within walking distance of the city centre, Arkale Lodge goes above the rest in comfort and convenience. Whether for business, leisure, or as a stop on your Cumbrian driving tour, Arkale Lodge is your home away from home.
What Makes a Carlisle Bed and Breakfast Unique?
Carlisle is a heritage-rich city teeming with life. The ‘Great Border City,’ as it’s labeled, has been a significant military stronghold since the Romans. With the likes of Carlisle Castle, the Tullie House Museum, and the iconic Hadrian’s Wall a stone’s throw away, history seeps into the city like lifeblood. But beyond these ultimate tourist spots, what ultimately defines your Carlisle experience is where you’re staying.
Bed and breakfasts in Carlisle offer a unique blend of homely comfort and local charm. Unlike larger hotels, B&Bs provide a more personalized experience, where you’re treated like a guest rather than just a booking number. Owners take pride in welcoming travellers from around the world, often going above and beyond to offer local tips, homemade breakfasts, and a sense of community. This is especially true at Arkale Lodge, a family-run guest house whose members actually do take an interest in your stay.
Why Arkale Lodge is One of Carlisle’s Best B&Bs
Located at 59 London Road, Arkale Lodge has the benefit of being within a 10-minute walk of the city centre and Carlisle train station. It is centrally located and ideal for visitors who want to explore the city on foot with easy access to the top attractions, dining out, shopping, and public transport. By car, train, or plane, the lodge is easily accessible, and you will be in a quiet, well-connected zone.
But there is more to Arkale Lodge than just its position. It is a well-liked lodge run by the hospitable couple Ishwar and Sabita, who are known for making each visitor feel at home and part of the family. Their eye for detail is apparent everywhere—from the cleanliness of the rooms to the generous home-cooked breakfasts and helpful advice on local sites.
Rooms Planned for Comfort and Practicality
Arkale Lodge provides 14 individually designed rooms, catering to a wide range of visitors. From single travellers to couples on a honeymoon and families visiting the region, there’s a room to meet your needs and budget. There are standard single, double, twin, and family rooms available at the lodge, with most enjoying en-suite bathroom facilities and others with access to clean and well-maintained shared facilities.
Every room features:
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi
- Flat-screen TV
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Hairdryer
- Towels and toiletries
Rooms are decorated with practicality and comfort in mind. Decoration is traditional and homely, so you feel as though you’re being looked after in someone’s cherished home rather than an impersonal hotel. There’s a daily housekeeping service as well, so your room is always fresh and clean.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, affordable place to stay in Carlisle, Arkale Lodge is a fantastic option that won’t disappoint.
A Breakfast Experience That Starts Your Day Right
One of the main highlights of any bed and breakfast in Carlisle is, of course, the breakfast—and Arkale Lodge goes above and beyond. Each morning, guests are invited to enjoy a freshly prepared meal served in the bright, welcoming dining room.
Options include:
- Traditional Full English Breakfast
- Vegetarian and vegan alternatives
- Lighter continental alternatives
- Gluten-free or coeliac breakfasts (on request)
Arkale Lodge breakfast is hearty, satisfying, and the perfect fuel for a day of exploration, made with quality local produce. From eggs and sausages to a bowl of yogurt and fruit, the kitchen will oblige your taste with a welcoming smile.
For repeat visitors, the breakfast is one of the things that keeps them returning—along with the friendly personalized service, it makes the lodge truly special.
Pet-Friendly B&B in Carlisle: Bring Your Furry Friend
It is not always possible to take pets with you, especially when looking for accommodation to take your four-legged companion with you. Fortunately, Arkale Lodge is pet-friendly and will welcome well-behaved dogs by prior agreement. This also makes it one of the only B&Bs in Carlisle where your pet can enjoy itself as much as you.
There are plenty of local green spaces and walking routes, and Carlisle is a great city for dogs to have a leg-stretch. The Lake District, just a short drive away, has countless dog-friendly trails and attractions too. A small fee for pets may be payable, and it’s a good idea to inform the team in advance to ensure availability.
Parking, Travel, and Other Services
Unlike the majority of city-centre accommodation, the Arkale Lodge offers free on-site parking—a massive benefit for that guest arriving at the guest house by car. Upon arrival, guests are instructed to a parking bay to the rear of the guest house. This is CCTV-monitored, giving additional peace of mind to those leaving their vehicle.
If you’re arriving by train or flying into the region, Arkale Lodge also provides complimentary airport pickup and drop-off services. This level of service is rare for a guest house and ensures that your travel is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
The team is always happy to help with:
- Local area recommendations
- Taxis or transport bookings
- Luggage storage
- Special occasion arrangements (e.g., birthday surprises, flowers, etc.)
Explore Carlisle and the Beautiful Surroundings
One of the best things about a bed and breakfast break at Arkale Lodge is how simple it is to get out and explore Carlisle and the countryside around it. The city itself is full of history and culture.
Some of the attractions that can be found include:
- Carlisle Castle – A 900-year-old castle featuring dungeons, towers, and stories of the Border Reivers to explore.
- Carlisle Cathedral – A nice little cathedral with some excellent medieval woodcarvings and a peaceful garden.
- Tullie House Museum – A mix of history, art, and Roman remains that gives an excellent introduction to the history of the city.
- The Lanes Shopping Centre – A modern shopping centre with cafes and specialist stores.
For those seeking adventure, the Lake District National Park is under an hour away and perfect for day excursions to Keswick, Windermere, and Ambleside. Hadrian’s Wall, Britain’s renowned Roman attraction, is another attraction that you will not want to miss. If you’re a walker, photographer, or interested in ancient history, Carlisle is your ideal base camp.
Selecting the perfect bed and breakfast in Carlisle is a decision of more than location or price—it’s a decision of choosing a property that offers warmth, comfort, and a true local touch. Arkale Lodge succeeds on every front, combining friendly service, cozy rooms, and a location that simply cannot be beaten. For a weekend getaway, business trip, or longer holiday exploring Cumbria and beyond, Arkale Lodge stands ready to welcome you with open arms.
Book now and discover why so many guests call Arkale Lodge their “home in Carlisle.”