The Hope & Anchor Inn - things to do

For more information about port carlisle please visit Visit Cumbria Website

Home of the Haffnetting the tradtional way of catching samon

There is wireless internet available in the Hope & Anchor Pub, with access to a computer for customers

There's lots to see and do when you stay with us. This page will provide some ideas for places to explore with links for further information. And if you run out of ideas while you're here, we can always suggest some more. Cumbria is a beautiful, historic county, and there's plenty to keep you occupied during your visit.

The village of Port Carlisle, originally known as Fishers Cross, was developed as a port in 1819 to handle goods for Carlisle using the canal link built in 1823. The canal was 11¼ mile long, and had 8 locks which were all built 18 feet wide.

From a wooden jetty, through the entrance sea lock and one other, the canal ran level for nearly six miles. Then followed six locks in one and a quarter miles, with a level stretch to Carlisle Basin.

Within a few years the canal ran into financial difficulties, and was closed, finally being drained in 1853.

The canal left the village heading north west following a similar line to Hadrian's Roman wall . There are still a number of original canal bridges, but they all had their height altered to accommodate steam trains. Also on the route is a warehouse and a lock cottage.

The remains of the port and canal can be seen by the shore.

The historic city of Carlisle provides a wealth of things to do, and is just a few minutes to the west by car. The imposing castle has been a centrepiece of the wars between the English and the Scots over the centuries. Close by is the 12th century cathedral . Some of the history of Carlisle can be found on display at the Tullie House Museum , while if you're feeling energetic or want to be entertained by a show, the Sands Centre is the place to be.

For full details on places of interest and topical events, contact Carlisle Tourist Information Centre on 01228 625600.