The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Carlisle, England and Cambridge, England
A road trip from Carlisle, England to Cambridge, England offers a great adventure filled with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. This trip is the perfect way to explore different parts of England while keeping your adventure within driving distance. The halfway point of the trip is the town of Pontefract, XWY, where visitors can indulge in some retail therapy and enjoy a range of tasty treats.
Top Five Things to do
1. Visit Hadrian's Wall
Hadrian's Wall is one of the must-visit destinations when driving from Carlisle to Cambridge. This wall was built to protect the Roman Empire from the invasions of the Picts and Scots. The wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches over 73 miles across northeast England. Visitors can hike the wall and experience the stunning natural landscapes while immersing themselves in history.
> Interesting Fact: Hadrian's Wall was built by the Roman Army around AD 122, and it took them six years to complete.
2. Explore Durham's Cathedral and Castle
Durham Cathedral and Castle are other noteworthy places to visit on this road trip. The cathedral was built in the eleventh century and is a perfect example of Norman architecture in England. Besides, visitors have access to the castle, which now houses Durham University's student dormitories. The castle is also a scheduled ancient monument, and visitors can go on a guided tour inside.
> Interesting Fact: The castle was used as a military stronghold for several centuries.
3. Visit York
York is another quintessential English city that visitors should consider visiting on this road trip. Located between Carlisle and Cambridge, York is home to stunning landmarks such as York Minster and The Shambles. The city boasts of well-preserved Roman walls and charming streets that give visitors a glimpse into its long and rich history.
> Interesting Fact: York has more than two hundred pubs, the most per square mile than any other city in England.
4. See the King's College Chapel in Cambridge
When driving to Cambridge, visitors must visit King's College Chapel, situated within the University of Cambridge. The chapel was built in the 15th century and contains Gothic architecture with beautiful stain-glass windows. The chapel is the perfect example of the grandeur and beauty of medieval England.
> Interesting Fact: The chapel's ceiling is the largest fan vault in the world, and it was built without containing any central supporting pillars.
5. Discover the Cambridge University Colleges
Exploring the colleges of Cambridge University is the most common reason many visitors head to Cambridge. The university dates back to the year 1209, and visitors can explore the buildings and vast grounds of twelve of the well-known colleges. Visitors can also take a punting tour along the River Cam, which flows through Cambridge and it's a unique way to have a closer look at these stunning buildings.
> Interesting Fact: Isaac Newton was a student at Trinity College in Cambridge University.
In conclusion, a road trip from Carlisle to Cambridge is an epic way to discover the rich history and beauty of England. Starting from Carlisle, visitors can witness the stunning landscapes of the north while driving through Oxford and Durham before finally arriving in Cambridge. This journey can take anything upwards of 6 hours depending on the route taken and rest stops made. However, no matter the duration of the journey, it offers a blissful break from city life ensuring plenty of fun, laughter, and adventure along the way!