Rose Castle prides itself on its relaxed atmosphere. Having been home to the Bishop’s of Carlisle for almost 800 years, it now operates as an international centre for peace and reconciliation programmes.

Each bedroom is thoughtfully appointed with everything you need for a restful stay — from tea and coffee facilities to ensuite or private bathrooms, complete with luxury toiletries and hairdryers.

Guests are welcome to enjoy the many inviting spaces within Rose Castle, including the Bishop’s library, peaceful chapel, elegant drawing room, and grand dining room. A small kitchen area is also available for guest use, adding a homely touch to your stay.

Outdoors, the extensive gardens are lovingly cared for by our head gardener, Janet. Stroll through the vibrant flowerbeds, explore the orchard and vegetable garden, or take a gentle walk around the tranquil moat woodland — a perfect way to soak up the calm and beauty of this remarkable setting.

The UK’s weather can be wonderfully changeable, with sunshine one moment and a light shower the next. To help you enjoy your stay comfortably, here’s a guide to the items we would recommend you bring. 

For out and about

• Suitable footwear with sturdy grip as we will be spending plenty of time on our feet. 
• Waterproof Jacket
• Daypack 
• Sun Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sun Cream
• Water Bottle
• Mobile Phone
• First Aid Kit
• Wallet/Purse
• Walking Poles
• Flask for hot drinks
• Umbrella

For relaxing on the castle grounds

• Slippers
• Tablet or e-reader for reading or watching shows in comfort
• Phone charger

This break is designed to offer you the greatest enjoyment with none of the usual travel hassles. Every detail has been considered so that you can simply relax and experience the very best our region has to offer.

Your package includes:

• Three nights of luxury accommodation at Rose Castle
• All dinners and breakfasts, plus one picnic lunch. Lunch in Carlisle is payable locally
• A complimentary glass of wine or your preferred drink with each evening meal
• All admission fees 
• Comfortable transport to and from all sites of interest
• The services of an experienced, knowledgeable guide, ensuring you enjoy a rich and engaging experience throughout your stay

Welcome Tea

What better way to begin your stay than with a freshly served welcome tea on arrival, designed to help you unwind and feel instantly at home. Choose from a selection of fine fruit teas, classic English Breakfast tea, or freshly brewed coffee, all accompanied by a tempting array of home-baked treats prepared with care in our kitchen.

Breakfast

Begin your day at Rose Castle with a satisfying cooked breakfast and a delicious continental selection. Complemented by a variety of hot beverages, refreshing juices, and seasonal fruit, this morning offering provides a nourishing start, ensuring you are well-fuelled and ready to embrace a day of historic discovery.

Lunch

Our lunches are tailored to each day’s activities. On some days, you may enjoy a delightful picnic featuring freshly made sandwiches, cakes, and snacks, while on others, there will be local eateries available to dine in. Each lunch is designed to be relaxing, convenient, and an enjoyable part of your day. 

Evening meals

Our talented chef, Noel, designs each two-course dinner menu to celebrate the best of every season — from hearty winter comfort dishes to light, vibrant flavours in summer. Special dietary requirements are gladly accommodated with advance notice. Wherever possible, fresh produce is gathered straight from our own gardens, ensuring every meal is both delicious and thoughtfully prepared

Bar

Our bar will be open each day when you return to the Castle, offering wine, local  beer, cider, spirits, cocktails, and soft drinks for purchase. Please note that we accept card payments only

You will be active throughout the day, exploring attractions on foot and hopping on and off the coach. Some walking may be on uneven paths, country tracks, or cobbles, and many venues have stairs, though accessible options are sometimes available. The walk from Birdoswald to Gilsland is 1.5 miles (2.2 km) with a steep descent on loose gravel at the start, so sturdy shoes are recommended

Address: 
Rose Castle 
Dalston
Carlisle
CA5 7BY

01228 642980
hello@rosecastle.com

By Car

Leave the M6 at Junction 42 and follow signs for Dalston. Continue through the village, passing the green on your left and the Bridge End Pub on your right as you exit. After one sharp bend and at the junction of another, take the turning signposted Rose Castle & Raughton Head.
Rose Castle is located approximately one mile along this road, with a red post box beside the entrance pillars.

By Train

The nearest rail station is Carlisle, around 6 miles from Rose Castle.
Carlisle lies on the West Coast Main Line, with direct services to London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Glasgow, and Newcastle

By Bus

There are no direct bus routes to Rose Castle. We recommend travelling by taxi from Carlisle Station.

By Air

The nearest airports are Glasgow, Newcastle, and Manchester, each offering regular train connections to Carlisle.

Taxi

You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, Dalston Taxi Service*. We recommend booking your taxi in advance by Call or Whatsapp on:

Tel: +44 (0)7858 574 154

*Dalston Taxi Service is an independent company and is not owned or managed by Rose Castle Company.