Thurstonfield probably gets its name from the Viking and their god of thunder “Thor” and stein meaning rock. The Tranquil Otter sits on the eastern edge of Thurstonfield Village with The Cumberland Bird of Prey as our neighbour.
Whether you are here for two nights or two weeks, there is plenty of things to do and see here. We’ve selected things that we’ve enjoyed and feedback we’ve had from guests. If we’ve missed anything, let us know.
There is no shortage of things to do in the Lake District and Cumbria. The area provides excellent opportunity to walk, long or short, in a beautiful rugged landscape full of stories from Vikings, Romans to general hustle and bustle of being a Border City.
You can walk from the Tranquil Otter to Drovers Rest, passing through some of the most beautiful countryside on the Solway Plain. Download a pdf the Solway Villages Trail ahead of your stay.
The walk around the Lough passes through private woodlands with varied bird and wildlife. There is a circular path which is accessible for mobility scooter users. Some parts of the path can get muddy and are best enjoyed with wellies or walking boots.
Fact: During World War 1 there was a light railway that took the logs felled by a Canadian Regiment for the war effort.
Circular walk along the Solway, with two pubs on route to distract you. The Drovers Rest at Monkhill and the Greyhound at Burgh by Sands.
This pub is an easy walk via Moorhouse and Beaumont and is enjoying some decent reviews on TripAdvisor. Check out their Facebook Page for more information.
The Greyhound Inn at Burgh by Sands – 2 miles
A statue of King Edward 1 stands proud outside the pub. Next to the green, a great for kicking a football or exploring the nature trail.
The walk to the pub includes St Michael’s Church at Burgh by Sands and Hadrian’s Wall Path. The Greyhound has a website, but it is not up-to-date regarding their opening times.
It is easy to get round the Solway Villages on foot. Some of the walking is on road verges, important therefore to have sturdy footwear.
For Walks further afield check our Lake District page.
Cumbria is well known for its amazing artisan food and local producers. We’ve listed places to experience great food and equally great welcome. We’d love your feedback.
The Greyhound, Burgh by Sands, CA5 6AN, 01228 576579, 1.5 miles.
The bar and restaurant have wheelchair access as does the gents toilet. Dogs are allowed in the bar. Great atmosphere.
The Drover’s Rest, Monkhill, CA5 6DB, 01228 576141, 2 miles.
The bar and restaurant have wheelchair access, there is a step to the toilet, help is available. Dogs are allowed in the bar. Best to book ahead.
The Wellington, Great Orton, CA5 6LZ, 01228 710775, 2.5 miles.
The bar and restaurant have wheelchair access as does the gents toilet. Dogs are NOT allowed inside the Pub. Great village pub.
The Royal Oak, West Curthwaite, CA7 8BG, 01228 710219, 7 miles.
The Aikton Arms, Wigton, CA7 0JF, 016973 49299, 4.5 miles.
The Highland Laddie, Glasson, CA7 5DZ, 016973 51839, 5 miles.
There is a step into the bar and the toilet but the landlady says wheelchairs have managed to get in with assistance. Dogs are allowed in the bar.
The Blue Bell Inn, Dalston, CA5 7PJ, 01228 712061, 6.5 miles.
The bar has wheelchair access, the toilets do not. Dogs are allowed in the bar.
The Joiners Arms, Newton Arlosh, CA7 5ET, 016973 51470, 8.5 miles.
The Kings Arms, Bowness-on-Solway, CA7 5AF, 016973 51426, 9 miles.
The bar and restaurant have wheelchair access. Dogs are allowed in the bar.
The Wheatsheaf Inn, Wetheral, CA4 8HD, 01228 560686, 10.6 miles.
Wheyrigg Hall Hotel, Wigton, CA7 0DH, 016973 61242, 12 miles.
There is wheelchair access but dogs aren’t allowed inside.
The Queens, Warwick on Eden, CA4 8PA, 12.2 miles.
The Golden Fleece, Ruleholme, CA6 4NF, 01228 573686, 12.5 miles. Best to book ahead.
The Wallfoot Hotel & Restaurant, Crosby on Eden, CA6 4HQ, 01228 573696, 21 miles.
Fully wheelchair accessible. Dogs allowed in.
Walton’s Bar, at the Crown Hotel in Wetheral, CA4 8ES, 01228 561888, 21 miles. Dogs allowed in the bar. Recommended
Tithe Barn, Cockermouth, CA13 9QW, 01900 822179, 24 miles.
Stoneybeck Inn, Bowscar, CA11 8RP, 01768 862369, 24 miles.
Highland Drove Inn, Great Salkeld, CA11 9NA, 01768 898439, 27 miles.
George & Dragon, Clifton (near Penrith), CA10 2ER / 017688 56381 / 31 miles.
Kirkstile Inn & Hotel, Loweswater, CA13 0RU, 01900 85219, 32 miles.
The bar and restaurant have wheelchair access. Dogs not allowed in between 6pm and 10pm.
The Monkey Tree, Westmorlands Ln, Wigton CA7 9PA 01697 345898, 10 miles.
Indigo, Denton Street, CA7 5EN, 01228 527555, 6 miles.
The Viceroy, Rigg Street, CA2 5TN, 01228 598400, 5 miles.
The Mango Tree, Cardewlees (A595), CA5 6LG, 01228 710333, 5 miles. They will deliver to The Tranquil Otter.
Bamboo Gardens, Newtown Road, CA2 7LN, 01228 598885, 4 miles. Takeaway only.
Golden City, next to Vandella’s shop, CA2 7EQ, 01228 597 860, 4 miles. Takeaway only.
Yummies, Warwick Road, CA1 1DH, 01228 598800, 6 miles. Takeaway only.
Ristorante La Pergola, Castle Street, CA3 8TP, 01228 534084, 5 miles.
Gianni’s Pizzeria, Cecil Street, CA1 1NL, 01228 521093, 6 miles.
Casa Romana, Warwick Road, CA1 1DN, 01228 591969, 6 miles.
Sotto, Warwick Road, CA1 1EE / 01228 539113 / 6 miles.
Michaelangelo’s, English Damside, CA3 8AU, 01228 525117, 6 miles.
Gallo Rosso, Kingstown, CA6 4BY, 01228 526037, 8 miles.
Alexandros Greek Restaurant, Warwick Road, CA1 1DR, 01228 592227, 6 miles.
Bartons Yard at the Halstons, Warwick Road, 01228 210240, 6 miles.
David’s, Warwick Road, CA1 1DR, 01228 523575, 6 miles.
Foxes Cafe, Abbey Street, CA3 8TX, 07541 829348, 5 miles.
No. 34, 34 Fisher Street, CA3 8RH, 01228 818583, 5 miles.
Number 10, Eden Mount, CA3 9LY, 01228 524183, 6 miles.
Pompei Steak House, Abbey Street, CA3 8TX, 01228 402440, 5 miles.
Prezzo, Warwick Road, CA1 1DR, 01228 534755, 6 miles.
Foxborough, Barbecue Restaurant, Cecil Street, CA1 1NT / 01228 317925 / 6 miles.
The Conservatory Restaurant, Wetheral, CA4 8ES, 01228 561888, 21 miles.
The Royal Oak, West Curthwaite
Visit the deli at lunch time or the restaurant during the evening.
Try the Greek yoghurt as a light lunch snack.
foxescafelounge.co.uk/cafe-carlisle
Great if you enjoy steak, they also do fabulous sauces to accompany the steak. We also recommend the salmon steak and sweet potato fries.
To make a splash you don’t have to go very far. Why not take a swim in a private pool? Choose from Longburgh and Orton Grange Pool.
Longburgh Pool is two miles away. Check availability on www.longburghpool.com or contact Sarah Barker on 01228 576435 or e-mail [email protected].
Directions to Longburgh Pool: Turn left out of The Tranquil Otter and take the third turning right, which is the one after the crossroads. Stay on this road for about a mile. The road then takes a sharp left after which you arrive at a fork in the road. Take the left fork (right fork is signposted Burgh by Sands, don’t take it!). Continue for about a mile to Longburgh into the centre of village where you will see a right turn. At this point Longburgh House is on the left. Come past house (telephone box beside gates) and turn left into drive. Fork right off drive to pine chalet for pool (do not come to house).
Orton Grange Pool, combine a swim with a farm walk, lunch, shopping and more. Book by phone on 01228 711410 or call in at Orton Grange. CA5 6LA. Email [email protected].
Carlisle Swimming Baths, there are three pools, two large and a mother and toddler pool. (01228 625777) or call in CA2 5AZ. www.better.org.uk/venues/the-pools
Waterslide and Wavepool at Keswick, provide hours of entertainment for children of all ages. The water slide is fun and on busy days you will need to wait in line. To be in the deep end of the pool during a wave motion is a bit of a thrill and suitable for competent swimmers. Best to take an inflatable ball to keep younger ones occupied. If you want lane swimming then this is not for you. 017687 72760 / CA12 4NE / 29 miles. www.better.org.uk/leisure/keswick-leisure-pool
Orton Grange Pool
Waterslide and Wavepool at Keswick
In terms of beauty spots, there are so many to choose from. Bitts Park in Carlisle is great for families and couples. The river and Hadrian’s Wall path runs through it. Parking at CA3 8UL. The Hadrian’s walk from Beaumont to Carlisle passes through the Eden Valley and on a sunny day there is no better place to picnic than between Monkhill and Grinsdale.
Talkin Tarn Country Park, a glacial lake and country park with boating near Brampton with fantastic tea room, a children’s play-area and accessible footpath round the tarn suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
01697 73129 | CA8 1HN | 15 miles| More details at carlisle.gov.uk/talkintarn/
Hutton in the Forest, A magnificent medieval house of six periods from mid 14th to mid 19th centuries with gardens known to have been established around 17th century. Part of Cumbria’s living heritage. Explore terraces, topiary as well as walled gardens and ponds. Pets need to be on lead.
017684 84449| CA11 9TH |19 miles. More details at hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk
Acorn Bank Garden, delightful garden renowned for its herbs and old English fruit, with superb tea room and woodland walks, as well as working watermill.
01768 361893 | CA10 1SP | 33 miles. More details at nationaltrust.org.uk/acorn-bank
Kirklinton Hall & Gardens, a beautiful setting for a picnic. A fire-ruined 17th Century house and Gardens being restored over time. Part of Cumbria’s living heritage. The main hall of the house is now under cover. Great setting for a picnic, some snacks available on site.
016977 48850 | CA6 6LX | 20 miles. More details at kirklintonhall.co.uk
Aira Force Waterfall, have you seen a waterfall recently? If not then check out Aira Force, an impressive 60ft waterfall in a glaciated valley. Great for a day out, expect it to be busy. Take the M6 or the scenic route along the A591 to Ullswater. Download an intermediate walk around Aira Force and Gowbarrow Common, available from the National Trust website.
01768 482067 | OS Grid Ref: 90:NY401203 | 36 miles. E-mail [email protected]
Ashness Bridge and Bowder Stone, classic Lake District walk which takes you round the lovely tarn of Watendlath. Bowder Stone is the Lake District’s version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa – only it’s a massive boulder. To be found in the Borrowdale Valley just off the main road between Grange and Rosthwaite. More information about the Bowder Stone can be found on the National Trust website.
Crummock Water, lovely woodland walks leading up to the water. Take a picnic or have lunch at Kirkstile Inn, Loweswater, CA13 0RU, 33 miles.
Bassenthwaite Lake, start at the Dodd Wood car park and walk from More House to St Bega’s Church on the banks of Bassenthwaite, the only lake in the Lake District. All the others are meres and waters. I’m sorry to say that I don’t know the difference, except that there is one. See the Lake District National Park website for more details on this walk.
Day out exploring Aira Force, lots of climbing followed by picnic or lunch at National Trust cafe or trip on Ullswater steamer.
Day out to Acorn Bank. Check their website for events during your stay.
nationaltrust.org.uk/acorn-bank
Enjoy the outdoors, around Carlisle, Solway, and the Lake District. In this section we’ve set out how to organise cycle hire, learn to fish and shoot.
Cycles can be hired from Border City Cycle Hire online from their website bordercitycyclehire.com, contact details: email [email protected] or 01228 808253. Cycles are delivered to your lodge. Please ensure that you let Mike know your lodge for delivery of the bikes.
Learn to fly fish on the Lough, fly casting and fly fishing tuition is available at the Lough with AAPGAI (Association of Advanced Professional Game Angling Instructors) Clive Mitchelhill and Glyn Freeman.
Contact details Clive Mitchelhill
Mob: 07752 195082 or email
Contact details Glyn Freeman
Mob: 07808 563788 or email to book.
Please discuss arrangements with the individual instructor. All equipment is provided for a maximum of three people and does not include Environment Agency rod license.
Personal Tuition hourly rate is between £25 – £40 per hour.
Half day of three hours is £70 – £95.
River Eden Fly Fishing experience, your instructor will pick you up and take you out fly fishing for Salmon, trout, grayling and sea trout depending on the time of the season on the river Eden. The rate includes tuition and guiding, use of any equipment needed, one river Eden permit and does not include your Environment Agency rod license.
Half day package of three hours is £95 for one person. Additional people may be added at £50 per person.
Full Day Package of six hours is £180 for one person. Additional people may be added at £50 per person.
To buy a rod license on-line – gov.uk/fishing-licences/buy-a-fishing-licence
New Mills Trout Fishery and Fish Farm, near Brampton, a great day out, see more details at newmillstroutfarm.net/ contact James on 01697 741115 or [email protected].
River Eden and River Caldew permits, (March 15-October 14) Permits are available for Carlisle Angling Association stretches of the River Eden and River Caldew from March to October. Phone Carlisle Tourist Information Centre for more details (01228 625600).
Haaf Net Fishing, experience the traditional method of catching salmon on the Solway. Available from June 1-September 9, between 4 and 5 hours fishing followed by a salmon dinner at the Highland Laddie for £75. Please note that 48-hour notice required as a licence needs to be organised before you can fish.
Contact Mark Messenger at [email protected] / 01697 351839.
The Green Quarries shooting ground at Rosley, near Wigton (about 15 minute drive) has a wide variety of simulated targets and is said to be one of the foremost establishments of its type in the country. Equipment and tuition is available for hire. Lessons for individual tuition, small groups, beginners, youngsters, ladies and game shooters. Read our blog.
Must be booked in advance. 016974 76392 / CA7 8BU / 10 miles. More information at greenquarries.co.uk
Kankku, top of my list. I enjoyed it tremendously as a passenger with Nick driving. Why not try yourself, 4×4 driving off the beaten track and sometimes up boulders. We took the train from Carlisle and parked at the short stay carpark at the Station. Change at Oxenholme and allow plenty of time for the interchange. The Kankku offices are very close to the train station.
015394 47414 / LA23 1AD / 63 miles. More information at kankku.co.uk
The Lake District Sheep Dog Experience, a unique and rewarding experience. Guests who have tried it, loved it. A bit of a trek, definitely worth it.
07788 298432 / LA8 8HX / 61 miles. More information at lakedistrictsheepdogexperience.co.uk
Eden Rock, one of the largest indoor bouldering walls in England. Great for beginners and veterans alike.
01228 522127 / CA1 3NQ / 8 miles. More information at edenrockclimbing.com
Urban Adventure at Bitts Park, is a high rope adventure in the centre of Carlisle with a choice of height at 4m and 8m.
0845 519 1782 / CA3 8UZ / 7 miles. More information and online booking at urban-adventure.co.uk
Microlight Flight Tandem. Fly around the region. Fantastic! DISCOUNT FOR TRANQUIL OTTER GUESTS.
01228 526461 or 07711 064851 / CA6 4NW / 13 miles. More info at cumbria-microlight-training.co.uk
Go Ape at Whinlatter. An assault course in the trees with some Tarzan swings and aerial zip wires between trees. Ideal for the adventurer in you. It’s best to book from their website before you set off. Allow about an hour so that you can get there 15 minutes before your time slot. They do start on time. The Go Ape reception is a wooden lodge left of the visitor centre when approached from the car park. See the website for details about Go Ape and Forest Segway Riders. Make sure you take change for the car park.
0845 643 9215 / CA12 5TW / 30 miles. More information at goape.co.uk
Mirehouse. Beautiful historic house and gardens with activities including a zip wire across a stream. Play areas are according to age-group (our boys were always attracted to the area meant for older children…). The car park to the house has a tea room (open from late March until the end of October from 10 am to 5pm) and is the start of a fabulous walk to the famous osprey viewing point at Dodd
01768 772 287 / CA12 4QE / 30 miles. More information at mirehouse.com
Newlands Adventure Centre. Climbing, abseiling and ghyll scrambling are available as day courses for you to try. Sessions are suitable for adults and children. Children under 7 need to be accompanied on activities and some activities are not suitable for children under 8.
017687 78463 / CA12 5UF / 32 miles. More information at activity-centre.com
Energi Carlisle’s Trampoline Park.
01228 210215 / CA2 5RS/ 5 miles. Find out more at energiparks.co.uk/carlisle
We recommend cycling on the Solway and can provide maps. We recommend the Solway Plain for leisurely cycling.
For the adventurous Whinlatter Forest has to be the place. Book a cycle with Border City Cycles.
King Edward I Monument. On the marsh near Burgh by Sands, which marks the site where the monarch died during his campaign against the Scots in 1307. This location also provides a great opportunity to view the birdlife on the Solway Firth. Turn right out of The Tranquil Otter, take the first left and go straight at the crossroads. The monument is signposted from Burgh by Sands.
Lanercost Priory. Augustinian Priory dating from the 12th century, sacked by the Scots; there remain some splendid ruins with several tombs and memorials. There is lovely tea room and shop next door. 016977 3030 / CA8 2HQ / 17 miles. english-heritage.org.uk/lanercost
Hadrian’s Wall – Housesteads Roman Fort. No need to go to Rome, the history is right here. Discover almost 2,000 years of history in the museum and imagine how 800 soldiers would have lived in this hill-top fort. Housesteads Roman Fort is the perfect base for a walk along the spectacular Hadrian’s Wall. 01434 652220 / NE47 6NN / 33 miles. english-heritage.org.uk/hadrians-wall
Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. Classical Grade I listed Jacobean building that also houses a Roman Frontier Gallery. Great for adults and children alike. The Frontier gallery opened in 2011 and has interactive displays to help children learn about the Roman Empire. There is a café and gift shop.
01228 618718 / CA3 8TP / 5 miles. tulliehouse.co.uk Email: [email protected]
Tullie House Millenium Walkway. The underpass between Tullie House and Carlisle Castle has the names of Reiver families inscribed in the stone floor: Armstrongs, Grahams, Robsons, Elliotts, and Kerrs, to name just a few. The walkway also houses the polished granite stone that curses the Border Reivers.
Carlisle Cathedral. Founded in 1122 and battered by centuries of Border warfare. Services have been said and sung daily for nearly 900 years. It is open daily, 7.40am to 6.15pm (5pm on Sundays.) Concerts, exhibitions and other special events take place throughout the year. If you fancy something to eat then try Prior’s Kitchen located in the Fratry opposite the cathedral. There is also a mulberry tree in the Cathedral grounds: it can take up to 10 years to grow a mulberry tree so have a good look. Park at the Lanes car park and walk along English Street to get to the cathedral. 01228 548151 / CA3 8TZ / 6 miles. carlislecathedral.org.uk
Carlisle Castle. Has been in existence for about the same length of time as the Cathedral. There is an excellent little regimental museum of the local regiment, Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, (successors to the famed Border Regiment), in which many of our neighbours served and their children still do. 01228 591922 / CA3 8UR / 5 miles. www.english-heritage.org.uk/carlislecastle
The Guildhall Museum. Also a must-see. In Market Street, it is Carlisle’s oldest city centre building (built in1407) and was given to the city by Richard de Redeness. It is a legacy of medieval life in terms of its construction and also how commerce was organised during this period. The Guildhall was used as a meeting place by medieval Trade Guilds, of which four survive and meet there every year on Ascension Day. 01228 534781. http://www.tulliehouse.co.uk/your-visit/guildhall-museum
City Walking Tour. Carlisle City Walking Tour, these can be booked at the Tourist Information Office in Carlisle. 01228 598596 / CA3 8JE / 6 miles. discovercarlisle.co.uk
Senhouse Museum. Maryport, don’t be deceived by the size of this tiny museum that overlooks the Irish Sea and the Solway Firth.
Hutton in the Forest. Medieval house with a pele tower and examples of interior design spanning seven centuries. 01768 484449 / CA11 9TH / 19 miles. There is a lot of interesting information on the website about the history of the house and family, as well as events. hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk
Brougham Castle, founded in the early 13th century by Robert de Vieuxpont and you can still see the Great Keep. It formed both a formidable barrier against Scots invaders and a prestigious residence; the castle welcomed Edward I in 1300. 01768 862488 / CA10 2AA / 29 miles. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/brougham-castle
Dalemain House. 17th century house and gardens. Home of the marmalade festival.
01768 486450 / CA11 0HB / 28 miles. dalemain.com
King Edward the 1st Monument, on the marsh near Burgh by Sands, which marks the site where the monarch died during his campaign against the Scots in 1307.
Walby Farm Park Fun Day, A fabulous day out for all the family, with slides to thrill adults and children alike. There is an opportunity to meet the farm animals and many ways to encourage adventure and enquiry through play. The café serves great home cooked food.
01228 573056 / CA6 4QL / 10 miles. More information at walbyfarmpark.co.uk
Urban Adventure at Bitts Park, This is a high rope adventure in the centre of Carlisle with a choice of height at 4m and 8m.
0845 519 1782 / CA3 8UZ / 7 miles. More information and online booking at urban-adventure.co.uk
Alpaca Centre See the alpacas in their paddocks and buy coats and hats made from their wool. A short step from Rheged and Dalemain House.
01768 891440 / CA11 OHA / 28 miles. More information at thealpacacentre.co.uk
Eden Rock, One of the largest indoor bouldering walls in England. Great for beginners to climbing and veterans alike.
01228 522127 / CA1 3NQ / 8 miles. More information at edenrockclimbing.com
Energi Trampoline parks are the new craze, and there is one in Carlisle.
01228 210215 / CA2 5RS / 5 miles. Booking at energiparks.co.uk/parks/carlisle/
Boustead Riding School Riding instruction and trekking are available for ages five and above. Best to book in advance.
01228 575000 / CA5 6AA / 3 miles. More information at bousteadhillec.co.uk
City Walking Tour Carlisle City Walking Tour, these can be booked at the Tourist Information Office in Carlisle.
01228 598596 / CA3 8JE / 6 miles. More information at discovercarlisle.co.uk
Carlisle Racecourse Who doesn’t love a day at the races? Carlisle Racecourse is a great day out for the whole family.
01228 554700 / CA2 4TS / 8 miles. More information at carlisle-races.co.uk
Lakes Distillery Book a tour and find out how whisky, gin and vodka are made in this fabulous location next to Bassenthwaite Lake.
01768 788850 / CA13 9JS / 22 miles. More information at lakesdistillery.com
Maryport Aquarium If you don’t manage to see the resident otters at the Lough, you can see them there! Combine with a trip to the Senhouse Museum which is a mile up the hill from the aquarium.
01900 817760 / CA15 8AB / 24 miles. More information at coastaquarium.co.uk
Rheged Centre Indoor and outdoor play for children as well as a great exhibition on Cumbrian and English heritage. The outdoor play area is great; the shops are very attractive and great for getting bits and bobs. It also has a 3D cinema. Combine with a trip to Dalemain House or on route to Ullswater Steamers.
01768 868000 / CA11 0DQ / 27 miles. More information at rheged.com
Wetheriggs Pottery Zoo and animal sanctuary.
01768 892733 / CA10 2DH / 29 miles. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wetheriggs_Pottery
Ullswater Steamer Operate all year round between Glenridding, Howtown, Pooley Bridge Piers and between Glenridding and National Trust Aira Force Pier. Cruise times vary from 20 – 120 minutes. Why not combine a cruise and walk between Howtown and Glenridding? Great day out.
017684 82229 / CA11 0US / 34 miles. More information at ullswater-steamers.co.uk
Honister Slate Mine 900 years of history, a head-tingling Via Ferrata and the mine is the source of the world-famous Honister green slate.
017687 77230 / CA12 5XN / 36 miles. More information at honister-slate-mine.co.uk
Keswick Launch Lake District cruises around Derwentwater throughout the year.
017687 72263 / CA12 5AB / 29 miles. More information at keswick-launch.co.uk
Cinema The Vue Village multiplex is on Botchergate, near Carlisle Station. Kids’ club movie usually on Saturday/Sunday mornings at about 10 am at discounted rates.
08712 240240 / CA1 1QS/ 6 miles. Bookings can be made at myvue.com
Laser Quest An adrenaline-filled game of electronic tag for teenagers and wannabe teenagers.
01228 511155 / CA3 8AN / 6 miles. More information at lquk.co
Ten pin bowling in Carlisle
0844 8263013 / CA2 4AS / 6 miles. More information at amf-bowling.co.uk/our_centres/carlisle
Sands Leisure Centre The centre offers a wide range of indoor sports and leisure activities.
01228 633766/ CA1 1JQ. More information at thesandscentre.co.uk
Hadrian’s Wall – Housesteads Roman Fort. Discover almost 2,000 years of history in the museum and imagine how 800 soldiers would have lived in this hill-top fort.
01434 652220 / NE47 6NN / 33 miles. www.english-heritage.org.uk/hadrians-wall
Fabulous farm park experience
www.walbyfarmpark.co.uk
Great events for families.
www.tulliehouse.co.uk
Trampoline park to wear out the most energetic member of your party.
energiparks.co.uk/parks/carlisle/
High rope adventure in the middle of Carlisle, for days best spent out of doors.
Riding school and pony care. Need to book in advance.
Largest indoor bouldering wall in England.
www.hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk
Each lodge has its own flat-bottomed boat. Some autumn days are beautiful, crisp and clear that you have to get your camera out and get up close. The swans are very confident and it is possible to get close up. The wild ducks tend to be a little more wary and up in the air before you’ve had time to get the door open.
All the lodges at the Tranquil Otter have a private deck that overlook a private lake (known as The Lough). We are known as a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the extraordinary variety of species that can be found here throughout the year. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) regularly surveys the area to record the bird and wildfowl activity.
Trevor Merrington, our neighbour from Thurstonfield does a regular bird count for the RSPB. He also provides us a report with his observations, being a keen bird watcher himself. You may seem him with his Westie, Archie, on a Sunday afternoon trying to count the birds. here is Trevor’s report from his visit on Sunday, 13th November 2016 by name and number:
Coot: 20 in Oct (about norm), but increased to 30 today .
Gadwall: numbers steadily increasing; 30 Sep, 48 Oct & 64 Nov (near same last year).
Little grebe: typically ~12, but difficult to spot as they get into the reeds or spend a lot of time under-water. 10 seen today.
Mute swan: nice to see that the two resident pairs and their cygnet broods (2 & 7) are surviving well. They’ve been joined by 24 other adults.
Two Whooper swans were on the lake in early November, there are plenty around the Solway so they could show regularly.
Shoveler: they stand out well with their white chests & big bills. There were 3 pairs in Oct and I wondered if they were the same birds that were here last year, but, if they were they had spread the news about a good site because today there were 7 pairs !
Teal: also very difficult to count, being small and tending to sit in the reeds. Counts are probably significantly lower than actual, but 40 in Oct & 86 today.
Tufted duck: only 2 returned by early Oct, but at least 30 today (also difficult when they are feeding (diving))
Wigeon: the most numerous duck. Numbers just a bit over 150 pairs in Oct & Nov (about 25pair more than these months in 2015)
Water rail: heard both months; you have at least 2 birds responding to call.
Grey wagtail: the ‘resident’ 2 seen on the dock in Sep & Oct counts, but not today.
If you do go out on the boat, let us know if you spot anything unusual. Trevor and our guests did manage to spot the Otter in September!
While we have abundant wildlife activity right here on the Lough, many of our guests like to enjoy the extraordinary variety of wildlife along the Solway Coast.
The area is well known for its stunning variety of bird and wildfowl life. The sand dunes, saltmarsh, shingle beds and peat mosses make it a favourite area for oystercatchers, curlews, plovers, lapwings, dunlins, godwits, redshanks and turnstones.
You can get more information about the wildlife on the Solway Coast at: www.solwaycoastaonb.org.uk
7 Great ways to experience Cumbria and glories of the Lake District https://t.co/oZHKFPYFSM
Enlist in the Roman Army this summer at Birdoswald Roman Fort. Great fun for little soldiers. https://t.co/qBNuEtVIjj
© The Tranquil Otter
