The Lancaster and Morecambe area is widely regarded as the 'Gateway to the Lakes'. One of Britain's most beautiful regions, the South Lakes can easily be reached from the Lancaster area, by train, bus or car.

Carlisle has a unique heritage as a border city, not least of which being its proximity to Hadrian's Wall. It's a very long journey by car from the Lancaster and Morecambe area but could make a good day trip by rail if you set off early enough.

• Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery
Tullie House, Castle Street, Carlisle CA3 8TP
Tel: 01228 534781
Open: Daily except 25th/26th Dec & 1st Jan; Nov-March: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12pm-4pm; Apr-June & Sept-Oct: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-5pm; July & Aug: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm

Established by Carlisle Corporation in 1893, Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery houses considerable collections of fine and decorative art, human history and natural sciences. The museum underwent a major redevelopment in 1990, involving expansion within existing buildings and the construction of a new wing housing the new Border galleries, an Art Gallery, and shop, lecture theatre and restaurant spaces. In 2001 an underground gallery was developed which showcases both Carlisle and the museum's collections.
Carlisle's medieval Guildhall, five minutes walk from Tullie House, is managed as a small branch museum, dealing with Guild and medieval history.
The Friends of Tullie House, Carlisle Natural History Society, the Cumbria Bird Club and the Carlisle branch of the Cumberland & Westmorland Antiquarian & Archaeological Society all meet on a regular basis at Tullie House and organise a varied programme of lectures and outings. For further information, call in at Reception or telephone 01228 534781, ext.210.