Discover Cumbria

This annual 5 day event is one of the greatest gatherings of street entertainers in the world. Expect a varied spectacle of sight and sound as hundreds of highly professional comedians, jugglers, circus performers and street entertainers create one of Cumbrias most dynamic and vibrant atmospheres.

Visit http://www.muncaster.co.uk for updates.

Askham is a popular village in the Eden Valley not far from Penrith. It is a linear village with two good pubs The PunchBowl and The Queens Head, a wooden toy shop, post office and a heated outdoor swimming pool.

There are a variety of low level woodland walks in the area. The village is part of the Lowther Estate, Lowther Castle is at the bottom end of the village and remains as a ruin in reasonably good condition. The roof and windows were removed as a measure to avoid death duties and now leaves a curious looking skeleton of a building which looms eerily in the estate.

Photos

"Large and small, fierce and friendly, beautiful and strange, owls are wonders of wildlife. At Muncaster, headquarters of the World Owl Trust, you will find one of the largest collections of these thrilling birds in existence."

Carlisle Castle is a medieval fortress that has watched over the city of Carlisle for over nine centuries.

You can take a guided tour of the castle - you can explore ancient chambers, stairways, dungeons and the famous 'licking stones'.

The castle is home to the Border Regimental Museum.

The castle is situated half a mile away from the city centre and is clearly signposted.

"Opened on behalf of the Trust by the Friends of Dalton Castle. Works may be taking place at the castle in 2006-7. If making a special trip, please tel. property office in advance to check opening arrangements."