
Tullie Museum and Art Gallery
Eclectic museum in Carlisle showcasing history, art, and natural sciences, with a popular dinosaur exhibit and Roman artifacts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Tullie Museum and Art Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Eclectic museum in Carlisle showcasing history, art, and natural sciences, with a popular dinosaur exhibit and Roman artifacts.
"So many interesting displays that we ended up having to call time due to our brains being overloaded. "

🎟️ Consider an Annual Pass
Great value if you plan to revisit; reviewers say there's loads to see!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Carlisle is compact and walkable, perfect for a car-free city break.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur World Exhibition
Roar into the past with impressive dinosaur displays, a hit with kids and adults alike.

Roman Carlisle
Explore the rich history of Roman Britain with well-presented artifacts and stories.

Local History & Archaeology
Discover the story of Carlisle through the ages, featuring local relics and impressive artifacts.

Fine Art Collection
Admire a diverse range of fine art, including contemporary pieces and local artist showcases.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Tullie House
Getting to Tullie House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Consider an Annual Pass
Great value if you plan to revisit; reviewers say there's loads to see!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Carlisle is compact and walkable, perfect for a car-free city break.
London-Edinburgh Itinerary
🧠 Prepare for Information Overload
So many interesting displays, you might need to pace yourself!
🎨 Check for Art Talks
Local arts and crafts talks are sometimes held, adding to the cultural experience.
Went to the Army Heritage Center
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Consider an Annual Pass
Great value if you plan to revisit; reviewers say there's loads to see!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Carlisle is compact and walkable, perfect for a car-free city break.
🧠 Prepare for Information Overload
So many interesting displays, you might need to pace yourself!
🎨 Check for Art Talks
Local arts and crafts talks are sometimes held, adding to the cultural experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery is widely praised for its engaging exhibits, particularly the Dinosaur World and Roman Carlisle sections, making it a hit with families and history buffs alike. Visitors appreciate the extensive collection and recent refurbishments, though some minor interactive elements could be improved. The museum is noted for its accessibility and value, especially with an annual pass.
"Excellent museum, the dinosaur exibit very well laid out and informative. Plenty of space inside for wheelchairs users. Recommend to buy the annual pass as there is loads to see."
H L D
"What a superb museum. So many interesting displays that we ended up having to call time due to our brains being overloaded.
The Roman exhibition is very well put together, as is the story of the city through the ages.
Definitely worth a visit"
Mick Oldham
"Attractive local museum which has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment. Nice cafe and arts and crafts related talks are sometimes held. Cafe gave a positive impression, did not consume anything there. Only looked at some free displays, some impressive artefacts like a prehistoric gold bangle and a large key to one of the old city gates. Attractive tiled stairway, mosaic floor and bannister with coats of arms"
Hannah Wolf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tullie House is located in Carlisle city center. It's easily accessible by train, with services from Newcastle taking about 1 hour 30 minutes. The city is compact, making it easy to explore on foot once you arrive.
Yes, Tullie House is very accessible. Carlisle is a great destination for a car-free getaway, and the museum is centrally located within the city.
The nearest train station is Carlisle Station, which is a short walk from the museum.
While the city is walkable, parking options are available in Carlisle city center. However, many visitors opt for the convenience of public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Tullie House website before your visit.
Admission fees apply, but many visitors recommend purchasing an annual pass for excellent value, especially if you plan to visit multiple times.
It's advisable to check the Tullie House website for information on advance ticket purchases, which can sometimes save time.
Yes, Tullie House often has free displays alongside its ticketed exhibitions, allowing visitors to experience some of its impressive artifacts.
Absolutely! Tullie House frequently hosts special exhibitions, such as the popular 'Dinosaur World,' which are highly recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, Tullie House is very family-friendly! The 'Dinosaur World' exhibition is a huge hit with kids, and the museum has been significantly updated to be engaging for younger visitors.
The museum is well-equipped for wheelchair users, with plenty of space for accessibility throughout the exhibits.
You can expect a diverse range of exhibits covering natural sciences, local history, archaeology, and fine art. Highlights include Roman Carlisle and impressive artifacts like a prehistoric gold bangle.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the Tullie House website. Check their schedule for availability and topics.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check for signage or ask staff upon arrival regarding photo permissions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Tullie House has a cafe that offers refreshments. Reviewers have noted it gives a positive impression.
Being in the city center, there are numerous dining options available in Carlisle, ranging from casual cafes to restaurants, just a short walk from the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the attractive tiled stairway, mosaic floor, and bannister with coats of arms. The Roman exhibition and dinosaur displays also offer unique visual moments.
Photography rules for artwork can differ. Always check for specific signage or inquire with museum staff to ensure you're following guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the dinosaurs, the museum offers a broad range of exhibits that can capture a child's imagination, from natural sciences to local history. The space is also noted as being wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for families with varying needs. Consider an annual pass if you're local or planning multiple visits, as there's a lot to explore.
🚶♀️ Car-Free Travelers
Reaching Carlisle is also convenient via train, with services from cities like Newcastle making it an accessible destination for those avoiding cars. This makes Tullie House a great stop on a longer itinerary or a destination in its own right for a short, hassle-free trip.
🏛️ History & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Beyond the Roman era, the museum covers the 'story of the city through the ages,' featuring a variety of local relics and impressive artifacts. From prehistoric items like a gold bangle to keys of old city gates, there's plenty to satisfy a keen interest in historical discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Roman Carlisle at Tullie House
The museum aims to make history accessible and engaging. While one reviewer noted a minor issue with a missing letter in an interactive element, the overall presentation of the Roman exhibition is praised for its detail and informative nature. This section is a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology and the enduring legacy of Roman Britain.
Visitors often find the Roman displays particularly captivating, providing a tangible connection to centuries-old history. The museum's commitment to presenting these findings in an accessible way ensures that both history buffs and casual visitors can appreciate the significance of Roman Carlisle.
Family Fun: The Dinosaur World Experience
The exhibition features impressive displays that spark imagination and curiosity. It’s a testament to the museum's effort to cater to a wide audience, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have a fantastic experience. The positive feedback suggests that this exhibit is a standout feature, making Tullie House a great destination for a family day out.
Planning a visit around this exhibition is highly recommended if you're traveling with children. It provides a fun, educational, and awe-inspiring experience that is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Carlisle.
Art at Tullie House: From Local Talent to Notable Acquisitions
Visitors can expect to see a variety of artistic styles and mediums. The inclusion of works by local artists alongside other significant pieces ensures a rich and varied exhibition experience. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply appreciate visual culture, the art gallery offers a stimulating and enjoyable part of the museum visit.
The integration of local art into the museum's collection adds a unique dimension to Tullie House, connecting visitors with the creative spirit of the region. It’s a space that complements the historical and scientific exhibits, offering a well-rounded cultural experience.

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