Carlisle is a charming market city in northwest England, known for its historic walls, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to stunning countryside. It’s a great base for exploring local attractions, but what really stands out are the unique tours available. Among them, we particularly love the Private Family Bird of Prey Experience for its interactive, personal touch and the Coniston Water Wild Cat Island Cruise for its scenic views and family-friendly vibe. Both offer authentic experiences that bring you closer to the area’s natural beauty and history.
These tours showcase the diversity of Carlisle’s attractions — from engaging wildlife encounters to relaxing cruises that reveal the region’s literary and scenic treasures. Whether you’re traveling with kids, interested in history, or seeking a peaceful boat ride, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at each of these top-rated options.
Here’s a quick overview of the types of tours that made the list: a personal bird of prey experience perfect for families or bird enthusiasts (see details here), and a scenic lake cruise that combines sightseeing with a touch of literary history (more info here). Now, let’s explore each option in detail.
1. Private Family Bird of Prey Experience in Carlisle
At number one, this private bird of prey experience offers an intimate, hands-on adventure for families or small groups. For around $132, you get about an hour of close encounters with owls, kestrels, and falcons, led by an expert guide with 25 years of birding experience. The tour is designed for up to 2 people, but can be customized to suit your schedule and preferences—just let the falconry centre know when you book.
What makes this experience stand out is its personal nature. You won’t be part of a large crowd; instead, you’ll handle the birds using special gloves and learn how falconers call their birds back, a skill vital to medieval life. The setting is peaceful, with beautiful countryside views that add to the calm, educational atmosphere. The guide shares stories about the birds’ behaviors and local history, making it both fun and informative.
A key highlight is the opportunity to actually handle the birds, which appeals to kids and adults alike. The centre also offers pick-up and drop-off from most Carlisle hotels, making logistics easy. With a high rating of 5.0/5 from 45 reviews, this tour is perfect for families wanting a memorable, hands-on encounter with nature.
Bottom Line: If your family enjoys animals or you want a tailored experience away from crowds, this private bird of prey tour offers great value and a true connection with nature.
2. Coniston Water Wild Cat Island Cruise Yellow Route
Number two on our list is the Coniston Water Wild Cat Island Cruise. For around $19 per person, you’ll spend roughly an hour sailing on one of England’s most picturesque lakes. This cruise is ideal for families, dog owners, and anyone who appreciates a relaxing ride with plenty of scenery and stories.
The cruise takes you past iconic sights such as Wild Cat Island, famous from the Swallows and Amazons stories, and Brantwood, the former home of John Ruskin. The guide shares fascinating insights about the local history, the famous author, and the lake’s geology, enriching the experience beyond just a boat ride. The boat is kid- and dog-friendly, making it easy to bring along your whole family or furry friends.
During the trip, you’ll have a chance to see the secret harbor where the Swallows moored their boats and enjoy views of the Coniston fells. The trip’s reviews speak to its value—one reviewer called it “the full boating experience with stunning views,” highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable guide.
This cruise is best suited for those seeking a laid-back, scenic outing that combines a bit of literary history with the natural beauty of Coniston Water. The duration and price make it an accessible option for most travelers.
Bottom Line: If you want an affordable, family-friendly boat ride that combines scenery, history, and relaxation, this cruise hits the spot.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these two options, consider what interests you most and your logistical preferences. If you’re traveling with kids who love animals or want a deeply personal experience, the Bird of Prey Experience offers hands-on encounters and expert guidance. On the other hand, if you prefer a scenic, leisurely cruise that doubles as a cultural and historical journey, the Coniston Water Cruise provides great value and stunning views.
Think about your budget and time—while the bird experience is more expensive and lasts about an hour, the cruise is quick and budget-friendly at just $19 per person. Also, check the weather—both tours are best enjoyed in fair conditions. Booking early is advisable for the bird experience, especially if you want a specific time, while the cruise is easy to fit into a day’s itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Carlisle offers a diverse range of tours, from immersive wildlife encounters to scenic water cruises. For families or bird enthusiasts, the Private Family Bird of Prey Experience delivers an unforgettable hands-on adventure. For those seeking a peaceful, scenic outing, the Coniston Water Wild Cat Island Cruise offers a perfect way to soak in the landscape and learn about local history.
Depending on your interests and schedule, both tours provide excellent value and authentic experiences. Whether you’re looking for an up-close wildlife encounter or a relaxing boat trip, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out. Either way, Carlisle’s tours enrich your visit and create lasting memories.
Happy exploring, and remember—sometimes the simplest experiences, like watching birds or sailing on a lake, are the most memorable.
