The Cumbrian city of Carlisle has a rich and colourful history. Being so close to the Scottish border, Carlisle became a military stronghold and its surviving eleventh-century castle bears testament to this. During the Industrial Revolution it grew into a major centre of textile manufacture and an important railway hub and has long been key to North Cumbria’s industry. The ‘Great Border City’ remains the main cultural and commercial centre for this part of the country and there are clear reminders of its past everywhere.

Author and historian Andrew Graham Stables takes the reader on a fascinating A–Z tour of the city’s history, exploring its lesser-known nooks and crannies, and along the way relating many a tale of the most interesting people and places. Fully illustrated with photographs from the past and present, the A–Z of Carlisle will appeal to residents and visitors alike.