Carlisle City Centre To Welcome New Premier Inn Hotel, Offering Convenient Access To Top Tourist Spots

Published on November 29, 2025

Whitbread has revealed ambitious plans that will uplift the tourism and local economy; the new Premier Inn hotel will be in Carlisle City Centre, England. The 104-room hotel is supposed to occupy the area of the previous Central Plaza, which is very close to the train station giving great access to visitors who want to visit the lively city.

Scheduled to begin construction in 2026 and open in 2028, the hotel is expected to become a key part of the city’s hospitality sector, catering to both leisure and business tourists. With the city’s rich history and proximity to the Lake District, the new Premier Inn will serve as a convenient base for exploring this picturesque region.

Ideal Location for Tourists

The Premier Inn hotel will be situated at the corner of Victoria Viaduct and within easy walking distance of Carlisle’s train station. This prime location means that guests will have direct access to Carlisle City Centre and the wider Cumbrian area, making it an ideal base for those looking to experience the local attractions and natural beauty of the surrounding region.

Guests staying at the hotel will be just a stone’s throw from some of Carlisle’s most well-known tourist destinations, including the historic Carlisle Castle, which dates back to Roman times. The hotel will also provide easy access to the city’s bustling shopping district, including the nearby High Street, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Additionally, the famous Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a short drive away, offering history enthusiasts a chance to explore one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK. The city’s proximity to the Lake District National Park means guests can easily venture out to enjoy scenic walks, outdoor activities, and explore the lakes and mountains of one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.

What the New Premier Inn Will Offer

The new Premier Inn will be a five-storey building, featuring both Standard and Premier Plus rooms, catering to a variety of guest preferences. The Premier Plus rooms will offer added luxury with premium amenities, ideal for travellers looking for extra comfort.

The hotel will also feature an on-site restaurant, allowing guests to enjoy breakfast, dinner, and a variety of beverages in a relaxed setting. In line with Premier Inn’s commitment to sustainability, the new property will utilise renewable energy sources, including heat recovery systems and air-source heat pumps, to ensure a minimal environmental impact. The hotel is expected to attract approximately 30,000 visitors annually, contributing significantly to Carlisle’s tourism sector.

Economic Impact on Carlisle

According to Whitbread, the new hotel will bring a 12 million pound investment to the city, supporting around 25 permanent jobs within the hospitality sector. Additionally, the construction phase will provide employment for an estimated 45 individuals in the local supply chain. An economic impact assessment indicates that the hotel will contribute over 4 million pound annually to the local economy, with the bulk of this coming from the tourism sector.

The hotel’s central location also positions it as a prime spot for visitors who wish to explore Carlisle’s key attractions, including:

• Carlisle Castle – A must-see for history buffs, this medieval fortress offers stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.
• Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery – A treasure trove of local history, art, and culture.
• The Guildhall – A historic building offering a glimpse into Carlisle’s rich civic history.
• Hadrian’s Wall – Just a short drive from the city, this ancient Roman fortification is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK’s most famous landmarks.
• Lake District National Park – With its awe-inspiring lakes and mountains, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Easy Access for Tourists

For those arriving by train, the hotel’s location near Carlisle train station provides seamless access to the rest of the UK, including connections to major cities like Edinburgh, Manchester and London. This makes it an attractive option for visitors who are exploring Carlisle as part of a wider UK tour.

Furthermore, with public parking available at the nearby West Walls car park, visitors driving to the area will have easy access to the hotel and surrounding attractions. This convenient location ensures that tourists have a comfortable stay, with key points of interest just moments away from the hotel’s front door.

A Bright Future for Carlisle’s Tourism Industry

The new Premier Inn hotel is part of Whitbread’s strategic expansion in northern England, with plans to bring more accommodation options to key cities and regions. As the city continues to grow in popularity as a tourist destination, the addition of a high-quality hotel in such a prime location will undoubtedly enhance Carlisle’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors.

The new hotel in Carlisle will not only provide an excellent base for tourists to delve into the city’s rich history and architecture but also for visiting the beautiful natural landscapes that the area is well-known for. The hotel will be a major factor in determining the future of tourism in the city, providing both comfort and a good location for the experience of being in Carlisle.