Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery

Amazing family friendly gallery opened in July 2011 exploring the story of Rome’s north west frontier and the Roman occupation of the north of Britain. The ambition of the Romans was to conquer the whole of Britain. They marched through Carlisle on their way to conquer what is now Scotland over 50 years before Hadrian’s Wall was built. Did you know that Hadrian’s Wall itself was abandoned only 20 years after it was built and a new Wall built in Scotland, between modern Edinburgh and Glasgow, on the edge of the highlands? In later years Roman troops were stationed well north of Hadrian’s Wall, into the Scottish borders.

The exhibition gives a real insight into the Roman occupation, its impact on local people, what it was like to be a Roman citizen and why the Romans were here. The Living Wall exhibit highlights modern frontiers and what it’s like to live in a divided country. The displays include objects from the British Museum alongside the outstanding Tullie House collection of Roman period objects from the western part of Hadrian’s Wall. Multi-media, interactive displays and hidden histories provide provide lots to do for all the family.

Tullie House and the Roman Frontier Gallery are managed by the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery Trust. There is an award winning restaurant and a shop selling books and souvenirs.

The Tullie House Museum includes fine collections of art, history and nature. The museum is located in the middle of Carlisle’s historic quarter near to the Castle and Cathedral and high quality independent shops. There are interesting walks through Bitts Park to the river Eden following the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail or take a leisurely stroll around the historic quarter including the old town walls.