AS we're well into January now, we've created a list of the ten best things to do in Carlisle this weekend to help stave off those beginning-of-the-year blues.

In no particular order, we recommend taking a visit to:

1. Check out a set from the iconic Craig Charles. TV & radio presenter Craig Charles will be playing his forte of funk and soul classics in the Old Fire Station on January 14, Friday evening. The event scheduled to start at 8pm.

2. Live music and restorative yoga. Perhaps Craig Charles isn't your thing? Well why not visit The Yoga Studio to hear an acoustic music set with Melanie Barker and be part of a restorative yoga class with Emma Scott, a night sure to be full of healing qualities.

3. Join the Secret City Walking Tour. A relaxed walking tour around the heart of the historic city of Carlisle, which will open up the history books on many of the city's heritage buildings; the Guildhall, The Cathedral, West Walls and Carlisle Castle. The event will start on Saturday at 2pm, with a complimentary coffee provided by Watts coffee shop.

4. Saunter by Hammond's Pond. With the rain looking like it's going to stay away for the weekend, why not take a stroll through Upperby Park. The scenic surrounding will provide you with a sense of tranquility.

5. The Source Collective Catch the chance for some stellar live music as the venue is hosting three local Carlisle acts including HAUSHINKA, Arguer and Sweaterhead. An evening perfectly complimented by cocktails inspired by each artist. The event is scheduled for Saturday evening.

News and Star: Paddington Carlisle

6. Visit Paddington Exhibition. The Tullie House are still running their Paddington: The Story of a Bear exhibition. Lose yourself in your own Paddington adventures and stories.

7. Yoga retreat being held in the Lakes. Find your inner zen and book a space in the yoga, mindfulness and walking retreat in the Lake District this weekend. The overnight stay will provide the option of making it a two or three day getaway, the perfect way to get settled into the New Year.

8. Solway Aviation Museum. Take a gander at Britain's aircrafts , the largest collection of model WW2 aircraft in the country. The museum shares WW2 tales and also offers the chance to take command of the pilot's seat fighter jet and imagine what it would've been like in soaring over the country all those years ago. An informative and fun experience for the whole family.

News and Star: The sun shining on the wall. Picture: Hadrian’s Wall Partnership

9. Visit Hadrian's Wall. As the heritage site hits the 1900th anniversary, Tullie House are asking for submissions of photos from those visiting the wall that could end up being displayed in their local art exhibition - why not get yourself included?

10. Laser Quest. Laser Quest Carlisle is a sci-fi adventure experience for all ages, curated in a real life video game aesthetic will undoubtedly create an enjoyable experience for the whole family.