BANK holidays were practically invented for indulgence, and Carlisle always knows how to step up to the plate when it comes to great food. 

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor passing through, here are five very different places to eat in and around Carlisle that are open this bank holiday weekend - some of the best according to Tripadvisor. 

Plough Inn Wreay

The Plough Inn Wreay, is the quintessential country pub and is up there at the top in the Carlisle area for food according to TripAdvisor.

Patrons describe it as the perfect place for a 'Sunday tea'. 

One review said: "Food was amazing, very tasty and big portions. Proper homemade food. The staff was very friendly and helpful with the menu.

"Would recommend it wholeheartedly. Steak and ale pie is the best I've had and gravy was 5 stars". 

Casa Romana 

A cherished restaurant serving British-Italian homecooked food made with love.  

It's closed today but will be open on Bank Holiday Monday (August 28). 

If it's good enough for Grace Dent, then it's good enough for us. 

One review on Tripadvisor said:"We were so delighted to be fitted in with a last-minute booking. The food was amazing,  excellent value, express menu with a choice of vegan options.

"We both had pizza with delicious, generous toppings and the very best vegan dessert I have had - 'Berry Messy' - absolutely yummy Eton Mess.

"We'll definitely be back when next in the area," they said. 

The Old Bank 

This trendy venue offers a fantastic range of European cuisine and comes with vegan and gluten free options. 

One reviewer said: "We were told that this was the place to eat when in Carlisle and we weren’t disappointed. The quality of the food and service was outstanding." 

Khan's at the Waterloo

Located on the outskirts of Carlisle, the Bangladeshi and Indian Restaurant is a favourite on the review website with some describing it as a 'real gem of a curry house'. 

One reviewer said: "5 stars does not do this place justice! Everything about Khan’s is top-class. The food is delicious.

"I’ve eaten at every curry house in Carlisle and none of them could lace Khan’s boots! The Sweet Naga Masala is to die for, but the sundries and other dishes are always perfect," they said. 

Royal Outpost Thai & Asian Restaurant

Serving freshly made Asian & Thai cuisine, this is a clear favourite amongst visitors looking for eastern flavours. 

A review they received just a mere week ago said: "The food and the service is fantastic.

"I’ve just had the spare ribs and the Thai green curry and it’s as good as I’ve ever had, and that includes my business trip to Thailand.

"The atmosphere is really good and the food is second to non, what more can I say."