Hammonds Pond
A serene park with a boating lake, miniature railway, play areas, and abundant wildlife, perfect for family outings and peaceful strolls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Model train runs!
Hammonds Pond
Best Time
Model train runs!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene park with a boating lake, miniature railway, play areas, and abundant wildlife, perfect for family outings and peaceful strolls.
"A nice little gem in Carlisle for a nice walk out, great for kids and dogs!"
🚂 Train Ride Fun
The model train is a highlight for kids, usually running on Sundays. Check local listings for exact times!
☕ Cafe Check
The cafe's opening hours can be inconsistent. Pack snacks and drinks just in case!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boating Lake & Miniature Railway
Central area of the park
Enjoy a serene boat ride or a fun trip on the seasonal miniature train, a hit with younger visitors.
Children's Play Areas
Various locations
Safe and engaging play zones for both younger and older children, perfect for burning off energy.
Wildlife Watching
The Pond
Spot ducks, swans, and even herons on the tranquil pond. The cafe sells food for the birds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Perks & Practicalities
Navigating Hammonds Pond
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Train Ride Fun
The model train is a highlight for kids, usually running on Sundays. Check local listings for exact times!
☕ Cafe Check
The cafe's opening hours can be inconsistent. Pack snacks and drinks just in case!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Strolls
A great spot for dogs to run! Plenty of space and benches for a relaxing walk.
🌳 Picnic Paradise
Lots of grassy areas perfect for a family picnic. Bring a blanket and enjoy the outdoors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Train Ride Fun
The model train is a highlight for kids, usually running on Sundays. Check local listings for exact times!
☕ Cafe Check
The cafe's opening hours can be inconsistent. Pack snacks and drinks just in case!
🐾 Dog-Friendly Strolls
A great spot for dogs to run! Plenty of space and benches for a relaxing walk.
🌳 Picnic Paradise
Lots of grassy areas perfect for a family picnic. Bring a blanket and enjoy the outdoors.
👀 Keep an Eye Out
While lovely, some visitors note occasional issues with older kids. Stay aware of your surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hammonds Pond is a cherished local park praised for its natural beauty, wildlife, and family-friendly amenities like the miniature railway and play areas. Visitors appreciate the ample space for picnics and dog walking. However, the cafe's inconsistent opening hours and occasional issues with toilet facilities are recurring drawbacks.
"We come here with our dog 🐕. It's a lovely place, very soothing sitting on one of the benches dotted around. Saw a Heron yesterday, swans, ducks and cuts. The cafe sells food for them at 50p a packet. Lovely play area for younger and older children 😀"
Christine Shortreed
"Beautiful park with lots of spaces for picnics. Safe to bring children. There's lots of grass to play on, a children's play area, a Café (mostly open during summer but friendly staff) and a rather large pond with lots of ducks and some swans. There is also a small rail track with a train for little ones which mainly runs in Sunday's. Very much worth a visit any time of the year!"
Theresa R
"Good place for walking, jogging, cycling etc. Plenty of space. Nice pond with lot of ducks, swan. Very calm and quiet area. Enough free parking space. Cafe and toilet facilities available"
SAJAN THOMAS
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hammonds Pond is located in Carlisle. It's easily accessible by car, with plenty of free parking available. For those using public transport, check local bus routes that serve the Upperby area. 
Yes, there is ample free parking available at Hammonds Pond, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Hammonds Pond is a great spot for cycling, with paths around the park. It's also a good destination for a bike ride from nearby areas.
Walking, jogging, and cycling are popular ways to explore Hammonds Pond. The paths are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the pond and parkland.
The main paths around Hammonds Pond are generally accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, offering a pleasant experience for all visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hammonds Pond is a public park and generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for general park access.
Yes, there is a small fee for rides on the miniature railway. It's a popular attraction, especially for children.
Hammonds Pond is typically open from dawn till dusk. However, specific facilities like the cafe and miniature railway have seasonal operating hours.
The miniature railway typically runs on Sundays, especially during the warmer months. It's best to check local listings or inquire on-site for the most up-to-date schedule.
Hammonds Pond hosts community events like the Upperby Gala. For private event bookings, it's advisable to contact the local council or park management.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Kids will love the dedicated play areas, the miniature railway rides, and the open spaces for running and playing. The pond itself is also a source of fascination with its ducks and swans. +1
Yes, Hammonds Pond is very dog-friendly! It's a great place for dogs to exercise and enjoy walks. Remember to keep them under control where necessary.
Toilet facilities are available, often linked to the cafe. However, some reviews indicate they can be closed or in poor condition, so it's wise to be prepared. +1
You can expect to see a variety of waterfowl, including ducks and swans. Herons have also been spotted, making it a nice spot for nature observation.
Generally, Hammonds Pond is considered safe and family-friendly. However, as with any public park, it's advisable to supervise children and be aware of your surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe at Hammonds Pond. It's often open during the summer and on weekends, but its availability can be inconsistent according to visitor feedback. +2
The cafe typically offers snacks and light refreshments. They have been known to sell food for the ducks and swans at a small price.
Absolutely! Hammonds Pond has many lovely grassy areas perfect for picnics. It's a popular activity for families and groups.
While the onsite cafe can be unreliable, there are likely dining options in the wider Carlisle area if you're looking for more choices.
The cafe's opening hours are not always consistent. It's best to check locally or visit during peak times like summer holidays for a better chance of it being open. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park is generally safe, it's wise to supervise younger children, as some reviews mention occasional issues with older kids. The cafe can be a convenient spot for snacks, but its opening hours are inconsistent, so packing your own picnic is a good backup plan.
🐾 Dog Owners
🚶♀️ Active Individuals & Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Miniature Railway
While the railway is a major draw, its operation is often seasonal and primarily on Sundays. This means planning your visit around its running times can enhance the experience, especially for families with young children eager for a train ride. The joy on children's faces as they chug along is a testament to its enduring appeal.
A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
For those who enjoy feeding the birds, the park's cafe sometimes sells special food packets for the waterfowl at a nominal cost. This interactive element allows visitors to connect with nature more directly. Remember to be respectful of the wildlife and their environment during your visit.
Community Hub and Events
The park also features football pitches and play areas, making it a versatile venue for both organized sports and casual recreation. Its accessibility and amenities make it a go-to destination for local families and groups looking for outdoor activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit