Visited Carlisle on 18/06/2012 from Netherthorpe in South Yorkshire. We were in a Cessna 172, G-ROLY. We routed via POL VOR and then north over the dales and via Windermere. Stunning views on the way up while we talked to London Information. I opted for the NDB/DME procedure for runway 25 just for practice as it was good VMC. Not the best accuracy but glad I did it anyway. Landing was easy on the nice long hard runway. Parking instructions were offered by the tower and they were welcoming. They questioned if my VFR flight plan should be closed or not but were helpful in this respect too. Landing fee of £21.60 was not that cheap. We opted for a full breakfast in the cafe surrounded by interesting photos including ones of when Prince Harry flew in. Lots of fast jets on display including a Vulcan which were interesting. Fast jets also seen to fly overhead too, as they are very active in this area. Great flying day, although I would not want to visit in any more cloudy conditions as there is a lot of high ground around. It seems Carlisle is unlikely to take off as a regional airport but still a great GA airport and well worth a visit. We will be back, maybe on a clear winters day for some more stunning views!