Outer Bailey Alma Block

The Alma Block, located in the Outer Bailey of Carlisle Castle, is a building that originally served as a recruit reception centre and canteen for the Border Regiment. It was constructed by Messrs J&R Bell, as reported in the Carlisle Journal on April 1, 1932. The building features Flemish bond brickwork set on a chamfered red sandstone plinth, with raised calciferous sandstone quoins, a sill band, and a cornice. The roof is made of graduated greenslate and has projecting modillioned eaves and gabled pediments.

The structure is two storeys high and consists of seven bays, with rear extensions that create a rough L-shape. The single bays at each end project and are quoined, with the right-side bay featuring a doorway with a pediment. The windows are sash style with glazing bars, framed in stone surrounds. A painted stone panel inscribed with "ALMA," one of the battle honours of the Border Regiment, is located centrally on the upper level. The rear extensions are built of similar brickwork but lack decorative dressings.

The interior is not considered of interest. The building was designed to mimic the nearby Arroyo Block. It was vacated by the Army in 1959 and converted into the Cumbria County Record Office in 1961. The Alma Block is included for its group value with other structures in the area.