Three Days on the Cumbria Coast

From pretty seaside towns and villages to interactive museums, there’s lots to discover along the Cumbria coast. Easily accessible by train from Liverpool, join us on a three-day adventure across this beautiful and fascinating area.
 

Day 1

Grange-over-Sands

Arrive in Grange over Sands and hop off the train to explore. Take a walk along the prom, directly accessible from the train station, and admire the impressive views across Morecambe Bay.

Top tip: in the summer months, you can walk across the bay on a guided Cross Bay Walk. These can only be enjoyed under the guidance of a Royally appointed guide, and spaces must be booked in advance.

The pretty market town of Ulverston is home to a whole host of things to see and do. Stan Laurel, one half of famous British comedy duo Laurel & Hardy, was born here. Today, learn more at the Laurel & Hardy Museum. Meanwhile, lovers of gin can visit Shed One Distillery, a tiny distillery offering hands-on experiences like tours, tastings, and Afternoon Tea. Nearby, blow your own glass bauble and see glass blowers at work at Cumbria Crystal.

Then, head to Barrow: a coastal town with a rich industrial heritage. Learn more at The Dock Museum: a free museum where you’ll find exhibits highlighting the area’s history from as early as the Vikings.

The Dock Museum

Don’t miss a trip to the South Walney Nature Reserve: it’s home to Cumbria’s only grey seal colony.
 

Day 2

Silecroft Beach Café

Head to Silecroft for breakfast at the popular Silecroft Beach Cafe, located on Silecroft beach and with sweeping sea views.

If you fancy an adventure, book a ride with Cumbria Heavy Horses who offer horse riding along the beach - this must be booked ahead of time, and makes for a memorable experience.

Then, it’s on to the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway for a scenic steam train ride along coast and countryside as you travel from Ravenglass to Dalegarth.

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Once at Dalegarth, either return by train or hop off and take a walk along the Eskdale TRail. Created with rail users in mind, the 8.5 mile route runs between Dalegarth and Ravenglass stations and takes in sights and attractions like Stanley Ghyll waterfall and the medieval Muncaster Castle. The latter is well worth a visit: it’s home to pretty gardens, woodland walks, a hawk & owl centre, and Medieval Weapons Hall where you can have a go at archery, axe throwing and more!

Muncaster Castle

Top tip: look out for events at Muncaster Castle throughout the year, from music festivals to Halloween celebrations.

Day 3
 

Spend the morning in the harbour town of Whitehaven, once the third largest maritime port in the UK and now home to attractions telling the story of Cumbria’s coast.

Visit The Beacon Museum and discover a whole host of interactive exhibits telling the tale of the local area, from Romans to modern day industry. There’s a viewing gallery with stunning views across the harbour, and a regular programme of exhibitions and events. 

The Beacon Museum

Top tip: head to the ground floor to refuel at Howling Wolf Artisan Bakery & Cafe.

A couple of streets away, The Rum Story is an immersive attraction telling the tale of Cumbria and Whitehaven’s role in the rum and spice trade, complete with thought provoking exhibits.

Then, take the train to the nearby village of St Bees: home to sweeping sea views and the bustling Beach Road Bakehouse which serves a great selection of drinks, food, and delicious home bakes. 

Enjoy a walk on the beachside promenade, or take a trip to the St Bees Head Nature Reserve - home to a variety of birds as well as impressive sea views.

Did you know? St Bees is the only heritage coast between Scotland and Wales.

St. Bees

In Maryport, discover the history of the Romans along the Cumbria coast. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Frontiers of the Roman Empire, runs all the way down the coast. Visit the Senhouse Roman Museum to learn more.

End the day with a drink at Captain Nelson Tavern, and admire the sunset over the Irish Sea.

Getting here: it’s easy to travel to the Cumbria coast by train from Liverpool. To Grange over Sands, the journey takes around two hours. From here, a train line runs all the way along the coast, stopping at key towns and villages, and making this an easy itinerary to enjoy by train. 

Where to stay: There are plenty of great accommodation options along the Cumbria Coast. Pick a base from which to explore, with hotels, self catering accommodation and more available.