History and Heritage

The Cumbria Coastal Route is steeped in history, with each stretch of coastline revealing a different chapter of the past. From Roman frontiers and maritime trade to industry and shipbuilding, the route offers a fascinating journey through time.

History runs deep here: from tales of the spice trade in Whitehaven to Roman heritage along the Hadrian’s Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site, Frontiers of the Roman Empire, which runs down the coast to the village of Ravenglass. Discover the area’s industrial heritage in places like Barrow in Furness, MIllom and Egremont.

Roman Cumbria

Along the Cumbria coast, the legacy of the Roman Empire is never far away. This area once marked the north-west frontier of Roman Britain, with the Hadrian’s Wall UNESCO World Heritage Site, Frontiers of the Roman Empire, running all the way down to the coastal village of Ravenglass.
Explore the remnants of Roman forts and visit museums that bring this history to life, including the Senhouse Roman Museum in Maryport which offers an interactive look into the area’s time on the edge of an empire.

Maritime History

From shipbuilding to the spice trade, Cumbria has a long maritime heritage - and its coastal towns and villages offer ample opportunity to learn more.

Hear tales of smugglers and the spice trade in places like Whitehaven, once the third largest port in the UK. The Rum Story and The Beacon Museum both offer visitors the chance to learn more. Visit the Dock Museum to learn about Barrow’s history - from viking treasures to shipbuilding.

Industrial Heritage

Industry has played a key role in shaping the Cumbria coast. From iron ore mining and steel production to shipbuilding and railways, many coastal communities grew around industry.
Places like Barrow-in-Furness, Millom and Egremont reflect this heritage, with museums and preserved sites along the route offering insight into the people and industries that defined the area.

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Senhouse Roman Museum

Address

Senhouse Roman Museum, The Battery, The Promenade, Maryport, Cumbria, CA15 6JD

Telephone
01900 816168

senhousemuseum@aol.com

The Promenade, Maryport

Roman museum displaying the internationally significant collection of Romano-British altars, inscriptions and sculptures from the adjacent Roman fort and civilian settlement.

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St. Bees Priory

Address

ST. BEES, Cumbria, CA27 0DR

enquiries@stbeespriory.org.uk

ST. BEES

The priory is one of the architectural jewels in Cumbria and well worth a visit. This beautiful and historic church in the seaside village of St Bees, built in 1120, is all that remains of the original Priory, but it is a thriving and much loved…

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Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Address

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway Station, Main St, Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1SW

Telephone
01229 717171

steam@ravenglass-railway.co.uk

Ravenglass

La'aL Ratty, the little Cumbrian railway, is an award-winning heritage visitor attraction and Lake District icon, living up to its “must do” reputation for all ages. There are lots of things to do including shopping facilities, a museum,…

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Muncaster Castle

Address

Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1RQ

Telephone
01229 717614

info@muncaster.co.uk

Ravenglass

Discover the captivating charm of Muncaster Castle, a historic gem nestled on the stunning Lake District coast where mountains meet the sea. With over 800 years of history, Muncaster is still cherished by the Pennington family, who warmly welcome…

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The Rum Story

Address

The Rum Story & Jefferson's Shop, 27 Lowther St, Whitehaven, Cumbria, CA28 7DN

Telephone
01946 592933

info@rumstory.co.uk

Whitehaven

Imagine leaving the heart of Whitehaven's historic port and being taken back in time to an exotic tropical island's rainforest in the Caribbean, that is just the start of your great adventure in The Rum Story.

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The Beacon Museum

Address

The Beacon Museum, W Strand, Whitehaven, Cumbria, CA28 7LY

Telephone
01946 592302

thebeacon@copeland.gov.uk

Whitehaven

Situated on Whitehaven's attractive harbour side, The Beacon is home to interactive science, games and history.

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Maryport Harbour

Address

Marine Road, Maryport, Cumbria, CA15 8AY

Maryport

Maryport's extensive harbour and Promenade are a pleasure to stroll around.

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