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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.
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.
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.
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.
Number of results: 29
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SEASCALE
St Mary's has been an important religious site since the 8th century.
Ravenglass
The history of the Ravenglass and Eskdale railway told with relics, models, photographs and a 20-minute video.
Ulverston
Double Circle of stones surrounding cremations in urns (removed). 'Platform' cairn, small barrows, Romano-British farmsteads.
Ulverston
Swarthmoor Hall is a 17th century, Grade II* listed country house. The Hall is regarded as the cradle of Quakerism as it was here in 1652 that the Quaker movement was formed during a period of enormous political and religious turmoil.
Ulverston
The Laurel and Hardy Museum celebrates the life and career of Stan Laurel, born in Ulverston.
Ulverston
Grange-over-Sands
Cartmel Priory has been described as the medieval jewel among churches, making a lasting impression on the visitor, standing over the village and giving an idea of the way early priories must have dominated their surroundings.
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,…
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.
Grange-over-Sands
A fascinating historic house where the elegance and loveliness of the Victorian era combine with the warmth and welcome of a much loved family home. The hall is set in 25 acres of romantic formal & woodland gardens and ancient parkland, with the…
Carlisle
Visit Carlisle Cathedral, centrally located in the heart of the city. Whether for worship, events, family activities, refreshments or simply a moment of peace - a warm welcome awaits.
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…
Whitehaven
Situated on Whitehaven's attractive harbour side, The Beacon is home to interactive science, games and history.
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…
GRANGE-OVER-SANDS
St. Peter's is an outstanding example of the decorated style of architecture, with its warm red sandstone and distinctive shingled spire and clay tiled roof, an unusual feature in the Lake District.
Nr Kendal
Sizergh boasts 800 years of family history, and is filled with thousands of fascinating items collected by 26 generations of the Strickland family.
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.
Ulverston
Come and join us at The Old Calf Shed for a behind-the-scenes look at our distillery, followed by a relaxed spirits tasting in our stylish visitor bar.
Maryport
Maryport Coastal Park is a place for visitors to enjoy for its coastal views and flora and fauna. Access is free all year round. Maryport Coastal Park can be accesses from Maryport south shore car park, which can be found near the Glasson industrial…
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