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Welcome to the Western Lake District & Coast: a striking area encompassing an awe-inspiring coastline, breathtaking countryside, and a whole host of things to see and do.
Discover secluded beaches, majestic castles, hidden lakes and awe-inspiring mountains. There are some of Cumbria’s most striking landscapes here, including the Solway Coast National Landscape and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
From seaside villages to pretty market towns, there’s plenty to explore in this part of Cumbria. In the south, you’ll find places like Silecroft, Bootle and Ravenglass - which has the accolade of being in two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the English Lake District and the Frontiers of the Roman Empire. It’s also the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park!
Coastal towns like Whitehaven, Maryport and Silloth highlight the region’s rich maritime history. Uncover our industrial heritage in towns and villages like Millom, Cleator Moor, Egremont and Workington. Visit the birthplace of William Wordsworth in the market town of Cockermouth and visit St Bees where Mr Bean actor Rowan Atkinson went to school.
Delve into the area’s past with interactive museums telling tales of smugglers, the spice trade, and the Romans who once patrolled these shores. In Whitehaven, visit The Beacon Museum and The Rum Story for maritime history and heritage, or head to the Senhouse Roman Museum in Maryport to learn more about Roman history along the Cumbrian coast. William Wordsworth was born in the Cumbrian town of Cockermouth; today, you can visit his former home at Wordsworth House.
For a great family day out, visit attractions like the Lake District Coast Aquarium in Maryport and Muncaster Castle, home to a Medieval weapons hall and hawk & owl centre. Nearby, you can take a scenic trip on a steam train through the Lake District at the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway.
Fancy a trip to the beach? You’ll be spoilt for choice! St Bees, Silecroft, Drigg and Allonby are just a few of the beaches to be found along the Cumbrian coast. As well as being a great place to relax or enjoy a walk, they’re also home to a rich variety of nature and wildlife. Why not try horse riding on the beach with Cumbrian Heavy Horses at Silecroft beach, or puffin spotting amid the towering red sandstone cliffs at St Bees: the only designated Heritage Coast between Wales and Scotland.
Further north, the Solway Coast National Landscape offers much to explore while inland, the Lake District National Park is known for its stunning lakes and waters, including Wastwater, Crummock Water and Buttermere; as well as the Wild Ennerdale National Nature Reserve.
These landscapes were made for adventure, with walking routes to be found in abundance. The King Charles III England Coast Path runs in sections along the coast: challenge yourself to walk the entire route, or pick a section for a shorter stroll. The popular Coast to Coast National Trail begins in St Bees.
There are Wainwright walks aplenty, including Scafell Pike: England’s highest mountain.
For lower level walking, try family-friendly routes like the Eskdale Trail, or Miles Without Stiles: a collection of 50+ walking routes across the Lake District.
The Western Lake District & Coast is home to a rich food and drink scene, with independent makers and producers alongside fantastic places to eat. This is the home of the Cumberland Sausage, while spices once imported into ports like Whitehaven are still used in local delicacies today.
There are farmers markets across the area, as well as Taste Cumbria Food Festivals in Maryport, Wigton, Cockermouth and the nearby city of Carlisle.
There’s plenty going on across the western Lake District & coast, with country fairs, events and more taking place throughout the year. For foodies, Taste Cumbria Food Festivals are held in Maryport, Wigton, Cockermouth and the nearby city of Carlisle.
The Egremont Crab Fair takes place in September. Founded in 1267, it’s one of the oldest fairs in the world! It’s also home to the World Gurning Championships, which sees participants compete to pull the most grotesque face.
Keep an eye out for theatre and more at Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven; further inland, Cockermouth Live! is an annual festival celebrating live music from a variety of performers.
Come winter, there are Christmas markets and lights switch on events, with festive celebrations and towns like Wigton offering live music too.
Funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is supported by Cumberland Council and Sellafield.
This year, André Rieu celebrates a spectacular milestone — the 20th anniversary of his iconic…
We are very pleased to bring you a new exhibition to the Dock Museum, "What the sea decides to give…
Come join us as we celebrate the last day of our festival of Archaeology where you will see the…
Come and celebrate the opening of our Festival of Archaeology. There will be hands on activities…
Make a bowl or wall hanging in this glass fusing class with Roxanne Denny of RD Glass. Have fun…
Discover Whitehaven's rich coastal heritage and explore how archaeology helps us understand the…
Come and discover ancient crafts from the past and have a go yourself. Hear about how our…
Meet the Ancient Britons During your visit to the museum you will have the opportunity to meet…
Part of the Lake District Music Summer Festival Showtimes: 11am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm Come with us on…
Mosey on down to Country By The Castle, Muncaster's Country Music festival! Join us 17 - 18 July…
Reactor, by Felicity Hammond, is a new multimedia installation exploring the possibilities of the…
♂️ 2026 M-Sport 5K & NEW Junior Race ♀️ The M-Sport 5K is back for 2026 – and this year we're…
The Flower Club at Cumberland Flower Farm is back! After a long break, we're relaunching our…
Woodland Reset ~ The Conscious Self's Signature Nature Day Come and join The Conscious Self for a…
Every Wednesday, 11am - 2pm: Finds handling Get hands-on with history. Visitors can get hands-on…
Every Sunday at 2pm Museum visitors can explore the earthworks of the Roman fort, led by the…
Maryport is welcoming back Taste Cumbria on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August 2026 for the Taste of…
A walk through the Social History of Whitehaven Town. Join us for a series of fascinating walks…
The People's Gallery + Art Lab | Family Book now Join HUNTR/X at Rosehill for a summer K-pop party,…
Travel back and discover the secrets of prehistoric cave art. Learn how our ancestors used natural…
Discover the amazing world of tiny creatures in this hands-on adventure! Perfect for all ages!…
Join the Beacon Rocket Scientists as they defy gravity and shoot rockets in to 'space'. Young…
Get up close with some amazing reptiles and discover the fascinating adaptions that help them…
Embark on an unforgettable Pet Encounter Experience where you can meet, greet and interact with…


the western lakes has a rich history, brilliantly told

Number of results: 130
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Millom
The Wayside and Whisky Barn offers a peaceful escape in the Western Lake District with beautiful en-suite rooms, local homemade meals, stunning views, and a whisky bar. Ideal for relaxation and exploring the Lakes and coast.
Cockermouth
The romantic ambience and art-deco features of the stunning train carriages make this a truly unique experience that is not to be missed by locomotive lovers, film enthusiasts and foodies alike! Breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas are catered for…
Cockermouth
Situated on what was once the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith railway line, Bassenthwaite Lake Station offers a unique place to enjoy breakfast, brunch and lunch aboard the replica Orient Express train, right here in the Lake District.
Braithwaite, Keswick
Our Michelin Star restaurant offers a delicious tasting menu, created by Chef Jack Bond using the finest ingredients from Cumbria and further afield in creative, sustainable ways.
Silloth
Stanwix Park is located on the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Self Catering Caravans and Apartments to hire for 3,4 and 7 night breaks (some pet friendly accommodation). Fully serviced pitches for Tents, Touring Caravans and Motorhomes. Camping Pods…
Borrowdale, KESWICK
Have you ever walked on thin air? Get your heart racing while experiencing breathtaking scenery with our Infinity Bridge… so named because you are often unable to see the other end! Strung across a breathtaking gorge high up on the mountain, 2,000…
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.
Bassenthwaite Lake, Bassenthwaite
The privately owned, four star 17th century former stately home, has 42 individually designed bedrooms, wood panelled public rooms, real log fire, Lake View Restaurant, six conference rooms, croquet lawn, tennis courts and spa facility.
Barrow-in-Furness
A Premium Hotel & Wedding Venue based in Barrow in Furness in Cumbria. Set in 14 acres of private woodland and gardens with 59 beautifully decorated rooms with a rosette acclaimed Bar & Restaurant, Oscar's. It's one of the Lake Districts hidden gems…
Bassenthwaite
The ultimate animal experience for anyone over the age of 8 years that you will never forget! This experience is the perfect way to meet our Tapirs, Meerkats, and Ring-Tailed Lemurs!
Cockermouth
Step behind the scenes with our guided tour and uncover the heritage, stories, and secrets that make Jennings so special. From our proud brewing history to the character of our beers, you’ll enjoy a memorable journey through time – finishing with a…
Cockermouth
Located in the picturesque Lorton Valley, Hundith Hill offers stunning views of the Cumbrian countryside. With 25 rooms, function suites, restaurant, bar & lounge, Hundith Hill is the perfect venue for country escapes.
Silloth
Stanwix Park is located on the Solway Coast in Cumbria. Self Catering Caravans and Apartments to hire for 3,4 and 7 night breaks (some pet friendly accommodation). Fully serviced pitches for Tents, Touring Caravans and Motorhomes. Camping Pods…
Cockermouth
Afternoon Tea on board the train at Bassenthwaite Lake Station offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a selection of delicious food in the most elegant of surroundings. A fine selection of finger sandwiches, savoury and sweet treats is served to you…
Cockermouth
4 Luxury Glamping Retreat on The North Western edge of the Lake District - Castle Guards Farm Retreat. 2 of the 4 pods are Pet Friendly. Each pod has a private wood fired hot tub which can be added to your stay if required.
Ravenglass
Enjoy a well-rounded menu prepared by Muncaster’s very own Head Chef and team in our cosy courtyard café. We pride ourselves in sourcing local produce and catering to many dietary requirements.
Ravenglass
Set in the beautiful gardens of Muncaster Castle, the Hawk & Owl Centre offers exhilarating bird of prey flying displays from Easter to Christmas.
Barrow-in-Furness
Express Bar & Lounge serving International cuisine, ranging from pizza, pasta, burgers, sandwiches and a range of alcoholic drinks, soft drinks and coffee.
Maryport
Recently re opened pub/ bar selling a wide selection of beers, ales, wine and spirits. Choose from our hand picked selection of drinks that you won't find anywhere else in town, including Hawkstone premium lager and cider, and Galway Girl, our Irish…
Bransty Row, Whitehaven
Located in Whitehaven's beautifully redeveloped historic Bus Station, The Peddler is a vibrant restaurant, café and bar celebrating the very best of Cumbria's food and drink. Inspired by the travelling peddlers of old who sought out the finest local…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL