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Discover secluded beaches, majestic castles, hidden lakes and awe-inspiring mountains: there are some of the area’s most striking natural landscapes here, including the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Why not try galloping down the beach on horseback with Cumbrian Heavy Horses at Silecroft beach, uniquely set against the dramatic backdrop of Black Coombe – its summit has a 360 degree panorama of mountains, sea and sand.
Or what about puffin spotting amid the towering red sandstone cliffs at St Bees, at one end of the famous Wainwright 'Coast to Coast' walk. This is the only designated Heritage Coast between Wales and Scotland - and the only area of high sea cliffs in the North West.
Head northwards up the Cumbrian coast to savour ice cream at Allonby and the Victorian seaside town of Silloth, The newly completed cycle route between the two is part of Hadrian’s Cycleway. Why not venture a little further inland to William Wordsworth’s birthplace of Cockermouth and its tasty mix of foodie hotspots, traditional pubs and independent shops.
The Georgian town of Whitehaven has a rich maritime heritage and a few spicy tales of smugglers. It also has an unusual claim to fame: it was reputedly used as the template for the expansion of New York in the mid-18th century! Check out family fun at the Beacon Museum and the nearby Lake District Coast Aquarium in Maryport.
Also in Maryport, the Senhouse Roman Museum is home to the country’s oldest private collection of Roman treasures. The Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site runs down the western coast to Ravenglass, where the remains of the bath house at Ravenglass Roman Fort are among Britain’s tallest remaining Roman structures.
Further still down Cumbria’s coast you’ll find the 800 year old Muncaster Castle & Gardens, which is thought to be the only historic home in the UK to appoint an official ‘fool’ (or jester).
The coastal village of Ravenglass has the unique accolade of being in two UNESCO World Heritage Sites; the English Lake District and Hadrian’s Wall. From here, take a scenic train ride on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway through Cumbria’s spectacular scenery to the foot of England’s highest mountains.
If you’re heading for the western lakes, the chances are you’re after somewhere more secluded and perhaps a little more rugged. The remote Eskdale and Ennerdale valleys are true testaments to the beauty of the area.
In 2024 we're teaming up with the National Trust Rangers at Sandscale Haws to offer a unique guided…
Join our crafty team in the Visitor Centre for free drop in craft activities. A great way to finish…
Come along to Wordsworth House and Garden and get crafty and creative in the Discovery Room. Be…
The summer Whitehaven Flower Club Gala returns with even more beautiful arrangements and top advice…
A celebration of diversity and inclusion. Parade, performers, stalls and workshops. All free. …
Get ready to sing your heart out and spread joy with Cathy Marcangelo.
Collect 10 different pebbles from the beach and bring them to the Hub for our experts to identify…
Enchanting evenings of music in the forest, with floor spots, special guests and an informal…
Solo again, Britain's most celebrated clairvoyant medium psychic from Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights…
The iconic songs of Sting. The electrifying choreography of Kate Prince. This is a tale of hope…
Two experimental groups arrive in Barrow for a night of sonic sounds. Tara Clerkin Trio and…
Walk with our Ranger and help to fill the squirrel feeders in the forest! Whinlatter is a red…
From the voices of ramblers and campaigners to the songs and poetry inspired by past and current…
Are you a crafter or interested in crafts? Would you like to take part in our free wellbeing…
Join Handpicked Productions to create weird and wonderful paper cup puppets. Think about the…
Brought to you by the National Trust for Geo Week. Come and join us for a rare opportunity to visit…
Shakespeare's profound story of love and loss, artfully adapted into a contemporary three-act…
Roo Stars Rocky Horror Experience comes to Barrow
Full of Noises is delighted to host the Arethusa Quartet as part of the Ulverston International…
Are you ready to immerse yourself in a world of blossoms, creativity, and camaraderie? Welcome to…
The Hay O' Trail is a 6km multi terrain race. Runners leave the grounds of Cockermouth School,…
Brought to you by National Trust and Karen Whybrow Coaching, carry out a powerful releasing ritual…
Ladies, if you have a love for the outdoors, enjoy riding a bike but feel daunted by the thought of…
Ian Wright directs Wigton Choral Society and invited soloists in a celebration of the 200th…
the western lakes has a rich history, brilliantly told
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Cumbria
If you fancy staying somewhere different and fancy the thought of staying in a fabulously restored luxury Pullman railway coach, then this is for you.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1940 reviewsKeswick
Overlooking Bassenthwaite Lake and some of England’s highest fells, the Castle Inn offers the warmest of welcomes and leisure facilities that provide the opportunity to unwind after a long day.
Brocklebank, Wigton
Wallace Lane Farm Campsite provides facilities for caravans, motor homes, tents and trailer tents, with toilets, showers, electric hook ups, free wifi and we are pet friendly.
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!
Keswick
Luxury country house with superb views. Excellent walking area 15 minutes from Keswick. Five bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, large lounge, open fire, garden room, large kitchen/dining room, utility, CH, double-glazing and cycle storage.
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
18 reviewsRowrah
Situated on the western coast in the rural village of Rowrah, our beer is brewed with quality and consistency championing the highest quality of malts, whole cone hops and Lake District water, our in house yeast strain derived from traditional…
Cockermouth
Freshly made food and drinks served in comfortable and relaxed surroundings.
Bassnthwaite
Country pub located in the heart of Bassenthwaite Village. Large beer garden with views of Skiddaw. Serving excellent food and real ales. Dog friendly. Awarded CAMRA Summer Pub of the Season 2023.
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