You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Areas of Cumbria > Western Lakes & Coast
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.
Join photographers Rosamund and John Macfarlane as they share stories and slides from their winter…
Ladies from West Cumbria - join Jo from JAG Outdoors for this special free Dark Skies Walk at…
Enchanting evenings of music in the forest, with floor spots, special guests and an informal…
Enjoy a fish & chip supper and a return evening train ride up the Eskdale valley. Your ticket…
A look at the life of legendary reggae musician Bob Marley. Based on the life of reggae singer and…
When people in Littlehampton--including conservative local Edith--begin to receive letters full of…
Are you a crafter or interested in crafts? Would you like to take part in our free wellbeing…
Roo Stars Rock Fest
In 2024 we're teaming up with the National Trust Rangers at Sandscale Haws to offer a unique guided…
Rosehill's Comedy Club brings you some of the country's best touring comics. And our beer & burger…
Our 2024 gala celebration will be taking place from Saturday 4th May - Monday 6th May, as we…
Aigul Akmetshina performs the title role in Damiano Michieletto's sizzling new production of…
Tired of spring-cleaning, Mole leaves Mole End and ventures out to the riverbank, where he…
Film: Royal Opera House: Swan Lake Classical ballet's most powerful tale of love, treachery and…
The Wild Murphy's are a very lively Irish covers group based in the north east of England. Over…
Michael Sheen plays Nye Bevan in a surreal and spectacular journey through the life and legacy of…
This event will cover what is needed to build or improve a good wildlife pond in a garden or…
Brought to you by the National Trust and Karen Whybrow Coaching, join this transformational event…
The autumn 23/24 series of canicross races has now launched! Held in England's only mountain…
Meet talking rocks, find sunken trinkets and explore quarry portals at Signal Film and Media's next…
Brought to you by National Trust and Karen Whybrow Coaching, carry out a powerful releasing ritual…
Internationally and critically acclaimed, The Freddie & QUEEN Experience are the UK's Premier Queen…
Simply enter the event, then choose whichever course you prefer daily. With six courses to choose…
The Disabled Ramblers is a small national charity working to help those with limited mobility to…
the western lakes has a rich history, brilliantly told
Number of results: 98
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Nr Bassenthwaite Lake
The Bistro at the Distillery aims to embrace the spirit of the Lake District, which is achieved by using regional ingredients where possible and having a key focus on freshness, flavour and simplicity.
Eskdale
There is gorge scrambling, there is canyoning, then there is The Esk Gorge. A mega place with massive jumps into crystal clear waters. The pools are deep and big offering lots of swimming and scrambling along the rocky edges too.
Barrow-in-Furness
You will find a diverse range of events and activities at The Forum, as we again aim to bring exciting entertainment to Barrow-in-Furness. There should be something for everyone during the current season and we are very proud to welcome…
Eskdale, Holmrook
Experience the great outdoors at Parkgate Farm, offering a variety of 9 large camping pitches (5 with electric hook-up, and 4 without) and one camping pod. Take advantage of the amenities including family shower rooms, separate toilets, washing-up…
Eskdale
Is jumping from height into water your thing? There are jumps galore along with swimming across pools and scrambling up rocks. It's set in a beautiful area and you will really immerse yourself in the surrounding scenery - literally! If you're…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1049 reviewsRavenglass
Located at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Fellbites Café serves everything from hot and cold drinks, sandwiches and homebaked cakes, to full meals made to order.
The Turntable Café, located on Platform 1 serves a wide array of food from hearty…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1934 reviewsCockermouth
Join us for an evening of intrigue and opulence aboard the Orient Express! Our Murder Mystery nights really are like no other. Seated on our stunning steam train and surrounded by 1930’s decor, you will be transported to an era gone by whilst the…
Wasdale
Ranging from small groups in steep wet gorges involving roped ascents, to the fun of group set challenges. It may involve short scrambles, possible squeezes and crawls or even a rough stream walk. It can take you to places on the fell that you’d…
Braithwaite, Keswick
Based at the head of England's best trail centre, the Altura trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. A well stocked trail centre bike shop offering premium bike hire, fast repairs and premium road and mountain bike sales. We also offer guiding and…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
153 reviewsThe English , Buttermere
Building on site for over 1000yrs. First licensed 1735 as a coaching inn. Nestles between 2 lakes Buttermere and Crummock. Surrounded by famous peaks, Haystacks, Red Pike and Great Gable.
Bassenthwaite
A range of engaging presentations take place daily bringing you closer to many of your favourite animals. Watch exhilarating Bird of Prey displays, educational Reptile talks and fun and interesting Lemur, Otter and Red Panda talks.
Eskdale, Holmrook
Experience peace, tranquillity, and adventure on your next holiday at Parkgate Farm, located at the base of the picturesque Eskdale and Wasdale valleys. Whether you're a hiker, walker, or cyclist, our farm offers an extensive network of bridleways…
Seascale
This two bedroom self catering holiday home located in the western Lake District is full of character, making it a perfect holiday home for families, couples and friends alike, with all amenities located on your doorstep.
Braithwaite
Welcome to England's only true mountain forest. Whinlatter boasts unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. Located in the North West of the Lake District, you'll find us in the heart of it. It plays host to two of our…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
256 reviewsCockermouth
A unique and special cafe experience on board the replica Orient Express train and restored station buildings, with a level-access path along the former platform and through woodland teeming with wildlife. Serving interesting and fresh cafe food,…
Barrow-in-Furness
Have this special coastal nature reserve all to yourselves for an after-hours adventure! Track wildlife across the reserve using different equipment and techniques, with the help of our expert guides.
Bassenthwaite
Get up close and personal with our Alpacas, for participants aged 16 years and over. Alpacas are friendly and inquisitive animals and just like us they enjoy a bit of fresh air and exercise. Meet our five boys Hugo, Hector, Herbie, Dougal and…
Millom
Wayside Cottage 1637 is a charming old (circa 1637) two bedroom cottage attached to The Wayside. Designed for visitors that seek relaxing stay in an idyllic & traditional setting within the Lake District with modern comforts.
Great Clifton, Workington
Enjoy delicious meals and afternoon teas in our restaurant, The Conservatory at the Melbreak.
Open between 12pm - 2pm, 5pm – 9pm Monday to Friday, and 12pm – 9pm Saturday and Sunday.
Afternoon Teas served between 2:30pm and 4:30pm daily –…
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
128 reviewsBassenthwaite
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!
Receive all the latest news, special offers and information from the Lake District, Cumbria
Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL