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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.
With nearly 7,000 performances across 27 countries in 40 years, King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys…
Featuring the incredible vocals and stage presence of Adam J Oades, and cherry picking the very…
ADHD Unfiltered is packed with laugh out loud stories, accurate observations and audience…
Screening. Book nowUnder the oppressive heat of the Spanish sun, the fiercely independent Carmen…
Starring: Domhnall Gleeson, Gayle Rankin, Grant O'Rourke & John Hannah On a remote Scottish isle,…
Join photographer Steve Blake on a half day workshop Whinlatter's beautiful woodland environment…
Looking for things to do this October Half Term in the Lake District? Get outdoors and head to Go…
Screening.GIANT, the 5-star critically acclaimed play starring John Lithgow (Killers of the Flower…
Starring: Charlotte Ritchie, Mathew Baynton, Simon Farnaby, Lolly Adefope The ghostly residents of…
Looking for unique things to do in the Lake District this October? Back by popular demand, Go Ape…
Discover the Lake District after dark on an unforgettable canoe journey across the spectacular…
The 26/27 series of canicross races has now launched! Held in England's only mountain forest, Dodd…
Embrace winter with fresh air, star-gazing and warm waters. Escape to the Lakes this winter and…
conic British screen and stage star Phil Daniels will journey from Quadrophenia to Parklife as the…
Fear returns to Muncaster with a vengeance from 29 - 31 October at SCARECASTER - our spine-tingling…
Calling all local talent – and local music lovers! Join us for Muncaster Castle's monthly Open Mic…
Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection,…
Get inspired this Winter as we welcome the Whitehaven Flower Club and guest arranger Venessa…
Join Jo from JAG Outdoors at Whinlatter for a walk around the forest at night. The walk will…
Legendary guitarist and songwriter Martin Simpson will release his new album Some Kind of Jubilee…
Discover 200 years of climbing history in Pillar 200, a fascinating new exhibition celebrating the…
Woodland Reset ~ The Conscious Self's Signature Nature Day Come and join The Conscious Self for a…
Join us for our Christmas Market! Enjoy a bit of retail therapy, where you can find unique,…
The world's finest nature images are revealed as Wildlife Photographer of the Year arrives in The…


the western lakes has a rich history, brilliantly told

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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…
Keswick
Originally a coaching inn dating back to 1770, the Lake District Castle Inn Hotel and Spa offers cosy accommodation, great food, spa treatments and relaxing leisure facilities in a peaceful setting near Bassenthwaite Lake, the perfect base for…
Various locations in Cumbria
Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller in mind, we aim to show you the hidden gems of the Lake District and also offer the option of electric bikes.
Workington
Peaceful countryside retreat on the edge of the Lake District with hot tub, BBQ hut and private setting. Ideal for couples or small families.
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.
Seascale
Sella Park is now part of the Pennington Hotels group and the management and team are extremely proud of their refurbished property, with beautiful lounge bar, Priory restaurant and relaxing bedrooms.
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.
Cockermouth
Eco cottages, built and furnished to the highest standards, in 'one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen'. The cottages have used green design and technologies with ground and air source heat pumps to power the under-floor heating beneath the…
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.
Workington
Hunday Manor is a country house hotel with beautiful views & acres of gardens, based between the western Lake District & Cumbrian coast. With breathtaking views, heritage charm, and modern event facilities, we are a venue of versatility &…
Moresby, Whitehaven
For over 65 years, Rosehill has brought a rich mix of creativity and culture to West Cumbria. From classical musicians, pop stars, comedians, and visual artists, to drama queens, icons of cinema, children’s entertainers, and so much more!
Our…
Barrow-in-Furness
The King Alfred Hotel on Walney is a thriving community pub with 10 en-suite bedrooms. With rooms overlooking Walney Channel we are greatly situated for midweek contractors to anyone looking for a weekend get away with a difference. Walney Island…
The English, Buttermere
A 17thC building, owned and run by family for 30 years. First licensed in 1735 as coaching inn. Apartments built in grounds 17 years ago and continually upgraded.
St Bees
Enjoy freshly prepared dishes made with the finest local ingredients at The Manor. From light bites to hearty meals, there’s something for everyone — with options for all dietary needs.
Cockermouth
Set in Loweswater village between Loweswater lake and Crummock water. Rural setting with picturesque views.
Boot, Holmrook
Eskdale Mill is a unique experience, nestled in one of the Lake District's most beautiful locations. This charming site embodies the Lake District’s heritage. It is the last remaining working water-powered corn mill in the Lake District.
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…
Lamplugh Rd, Cockermouth
Based in Cockermouth, on the edge of the Lake District, Wellington Farm have Six Luxury Glamping pods all with 7ft Hydrotherapy Hot Tubs and an onsite café & Tearooms. Beautiful panoramic views of the Western Lake District fells.
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…
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Cumbria Tourism, Windermere Road, Staveley, Kendal, Cumbria, LA8 9PL