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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 Ranger on their rounds to fill the red squirrel feeders! Whinlatter is a red squirrel…
Maryport is welcoming back Taste Cumbria on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 August 2024 for the Taste of…
Alpacas traditionally live high up in the mountains of Peru, but on 11 August you can join these…
Enchanting evenings of music in the forest, with floor spots, special guests and an informal…
Wheels Int Lakes are hosting our very 1st Automotive event on 11th August at Rowrah Go Kart Track.…
Mini family-friendly festival of theatre, craft, music and fun! Free for all.
Mini family-friendly festival of theatre, craft, music and fun! Free for all.
Bring the whole family for free drop in activities as part of our Summer of Play programme. Unleash…
Bring the whole family for free drop in activities as part of our Summer of Play programme. Drop in…
Graham Blaney will be bringing his popular Pits, Presidents and Pirates Guided Walking Tour back to…
Join our Ranger on their rounds to fill the red squirrel feeders! Whinlatter is a red squirrel…
Keswick Show takes place on August Bank Holiday Weekend on the outskirts of Keswick near…
Guided tour of the Roman fort at Maryport, led by a volunteer guide. The tour lasts for 30-45…
Mini family-friendly festival of theatre, craft, music and fun! Free for all.
Tribute to Showaddywaddy in Barrow
Join our experienced, knowledgeable Ranger as they lead you around our amazing WOW Trail! The Wow…
Producers market showcasing local and Fairtrade foods and crafts from west Cumbria. Music from…
Mini family-friendly festival of theatre, craft, music and fun! Free for all.
Weekly Market each Wednesday. Good range of fresh produce, gifts and household essentials.
Join our Ranger on their rounds to fill the red squirrel feeders! Whinlatter is a red squirrel…
Open to the public daily from 24-31 August • 10-4 pm Free entry, booking not required Suitable…
The full Grain moon marks the beginning of super moon season, where the moon is at her closest to…
Mini family-friendly festival of theatre, craft, music and fun! Free for all.
the western lakes has a rich history, brilliantly told
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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…
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 Lake, Bassenthwaite
Connoisseurs of fine cuisine will find much to appreciate at Armathwaite Hall Country House Hotel and Spa.
Barrow-in-Furness
Built in a historic nineteenth century dock, the museum is home to a wealth of objects on the social and industrial history of the Furness area. The museum is a great day out for all with a popular playground, attractive Channelside walks, cafe…
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 Orient Express train, right here in the Lake District.
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 –…
Rowrah
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.
Whitehaven
Moresby Hall is an historic Grade 1 listed building offering fantastic food and accommodation on the outskirts of Whitehaven.
Allonby
The Ship Hotel is a 17th century coaching inn. Centre of a village community, in a pleasant seaside holiday village overlooking the Solway Firth and across the road from a big play park.
Whitehaven
We are an independent cafe situated at the ground floor of the Beacon museum
Marine Rd, Maryport
The family-owned café offers a welcoming atmosphere with hearty portions, delicious pies, and a famed Cumbrian breakfast. Enjoy filling lunches and sneaky treats with cosy indoor and outdoor seating.
Nr Holmrook
A traditional tearoom and gift shop serving breakfast, lunch, coffee, cakes and afternoon teas. Our gift shop stocks a range of cards, artwork, jewellery, books, candles, jams, chutneys and giftware.
Marine Rd, Maryport
Quaint little coffee and ice cream house selling local handmade ice cream coffee and cakes. Also, we serve our delicious coffee and hot chocolate which is supplied by a local company.
Bassenthwaite
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.
Whitehaven
Ravens Nest is a specialist tea, coffee, and cocktail bar. It’s a fun, friendly venue, with exclusive cocktails, quality hot drinks, and an exciting array of vegetarian food, to suit every guest.
Cockermouth
Originally an 18th Century Lakeland farm house, Embleton Spa Hotel is a relaxed, informal hotel with bar, restaurant and delightful en-suite rooms and apartments.
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