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Workington Western Lakes & Coast

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Workington

Workington's main areas of interest lie about its busy, pedestrianised shopping district in the middle of town, where most of the country’s best-known high street brands are well-represented. The wonderful Carnegie Theatre and Arts Centre takes care of most of the cultural and entertainment needs, with a superb programme of concerts, plays and shows year-round. There’s a fine multiplex cinema and the Lakes Escapes, while if you fancy splitting some pins there’s always a spot of bowling.

Workington’s long history is proudly on show in Curwen Park, home to the picturesque ruin of Curwen Hall. Workington was originally built on the bedrock of coal, and the Curwen family who traded in this resource, developed the old town on the hill clustered around the marketplace and cobbled Portland Square. Once the docks, shipyards and ironworks were established on the coast, the town rapidly extended towards the sea to become the bustling town and port of today.

History & Heritage

Workington old town developed on high ground near Workington Hall and expanded to the south and west as a result of industrial exploitation of the local coal and iron ore deposits. When James I ascended to the English throne in 1603, he clamped down on the reivers – many of the ringleaders and their families were brought to Workington to await transportation by boat to the ‘wastes' of Ireland.

Under the guiding influence of the Curwens, Workington quickly expanded into a major port and town. The first dock operated in the 1760s, exporting coal to Ireland. By 1800 there were no less than 37 pits around Workington. In 1837 disaster struck when the roof of Chapel Bank Pit collapsed and 27 miners and 28 horses drowned as sea water inundated the mine. The Curwens suffered heavy financial losses as a result of this incident and made renewed attempts to find fresh sources of coal by sinking Jane Pit in 1843 followed by Annie Pit in 1864.

The expansion of the mines aided exports, prompting the Curwens to build Lonsdale Dock in 1865 to take ships up to 2000 tons. A major shipbuilding industry developed in the wake of the new dock, providing collier brigs for coal exports along with the complementary trades of sail and rope making. In 1927, the dock was enlarged again, this time to take 10,000-ton ships, and re-named the Prince of Wales dock.

The low phosphorus content of the iron ore was highly suitable for use in the Bessemer converter - a means of producing a higher grade of steel by blasting air through molten pig iron to drive off any impurities. The mines, ironworks and docks were linked by a network of railways that transported the coal and steel to other parts of the country and overseas via the West Coast ports. With the decline of the coal and steel industries in the 1950s, Workington diversified into light industries. The old iron ore workings and slag heaps were flattened and sites re-landscaped for modern industrial estates and out-of-town shopping centres. Instead of tall chimneys and iron furnaces, Workington's skyline is now dominated by the white blades of wind turbines, providing an alternative and clean source of electricity for over 20,000 homes.

FAQs

Where is Workington located?

Workington is located on the Cumbrian coast, between Maryport and Whitehaven.

How to get to Workington?

Workington is accessible by car on the A595/6 and the A66. It can also be reached by bus, with services from nearby towns and villages. Standing on the Cumbrian Coast Line, Workingtos is also accessible by train.

Surrounding Areas

- The maritime port of Whitehaven was once the third largest in the UK with trade links all over the world. The wealth of Georgian architecture led to Whitehaven being listed as a ‘gem town' by the Council for British Archaeology.

Cockermouth - The Georgian town of Cockermouth is the gateway to the Western Lake District. It’s a lovely place to stay and the added bonus is you can be on a lakeshore, at the beach or up a fell within 20 minutes’ drive – if you can tear yourself away from its wealth of attractions.

Did you know?

MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS (1542–1587)

Stayed at Workington Hall for one night in 1568 after fleeing from Scotland by boat. From here she wrote to her cousin, Elizabeth I, expressing fears for her safety. Three days later she was imprisoned in Carlisle Castle and later executed as a threat to the Tudor monarchy. After her stay at Workington Hall, Mary Queen of Scots gave her host, Sir Henry Curwen, a drinking cup made of agate, which became known as the ‘Luck of Workington’.

JANE PIT, WORKINGTON

The remains of this 19th century coal mine sunk by Henry Curwen in 1843 are the best surviving examples of castellated colliery architecture. The monument retains a gin circle and steam engine house, demonstrating the evolution from horse-powered to steam powered winding. Jane Pit operated until the mid-1870s.

UPPIES AND DOWNIES

Workington is home to a game known as ‘Uppies and Downies’, a historical version of football traditionally played by sailors and colliers. The goals are about a mile apart, one being a capstan at the harbour and the other the park wall of Workington Hall. There are no rules, except those of cunning, skill and brute force. The 'Uppies' attempt to ‘hale’ the ball over the park wall; the 'Downies' over the capstan, with the winners emerging from the best of three games.

the western lakes has a rich history, brilliantly told

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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Address

Carnegie Theatre & Arts Centre, Finkle Street, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 2BD

Telephone
01900 602122

kim@singingseo.co.uk

Workington

From the society that brought you Come From Away and West Side Story, Workington Amateur Operatic Society continue their 120th Anniversary Celebrations with a full society production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Joseph and the…

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Step into Greece

Address

Hunday Manor Country House Hotel, Hunday Manor Hotel, Winscales, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 4JF

Telephone
01900 61798

hundaymanor@ospreyinns.co.uk

Winscales, Workington

One of our Summer Series events, escape to the Mediterranean for a night of music, food and celebration inspired by 'Mamma Mia!'.
Your evening takes place in our new Woodland Event Suites. It includes a welcome drink on arrival, a three-course…

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Dunmail Park

Address

Dunmail Park Shopping Centre, Maryport Rd, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 1NQ

Telephone
01900 842 842

grosbald@dunmailpark.com

Workington

Shopping centre with department store, 11 shops, 6 cinemas, 3 restaurants. Over 400 free parking spaces. Petrol and convenience store 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

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Flower Club: Guided Tours and Flower Workshops

Address

5 Valley View, Little Clifton, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 1YS

Telephone
07928986915

harriet@cumberlandflowerfarm.co.uk

Workington

The Flower Club at Cumberland Flower Farm is back! After a long break, we're relaunching our monthly gathering for seasonal flower lovers. Taking place in our flower field in West Cumbria, we'll be running small guided tours, showing you each stage…

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The Galloping Horse

Address

The Galloping Horse, 95 Main Rd, High Harrington, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 4NQ

Telephone
01946 328203

High Harrington, Workington

The Galloping Horse in Harrington is a friendly village pub serving hearty food, great drinks, and warm Cumbrian hospitality—an ideal stop when exploring the nearby Lake District and beautiful west Cumbrian coast.

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Party in the Park

Address

Vulcan Park, Park Lane, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 2QA

Telephone
07743984095

stephen@everyonehere.org

Workington

An event designed to bring the community together for a free, family friendly weekend, from 11am –5pm, Saturday and Sunday. It will feature live music, market stalls, children's entertainment, face painting, fun fair and much more…

In 2026 the…

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Party in the Park

Address

Vulcan Park, Park Lane, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 2QA

Telephone
07743984095

stephen@everyonehere.org

Workington

An event designed to bring the community together for a free, family friendly weekend, from 11am –5pm, Saturday and Sunday. It will feature live music, market stalls, children's entertainment, face painting, fun fair and much more…

In 2026 the…

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Armidale Cottages Bed & Breakfast

Address

Armidale Cottages B&B, High Seaton, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 1PD

Telephone
01900 63704

armidalecotts@hotmail.com

Workington

Armidale Cottages B&B is set in half an acre of land with a small orchard. Built in the 16thC the cottages have been lovingly renovated to a very high standard, retaining many of the original features.

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40 reviews
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West Cumbria Cycle Network

Address

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website@cumbriatourism.org

A 72 mile network of cycle routes linking off road sections on disused railways with the minor road system. The route links Cockermouth, Workington, Distington, Whitehaven, Cleator Moor and Ennerdale. There are branches from Cleator Moor to Egremont…

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Seasonal Picnic Lunch at Cumberland Flower Farm

Address

5 Valley View, Little Clifton, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 1YS

Telephone
07928986915

harriet@cumberlandflowerfarm.co.uk

Workington

Cumberland Flower Farm is rarely open to the public, but this year we're hosting a few small, special events where you can take a look around our sustainable flower farm, see how we grow, and enjoy good food and good company. You'll have the chance…

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Supper, Sounds & Sunset

Address

Hunday Manor Country House Hotel, Hunday Manor Hotel, Winscales, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 4JF

Telephone
01900 61798

hundaymanor@ospreyinns.co.uk

Winscales, Workington

Join us for Supper, Sounds & Sunset, a relaxed garden party where the perfect evening comes alive with music, food, and breathtaking views. Savour a welcome drink and delicious summer garden party dining to accompany the sunset, together with live…

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Hunday Manor Country House Hotel

Address

Hunday Manor Hotel, Winscales, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 4JF

Telephone
0190061798

info@hundaymanorhotel.co.uk

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 &…

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Harrington Marina Day

Address

Harrington marina, Harrington, Workington, Cumbria, CA145QH

Telephone
07596677942

coastalcommunities@outlook.com

Workington

The Harrington Marina Day consists of free live music, children's entertainer, shire horses, live wood carving, fire brigade car cutting demonstration, lifeboats, ambulances, police, food and drink vendors, stallholders, sports demonstrations,…

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Scenery Hill Hideaways

Address

Branthwaite, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 4SZ

Telephone
07440 552945

info@sceneryhillhideaways.co.uk

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.

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Flimby Children's Carnival

Address

Flimby Rugby Field, West Lane, Flimby, cumbria, CA15 8RL

Telephone
+447701039800

flimbycarnival14@hotmail.com

Flimby

Carnival Parade and family fun event with live music and fair

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Our Lady Star of the Sea & St Michael Church, Workington

Address

Banklands, WORKINGTON, Cumbria, CA14 3EP

info@workingtoncatholicchurch.co.uk

WORKINGTON

The church was designed by Edward Welby Pugin (son of Augustus Welby Pugin) and built between 1873 - 1876 to replace a chapel in the grounds which now forms part of St Joseph's High School.

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Stargazing Package at Armidale Cottages Bed & Breakfast

Address

Armidale Cottages B&B, High Seaton, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 1PD

Telephone
01900 63704

armidalecotts@hotmail.com

Workington

Our Dark Sky package is specially designed to ensure you are able to fully enjoy your stargazing experience. We provide use of a Sky-watcher telescope and comfortable outdoor seating, as well as blankets, hot water bottles, hot drinks and light…

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Tourism For All

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40 reviews
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Festival of Running

Address

Workington Cricket Club, The Cloffocks, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 3YH

Telephone
07743984095

info@everyonehere.org

Workington

The Festival of Running is a community-focused sporting event designed to promote health, wellbeing and local engagement. The event combines competitive races with family-friendly activities, entertainment and refreshments, creating an inclusive and…

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Buses to and through Workington

Address

Workington, Cumbria

Telephone
0871 200 22 33

workingtontic@allerdale.gov.uk

Cumbria

Buses to and through Workington:
1A Great Clifton - Workington.
30/30A/30B Thornhill - Whitehaven - Workington - Maryport.
31/31A Frizington - Cleator Moor - Whitehaven - Workington - Maryport
35 Workington - Great Broughton - Cockermouth l.
36…

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Workington Central Way Car Park

Address

Campbell-Savours Way, WORKINGTON, Cumbria, CA14 3DZ

WORKINGTON

Centrally located multi-storey car park with 427 spaces.
Height restrictions: 1.98m Open 7 days a week.
Public toilets adjacent to the car park.

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Workington

History & Heritage

FAQs

Where is Workington located?

How to get to Workington?

Surrounding Areas

Did you know?

MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS (1542–1587)

JANE PIT, WORKINGTON

UPPIES AND DOWNIES

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Tourism For All

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