Maryport and Workington Tourist Information

Have you really seen Cumbria if you haven't ventured outside the Lake District National Park? This stretch of coast has a fascinating and beleaguered industrial history, which could do with a bit more exploration in local museums!

Workington along with Maryport and Whitehaven were important strategic towns during the industrial revolution and were built up on old industries such as coal mining, iron ore and steel. These industries prospered because of the close proximity of this West Coast to Ireland. Much of the coal, iron and steel was exported to Ireland.

Featured Lake District Accommodation

Riverside Hotel - Kendal

Luxury leisure hotel in Kendal overlooking the River Kent. Hotel includes restaurant, bar, conference and wedding facilities

£54 to £74 Per person B&B

Mary Queen of Scots and Workington Hall

Workington Hall is, apparently, the most important secular historic building in Workington. Urr well, I think some of the derelict pits might be pretty significant as well. You decide. This hall was inhabited by the Curwen family, was their a bird named after them? Anyway, they owned the hall up until 1929. It's most famous visitor was Mary Queen of Scots in 1568, and this was here final refuge spot before she was imprisoned and eventually executed!

Workington Hall is now a dedicated ruin, and hosts many events throughout the year, including re-enactments of battles such as The Battle of Curwen Hall which it staged in 2001, and the local drama group stages outdoor performances.

Workington Hall, Curwen Park, Workington, Cumbria, open May to October: Thursday - Sunday, 11am - 4pm

Helena Thompson Museum, Workington

Eh, don't you just love a bit of charity! Good old Helena Thompson bequeathed her house, possessions, and collections and such to the people of Workington. I'm sure they're chuffed.

Although it started off a bit twee with antiques, curios and albeit some interesting textiles and costumes, the collection has developed to include exhibitions on local industry and social history. Of interest is the photographic collection. There's a Victorian room, a Georgian room and various domestic items dating from the second half of the 18th century. Hey ho, plans are afoot to review what's on offer in this museum. A little more attention to the social history of the community this museum is dedicated to would be welcome.

Open Mon to Sat 10:30am - 4pm. Admission is FREE Park End Road, Workington, CA14 4DE, Tel: 01900 326255

Featured Lake District Accommodation

Riverside Hotel - Kendal

Luxury leisure hotel in Kendal overlooking the River Kent. Hotel includes restaurant, bar, conference and wedding facilities

£54 to £74 Per person B&B

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