From Maryport to Whitehaven.

Explore the industrial heritage of the North West Coast.  Sitting to the west of the Lake District this stretch of the England Coast Path connects Maryport and Whitehaven, two historical ports dating back to Roman times. Whilst not traditionally picturesque the coast is rich with interesting industrial heritage that spans the decades, from coal transportation to wind farms.

Tour Overview

The icons below highlight the distance, difficulty and theme of this itinerary.

Distance

15.25 Miles/ 24.5 Km

Days

2

Grade

Gentle

Theme

History Coastal

Landscape Type

Coastal, History

England Coast Path - North West - Maryport to Whitehaven

Here's everything you need to help you plan your very own walking adventure. Click on the blue arrow tabs below for more information.

Itinerary

A general level of fitness is required to walk this section of the England Coast Path. Expect good paths with no steep inclines. 

Maryport to Workington

Before setting off for the first day of walking why not explore the Maryport Marina visiting the Lake District Coast Aquarium and the Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the maritime, industrial and social history of Maryport.

Then head north to visit Senhouse Roman Museum. Dramatically sited on cliffs overlooking the Solway Firth, this award-winning museum is next to a Roman fort. Climb the observation tower for a fabulous view of the site.

Continue north along the hard surface path as it meanders down. Where the path forks, veer left towards the sea and then left again to pick up the England Coast Path. Continue along the Promenade back to Maryport and across the bridge. Turn right and then left down a Trail towards the sea continuing on the England Coast Path along the seafront walking parallel to the sea until you reach Workington.

Workington to Whitehaven

Workington is an ancient market and industrial town at the mouth of the River Derwent and is the main shopping centre for west Cumbria. Some parts of the town north of the River Derwent date back to Roman times. It was in the 18th century, with the exploitation of the local iron ore and coal pits, that Workington expanded to become a major industrial town and port.

From Workington follow the path from the bridge over the harbour which will take you to the point looking out to sea from the Coastguard’s look out.  From there the path goes inland slightly and follows the railway line, crossing it at times eventually leading  you to the lovely Marina at Harrington. Continue along the signed path under a line of impressive wind turbines and on to Parton. Here you may want to take some time to investigate the remains of a roman fort and you might even find yourself a fossil or two at Parton Bay. From here follow the well defined path that runs parallel to the railway track into the attractive town of Whitehaven.

Accommodation

You will find a small number of hotels, service rooms and bed and breakfast facilities in Maryport, Workington and Whitehaven centres. Rooms may be limited and so it is best to book ahead. 

 

 

Travel

The nearest airports to Maryport and Whitehaven are Blackpool, Newcastle and Glasgow.

There are direct trains from Maryport and Whitehaven to Carlisle from where you can get good connections to the rest of the UK.

Advice

We advise that you choose footwear and clothing to suit the predicted weather.

Food & Drink

Maryport, Workington and Whitehaven have shops and cafes but finding food or places to eat along the way may be quite difficult. Be sure to plan your food and drink in advance and carry enough supplies for the day with you.

 

Maps, Guidebooks and Merchandise

The official guidebook and map for the Trail are available from the National Trails Shop along with a wide range of gifts and other merchandise.

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