The Cumbrian coastline – outstanding natural beauty

Cumbria’s epic coastline stretches from the Solway Firth and Scottish border to Morecambe Bay and Lancashire in the south, and encompasses the Cumbrian Coastal Route, perfect for walkers, cyclists and adventurers.  

Come for outdoor activities, there’s the King Charles III England Coast Path National Trail or the Solway Coaster: a flat, tarmacked 14.1km route which forms part of the Hadrian’s Wall Cycleway 72. 

Or book a horse ride with Cumbrian Heavy Horses near Millom for another great way to explore the area. They offer a range of rides from novice up to expert level.  

Also near Millom, if you’re a nature lover, explore RSPB Hodbarrow Nature Reserve - visit the hide from May to July to watch the tern colony in full swing - or walk along the peaceful Haverigg Beach, breathing in the fresh sea air and exploring the many sand dunes along the way.  

For cultural attractions, the town is home to The Beggar's Theatre and Millom Heritage & Arts Centre, based in the town’s beautifully restored railway station. 

Further north along the coast, you’ll find the popular Silecroft beach café – designed by award-winning architects and offering an idyllic setting to relax, recharge and enjoy a tasty menu full of local produce.  

Stop by Ravenglass, home to the popular attractions of Muncaster Castle and the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway before arriving in the picturesque coastal village of St Bees. Here you will find the newly renovated beach café, Beach Road Bakehouse.  

Why not take a walk along the sea cliffs? Part of the RSPB St Bees Head Nature Reserve and the start of Wainwright’s iconic Coast to Coast Walk.  

Once the third-largest port in the UK with trade links all over the world, Whitehaven has a rich history and heritage just waiting to be discovered.

Visit The Rum Story and The Beacon Museum – two immersive and interactive attractions telling many stories from the town’s social, industrial and maritime history.  

The Edge is an exciting new addition to the town. A unique building designed to look like a sandstone pebble, the space includes changing facilities, a cafe, public toilets, meeting spaces and accommodation. Its opening is set to benefit local communities as well as tourists visiting the area and cyclists beginning the coast-to-coast route. 

Just outside town you’ll find Rosehill providing evening entertainment such as theatre, comedy and musical performances.  

Enjoy a sunset stroll from the promenade in Maryport. 

Located on the edge of the Solway Coast National Landscape and part of the Hadrian’s Wall UNESCO World Heritage site, ‘Frontiers of the Roman Empire’, Maryport enjoys an excellent coastal location with plenty of things to see and do for the whole family. Look out for the new promenade cafe, Solway View by Redby Coffee.    

Standing next to the site of a Roman fort, if you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Senhouse Roman Museum with its extensive collection of Roman artefacts of international significance. Then head to the Lake District Coast Aquarium, home to 75 display tanks and hundreds of amazing freshwater and sea species.  

Further fun can be found at the pirate-themed, accessibly designed Shiver Me Timbers play area and the Maryport Activity Centre featuring Clip'n Climb and Soft Play.  

In the evening, stop by Captain Nelson Tavern for drinks and live music or Maryport Tandoori Indian for eating out - both awarding venues.  

Located in the Solway Coast National Landscape, the charming village of Bowness-on-Solway is a hidden gem and a great starting point for a cycle on the Hadrian's Wall Cycleway 72 or a hike along the Hadrian’s Wall Path.  

One thing’s for certain, you won’t be short of things to do on this treasure-filled Cumbrian coastline.