Whitehaven is a charming seaside town on the Cumbria Coast. It combines a proud maritime heritage with beautiful landscapes. Located a stone's throw away from Lake District National Park, Whitehaven is a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Cumbria.
Things to do in Whitehaven
Explore the historic harbour filled with elegant Georgian buildings. You’ll see everything from luxury yachts to historic tall ships docked at the marina. Learn more about the town’s unique narrative at the Beacon Museum. In addition to maritime-themed exhibits, the museum covers topics like the coal mining heritage, rum trade and geology of Lake District National Park.
Whitehaven is an excellent base for walks along the Cumbrian Coastal Way. The long-distance footpath passes through Whitehaven and commands spectacular views over the Irish Sea. The section from Whitehaven to the coastal village of St Bees is beautiful and takes you along soaring cliffs.
Discover iconic British landscapes in Lake District National Park. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the park is home to some of the tallest mountains in England. Walk through picturesque valleys, paddle on mirror-like lakes and explore chocolate-box villages like Windermere and Ambleside. Don’t forget to stock up on world-famous gingerbread in the village of Grasmere.
From Cumberland pork sausages served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy to lamb raised in the grass-covered hillsides of the Lake District, Whitehaven is a fantastic place to try classic Cumbrian fare. You’ll find the most authentic dishes in cosy pubs and taverns. Quench your thirst with a hoppy Cumbrian ale or a cocktail made with locally distilled gin.
Getting around Whitehaven
Whitehaven is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in Cumbria, a 2.5-hour drive from Manchester and Newcastle. Trains run between London and Whitehaven in 3.5 hours. Manchester Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away.