Maryport

Where the Solway Firth meets the Irish Sea

The attractive harbour town of Maryport sits on the northwestern coast of Cumbria and is the most western town on the Solway Firth, where the River Ellen meets the Irish Sea. Around 6 miles north of Workington, 21 miles northwest of Keswick and 26 miles west of Carlisle, Maryport is an ancient town dating back to around 122 CE where it was an important coastal port for the Roman Empire. These days Roman remains can be found at the Alauna Roman Fort for those interested in history, or visitors can explore the pretty port and watch fishing boats haul in the catch of the day.

From a large strategic Roman port town to an important mining community, Maryport has enjoyed a largely industrial past although the mines, steelworks and shipyards are long gone now. These days Maryport Cumbria sees a wealth of visitors all year round and lists tourism as its main economy and with plenty to see and do here, it’s no wonder Maryport is one of the most popular places to visit on the west coast of Cumbria.

With a large Maryport aquarium, the Lake District Coast Aquarium, Maryport go karting at West Coast Indoor Karting and Maryport Activity Centre, formerly known as the Wave Centre Maryport, all providing plenty of entertainment for the whole family, Maryport is an excellent place to spend a wet day indoors! When the skies are blue, things to do in Maryport include a walk along the promenade at Maryport Harbour followed by fish and chips along the boardwalk with a front row seat to the incredible sunsets across the sea here. Or find one of the heritage trails that loop around the town, following in the footsteps of acclaimed artists. Maryport Marina sits just behind Maryport Beach, and both are well worth a visit if you haven’t been here before.

Nearby

There is so much to see and do in and around Maryport. From the Maryport Maritime Museum to clip and climb Maryport at the activity centre by the sea, this bustling town has lots to keep both kids and adults entertained. Less known is that Maryport has a thriving blues scene and hosts a blues festival every summer that attracts a wealth of international artists. There is also an annual Taste of the Sea festival showcasing the best produce from Maryport and the coast of Cumbria. Maryport has a busy calendar of local events all year round and is a wonderful place to stay to explore Carlisle, the Lakes and the west coast of Cumbria.

Location

To reach Maryport, take the A596 from Carlisle to the coast or arrive via the A66 from the east. The M6 is around an hours drive from Maryport but the route across the northern fells, or from the south up the Cumbrian coastline are both scenic driving routes and the extra effort to get here will reward those who make it. From Maryport, enjoy coastal walks to the north and south or head to the northern lakes of Bassenthwaite Lake or Derwentwater. Take a train to Carlisle for the day to visit Carlisle Castle and learn more about the heritage of this Cumbrian capital city.

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