The ancient market and industrial town of Workington lies at the mouth of the River Derwent as if flows into the Solway Firth.
Workington, the site of a Roman fort, was once part of an elaborate coastal defence system linked to Hadrian's Wall. In the 18th century the exploitation of local iron ore and coalfields lead to Workington becoming a major industrial town and port.
It was here that Henry Bessemer introducted his revolutionary steel making process. Shipbuilding was also an important industry in the port.
With the decline of coal mining and the steel industry the town has diversified into light industries.
Today Workington is the main administrative centre for the borough of Allerdale.
A highlight of the town is the Helena Thompson Museum, bequeathed to the town by a local philantropist in 1940. Housed in an imposing Gerogian house, the museum includes pottery, silver, glass and furniture from Georgian, Regency and Victorian periods and displays illustrating the social and industrial history of Workington. An interesting tourist attraction to visit.
Nearby stands the ruins of Workington Hall, once one of the finest manor houses in the region.
When Mary, Queen of Scots fled to England after her defeat at the Battle of Langside, she stayed as an honoured guest at Workington Hall before travelling on to Carlisle.
Another of Workington's attractions is Jane Pit, a 19th century coal mine built by Henry Curwen, Lord of the Manor in Workington.
Helena Thompson Museum Park End Road, Workington CA14 4DE
Local history over the eras. Helena Thompson Museum information
Jane Pit Moss Bay Road, Workington
Ruined mine buildings. Jane Pit information
![]() |
Washington Street Workington CA14 3AY MAP Located in Workington town centre, this 4-star hotel serves locally sourced, homemade food in the lounge bar area. A flat-screen TV is in each room and free mountain bike hire is available. Shops, bars, restaurants and a cinema are within 5 minutes’ wal... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
Gordon St Workington CA14 2EN MAP In the coastal town of Workington, the friendly Waverley Hotel offers spacious rooms, a bar, Wi-Fi, free parking and good food. The Lake District is a short drive away. All bedrooms at Hotel Waverley feature tea/coffee facilities, digital TV, bathrobes a... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
23 Carlton Road Workington CA14 4BX MAP Your comfort is our aim at this family-run hotel. Bar meals are served each night and only the freshest of ingredients are used. At a recent health inspection, we were awarded 4 stars by Cumbria Tourism. Resting by the A66 motorway for Workington, The... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
Winscales Workington CA14 4JG MAP In 55 acres of beautiful countryside and panoramic fell views, this luxury B&B features its own horse racing stables. It boasts spacious rooms, full English breakfasts, and sumptuous decor. Each elegant room at Cumberland Lodge offers satellite TV and fr... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
Great Clifton near Workington CA14 1SE MAP White Gables is a detached cottage, situated in the owners grounds, on the outskirts of the village of Great Clifton, 5 miles from Cockermouth and 18 miles from Keswick. Sleeps up to 12 in 6 bedrooms. Changeover Day: Sat Price Guide: 420.00-1550.00... More Information and Book ... |
Towns Near Workington To Visit - straight line distance:
Maryport Tourist Information (5.45 miles) Whitehaven Tourist Information (6.66 miles) Cockermouth Tourist Information (7.84 miles) Silloth Tourist Information (16.99 miles)