Workington Tourist Information

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.

Towns Near Workington To Visit - straight line distance:

Maryport (5.45 miles) Whitehaven (6.66 miles) Cockermouth (7.84 miles) Silloth (16.99 miles)
Hide AccommodationWhere to stay in Workington
HideHotels
Washington Central Hotel
Washington Street Workington CA14 3AY
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.
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HideGuest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Inns and other Hotels
Waverley Hotel
Gordon St Workington CA14 2EN
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.
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The Hall Park Hotel
23 Carlton Road Workington CA14 4BX
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.
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Cumberland Lodge
Winscales Workington CA14 4JG
In 55 acres of beautiful countryside and panoramic fell views, this luxury B&B features spacious rooms, full English breakfasts, and a sumptuous decor.
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HideHoliday Cottages
Ash Lodge
Great Clifton near Workington CA14 1SE
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. Price Guide: 420.00-1550.
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Hide Map How to get to Workington
Workington, take the A66 from Cockermouth, or the A595 north from Whitehaven, south from Maryport.

Hide AttractionsTourist Attractions in Workington to Visit

MuseumsMuseums

Helena Thompson Museum Local history over the eras.

OutdoorsOut & About

Jane Pit Ruined mine buildings.

Hide WeatherWorkington Weather
Wednesday 19th June
Day :Sunny skies17°C Sunny skies
Night :Clear skies5°C Clear skies
Thursday 20th June
Day :Partly cloudy skies21°C Partly cloudy skies
Night :Light rain12°C Light rain
Where to Stay in Workington
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Area Telephone Code
01900
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