Maryport
Maryport
Maryport - Historic Maritime & Roman Town
The harbour town of Maryport was developed to a grid pattern by the Senhouse family in the 18th century. Georgian and Victorian houses can still be enjoyed with a gentle stroll to the impressive Fleming Square. Take in the local shops and the quirky cafes as well as bric a brac shops that make browsing a pleasure. There are also some great visitor attractions including The Lake District Coast Aquarium, Clip n’ Climb at the Wave and indoor go-karting – perfect for keeping the family entertained.
Delightful harbour
Maryport has striking views out into the Solway Firth and across to Scotland. Magnificent sunsets are a memorable sight. The town’s extensive harbour and Promenade are a pleasure to stroll around. Keep your eyes peeled as you may spot a Harbour Porpoise which visit from time to time. The harbour has a 4 Star Gold Anchor Marina, harbourisde caravan park with touring pitches and hard standing for boats. Fishing, boats still operate out of the harbour and together with pleasure craft, make a very colourful sight.
Fine art
The museum also has fine paintings including some by the acclaimed maritime artist William Mitchell as well as works by Percy Kelly, who is now rightly known to a wider audience. You can follow in his footsteps by taking the Percy Kelly Maryport Walking Trail. The trail is a good introduction to Maryport and you will see that a lot of what Percy captured, can still be seen today.
Fish themed fun
The Lake District Aquarium also on the harbour povides an interactive, hands on journey to discover the fauna of the coast and inland waterways. Aquarists are on hand to share their love and knowledge of the fish in their care. Kids will love to see the native sharks and rays as well as the daily feeding sessions. The Harboursiede Cafe in the Aquarium is a good lunch choice and excess energy can be run off in the maritime themed adventure play park outside.
White Star Line
The Maryport Maritime Museum charts the town’s long association with the sea. The Ismay family came from Maryport and went on to establish the White Start Line that owned the ill–fated Titanic. Find out more in the White Star Room in the museum.
Roman frontier
In a fine location overlooking the Solway Firth, the Senhouse Roman Museum has an outstanding collection of the largest group of Roman military altar stones and inscriptions from any site in Britain, and unique examples of Romano-British religious sculpture. The museum is next to the site of a Roman fort. Scale the observation tower, and you get a good impression of the former fort, one of the largest in the North of England.
For hands on fun, try indoor climbing and caving at Clip ‘n Climb. West Coast Indoor Karting offers thrills and sprills while bargains are to be had at the New Balance Factory Shop.
Independents
A good range of independent businesses can be found in the town centre. Food lovers, will enjoy Cumbria on a Plate at nearby Mawbray, taking you on an artisan food voyage of discovery, while Her Citi, is a cafe with a difference with lovely coffee and cakes of course, but also with an accessories and clothes rail plus a very friendly welcome.
Nearby on Senhouse Street in the town centre is Maryport Collectables, a treasure trove of antiques and collectables.
Accommodation
The Golden Lion Hotel is an excellent choice for those looking to extend their stay in Maryport. The town also offers a range of bed and breakfast options and a number of caravan parks in the surrounding areas.
There is a wealth of choice of accommodation during your Lake District, Cumbria break. Choose from a great selection of the best quality hotels, B&B’s, self-catering cottages and lodges to rent, as well as camping and caravanning sites surrounded by beautiful scenery.
We have splendid dining options in Alllerdale, from fine dining to cosy cafes and wholesome pub grub. Dishes inspired by local produce and our surroundings is definitely on the menu and you will enjoy your experience in some of the finest settings in the country, a perfect combination.
Our landscapes are an adventure playground like no other. You will find over 40% of the Lake District National Park here, the glorious Solway Coast and Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site. The opportunities for discovery, excitement and personal fulfilment amongst magnificent scenery are limitless.
From food festivals to theatre, and music festivals to outdoor events… jump in and enjoy Allerdale’s vibrant festival and events scene. The wide range mirrors the vibrant cultural life of our warm-hearted area.
How to find Maryport:
Maryport's famous son, Edward Benn Smith VC, DCM
See the commemoration on South Quay, Maryport
View the commemoration booklet Ned Smith booklet