| The Candlestick is
possibly Whitehaven's most distinctive landmark. It was actually a ventilation shaft for
Wellington pit coal mine. Said to be modelled on a candlestick belonging to the
Lowthers it had, in the past, a large metal flame on top - although more recently, when
lightning struck and ignited the methane emanating from the top, the flame was recreated
in a more dramatic fashion. It stands on the brow to the south of the harbour and is
surrounded by crenellated walls which are in fact a remainder of Wellington pit which was
built in the form of castle, turrets and all. |