Whitehaven's fascinating history is illustrated well in the three main visitor attractions. These are entertaining and educational. They describe Whitehaven's important contribution to coal mining, ship building and overseas trade in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Topics described include; trade in rum, slaves and tobacco, the many connections with America, shipbuilding, the Lowther family and how a small town was literally built on coal mining to become one of the major English ports.

Although the West coast has generally less rain than the rest of Lakeland they also provide a good refuge for those days that would otherwise be washed out for family holidays in the Lake District. The excellent regeneration of Whitehaven Harbour and the proximity of so many other attractions along the Cumbrian coast make Whitehaven a great destination for those prepared to venture a little past the tourist honeypots of Keswick and Ambleside.

Whitehaven's other major attractions are displayed below - click to select