Workington Tourist Information

Welcome to Workington, an ancient market and industrial town, situated of the Cumbrian coast at the mouth of the River Derwent where it flows into the Solway Firth.

The town during the Roman occupation of Britain was the site of a Hadrianic fort, which was part of the elaborate coastal defence system of the Roman Wall. When the Romans withdrew, it was in the 7th century AD that the Anglican invaders started to harry the coast and the town is said to derive its name from 'Weork' and 'Wyre', an Anglican chieftain. It was not until the 18th century, with the exploitation of the local iron ore and coalfields, that Workington expanded to become a major industrial town and port.

Workington is a lively and colourful town, and is twined with Stadt Selm, Germany; Val-de-Reuil, France; and has a civic link with Curwensville, USA.

Visit the 14th century ruins of Workington Hall, hereditary seat of the Curwen family, Lords of the Manor. In 1568 the Hall was refuge for Mary Queen of Scots, during her flight from Scotland before her imprisonment and final execution. The Hall is a classified ruin open to the public, and a stage for Shakespeare, pageant, plays and is associated with the town's annual medieval 'Curwen Fair'

The Helena Thompson Museum, is worth visiting to see the displays depicting Workington's history. The Museum also houses a temporary Exhibition Gallery.

There are numerous churches throughout the town. The parish church of St. Michael's has stood on its present site since the 7th century, although the 12th century Norman church was replaced in 1770 by a larger building. Sadly the Church was severely damaged by fire in 1994, however much excavation work has taken place providing interesting information on the site's former uses.

To the north of the town, standing prominently in the distance stands the Windfarm. These wind turbines were constructed as an alternative and environmentally friendly way of producing electricity.

Workington has an attractive shopping precinct and arcade in the town centre, together with out of town superstores. Workington provides a good range of local and national shops, and the town market is held each Wednesday and Saturday.

The Carnegie Theatre and Arts Centre stages various exhibitions and displays and has a delightfully preserved theatre which offers a varied programme of music and drama throughout the year.

For the seafarer, Workington's coastal location has led to the development of a small marina and busy working port. The adjacent harbour area has recently been rejuvenated and offers an interesting stroll along the quayside.

Whether you're a spectator or a competitor, Workington has something for everyone in the field of sport and leisure. Football, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Cricket, Tennis, Golf and Bowls can all be enjoyed here, as well as Walking and Cycling the many cycle routes on the West Cumbria cycle Network. For wet days the Leisure Centre provides a wide range of indoor activities.