Far from the crowds, Cumbria’s coast is a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list, featuring stylish hotels, fascinating attractions and a burgeoning food scene.
Food and drink dominates Cumbria’s coastline, from the freshest seafood in Whitehaven to the medieval dining rooms of Muncaster Castle and lots more choices in between.
The coast is served by train routes from Carlisle in the north and Barrow and Lancaster in the south, allowing for easy access, and with just a few miles of coastal roads between places, visitors could even hire an electric or pedal bike to explore.
Food and drink is key to the story of the coast which is told by the museum, The Rum Story in Whitehaven.
Here visitors can learn all about the importation of sugar, molasses and rum.
The museum, which is based in warehouses once used for smuggling, depicts the story of importers the Jefferson family, who brought produce into the UK in the 18th century.
Today, food and drink in Whitehaven ranges from harbourside restaurants such as the Howling Wolf Bakery located in the Beacon Museum to historic venues like Moresby Hall Hotel, which dates back to the 16th century and features a new daily lunch menu.
From Whitehaven, a visit to St Bees, with its wide beaches and impressive cliffs, allows an opportunity to indulge in delicious treats or pick up gifts and souvenirs at Hartley’s Beach Shop and Tea Rooms.
Journey south to the coastal town of Seascale, which has been popular since Victorian times. Today the town continues to tempt visitors to places like Calder House Hotel with its new bar and restaurant which features panoramic coastal views.
Also new in Seascale is a chic fish and chip restaurant, which alongside serving locally sourced produce, brews beers onsite.
Meanwhile pick up a delicious sweet treat at Mawson’s Ice Cream Parlour.
England’s first narrow gauge railway, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, has long been a popular attraction and that too is a haven for foodies, whether coming for one of the regular food and drink themed trains or to sample the produce at one of the hospitality venues along the line.
Complete a day out with a visit to Muncaster Castle, a historic haunted house where you can joust, encounter owls and even book a group private dining experience in a medieval dining room.
For further information about these and other Cumberland venues visit http://www.visitlakedistrict.com/taste
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