It’s no secret that the Central Lakes get many millions more visitors than its Western counterpart, but in fact, for the sake of an extra half an hour’s journey, there are some spectacular sights, things to do, places to see, and usually with far fewer people to contend with! With a train service that runs along the coastal edge of this glorious county, you can take it all in at a nice pace, while stopping off to immerse yourself in the lesser explored terrains of the Wild West…

1. Ulverston

This quirky town is home to the ridiculous, the revered, and the renowned with its stand-out hilltop monument (‘The Hoad’), richly historic meandering cobbled streets, reputation for bizarre festivals, a world-famous meditation centre, and as being the birthplace of Stan Laurel (Laurel & Hardy). With its buzzing hub of market stalls, shops, cafes, and cosy pubs, Ulverston is always worth a trip - no two visits are ever quite the same! If you’re looking to stay over then The Warehouse is in a great location, and is a cosy retreat from a day out exploring!

2. Haverigg

This small fishing-village in the Duddon Estuary is known for its excellent wildlife, with an extensive RSPB reserve right on the doorstep. It’s position at the foot of Black Combe makes for striking views, and the village also boasts a watersports park, and a restored lighthouse. The Bay View cosy cottage offers just that - stunning views of this bay in all weathers!

3. Silecroft

Sometimes there is nothing like a long wild walk on the beach to calm your mind and blow away the cobwebs. The beach at Silecroft offers just that, you’ll feel like you’re on the edge of the world as you gaze out at the Irish Sea. You can retreat inland a few hundred yards to the delightful Whicham Hall B&B, and nip for a pint or three and some grub at Silecroft’s one and only pub; The Miner’s Arms.

4. Ravenglass

This sleepy village is renowned for its stunning sunsets and great food! Watch the tide roll in and out over a glass of something nice and some locally caught fish at The Pennington Hotel, or head up to Muncaster Castle for a day of wildlife, history and family activities. If you have a few hours to spare then venture inland on the famous ‘lal Ratty’ steam train to Eskdale Valley where you can explore the waterfalls, dine at one of the numerous pubs, and explore the Hardknott Roman Fort. Ravenglass has Roman history of its own with the remains of the ancient bath house (130 AD) stationed there.

The Ravenglass to Eskdale Railway - Photo by Mark Fielding

5. St Bees

The striking cliffs at St Bees match its equally impressive 1000 year long history. You’ll find a warm welcome in this village, and The Byres are the perfect place to base yourself if you want to get underneath the skin of this intriguing and curious little gem on the Cumbrian Coast. The village is the starting point of Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk, the site of a nearly 500 year old school, and there is a great selection of pubs and eateries.

6. Allonby

Set in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this village is full of well-preserved historical buildings and intrigue. Once part of an old smuggler’s route, and now famous for its long beach and primed position for windsurfing, this quaint North Cumbrian village is well worth a visit. Captain’s Cottage is a great spot to stay over and enjoy big sky views!

7. Silloth

Last but not least on this tour of the West Coast is the sunny seaside town of Silloth! With beautiful green spaces, and views over the Solway Firth and the Lakeland fells, Silloth rewards those who can make the journey with plenty to do and see. With golf courses galore, a mild climate, a motorcycle museum, well-kept colourful buildings to stay in, and a fascinating history of trade and industry - make sure you give yourself time in this Northerly Cumbrian town to relax into the sleepy pace of life.

The Seven Wonder's of Cumbria's Wild West