Things To Do
in Whitehaven
Whitehaven is a coastal town on the Cumbrian coast in northwest England, renowned for its Georgian planned townscape and harbour-side charm. Its clean, whitewashed streets and grand ladrone-style façades give the town a distinctive character that blends history with maritime life. The harbour and seafront offer scenic views, while nearby Lakeland scenery is just a short drive away for day trips.
With a friendly, compact centre, Whitehaven is ideal for relaxed exploring, café culture, and access to the western Lake District coastline.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in Whitehaven, start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbor, soaking in the stunning views of the Irish Sea and the charming Georgian architecture. Visit the Whitehaven Museum to learn about the town's rich maritime history.
Explore the quaint streets lined with shops and boutiques, perfect for discovering local crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at one of the seaside fish and chips shops, where you can taste the catch of the day. Head to the nearby Harbour Square for some relaxation amidst fountains and landscaped gardens.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a restaurant offering local cuisine, perhaps featuring fresh seafood. Spend the rest of the evening along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the cool breeze and the twinkling lights of the harbor. Wrap up your first day with a cozy drink at a pub, mingling with friendly locals.
Make your way to St. Bees, known for its stunning cliffs and beautiful beach. Take a morning walk along the sandy shores and enjoy the dramatic views of the coastline. Visit the historic St. Bees Priory, dating back to the 12th century, and marvel at its architecture.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Try your hand at a bit of surfing or simply relax on the sand with a good book. In the afternoon, hike along the coastal path, taking in the breathtaking scenery and spotting local wildlife.
Return to Whitehaven and indulge in a dinner featuring local ingredients at a nearby eatery. Wander through the town's streets as night falls, admiring the lit-up buildings and taking in the peaceful atmosphere. End your evening at a local café, enjoying dessert or a warm beverage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍺Pint of beer at a pub | $5-7 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, well-preserved Georgian architecture
- Excellent access to the coast and nearby Lakeland scenery
- Relaxed pace with friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and late-night options compared with bigger cities
- Weather can be changeable and rain-prone
Places to Visit in Whitehaven
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunset views over the harbour with moored boats and the working waterfront; reflections on calm days create striking images.
Lavish Georgian façades and pastel-coloured townhouses create a classic architectural photography setting.
Historic streets and the surrounding squares offer interesting angles and street photography opportunities.
Food in Whitehaven
Whitehaven Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional sausage often served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy; widely available in local pubs and eateries.
Must-Try!
Traditional battered fish with chunky chips, commonly enjoyed by the harbour area.
British desserts featuring local styles and ingredients; often found on dessert menus in cafes and restaurants.
A classic mint-flavoured confection from Cumbria, often enjoyed as a snack or gift.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring local produce, street food stalls, and crafts in the Market Place and surrounding streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wait your turn in queues, greet staff politely, and say please and thank you. Small talk with locals at cafes is common.
Tipping is customary but modest; if service charge is included, no extra tip is required.
Respect private gardens and properties; keep to marked paths on coastal areas and nature reserves.
Safety
Tipping in Whitehaven
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory; in pubs and restaurants, rounding up or leaving 10-15% for good service is common if not included in the bill.
Card payments are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and smaller venues that may not take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with fresh coastal air; markets and outdoor cafes start to reopen; keep a light layer for sea breezes.
Warm days and long evenings; excellent for harbour walks, outdoor dining, and photography at golden hour along the quay.
Relaxed atmosphere; cooler temperatures with potential coastal mist; great for moody landscapes and quieter streets.
Colder and windier with occasional rain; shorter days mean earlier sunsets—perfect for atmospheric coastal photography indoors near the harbour.
Whitehaven at Night
Hiking in Whitehaven
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cliff-top walk with seabird colonies and expansive sea views; accessible from St Bees and a short drive from Whitehaven.
Forest and lakeside trails around Ennerdale Water; a peaceful alternative to busier Lakeland routes.
Experienced hikers can pursue classic Lakeland peaks and dramatic fell scenery within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Whitehaven by plane.
Small regional airport serving UK destinations with convenient access to the northwest.
Major international hub with frequent UK and international flights; roughly a couple of hours by road from Whitehaven.
Regional airport providing domestic and European routes, a reasonable option for travelers from the south and west.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Whitehaven, attracted by coastal living, parks, and schools.
A significant retiree community drawn by a relaxed pace and proximity to nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and community teams are active; matches and casual play are common in parks and schools.
Coastal location lends itself to sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing along the harbour and coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whitehaven.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes offer vegetarian options; ask staff about meat-free specials and sides like roasted vegetables, halloumi, or lentil dishes.
Many venues can accommodate gluten-free needs with breads and batter alternatives; confirm cross-contamination practices when ordering.