Beechgrove Manor, Workington

Workington is an ancient market and port town on the west coast of Cumbria, based at mouth of the River Derwent. The town has a selection of shops, bars and two theatres, as well as five churches and history dating back to Roman times, with forts positioned on the coast as coastal defences. Curwen Hall is a striking ruin, which was originally built around a pele tower that dates back to the 14th century and was used to shelter Mary Queen of Scots on her last flight to Scotland before her execution. In more recent time, Workington was known for the production of high quality iron ore and mining, and the town’s industrial history can be learnt at the maritime museum based on the cliffs in nearby Whithaven. The western side of the Lake District National Park can be reached in less than half an hour’s drive, to the west is the Solway Firth and its designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and to the east are the Lakeland Hills. A wonderful base for exploring the Cumbrian coastline.