Maryport sits just north of Workington on the Cumbrian coast. This harbour town is part of the **Hadrian’s Wall UNESCO World Heritage site** and is steeped in Roman and maritime history. On a breezy autumn day I set out to discover its heritage, sample the seafood and enjoy its family‑friendly attractions. Here’s how to spend a rewarding day in Maryport.

## Morning: Senhouse Roman Museum and maritime history

Start your visit at the **Senhouse Roman Museum**, perched next to the site of the Roman fort Alauna. The museum contains one of Britain’s most significant collections of Roman altars and inscriptions, many discovered in nearby fields. Exhibits explain how, around AD 122, the Romans built a series of forts, milefortlets and turrets to defend the western coastline. I spent an hour wandering through the displays and climbing the observation tower, which offers panoramic views over the Solway Firth.

From the museum, walk downhill to the **Maryport Maritime Museum**. Housed in a Georgian building on Senhouse Street, it tells the story of Maryport’s ship‑building boom. The town owes its existence to the discovery of coal deposits and the vision of Humphrey Senhouse, who established a new harbour in the 18th century and named the town after his wife. Exhibits showcase model ships, tales of mariners and the White Star Line – whose founder Thomas Henry Ismay was born here. Learning how Maryport once shipped 300,000 ton  of coal a year made me appreciate its transformation from industrial port to seaside destination.

## Lunch on the harbourside

For lunch, stroll to **Maryport harbour**. The quayside is lined with cafes and pubs serving fresh fish and local delicacies. On sunny days the outdoor seating is perfect for watching yachts and fishing boats glide in and out of the marina. If you’re visiting in late summer, look out for the **Taste of the Sea Maryport** food festival – part of the Taste Cumbria series – which celebrates local produce with stalls, cooking demonstrations and kids’ activities.

After lunch, take a gentle walk along the promenade. Maryport faces west, so the **Solway coast** delivers spectacular vistas and sunsets. The accessible beachfront boardwalk makes it easy for visitors of all ages to enjoy the views. You can also hire a bike and cycle a stretch of the Hadrian’s Cycleway, Route 72.

## Afternoon: Lake District Coast Aquarium

No trip to Maryport is complete without a visit to the **Lake District Coast Aquarium**. Opened in 1997, the aquarium houses **more than 90 themed tanks** with marine life from the Cumbrian and UK coastline. There’s a **Wild Solway exhibition** with a film theatre and a **Sea Lab** where you can learn about marine conservation. I particularly enjoyed the touch pool where kids (and adults!) can gently interact with starfish.

Outside, the aquarium offers plenty of fun extras. The **Harbourside Café** serves snacks and meals with harbour views. A 14‑hole **crazy golf course** is included with admission, and there are **remote‑controlled boats** and the **Shiver Me Timbers play park** with a new splash pad. Tickets are valid all day and even include a free round of golf that can be used within 12 months. Seniors receive a discounted ticket price, making this an affordable outing.

## Evening: Explore the old town and seaside

As the afternoon fades, wander through the cobblestone streets around **Fleming Square**, Maryport’s elegant Georgian centre. Georgian houses line the square, a legacy of the town’s rapid expansion in the late 18th century. Take time to browse the independent shops and perhaps sample an ice cream from the local parlour.

If you enjoy walking, continue south along the **King Charles III English Coast Path** towards Whitehaven. The trail hugs the cliffs and provides sweeping coastal views – an ideal end to the day.

## Getting there and practical tips

– **Location:** Maryport lies on the coast between Workington and Silloth.
– **Transport:** You can reach Maryport by car via the A596 or A594. Trains on the **Cumbrian Coast Line** stop at Maryport station.
– **Accommodation:** Maryport offers a range of lodging options from guesthouses to caravan sites.
– **Facilities:** Public toilets and parking are available near the harbour and promenade.

A day in Maryport combines history, culture and marine adventures. Whether you’re marvelling at Roman artefacts, dining on fresh seafood or watching fish glide through aquarium tanks, this coastal town promises a memorable outing for visitors of all ages.