Situated on the west coast of the Lake District, Copeland is a hidden corner of breathtaking scenery, cutting-edge industry, vibrant culture, and wide, open beaches.
Two thirds of the borough is in the Lake District National Park – a World Heritage Site. It is also rich in history, with a wealth of interesting towns and villages, alongside beautiful lakes.
The largest town, Whitehaven, has around 25,000 inhabitants and the largest quantity of original Georgian buildings and highest concentration of listed buildings in any UK town. It’s home to an attractive modern marina and a mix of high street and independent businesses, bars, and cafes.
The borough in general has some of the best house prices in the UK, and great educational establishments including outstanding schools and several university sites.
We have the start of the Coast-to-Coast Walk at St Bees, where there is also a stunning beach, promenade, beach café and walks to the RSPB nature reserve at St Bees Head.
Copeland’s outstanding community spirit is something that makes a move here a pleasure for everyone. There are festivals and cultural and community events throughout the year. Families love the easy access to the beach and countryside, while outdoor activity enthusiasts are catered for in the stunning lakes and valleys of Copeland.
Sports fans can see professional rugby league in Whitehaven, as well as nationally acclaimed amateur clubs, and karting at nearby Rowrah. There are also sports centers and clubs throughout the borough.
Copeland – as the Centre of Nuclear Excellence - is a hub for technology and innovation, with several cutting-edge technology, medical and scientific organisation making their home at West Lakes Science Park.
In education, Copeland is home to the outstanding West Lakes Academy in Egremont and the newly opened Whitehaven Campus, complete with first class education and sporting facilities, not forgetting the pioneering National College for Nuclear, Lakes College and UCLan’s Dalton Institute on the doorstep.
There has been significant investment in the area in recent years and this is set to continue, with big things planned for the North Shore area of Whitehaven’s waterfront, work to restore one of the old quays on the harbor, a multi-million-pound mining project and a new coastal challenge route.
There’s a vibrant cultural scene here too – a world-renowned theatre at Rosehill, a wide range of touring acts and community events at Florence Arts Centre, top class theatre, music, and comedy at the Beggar’s Theatre in Millom, shows at Whitehaven Civic Hall and a fabulous vintage1920s cinema at the Gaiety in Whitehaven.
Also in Whitehaven, The Beacon Museum and The Rum Story tell the fascinating tales of the town’s innovative history. Down the coast, the Ravenglass and Eskdale narrow gauge railway - the La’al Ratty - runs into the fells and is a great way of seeing the stunning scenery, while the historic Muncaster Castle has many family attractions including an owl center, extensive gardens, and special events.
