visit maryport...
Maryport has always had a close affinity with the sea, from its earliest fishing days to the busy docks and sea-faring ships of the Georgian and Victorian eras.
Even the Romans utilised the presence of the sea and its shoreline as added defence in the building of Hadrian's Wall, their great frontier sweeping along the Solway Firth and down the west coast as far as Ravenglass.
The west-facing Solway coast affords expansive views and glorious sunsets over the Irish Sea, which can be enjoyed from the promenade walks.
explore maryport
History & heritage
The area around Maryport was largely uninhabited until the arrival of the Romans circa AD 70.
Art & culture
This well-preserved Georgian town has recently undergone extensive enhancement using an Arts Lottery-funded project.
Natural environment
Maryport is on the Solway Coast AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). natural environment
What's on
Enjoy Maryport carnival an annual occasion when Maryport comes alive with a procession of floats, street entertainment, dance and music.
quirky facts about Maryport...
Elizabeth Dock
Elizabeth Dock was the first non-tidal or ‘wet' dock in Cumberland, with gates that could hold in the water between high tides.
Joseph Piele (1684 - 1790)
Joseph Piele (1684-1790) was born at Bank End Farm at the far end of the Promenade. He went to sea at 17 and for a time was the shipmate of Alexander Selkirk, the original Robinson Crusoe who was marooned on the island of Juan Fernandez for 4 years. Joseph lived to be nearly 107 years old and died after his horse reared up and threw him to the ground. His long life witnessed the reigns of 7 monarchs from Charles II to George III. A plaque commemorating his long life can be found on the northeast wall of St Mary's Church in Maryport.
