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Workington is an ancient market and industrial town. It was in the 7th century when the Angels settled on the south side of the River Derwent and some parts of the town north of the river date back to Roman times. But it was in the 18th century, with the exploitation of the local iron ore and coalfields, that Workington expanded to become a major industrial town and port. Iron and steel manufacturing have always been a part of Workington’s heritage and it was here that the world famous Henry Bessemer first introduced his revolutionary steel making process. In recent years, with the decline of the steel industry and coal mining, the town has diversified into other areas of industry.
With its excellent shopping, recreation facilities, College of Further Education and its unique history, Workington is a lively and colourful town. Workington is twinned with Stadt Selm of Germany and with Curwensville of the USA. Why not visit the 14th century ruins of Workington Hall, hereditary seat of the Curwen family, Lords of the Manor. In 1568 the Hall was shelter for Mary Queen of Scots during her flight from Scotland before her – imprisonment and final execution. It is now a classified ruin open to the public, but is also the stage for opera, pageant, plays and is associated with the towns annual medieval “Curwen Fair”. Not far form the Hall is the Helena Thompson Museum. This fine Georgian town house contains an extensive collection of exhibits depicting Workington’s history. There are also exhibitions of jewellery, pottery and women’s clothing through the ages.
There are numerous churches throughout the town and the parish church of St. Michaels has stood on its present site since the 7th century, although the 12th century Norman Church was replaced in 1770 by a larger building and was sadly damaged by fire in 1994.
The town has an attractive modern shopping precinct and arcade, with many national and local shops. The market is held Wednesday and Saturday and contains upto 50 stalls. Half day closing is on Thursday although most of the large shops remain open. Whether you’re a spectator or competitor there’s something to do for everyone. The town provides football, rugby league and union, cricket, tennis, gold, bowls (indoor and outdoor). For wet days the Leisure Centre provides a range of activities such as swimming, squash and badminton and the Miami Superbowl provides ten pin bowling. For the seafarer there are safe harbours for sailing at Workington and Harrington. For those who like the night life why not visit the theatre or cinema, see a band or have a drink in one of the many public houses.
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