The Town
Whitehaven is a thriving Georgian town conveniently situated less than 40 miles south west of Carlisle, 45 miles north of Barrow in Furness, adjacent to the Lake District National Parks, and is on the splendid Cumbrian heritage coast, which is often also referred to as ‘Britain’s Energy Coast’ due to the high number of innovative and sustainable energy initiatives located offshore and on the coast line.
History
The most famous landmark in Whitehaven is the harbour, this provides a focal point for the town and has benefitted from heavy investment and an extensive programme of renovation in recent years. The harbour was a large part of the Whitehaven economy back in the 18th century as it was a hub for the import of tobacco, sugar, alcohol, and shamefully even slaves- around the same time (circa 1730) Whitehaven had the deepest coalmines globally so the harbour was used extensively for exporting coal. Whitehaven’s rich trading history during the era of the British Empire is documented in the Beacon Museum located at the harbour, and at The Rum Story visitors centre on Lowther street.
Local Life
Whitehaven is well serviced with a local market, a good range of independent shops and big high street names, there is also a local library, a choice of restaurants covering most cuisines, cosy pubs, swimming baths, an established 18 hole championship course at Whitehaven Golf Club, a sports academy and centre, a theatre, and a civic hall which regularly stages live entertainment.
Transport
Rail network and road connections are very good in the area, Carlisle is just over an hour away by train, driving also takes around an hour to make the 38 mile trip; this makes Whitehaven an ideal location for those wishing to commute for work and enjoy all the benefits of living near the beautiful Lake District National Park and the coast.
Whitehaven is also a stop on the scenic Cumbrian Coastline train service that runs from Barrow in Furness to Carlisle- a wonderful way to see the lake district fells, picturesque villages, rugged countryside and the coastline… perfect for business or leisure.
Keen cyclists can easily access the ‘Coast to Coast’ cycle route which passes through nearby Ennerdale, towards the Lake District, then passing on to the North Pennines area.
Another famous attraction is the Ravenglass to Eskdale Railway, known locally as La’al Ratty, this steam train service runs the 7-mile line to take in wonderful views. The line was originally used to take hematite iron ore from the mines around Boot in the Eskale Valley to Ravensglass and was the first narrow gauge railway in England that was used to provide a public passenger service.
Schools
The area is well provisioned for families as there are many infant and junior schools in the area and a good choice of secondary schools such as, St Benedict’s Catholic High School, West Lakes Academy, and The Whitehaven Academy. Along the coast from Whitehaven is the village of St Bees which has a wonderful beach and is home to one of the country’s premier private schools.
Property Market
The Highlands and Hillcrest areas are particularly popular with families due to the proximity to amenities and schools. Throughout Whitehaven there are lots of opportunities where investors can strengthen their rental portfolio, as due to the relative affordability of local property, this market provides excellent yields.