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 RAVENGLASS

Ravenglass is the only coastal village in the Lake District. The small settlement is situated roughly halfway between Whitehaven and Barrow-in-Furness and is found at the estuary of three rivers, the Esk, Mite and Irt rivers.

Ravenglass was an important naval base for the Romans during the second century. Little remains of the once large fort except for the bath house, now known as Walls Castle. It is one of the largest surviving Roman constructions in England and has the highest bit of Roman wall in the country. 

The village was once a regional supply point for the northwest. A Roman road runs from Ravenglass through the Hard Knott Pass to the fort at Ambleside.  

It has its own railway station which is on the scenic Cumbrian Coast railway line. The station is the terminus of the Ravenglass and Eskdale Heritage railway.

Muncaster Castle, home to the Pennington family since 1208, is found just over a mile away from the village. It is famed for its spectacular gardens and woodland areas. John Ruskin described the terrace walk as ‘the gateway to paradise’. 

During the 1960s and 70s, Drigg Dunes was home to Europe’s largest colony of Black Headed Gulls. 

Things to do in Ravenglass

Ravenglass is a coastal Cumbrian village halfway between Whitehaven and Barrow-in-Furness. It is the only coastal town set in the Lake District National Park. Despite being a small town, there are a few interesting features and things to do that attract visitors to the area… 

  • Muncaster Castle & Gardens

Towering over the River Esk, Muncaster Castle has been an important part of the Ravenglass area since the Roman times and has been home to the Pennington family since 1208. The pele tower stands on Roman foundations and has been extended through the ages. The castle you see today is still the family home of the Penningtons. The families ownership of the castle through the centuries is thought to be due to the ‘Luck of Muncaster’, which refers to a drinking glass gifted to the family by Henry VI. He declared as long as the glass remained intact, the Pennington family would thrive in the area. The present owner, Patrick Gorden-Duff- Pennington narrates the house tour, describing the Great Hall, the Library, the Dining Room, the Drawing Room and the Bedrooms. After touring around the lavish castle, you can explore the stunning gardens, which thrive with colour in the spring and early summer, boasting a woodland garden of rhododendrons, camellias and azaleas. The Terrace Walk through the garden offers spectacular views of the Eskdale Valley and the Lakeland fells.

  • Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway

Explore over 7 miles of stunning Lake District scenery on a trip aboard the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. The railway line is one the oldest and longest narrow gauge railways in England dating back over 105 years. The train stops a number of times on route starting from Ravenglass and calling at Muncaster Mill, Irton Road, The Green, and Beckfoot before reaching Dalegarth near Boot in Eskdale. From Dalegarth, you can walk to Easdake Mill, Stanley Ghyll Force and St Catherine’s Church as well as the nearby Wainwright Harter Fell. For more walks, purchases Wainwrights ‘Walks from Ratty’ from the station, describing walks that can enjoyed from various points on the railway line. 

  • Roman Bath-House 

The remains of a bath-house from Ravenglass Roman fort, established in AD 130, are still standing now and are amongst the tallest Roman structures surviving in northern Britain. The fort, whose earthworks are still visible, guarded the harbour and contained soldiers from Emperor Hadrian’s fleet. The forts at Hardknott and Ambleside were once linked to Ravenglass by a roman road.

 Six Walks to do from Ravenglass… 

Due to Ravenglass being a coastal town in the Lake District, walks from here can range from stunning seaside hikes to big, craggy mountain days! The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (locally known as La’al Ratty) provides endless opportunities for hiking in the area, using the stops to explore the area between Ravenglass and Dalegarth. Wainwright even wrote a guidebook called ‘Walks from Ratty’ describing 10 walks that can be enjoyed from various points on the railway. Here are a few to get you started… 

  • Ravenglass coastal loop 

Distance: 4km Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy 

Explore the shores of Ravenglass on this short, easy loop for all the family. The route starts from the village’s main car park and heads towards the Roman Bath House, following a footbridge over the main railway line. Here, you will pass a playground where your little ones can have a play! Continuing on, a footpath passes through a campsite before reaching the impressive Roman ruins. Take the road towards Knott View and Newtown later joining the Cumbrian Coastal Way. The path soon loops back round, following the beach back to Ravenglass car park.

  • Ravenglass to Muncaster Castle Circuit 

Distance: 7.6km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy 

This a great scenic walk starting at village of Ravenglass, exploring the Roman Bath ruins, Muncaster Castle and Muncaster Mill before returning to the coastal village. The route starts at the car park just past the Ravenglass railway bridge and follows good paths and tracks across fields ending at Muncaster Castle and St Micheal’s Church before returning. The footpath passes The Ratty Inn beside the Ravenglass station providing the perfect pint reward when you return! 

  • Miteside Halt 

Distance: 3km Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy 

For a short, relaxing hike away from the crowds, catch the train to the Miteside Halt station and follow farm tracks and ancient footpaths, which have connected local farms for centuries. Some of the road in the route, including The Old Vicarage and Crag Farm represent the age and past of the roads. Start the route from the station and take the public footpath to Gasketh, then on to Moorgate, Cuddys Fields and Wood End before retuning in a loop back to Gasketh. 

  • Parkgate Tarn from Murthwaite Halt 

Distance: 5km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Medium

Grab the train from Ravenglass and visit the Murthwaite Halt station to begin a picturesque hike up to Parkgate Tarn. The route follows farmland and woodland trails from the station before reaching the tarn. The tree lined tarn sits in the woodland of Irton Park. If you packed your swimwear, have a dip in the lake and picnic in the woods before heading back and catching the return train to Ravenglass.  

  • Dalegarth to Ravenglass 

Distance: 12km Time: 4 hours Difficulty: Medium

For a little challenge, grab the train from Ravenglass to Dalegarth and save yourself the return fair by walking back to Ravenglass village! The route follows the Eskdale Trail and is well signposted all the way back. You can choose to visit Stanley Ghyll Waterfall before heading through stunning woodland and alongside the river Esk. There are a number of pubs on route for a break and refreshment stop! 

  • Scafell Pike from Eskdale 

Distance: 8.6km Time: 4 hours Difficulty: Medium

When staying in Ravenglass, why not tackle England’s highest mountain? From Ravenglass, you can take a ride on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway all the way to end at Boot. This route is one of the quietest ways up to the summit of Scafell Pike through the unspoilt valley of Eskdale and Great Moss. The route follows a secluded path alongside the River Esk to Great Moss in Upper Eskdale and climbs beneath Heron Crag. Once gaining height and passing the rocky gorge that carries the river Esk, the Scafells appear on the skyline. At Green Crag, the path follows through marshy ground before scrambling up to the summit of Pen. A further climb up Rough Crag from is required before you reach the summit of Scafell Pike. Return the way you came back to Dalegarth and catch the return train to Ravenglass. 

 Best Wild Swim Spots in Ravenglass

Ravenglass is a coastal town making the sea the most obvious choice for a swim! If you prefer more enclosed wild swims, there are a number of little spots dotted about nearby…

  • Tongue Pot, Upper Eskdale 

For a higher up swim spot, catch the train from Ravenglass to Dalegarth and hike to Upper Eskdale. Your walk is rewarded with the stunning Tongue Pot; a long, emerald pool beneath a crystal clear waterfall pouring from a cleft of the mountain stream and overlooked by a quaint packhorse bridge. A pebble beach shelves down on one side of the pool, providing access to the water. The water is enclosed with sheer rock walls making this a popular place for rock jumping. If you don’t want to hike from the train station, a 20-minute drive from Ravenglass will take you to parking at Hardknott pass. Tongue Pot can reached via a 2-mile walk from here. 

  • Blea Tarn 

A popular route on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, a small, 3 mile hike from Beckfoot station will take you to Blea Tarn. The steep hike is rewarded with a remote swim surrounded by a skyline of mountains, with the calm water reflecting the fells beautifully. There is a good water entry point on the south side of the tarn. Due to the height of the tarn, be aware that the water will be cold and exposed to the elements. 

What is Ravenglass Famous for?

 The coastal town of Ravenglass is an ancient settlement dating back the 2nd century and was an important naval base for the Romans for over 300 years. Evidence of their reign is scattered about the town in the form of old roman roads and ruins. The area is also home to one of the countries oldest railway lines, which is still in operation today, transporting and attracting visitors from near and far for over 100 years. 

  • Roman History

Ravenglass was occupied by the Romans for over 300 years and had a Roman garrison of over 500 soldiers, some of which served in Emperor Hadrian’s fleet. It is believed the fort at Ravenglass was an extension of Hadrian’s Wall and the most western section of the Roman frontier. The Roman road from Ravenglass was once linked to the neighbouring forts of Hardknott and Ambleside. The villages Roman bath house remains are one of the largest surviving Roman structures in England, still standing at around 4 metres high. A short distance away from the bath house, stands Muncaster Castle, which is believed to have been built partly using the remains of the nearby Roman fort.

  • The Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

The 7 mile long railway starting at Ravenglass is known for being the oldest and longest narrow gauge railway in England. The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway was established in 1913 and is locally known as ‘La’al Ratty’ which translates from old Cumbrian dialect to ‘little railway.’ The steam engine transports travellers from Ravenglass to Dalegarth, around 210ft above sea level. Alfred Wainwright made the route more popular in 1978 by writing ‘Walks from Ratty’; a guidebook describing 10 walks that could be accessed from stops along the railway line.

  • Tom Fool of Muncaster Castle

Muncaster Castle’s last historic jester was named Thomas Skelton and was the castles court jester during the 1600s. His legend is well known in the area, with his portrait hanging on a wall inside the castle as he was believed to be the original ‘Tom Fool ‘ and inspired Shakespeare’s Fool in the famous play King Lear. Despite his role to entertain, his history is dark with legend claiming he was enlisted by Wild Will of Whitbeck to behead a servant at the castle who was betrothed to a woman he wished to marry. It is rumoured Tom hid the man’s head beneath a heap of shavings at the castle.

 Hidden gems to find from Ravenglass

Ravenglass, Muncaster and Eskdale are filled with Roman ruins, Viking remains, little waterfalls, medieval mills and other hidden delights…

  • Stanley Ghyll Force

Acessible via the railway station of Dalegarth, Stnaley Ghyll Force hides within a deep, narrow gorge falling 60 ft into the rock pool below. Rhododendrons, giving the ravine an almost oriental feel, surround the waterfall making you feel as though you’re in another world. 

  • Cam Spout

Cam Spout is a series of waterfalls nestled in the Eskdale valley, with the highest fall plunging 40ft into the crystal clear pools below. It takes a fair bit of hiking effort to reach the falls, which are commonly passes from Eskdale on route to Scafell Pike. The effort is rewarded with stunning falls set in a remote, secluded area.

  • Gill Force

Another of Eskdale’s hidden gems, the pretty falls of Gill Force can be reached via a short, 2 mile stroll through woodland from Dalegarth Station.  This is a little, tranquil spot ideal for a little dip and riverside picnic. 

  • Eskdale Mill 

Eskdale Mill is a rare survival of a traditional watermill and drying kiln. It is the last working water-powered corn mill in the Lake District and is easily accessible from Dalegarth Station. The mill is classed as a grade II listed structure alongside the stables and stone packhorse bridge over the Whillan Beck.

 Things to do in Ravenglass on a rainy day… 

The Lake District is renowned for its wet weather, with rainy days often being the norm! Although we encourage you not to let the rain put you off, here are some ideas for things to do when heavy rain is really spoiling your outdoor plans… 

  • Take a train ride 

If the weather isn’t affecting services, take a trip on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. From Dalegarth Station, you can explore three waterfall hikes and view the falls of Stanley Ghyll Force, Cam Spout and Gill Force at their most impressive following rainfall. 

  • Muncaster Castle

When the rain is falling, give the gardens a miss and head inside the lavish rooms of Muncaster Castle. You can take a day tour around the inside of the castle exploring rooms such as the Great Hall and the 14th century pele tower, which are the oldest sections of the castle. The Library is also one of the most acclaimed rooms in the castle, with brass railings and an elegant ceiling. An tour of the castle can be accompanied with an audio commentary, narrated by the current owner Patrick Gorden-Duff-Pennington. The castle has been home to the Pennington family since 1208. Their long ownership is believed to be due to the ‘Luck of Muncaster’, which refers to a drinking glass gifted to the family by Henry VI. He declared as long as the glass remained intact, the Pennington family would thrive in the area. The glass still remains in the castle today. 

Top Family Friendly things to do in Ravenglass

The Lake District is a great place for families and children, and Ravenglass is no exception. Here are some of the best things to do in Raveglass as a family… 

  • Camping 

Ravenglass and Eskdale offer a small selection of family friendly campsites with plenty of space for kids to enjoy ball games and a night under the stars… 

  • Ravenglass Camping and Caravan Park  

The family friendly Ravenglass Camping and Caravan Park is nestled within six acres of glorious woodland, combining classic camping with modern facilities offering pitches for tents and campervans alongside luxury glamping pods. 

-Fisherground Campsite 

Situated in Eskdale, Fisherground Campsite is an award winning site and has been named one of the ’50 World Best Campsites’ by the Independent and in the overall top 4 for ‘Children’s Enjoyment.’ Deserving of its plaudits, the site is a children’s paradise complete with rafts on the pond, a tree house and an adventure course. The site has camp fire nights, ideal for telling mountain tales and roasting marshmallows! The peaceful campsite offers pitches for tents. 

  • Little Walks for Little Legs

When hiking with kids, you want to choose an easy, accessible walk with lots of exciting features. Here are a few family walks incorporating an exciting train ride, waterfalls, Roman forts and ancient castles… 

Muncaster Castle 

For a family day exploring a historic castle and beautiful gardens, catch the train from Ravenglass to Muncaster Mill station and enjoy a short, 3-mile walk to Muncaster Castle. The castle grounds are like a children’s paradise boasting an adventure playground, fun maze and an ‘Enchanted Forest Trail’ filled with wooden dens, stepping stones and ‘fairy doors’ to look out for! Children are welcome to tour the house, explore the gardens and watch the exciting owl and hawk flying displays before visiting the gift shop and catching the train back. 

Dalegarth to Gill Force 

For an enchanting day exploring hidden waterfalls and beautiful woodland, catch the train to Dalegarth Station and walk 2 miles to the stunning falls of Gill Force. Children will feel as though they’ve stepped into a magical fairy-tale whilst sitting around the waterfalls and rock pools and enjoying a picnic before heading back to the train station. If you’re little ones aren’t too tired out, you could extend the walk and visit two waterfalls in one day by heading over to Stanley Ghyll Force from Eskdale. 

Muncaster Fell

To introduce your little ones to fell walking, Muncaster Fell is an ideal starter hill and is easily accessible from Ravenglass via the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. The route starts from the Irton Road station and follows a 6-mile route visiting the ridgeline of the fell before reaching the 730ft summit. Make sure to pack plenty of refreshments and treats to reward your kids with once they reach the top!  

 Exploring Ravenglass with dogs

We all love a holiday with our four legged friends, and the Lake District and Cumbria is an ideal place for a getaway with your dogs. With beach walkies, seaside swims and dog-friendly train rides, Ravenglass is an ideal spot for a dog walkers holiday… 

Please note when adventuring with your dog to be aware of livestock and keep your dogs on leads when passing. 

  • Dog friendly walks 

Dogs love exploring the Lake District as much as we do and luckily, there are plenty of walks great for dogs in Ravenglass. Luckily, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway are extremely dog friendly and love to see furry friends aboard the train, making exploring the area with your dog super easy. Four legged passengers even receive their own welcome pack filled with treats and mess bags. The company charges a small fee of £1.50 for an all-day dog ticket.

- Ravenglass Beach

All dogs love a good beach walk; luckily for your four-legged friends, Ravenglass is a coastal town with a sandy, muddy beach ideal for playing in the sand and swimming in the sea! You can explore the village and coastline in a 4km loop exploring old Roman bathhouse ruins along the way, ending the route with seaside dip and roll in the sand.

-Beckfoot to Blea Tarn

Take your canine companion on an exciting, dog friendly train ride aboard the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, jumping off at the Beckfoot station. From here, a steep, 3-mile hike up into the hills brings you to the picturesque Blea Tarn. This remote spot is perfect for energetic dogs as they can have a run around and jump in the water!

-Eskdale valley

From Ravenglass, treat your dog to a ride upon the Ravenglass and Eskdale train, exploring the whole route until you reach Dalegarth station. From here, you can explore the Eskdale area, which consists of low-level valley and river walks for older, less energetic dogs or big mountain days including Scafell Pike and Harter Fell, for lively puppies. From the station, you could also head to the dog friendly attraction of Eskdale Mill; one of the oldest mills in the area dating back to 1578. 

  • Dog friendly accommodation 

No one likes leaving their dog at home when they go away, so finding dog friendly accommodation is always a relief. Luckily, there are a few options in Ravenglass… 

  • The Inn at Ravenglass 

This 17th century inn is located on the coastline at Ravenglass, offering easy access for dogs to have an evening dip in the sea before retiring to the dog-friendly bar and rooms at the Ravenglass Inn. 

  • Pennington Hotel 

An especially dog friendly hotel in the Ravenglass area, the Pennington Hotel welcomes visitors with two legs and four and is a stones throw away from walks ideal for dogs such as the coast and the western fells! The hotel is set right on the estuary, making a doggy swim in the sea easy to reach. The hotel grounds are set in a dog-friendly enclosure, with four-legged guests receiving a welcome pack filled with treats upon arrival! 

  • Eskholme Lodge 

A short distance away from Ravenglass in a small village called Eskdale Green, the Eskholme Lodge is a self-catering cottage ideal for families with dogs sleeping up to 6 people and 2 dogs. The cottage is complete with an enclosed garden and patio, a cosy log burner and spacious rooms. The beautiful home is set in a secluded area still offering easy access to mountain hikes and seaside strolls. 

  • Dog friendly pubs

After a walk amongst the sea-air, a pint and doggy treat is a must for tired owners and poochies. Here in Ravenglass, there are a range of pubs that are welcoming of sandy, muddy boots and paw prints… 

  • Ravenglass Inn

After a run around on the beach, have a break with your pooch in the seaside Ravenglass Inn. The traditional pub is dog friendly and filled with friendly staff guaranteed to give your dog plenty of attention and treats! The open fire is a bonus during evenings and wintertime for tired dogs to curl up beside. The pub doesn’t serve meals meaning your dog can sit for as long as they like, wherever they like! 

  • Pennington Hotel

The Pennington Hotel is a historic inn where you can enjoy a bite to eat and drink with your canine companion right beside you. The hotel is very welcoming of dogs allowing them in the bar area where you can enjoy some tasty food and ale whilst your dog devours a bowl of biscuits! 

  • Ratty Arms

Situated on the Ravenglass train platform, the Ratty Arms is a friendly, family run pub serving homely pub grub and beer with an equally homely welcome, to both humans and dogs. The pub prides itself on its dog-friendly reputation with doggy guests often being spoilt by staff and gifted with plenty of Gravy Bones and Markies treats!

 The best places to eat and drink in Ravenglass

Ravenglass may be small, but there are plenty of places to enjoy a tasty lunch, an evening meal or a simple coffee and cake! Here are some of the best pubs, cafes and restaurants in and around Ravenglass… 

  • Ratty Arms 

The Ratty Arms is open daily from 11am until late, serving lunch from 12-2:30pm and evening meals from 5:30-8:00pm.

Under new ownership, this historic railway pub serves an excellent range of ales, lagers, ciders and spirits that can be paired with delicious pub grub!

View the menu and find out more here: https://ravenglass-railway.co.uk/plan-your-visit/the-ratty-arms

  • Inn at Ravenglass

Open everyday 11:30am-12pm

Situated inside a 17th century inn building, the Inn at Ravenglass is a traditional pub overlooking a pretty village green providing views over to the seaside. Enjoy a refreshing pint of lager outside on summer days or a classic real ale beside the wood burning stove during colder months. This is a great pit stop for a pint however the pub focuses on serving quality drink and doesn’t serve food. The nearby sister venue The Pennington Hotel is less than a minute away and serves lunch and dinner. 

  • Pennington Hotel

Open everyday 11am-11pm

The Pennington Hotel is a historic inn combining classic, traditional food with a contemporary interior offering high quality meals made with locally sourced ingredients. The hotel sits just a stones throw away from the seaside, the western fells and Muncaster Castle, making it a perfect spot to relax at the end of the day.  The hotels Estuary Bar & Grill offer both light bites and homely meals which can be enjoyed either in the restaurant, courtyard bar or the intimate ‘Morning Room’. Local favourites on the menu include Cumberland sausage, steak & ale pie, beer battered Haddock and Wholetail Scampi. The hotel’s seafood can’t get any fresher, using locally caught fish right from the sea you eat beside! 

  • Bower House Inn

Open everyday 12pm-11pm

Nestled between Mitredale and Muncaster Fell in the Eskdale valley, the Bower House Inn is a charming, character-filled coaching inn dating back to 1751. The Inn is ideally situated for welcoming tired hikers who have been exploring the stunning surroundings. The pubs local ales and classic food dishes can be enjoyed beside a roaring fire in the cosy snug during wintertime, or in the splendid beer garden in summer. The pubs menu incorporates local ingredients as well as their own herbs and vegetables grown on site. The menu generally follows a traditional theme serving Cumbrian classics like fish and chips and burgers alongside some international twists including Mexican wraps and Cajun chicken.

Shopping local in Ravenglass

 Ravenglass is a small village so shops are limited. There are a few small shops at stops along the railway, however for a big shopping day, a ride to the nearby town of Whitehaven is recommended.

  • Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Shop 

Open everyday 9am-5pm

Situated at the Ravenglass railway station, the visitor centre for the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is home to a café, shop and museum. The gift shop stocks a wide selection of gifts and souvenirs including snacks, walking guides, fridge magnets, mugs, pens and more! The shop also sells items to take with you on the train such as children’s activity packs, books and guides. 

  • Ravenglass Handmade Ice Cream Shop 

Open Saturday and Sunday 11:30am-5:30pm 

Situated in Ravenglass, this little ice cream shop sells handmade ice cream in creative, locally inspired flavours such as Romney’s Kendal Mint Cake and Sticky Toffee Pudding flavour! A trip to the coast is never complete without an ice cream. 

  • Eskdale Stores

Open Monday-Saturday 8:30am-5pm, Sunday 9am-12pm 

Eskdale Stores in the nearby Eskdale Green is a well-stocked village store offering a range of groceries, fresh meats, fruit and veg, wines, spirits and local craft ales. The shop is ideal for food and toiletry essentials as well as selling outdoor gear, camping accessories, footwear, maps, walking guides and gifts and souvenirs. They also stock a range of local produce including Cumberland sausage, Sticky Toffee puddings and craft beers from a variety of local breweries.

 When is the best time to visit Ravenglass?

Ravenglass is a beautiful place to visit all year round, however there are pros and cons depending on which season you visit…

  • Spring  (March- June) 

Spring is a beautiful season in the Lake District and Cumbria. Lambs are jumping around the countryside, daffodils are blooming and tourists are returning following the quieter winter months. 

  • A visit from Ravenglass to Muncaster Castle is a must during springtime to see the gardens in their new spring coat. Fresh blooms surround the gardens with bluebells, daffodils and rhododendrons making their first appearances of the year. The castle host events in May including floral displays and free tours around the gardens including the unique ‘cooking with flowers’ demonstrations! 

  • Don’t miss the Muncaster Festival taking place annually during May time boasting a weekend of family entertainment including daily shows, outdoor games, storytelling and more.

  • Take a trip on the railway to Eskdale to see the remote valley fill up with spritely new born lambs and blankets of spring flowers. 

  • Summer (June- September) 

Summer is understandably the most popular time for visitors to seaside resorts such as Ravenglass, with warmer weather, longer days and public holidays encouraging tourists. 

  • During summer time, the Hawk & Owl centre hold frequent flying displays at Muncaster Castle, giving guests the opportunity to see their birds of prey in action, soaring across clear, blue skies! 

  • Take a trip on the railway over to Eskdale to take part in the annual EskFest during early July. The festival is all about connecting with nature in a stunning, remote valley away from the hustle and bustle of life, going back to basics with no phone signal. The micro-festival is a camping weekend celebrating music and art with performances from both emerging local artists and other UK acts. The event has a ‘classic, old school festival feel’ enjoying music, food and art in nature with no distractions. 

  • Autumn (September-November) 

Autumn is a beautiful time to be in Cumbria, with summer crowds disappearing and autumn leaves falling, its time for wild, wrapped up walks, cosy pubs, hot chocolates and Halloween activities… 

  • The historic Muncaster Castle is the place to be during the spooky season due to its dark, medieval past and haunted halls. The castle host’s events around ‘Halloween Week’ consisting of haunted castle ghost tours and Twilight Owl displays! 

  • Winter (November- February)

Winter is understandably the quietest time of year in seaside towns and villages such as Ravenglass, with closed amenities and cold weather keeping many tourists away. This doesn’t mean that Ravenglass is off limits though; it’s a great way to explore and enjoy the village without the crowds. Winter in Ravenglass can mean cosy pubs with a roaring fire and festive Christmas days…  

-During December, the La’al Ratty transforms into the Santa Express, where families can join Santa on a journey from Ravenglass to Eskdale, exploring his Dalegarth Grotto at the end of the trip. The railway also offers guests the chance to dine on-board enjoying a festive menu complete with mulled wine and brandy!

Where to park in Ravenglass

Whether you’re planning a hike, bike ride or stroll by the seaside, here’s a handy guide on where to park in Ravenglass.

  • Village Car Park

Up to 2 hours- £2.50, up to 4 hours- £4 All day £5.50

Ravenglass has one main car park situated in the centre of the village, close to the shore and next to the main railway station. Due to the small scale of the village, this car park provides access to the beach, village and nearby attractions. 

  • Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway car park 

Customers of the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway can use an on-site car park, which charges £4 for the whole day, with profits from the car park going towards the maintenance of the railway.

 Gyms near Ravenglass

When visiting the Lake District and Cumbria, the most obvious choice for exercise would be a hike. In Ravenglass, you’re spoilt for choice with little strolls along the seaside or more strenuous, nearby mountain days. Gyms and activity centres are hard to find in Ravenglass, but there are a few in the nearby town of Whitehaven and Seascale.

  • Seascale Community Fitness Centre 

Open Monday-Thursday 8am-8pm, Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 8am-1pm, Sunday 8am-12pm 

Seascale Community Fitness Centre is a relaxed, friendly gym in the nearby village of Seascale around 15 minutes away from Ravenglass. The centre has recently been refurbished providing new, quality equipment including the latest CYBEX resistance and cardiovascular equipment, including a selection of treadmills, cross trainers and rowing machines. Membership options are available alongside one-off sessions. 

  • Powerhouse Gym 

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week 

The Powerhouse Gym is situated in the nearby town of Whitehaven and is around 30 minutes away from Ravenglass. The gym is ideal for visitors to the area, offering one-off day sessions for as little as £4.  Weekly passes are also available for £12 and there are no joining fees. The gym is run by a local championship bodybuilder and provides a separate gym suit, the Phoenix Gym, exclusively for women as well as the centres large, main gym. The gym is filled with quality equipment including a range of cardiovascular training such as tread climbers, steppers, exercise bikes, treadmills and more. For strength training, you will find a hamstring curl, deadlift machine, front squat machine, a bicep curl, shoulder lat raise machine, leg and chest presses, plus multi gyms and more. There is also a huge selection of free weights, including dumbbells up to 260kg, various benches and a smith machine. Personal training options, classes and memberships are also available.