Whitehaven: 14 Aug 2010 to 15 Aug 2010

Once one of England’s busiest ports, Whitehaven today is better known for its Georgian architecture and appealing historic ambience. Whitehaven was designed by Sir John Lowther, becoming the first post-Renaissance planned town in Britain. The streets were laid out in a grid pattern, with St. Nicholas Church at the centre. Many historic homes remain, particularly along Roper and Scotch Streets.

Whitehaven has an interesting history, having been a major player in the rum and shipbuilding businesses. No shortage of historic personages, either—William Wordsworth often visited his family here, George Washington’s grandmother lived here, John Paul Jones began his seafaring career here at the age of thirteen, returning some years later to attack the town during the American Revolution. Whitehaven is also a convenient gateway to the idyllic Lake District

Excursions:
LAKE DISTRICT SAMPLER