Egremont

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Tucked between the St Bees Heritage Coast and the western edge of the Lake District National Park, the market town of Egremont is packed full of treasures, including the 12th castle, stunning walking and cycling trails beside the river Ehen, and of course the world famous ‘Crab Fair’.
 

Shopping

Egremont home to the famous Hartley's ice cream, a vibrant monthly farmers market, and many independent shops and cafes. The Fair Trade town sells locally produced foods such as unique Cumberland sausages, vegetables, plants and bakery goods. Pop in to one of the welcoming cafes for a cuppa and follow with a visit to the Lowes Court Gallery for interesting local crafts.

Culture & Heritage

Rich in heritage, Egremont stands in the ancient region of Cumberland. The dramatic castle ruins which stand at the southern end of Main Street, are the remains of a structure built in around 1130 on the site of an old Danish fort.

In 1266, Henry III granted Egremont a charter to hold a market and annual fair. The annual Crab Fair is still held every September, making it one of the oldest fairs in the world.

The main street comes alive with the traditional ‘Apple Cart Parade’ (crab apples being the origin of the fair’s name), free street concerts, and several sporting events including traditional Cumberland wrestling, which originates from Viking and Irish settlers.

Visitors can try delicious local produce in the food hall, watch equestrian events and enjoy thrilling kids fair rides – and the world-famous ‘World Gurning Championship’ – a face pulling contest -  is always a laugh!

Arts and culture enthusiasts will love a visit to the Florence Arts Centre, a fantastic hub for the arts, with regular events and a gallery featuring a changing programme of exhibitions from local artists.

Discover the studio where the Florence Paint-makers handcraft oil, watercolour, and pastel paints in ‘Egremont Red,’ using iron ore pigment from the local mine. Pick up your artist materials in the shop or browse other beautiful creations such as ceramics, pure wool accessories, jewellery, prints and more. There is also a café, regular workshops and a wildlife garden. The centre is open from 11am –until 4pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

What’s nearby

St. Bees - Less than three miles away is the seaside village of St Bees. It has acres of beach, a prom to stroll along, a shore-side café, and a fantastic children’s play area.

Gosforth - This quaint village with pubs, cafes and cycle hire, is just a ten-minute drive away.

Whitehaven - The historical harbour town is home to The Beacon Museum and The Rum Story

Wastwater – England’s deepest lake, which lies at the foot of England’s highest mountain Scafell Pike.

Please follow HM Government COVID-19 safety guidelines when you visit. Support our local shops and businesses by being mindful of social distancing and wearing a mask in enclosed spaces. Wash your hands often using soap and water and dry them thoroughly, and where available, use hand-sanitiser as you enter and leave shops. Enjoy your visit and stay safe!

The Welcome Back to High Streets Project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and HM Government as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund. Established by the European Union, the European Regional Development Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. For more information visit www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding.