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WHEN FEAR TOOK HOLD: The Dark History of Cumbria’s Witch Trials
WHEN FEAR TOOK HOLD The Dark History of Cumbria’s Witch Trials. by Paul Eastham A horrible obsession gripped Cumbrians after the shattering destruction of the Cromwellian Civil War. They began persecuting large numbers of people, largely women, for practising witchcraft. For thousands of years, it was believed certain women could communicate with gods and heal […]
FROM SLUM TO SCENIC VIEW: A history of Mount Pleasant, Whitehaven
FROM SLUM TO SCENIC VIEW A history of Mount Pleasant, Whitehaven. by Jonathan Fraser, Cumbria and Borders History The steep steps beside the harbour are all that remains of Mount Pleasant- an area of housing once labelled one of the worst slums in Britain. Today, once you have reached the top, you can enjoy the […]
300 years of Gulliver’s Travels: The Whitehaven connection…
300 years of Gulliver’s Travels The Whitehaven connection… by Danni Murphy Three hundred years ago, Jonathan Swift published a book that would become one of the most famous works of English literature. Gulliver’s Travels first appeared in 1726, taking readers on extraordinary journeys to lands inhabited by tiny people, giants, flying islands and intelligent horses. […]
EGREMONT CRAB FAIR: 759 years of tradition and what to expect in 2026!
EGREMONT CRAB FAIR 759 years of tradition and what to expect in 2026! by Danni Murphy Every September, the small but mighty West Cumbrian town of Egremont comes alive for one of Britain’s most unusual and enduring celebrations. There are apples flying through the air, strange faces inside a horse collar, traditional wrestling, music, dancing, […]
THERE’S MORE TO MUNCASTER: A packed programme of events offering something for everyone
THERE’S MORE TO MUNCASTER Muncaster Castle may be mixing it up but fun features in every event. by Danni Murphy If you’re looking for unforgettable days out this summer, Muncaster Castle has a packed programme of events offering something for everyone. From live music and country festivals to obstacle races and creative workshops, there’s plenty […]
Paul Eastham asks; “WHERE ARE ALL THE VIKINGS?”
WHERE ARE ALL THE VIKINGS? Evidence of Viking homes in Cumbria is surprisingly scarce. by Paul Eastham If Cumbria was taken over by a massive Viking invasion – why can’t we find their houses? The famous founder of the National Trust Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley announced in 1911 that Cumbrians were of the “square-jawed Viking race”. […]
SILLOTH AIRFIELD: A hidden hero of the Second World War
Silloth Airfield A hidden hero of the Second World War. by Jonathan Fraser, Cumbria and the Borders History Once a busy RAF base preparing aircraft and training aircrews, Silloth Airfield played a vital role in Britain’s wartime defence before becoming part of the town’s lasting heritage. Today, many people remember Silloth Airfield for its former […]
Step back in time this Summer with Senhouse Roman Museum in Maryport
STEP BACK IN TIME THIS SUMMER History comes to life this summer at Senhouse Roman Museum in Maryport, with a packed programme of activities, guided tours and hands on experiences for visitors of all ages. by Danni Murphy Home to one of the UK’s finest collections of Roman artefacts, the museum is offering plenty of […]
Two detectorists came across the find of a lifetime right here in Cumbria.
THERE’S GOLD IN THEM THERE HILLS… Two detectorists came across the find of a lifetime right here in Cumbria. by Stephen Murphy In late May a metal detecting rally took place near Harker, Carlisle. What was discovered is of national importance and can only be described as finds of a lifetime. Not one, not two, […]
Ravenglass celebrate St Patrick in style as village lays claim to the Saint’s birthplace
Ravenglass celebrate St Patrick in style as village lays claim to the Saint’s birthplace Muncaster Parish Council’s inaugural St Patrick’s Birthplace Festival brought the historic village of Ravenglass to life on Saturday 21 March, 2026, as hundreds of visitors and locals gathered to celebrate the intriguing local legend that St Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, […]
