Trains to Whitehaven traverse the scenic Cumbria coastline, before coming to rest alongside the port in this quaint and historic town. Rail first arrived in Whitehaven in 1847, on a plot of land to the south of the present station, which opened in 1874. Known as the Georgian town of the north, Whitehaven was built on shipping and mining and both were significantly aided by the arrival of rail. Both industries have since declined but the town retains much of its period charm.
Many urban historians believe that New York's grid system was inspired by Whitehaven's town layout. In the 1700s, Whitehaven was the home of the first undersea mine in England, and a sculpture commemorating the town's mining heritage can be found at The Beacon Museum. Other attractions include the attractive harbour; The Rum Story, a museum of the UK's rum trade; and the view from the clock tower at St Nicholas Church.