Best attractions and places to see around Crosscanonby include a mix of historical sites, natural reserves, and coastal areas. This small village on the Cumbrian coast offers insights into Roman history, ancient salt production, and diverse natural habitats. Visitors can explore designated World Heritage Sites and areas within the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region provides opportunities to experience both historical landmarks and varied natural landscapes.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Crosscanonby.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Millers Bridge, also known as Harris Bridge, is a steel pedestrian bridge over the River Derwent in Cockermouth, Cumbria, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city. The original structure was destroyed by severe flooding in 2009, and the bridge was rebuilt in 2010 with modified foundations to address changes in the riverbank caused by erosion. The reopening by HRH The Princess Royal underscored the importance of this connection to the local community. As a functional infrastructure, the bridge not only provides pedestrian access but also views of the surrounding landscape.
9
0
Wordsworth House rises majestically on Main Street in Cockermouth, a charming town on the edge of the Lake District. Built around 1745, the house reflects the understated grandeur of Georgian architecture: a perfectly symmetrical façade of sand-colored bricks, tall rectangular windows with classically framed woodwork, and an ornate yet understated doorway that evokes the sense of order and proportion characteristic of this period. The poet William Wordsmouth was born here in 1770.
9
0
The River Derwent in Cumbria is one of the most iconic rivers in Northwest England, with a course that is both geographically and culturally significant. Rising at Sprinkling Tarn in the highlands of the Lake District, the river flows north through the Borrowdale valley, crossing Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake. It then turns west, passing through Cockermouth—where William Wordsworth grew up—and empties into the Irish Sea at Workington.
9
0
Isel Bridge, located near Setmurthy in the northern Lake District, is an elegant Grade II-listed bridge that spans the River Derwent. Built in 1812 to replace an older bridge dating from 1691, it consists of three segmental arches and two piers of calciferous and pink sandstone, with a solid parapet and saddleback covering. The bridge is situated in a conservation area and is a popular passage for walkers and cyclists, including as part of the Allerdale Ramble and routes to Watch Hill and Setmurthy Common. Its location offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and it's a peaceful place to stop when touring the western Lake District.
8
0
Millers Bridge, as it is known in Cockermouth (official maps refer to it as Harris Bridge), was reopened in 2010 by HRH the Princess Royal after it had suffered severe damage in the 2009 floods and a section of it collapsed into the River Derwent. Part of the steel bridge had to be rebuilt to fit the new shape of the river banks, which were heavily eroded during the floods and have now been fortified.
0
0
Built on a high wooded knoll that formed much of the old town of Cockermouth and is now the east end of the town centre, All Saints is in two ways the high Anglican church in the town. There has been a church here since at least 1395 but an 11th century one was probably there earlier. A new church was built in 1771 as part of the expansion of the eighteenth century old town. That burnt down in 1850 and the current church was built in 1854.
0
0
William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy were both born in this house (1770 & 1771 respectively) and lived here until 1783 when their father died. The house is now maintained by the National Trust though it narrowly avoided being demolished in the 1960s and replaced by a bus depot before the residents of Cockermouth objected. Only the desk in their father’s office is the family’s original 18th century furniture but the front part of the house has genuine 18th century furniture. The garden is superbly maintained by volunteers in a style appropriate for the time.
1
0
That a Christian place of worship is consecrated equal to "All Saints" (All Saints) is not so common, usually it is one (or at most two) named saints who are the patron saints of a church - and thus also of the community or village , in which this is located – possess. But in search of the origin – or historical models – one has to go far back into history, because a pagan custom can be regarded as original for this practice of dedicating to ALL SAINTS, according to which there were already central temples in pre-Christian times, which generally were dedicated to all deities (PANTHEON).
1
0
Crosscanonby offers a rich history, including the World Heritage Site of Milefortlet 21, part of the Roman coastal defense system, and the well-preserved remains of Elizabethan Salt Pans, which operated for nearly 700 years. You can also visit St. John the Evangelist's Church, a Grade I listed Norman church with Roman building stones and a Viking-era gravestone.
The area boasts several natural highlights. Explore Crosscanonby Carr, the first nature reserve in the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for its diverse wetland habitats and migratory birds. The scenic Solway Firth and Coast offer beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife observation, while the River Ellen flows just south of the village.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Crosscanonby Carr has an 'Access for All Trail' and is great for nature spotting. Nearby, you can visit Wordsworth House and Garden in Cockermouth, the birthplace of William Wordsworth. The River Derwent and Isel Bridge also offer pleasant walking opportunities for all ages.
Crosscanonby is a great base for outdoor activities. The Hadrian's Cycleway passes through the coastal area, offering scenic cycling. For walking, running, and mountain biking, you can explore numerous routes. For example, there are several hiking trails, including the 'King Charles III England Coast Path: Maryport Loop', and various running and MTB trails around the area.
Crosscanonby Carr is particularly vibrant during migration seasons, from late February to early May, and again in autumn, when large flocks of wading birds can be observed. In summer, the reserve is known for its beautiful yellow flag irises.
Yes, Crosscanonby Carr nature reserve features an 'Access for All Trail', designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities. Additionally, Millers Bridge (Cockermouth) is noted as wheelchair accessible, providing views of the River Derwent.
Beyond Crosscanonby, you can visit Wordsworth House and Garden in Cockermouth, the birthplace of the famous poet. Also in Cockermouth is All Saints Church, a historical Anglican church dating back to 1854. Further afield, but accessible, are the Lake District Coast Aquarium in Maryport and the impressive Carlisle Castle.
For scenic views, the viewing platform at Milefortlet 21 offers insights into the Roman coastal defense system with coastal vistas. The Solway Firth and Coast provide expansive views across the water. Additionally, Isel Bridge offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys of the River Derwent.
The Crosscanonby Carr nature reserve is a haven for wildlife, particularly known for its diverse birdlife. You can observe large flocks of wading birds during migration seasons, as well as various other animals and plants in its wetland, meadow, and woodland habitats. The Solway Coast also offers opportunities to spot coastal wildlife.
The River Derwent is an iconic river in Northwest England, flowing through the Lake District and passing through towns like Cockermouth, where William Wordsworth grew up. It's known for its scenic course and cultural significance, eventually emptying into the Irish Sea. You can enjoy its beauty from various points, including Millers Bridge and Isel Bridge.
Yes, St. John the Evangelist's Church in Crosscanonby is a significant ancient religious site. It's a Grade I listed Norman church standing on one of Cumbria's earliest Christian sites, with parts dating back to around 1130 AD. It incorporates Roman building stones and features an unusual alabaster font, believed to be one of the earliest uses of alabaster in English church furnishings.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: