Maryport (A Wet Day Alternative)

If it’s hoofing down (as it occasionally does in Cumbria), don’t despair. The seaside town of Maryport is there to the rescue. Some Roman heritage, some watery friends and then some energy-sapping indoor climbing will make for a great day’s (indoor) fun.

Morning:

Okay, start with a visit to Senhouse Roman Museum, which houses a collection of Roman artefacts from the adjacent Alauna Roman Fort. Alauna Fort was part of Emperor Hadrian’s coastal defense network, extending down to Ravenglass in the Lake District. The museum features a reconstructed watch tower (with new interpretation panels to give you a greater insight), providing amazing views not only of the fort, but also the Lake District, Scotland across the Solway Firth, and the Isle of Man.

From Senhouse, head over to the Lake District Coast Aquarium (www.coastaquarium.co.uk) and enjoy a variety of live displays, from fresh water to deep reef to shipwrecks! After you’re finished with the fish, head outside to the nautical themed playground or try a round of crazy golf.

Have lunch at the aquarium or one of Maryport’s many other restaurants and cafes, and if the kids still have energy to burn after the aquarium’s playground, then head over to Clip ‘n Climb at the Wave Centre.

Afternoon:

After a morning of site seeing, it’s time to get active. Or maybe just some of the family. Clip ‘n Climb at the Wave is a newly opened indoor attraction and the first in northern England.

Budding adventurers can test their resolve and daring on a number of climbs, all with different themes, styles and degrees of difficulty. Try the jungle gym, take on the Speed Climbing challenge, light up the board on the Checkerplate, or reach the dizzy heights of the Skyscraper. And for the brave of heart, there’s the Leap of Faith.

We recommend that you pre-book as Clip ‘n Climb has to limit the numbers of visitors at any one time. Check the website for booking details, admission and open times.