A UK 'seaside town' with a beach that even locals rarely think to visit, is making waves for its bargain property prices.
Nestled on the Cumbrian coast and a stone's throw from the stunning Lake District, Workington has been spotlighted as one of the nation's most affordable coastal spots to live, boasting an average house price of £143,410 – a steal compared to the UK's average of £289,000.
Currently, there's a terraced house turning heads with its jaw-dropping guide price of just £10,000 on Winifred Street, while another three-bedroom end terrace on Findlay Place tempts buyers at £30,000.
Ian Cale, 63, who sells football memorabilia from his market stall in the area, said: "It's just a bit of an ex-industrial town and it's a bit rundown - it's the same as a lot of towns with empty shops. But it's more of a port than a seaside town. [I've] not really ever got down to the beach."
Cheese stall owner Adrian McGreavy, 62, concurs, suggesting that what Workington truly needs is a financial boost. He remarked: "The place is nice. Someone put on TikTok and slagged everything off. The town is okay, everyone seems okay and friendly enough. But it's not really a seaside town - Workington is industrial and just needs a bit of investment.", reports the Express.
Graeme Cameron, 55, a business owner who runs the bustling shop Sole It Lock It in the town centre, shared his perspective: "We do get plenty of tourists who come to see the area and a lot of them have got caravans - but a lot of that has to do with the Lakes as it's cheaper to stay just outside than in the Lakes itself."
Alison Short, 54, who operates the neighbouring florists alongside her mum Mary McCallister, 88, admitted she's never set foot on the beach despite being a lifelong resident of the town.
She expressed her surprise: "I wouldn't class it as a seaside town - it's more of an industrial town. I have lived here all my life and have never been on the beach! It definitely isn't a seaside town - I'm quite shocked [that it's been called one]."
Her mother, however, reminisced about the days when the shingle beach was a popular spot for families. "When I was young everyone would go to the beach - everyone went there for a day out", she recalled.
Yvonne Reed, 64, a retired postwoman who frequents Workington from nearby Aspatria, spoke about the town's current state: "I come here to shop. It is a bit rundown and has a lot of empty shops."
Lindsey Taylor, 44, a stallholder who frequents Workington twice a week and hails from Allonby, a lovely coastal village, shared: "It's quite a quiet town and friendly."
Workington's History
According to Visit Cumbria: "Workington is an ancient market and industrial town at the mouth of the River Derwent, and is the main shopping centre for West Cumbria."
"Some parts of the town north of the River Derwent date back to Roman times."
"It was in the 18th century, with the exploitation of the local iron ore and coal pits, that Workington expanded to become a major industrial town and port."
Points of Interest
Points of interest include Jane Pit on recreational ground off Moss Bay Road. It is the best surviving example of the ornate castellated style of colliery architecture.
While the ruins of Workington Hall sit on the northeast outskirts of the town, where Mary Queen of Scots once posed as an ordinary woman and wrote a letter to Queen Elizabeth I after her forces were defeated at the Battle of Langside.
Why Workington is Being Overlooked
Despite its surprisingly affordable property prices, Workington is often overlooked by tourists. It's understandable why. With the picturesque Lake District just a short drive away, many visitors choose to spend their time exploring the stunning national park. However, Workington has its own charm and appeal, especially if you're on a budget.
What Workington Needs
Many residents agree that Workington needs investment. While the town is friendly and has some great shops, it is in need of a refresh. If the town can attract more investment, it could become a more popular destination for visitors. And with its already low property prices, it could also become a more popular place to live.
A Forgotten Gem?
Workington may not be the most glamorous of towns, but it's definitely affordable. If you're looking for a place to buy a home or just want to get away from the crowds, Workington might be worth a look. It's a great town to escape the crowds in the Lakes and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
