Christ Central

The massive white Christ statue looms over Maryport like something from a fever dream - all 33 metres of it rising above the surrounding landscape with arms spread wide. Christ Central is essentially a visitor attraction built around this striking religious monument, housed in the church building at its base. You can climb up inside the structure for views across the Solway Firth and towards the Lake District hills, which alone justifies the trip if you're after something a bit different from the usual Cumbrian attractions.

Inside, there's exhibition space covering faith and spirituality, though it's fairly low-key - not a sprawling museum by any means. Families with older kids who can manage the climb will find it worthwhile, especially on a clear day when the vistas really open up. Younger children might lose interest quickly once they've grasped the novelty of the giant statue. The surrounding area around Maryport itself has maritime heritage if you want to pair it with something else.

It works well as a morning stop rather than a full day commitment - allow an hour or so. If you're camping at Harbour Side Caravan Park or Greysouthen, it's practically on your doorstep, making it an easy addition to a Cumbrian break. The sculpture's undeniably striking, even if the execution is a touch kitschy. Whether that appeals depends entirely on your tolerance for bold religious art.