St John

The church sits right at the heart of Maryport, a working port town that hasn't been prettified for tourists. St John's is a solid Victorian structure - built in 1839 - that catches you with its sheer red sandstone presence rather than any fussy decoration. Inside, the nave opens up generously, all high ceilings and decent light pouring through the windows. It's the sort of church that actually feels used, not museum-fied.

This appeals most to people who like their history straightforward and unglamorous. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the Victorian workmanship without the showiness. If you're staying at Harbour Side Caravan Park just down the road, it's absolutely worth the short walk to get a sense of Maryport's maritime heritage through its buildings. The town itself has genuine character - you're not walking through a chocolate-box village, which is refreshing.

Allow twenty minutes inside unless you're really into Victorian ecclesiastical detail. It's free to visit, though do check opening times locally as it's a working parish church. The location gives you a proper feel for a real English port town rather than a prettified tourist spot. If you're exploring the Cumbrian coast between Workington and Silloth, this is the kind of place that actually matters to the community, which shows.