Haig, once home to Cumbria’s largest coal pit, is now a key part of Whitehaven’s coastal tourism. The colliery, which closed in 1986, had tunnels stretching 4.5 miles under the Solway Firth and into the Irish Sea. Following its closure, the area remained underutilised until restoration began in 2002, with the site transferred to the Land Trust in 2008.
Today, Haig offers visitors stunning views of the Irish Sea and a chance to explore the cliffs, which are home to thousands of seabirds such as puffins and razorbills. With improved access through open access land and new permissive pathways, Haig forms part of a seamless journey from the harbour to the wild coastline.
Open ccess
Free parking available at Haig Pit car park at the following address: Haig Pit Car Park, Solway Road, Whitehaven, Cumbria, CA28 9BG. The car park is always open and is not owned by the National Trust or the Land Trust. What3Words://froze.divisions.fue There are 3 blue badge parking bays, the carpark is surfaced with compacted gravel. There are no electric vehicle charging points.
5 minute walk from Haig Museum Pit bus stop & 10 minute walk from Whitehaven train station
There is step-free level access into the area, footpaths are either concrete, tarmac, grass or bonded gravel. Footpaths are available in all of the outdoor spaces. The majority of the paths are wide enough for wheelchair users. There is step-free level access around some of the area, with slight ramps/slopes without handrails in the main areas. There are slight slopes throughout the main path. Benches are situated along the paths for people to rest.
There are no toilets available on site but the nearby Haig Pit Cafe has toilet facilities
There is no café on site, Haig Pit Café is nearby however and open a few days per week.
Picnics are welcome on site, please take all rubbish home with you
There is no children's play area on site
Established and grassy footpaths run throughout the site. The England Coast Path, a national trail runs the length of the site.
Responsible cycling is permitted on site, please be considerate of pedestrians, there are 5 bike locking rails at the Candlestick. what3words:///Dozen.spring.matter
Well-controlled dogs welcome, please ensure your dog has good recall before allowing off-lead. Dogs must be on lead near water bodies, cliffs, and conservation areas to protect wildlife, livestock, and prevent embankment erosion. There are bins available on site for dog waste.
Haig Pit Museum,
Whitehaven,
Cumbria,
CA28 9AL