Westmorland

Westmorland is a historic county in the northwest of England, bordering Cumberland to the north, Durham and Yorkshire to the east, Lancashire to the south, and Cumberland to the west. The county town is Appleby-in-Westmorland, which is situated near the River Eden and has been an important center for trade and commerce since the time of the Roman Empire. Westmorland is also home to the famous Lake District National Park, which attracts millions of tourists each year, including visitors to Windermere, Ullswater, and Haweswater. The county has a rich cultural heritage, with notable residents including William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Beatrix Potter.

Geography

Westmorland's landscape is characterized by its rolling hills, mountains, and lakes, with the Pennines running along its eastern edge. The county is home to the highest peak in England, Scafell Pike, as well as other notable mountains such as Helvellyn and Skiddaw. The River Eden flows through the county, providing a source of water for the surrounding towns and villages, including Kirkby Stephen and Sedbergh. Westmorland's geography has also been shaped by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea, with the Solway Firth forming its western border. The county's unique landscape has inspired many famous writers and artists, including John Ruskin, J.M.W. Turner, and Alfred, Lord Tennyson.

History

Westmorland has a long and complex history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Mesolithic era. The county was an important center for the Roman Empire, with the construction of the Roman road known as Wade's Causeway and the establishment of the Roman fort at Galava. During the Middle Ages, Westmorland was a key location for the Border Reivers, with many notable families such as the Neville family and the Percy family owning land in the county. The county also played a significant role in the English Civil War, with the Battle of Marston Moor taking place nearby. Westmorland has also been home to many notable historical figures, including Charles Dickens, Queen Victoria, and Prince Albert.

Places of Interest

Westmorland is home to many places of interest, including the historic town of Appleby-in-Westmorland, with its medieval castle and Appleby Castle. The county is also home to the famous Levens Hall, a historic house with beautiful gardens, as well as the Sizergh Castle and the Hutton-in-the-Forest. Visitors to the county can also explore the Rheged Centre, a popular tourist attraction that showcases the history and culture of the region. Other notable places of interest include the Ullswater Steamers, the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, and the Muncaster Castle. The county is also close to the Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Lake District National Park, which is home to many famous lakes, including Windermere and Ullswater.

Economy

The economy of Westmorland is primarily based on tourism, with millions of visitors each year drawn to the county's beautiful landscapes and historic attractions. The county is also home to a number of notable industries, including agriculture, with many farms in the area producing high-quality livestock and crops. The county is also known for its textile industry, with many historic mills and factories, such as the Saltaire and the Lowwood Gunpowder Works. Westmorland is also home to a number of notable companies, including Bass Brewery, Jennings Brewery, and Cumberland and Westmorland Herald. The county's economy has also been shaped by its proximity to the M6 motorway and the West Coast Main Line.

Demographics

The demographics of Westmorland are characterized by a relatively small population, with a high proportion of older residents. The county has a strong sense of community, with many small towns and villages, such as Kirkby Stephen and Sedbergh, having a high level of social cohesion. The county is also home to a number of notable educational institutions, including Appleby Grammar School and Sedbergh School. Westmorland has a relatively low population density, with an average of around 73 people per square kilometer, compared to the national average of around 271 people per square kilometer. The county's population has been shaped by its history, with many notable families, such as the Neville family and the Percy family, having lived in the area for centuries. The county is also close to the University of Cumbria and the University of Lancaster.

Category:Historic counties of England