Looking back at Lowther Street in Whitehaven through the years

These pictures show how the street has evolved through the years, some images show shops that has since departed, different transport routes and other changes that have happened since these pictures were snapped in their respective time era.

Lowther Street is the main thoroughfare in the town. The history of Lowther Street is intertwined with the development of Whitehaven, which became a significant port for trade and coal mining starting in the 17th century.

The street could be considered the spine of the town with the other streets either parallel or at right angles. This runs from Strand Street all the way to Whitehaven Castle, after which the road becomes Flatt Walks and then the road to Egremont.

Whitehaven underwent transformation in the late 17th century under the ownership of Sir John Lowther, later known as the first Lord Lonsdale. Lowther Street was named after this influential family.

To create this street, John Lowther had to remove the existing chapel against the wishes of some existing residents and create a new church dedicated to St. Nicholas which still forms the centrepiece of the town.

The Lowther family heavily invested in the development of the town, including the construction of a harbour and several public buildings. One of the most significant buildings built by the Lowther's is as mentioned, Flatt Hall.

The Flatt Hall was remodelled and named Whitehaven Castle in 1769 and Lowther Street became the next thoroughfare making the castle visible from the harbour and through its entire length.