Wigton
Wigton traces its origins back to the medieval period, when it served as a thriving market hub. Receiving its market charter in 1262, the town’s triangular marketplace became the centre of commerce, drawing traders and farmers from the surrounding countryside.
At the heart of this bustling square once stood a wooden Market Cross, a traditional marker of medieval towns. While the original structure no longer remains, its legacy endures in the form of the memorial fountain, a striking 19th-century addition to Wigton’s landscape.
The Memorial Fountain: A Testament to Philanthropy
The elaborate granite fountain, erected in 1872, was commissioned by George Moore of Whitehall in Mealsgate, a renowned philanthropist and businessman, in memory of his wife. It was designed by Thomas Woolner, a leading figure of the Pre-Raphaelite movement. The fountain features four remarkable bronze reliefs, each depicting an Act of Mercy.
- North Side: Visiting the Afflicted
- East Side: Clothing the Naked
- South Side: Instructing the Ignorant
- West Side: Feeding the Hungry
Above each relief, a small granite carving of Mrs. Moore’s face, delicately framed by leaves, adds an intimate tribute to the woman in whose honour it was built.
This philanthropic gesture underscores the deep civic pride and charitable spirit that has shaped Wigton’s history, making the town more than just a marketplace but a place of social conscience and community endeavour.
Architectural Heritage: Georgian Elegance and Gothic Grandeur
A stroll through Wigton today reveals a harmonious blend of architectural styles, with Georgian buildings defining much of the marketplace. While the lower levels of many structures have been modernised, the upper storeys remain largely untouched, offering a glimpse into the town’s 18th-century character.
One of Wigton’s most distinctive landmarks is St Mary’s Parish Church. This stands on the site of an earlier church incorporating a Pele Tower, similar to those found at Burgh-by-Sands and Newton Arlosh. The original structure, having fallen into disrepair, was demolished to make way for the current church, built in 1788. Its design was inspired by St Michael’s Church in Workington, reflecting the restrained elegance of the period.
Elsewhere in the town, St Cuthbert’s Catholic Church, located on King Street, is a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed by the esteemed Ignatius Bonomi in 1837, its handsome façade and intricately finished interior, complete with an impressive ceiling and organ gallery, contribute to Wigton’s rich architectural landscape.
The Literary and Artistic Legacy of Wigton
Wigton is more than just a historical landmark—it is a town that has fostered remarkable literary and artistic minds.
Among its most celebrated figures is Melvyn Bragg, the writer, broadcaster, and peer, who was born in Wigton in 1939. His book Speak for England stands as a compelling oral history of the 20th century, drawing upon the voices and experiences of the people of Wigton itself.
Other notable figures associated with the town include:
- Ewan Clarke, a poet renowned for capturing the essence of Cumberland.
- Robert Smirke, R.A., a historical painter and father of architects Sir Robert Smirke (designer of the British Museum) and Sydney Smirke.
- George Barnes, an influential mathematician.
- Joseph Rooke, a self-taught weaver.
- John Rooke, a respected writer on political economy and geology.
The literary and artistic heritage of Wigton is further enriched by its Civic Trust, which has published A Walk Around Wigton. This booklet, detailing three urban trails that guide visitors through the town’s historic streets, was researched in collaboration with the pupils of Nelson Thomlinson School.
Highmoor Mansion and the Legacy of the Banks Family
For those intrigued by Victorian-era innovation, Highmoor Mansion offers a fascinating insight into Wigton’s industrial and architectural heritage.
Built in 1885 by Edwin and Henry Banks, the mansion was distinguished by its clock tower. This was designed to house not only a timepiece but also a carillon and a large bell known as Big Joe. The carillon played a different tune each day, with a special hymn on Sundays, an endearing feature that added a musical rhythm to life in Wigton.
While Highmoor Mansion once stood as the grand residence of the Banks family, it has since been repurposed into flats, yet its legacy remains woven into the fabric of the town.
A Town Shaped by Industry and Innovation
Beyond its cultural and literary significance, Wigton has played a pivotal role in industrial development, particularly in the realms of textiles and manufacturing.
Historically, the town was known for its weaving and textile industries, a tradition that can be traced back centuries. This legacy continues today with Innovia Films, a world-leading producer of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) films. These are used in food packaging, labels and, most famously, banknotes. The factory, one of the town’s largest employers, underscores Wigton’s ongoing contribution to global industries.
The Spirit of Wigton: Community and Character
What truly sets Wigton apart is its sense of community, a quality that has endured across centuries of change. Despite its historical grandeur, the town remains unpretentious, welcoming, and deeply connected to its roots.
The annual events calendar is testament to this vibrant community spirit, with markets, festivals, and local celebrations. These draw people together in the square that has been Wigton’s beating heart since 1262.
For visitors, Wigton offers a charming alternative to the more well-trodden tourist trails of Cumbria. Its history, architecture, and enduring local character make it an enriching stop for those looking to delve deeper into authentic Cumbrian life.
Why Wigton Deserves a Visit
From its medieval market origins to its literary luminaries, from Georgian elegance to Victorian grandeur, Wigton is a town that rewards those who take the time to explore it. While often overshadowed by its more famous Cumbrian counterparts, it remains a place of historical depth, cultural richness, and enduring community spirit—a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
For those seeking to step off the beaten path and immerse themselves in the true essence of Cumbria, Wigton offers a fascinating and rewarding journey through time.
Related links:
Menu :
Planning a visit to Wigton? Whether business or leisure, see location market below and enter your dates to see available accommodation on a handy map