Holmrook

Originating from the south-western end of Wast Water, the deepest lake in England, the River Irt begins its course at the base of Whin Rigg, the southern peak of the renowned Wastwater Screes. During its relatively short journey towards the coast, the Irt intersects with the Cumbria Coastal Way, a long-distance footpath, at Drigg Holme packhorse bridge. Passing through the Drigg Dunes and Irt Estuary Nature Reserve, the river eventually merges with the River Esk and River Mite at Ravenglass.Historically, in the 19th century, the River Irt gained fame for hosting freshwater mussels that produced highly sought-after black pearls. Unfortunately, due to rampant poaching, the mussels eventually became extinct in the River Irt, marking the end of this unique natural occurrence.In the context of World War II, Holmrook Hall played a significant role. Initially requisitioned by the Admiralty on behalf of the Royal Navy, local residents were informed that it served as a recuperation facility for shipwrecked and distressed sailors. However, the reality was quite different. Strategically positioned between ROF Drigg and ROF Sellafield, Holmrook Hall functioned as the Royal Navy's bomb and munitions training school from 1943 to 1946, operating under the codename HMS Volcano. Classified as a Top Secret site, it provided training in explosives handling and demolition techniques to Royal Navy personnel, the Special Boat Service, and Norwegian expatriates, contributing to the war effort.