Rowrah is a village and civil parish in the borough of Copeland, Cumbria, England. It is situated in the northwestern part of the historic county of Cumberland, near the Lake District National Park. The settlement lies at an elevation of approximately 250 metres (820 ft) above sea level and is positioned on the B5295 road, roughly 3 miles (5 km) north of the town of Whitehaven.
The name "Rowrah" is derived from Old Norse elements, with "rauðr" meaning "red" and "haugr" meaning "mound" or "hill", suggesting a reference to a red-colored hill or burial mound in the vicinity. Historical records indicate that the area was part of the medieval parish of St. Bees and later became associated with the mining industry.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Rowrah developed as a mining community, primarily extracting coal and iron ore. The Rowrah and Marron Railway, opened in 1879, facilitated the transport of these minerals to the coast for shipment. The decline of the mining sector in the mid‑20th century led to the closure of the local collieries and the railway, resulting in a shift toward agriculture and commuter residence.
As of the most recent census data, the population of Rowrah is modest, numbering a few hundred inhabitants. The village retains several historic structures, including St. John's Church, built in the 19th century, and a number of traditional stone cottages. Community facilities comprise a primary school, a public house, and a village hall that hosts local events.
Rowrah is located within the Copeland parliamentary constituency and falls under the jurisdiction of Cumbria County Council. The surrounding landscape features a mix of moorland, farmland, and woodland, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation such as walking and cycling.