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Cockermouth Western Lakes & Coast

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Cockermouth

The Georgian town of Cockermouth is the gateway to the Western Lake District and Solway Coast, and a great place to visit in its own right. It’s home to a vibrant arts scene, great food and drink, and a busy events calendar that keeps the town buzzing throughout the year. It’s location means that in just 20 minutes, you could be relaxing on a lake shore, taking a walk on the beach, or hiking up a fell.

Cockermouth is also the proud birthplace of William and Dorothy Wordsworth. Visit Wordsworth House, now managed by the National Trust, for a fascinating insight into the poet’s early life.

History & Heritage

Cockermouth gets its name from its location at the confluence of the River Cocker and the River Derwent. The Normans built Cockermouth Castle here, the ruins of which can be seen today, and developed the town further. It still has a medieval layout, with a wide main street and connecting lanes. Today, its architecture is a mixture of Georgian and Victorian, with cobblestone paving and local slate roofs.

Cockermouth’s medieval layout and historic buildings have marked it out for special care and preservation by the British Council for Archaeology which, in 1964, named it as one of just 51 Gem Towns across the UK.

In 1221 and 1227, Cockermouth was granted market charters by King Henry III. It developed into one of the area’s most popular market towns, with weekly markets - alongside the fact pubs could open all day on market days - bringing visitors to the town. Today, its Market Place is lined by independent shops and businesses; and the Market Bell can be seen set in a wall as a reminder of this period in its history.

In 1770, famed poet William Wordsworth was born here. Today, his former home of Wordsworth House - where he spent his early years - is open to visitors. Other famous Cockermouth residents have included astronomer Fearon Fallows, scientist John Dalton, Fletcher Christian of Mutiny on the Bounty fame, and English cricketer Ben Stokes.

For more recent history, look for the flood markers on the town centre businesses which show how high the waters reached when the Rivers Cocker and Derwent burst their banks in 2009.

Things To Do in Cockermouth

There’s history, literature, culture, shopping and more in Cockermouth. The town is an artistic hub, and places like the popular Kirkgate Arts centre offer much to enjoy. There are also artists’ studios hosting workshops, independent galleries, and local shops in which to pick up locally made arts and crafts.

Visit the National Trust owned Wordsworth House and Garden to see where the famous poet and his sister, Dorothy Wordsworth, grew up. Take a walk in the scenic Harris Park, or head further afield and enjoy hiking in the nearby fells and mountains of the Lake District. Places like Keswick, Buttermere and Ennerdale are just a short drive away. Nearby Whinlatter Forest Park has Go Ape aerial assault course and a brilliant adventure playground trail, as well as great mountain biking and walks. Or, take a trip to the Cumbrian coast and spent the day exploring its beaches and nature reserves, including the nearby Solway Coast National Landscape.

The Lakes Distillery is just a short drive away and offers you the opportunity to find out how whisky is made, with tours and tastings available.

What’s On in Cockermouth

There’s always something going on in Cockermouth. Many of the Main Street pubs have live music at weekends, and you’ll find events taking place throughout the year. While the town no longer hosts a regular farmers’ market, it is home to several pop up markets which are well worth visiting. These include the popular Taste Cumbria Food Festivals, with one in September and one at Christmas.

Cockermouth Castle is usually closed to visitors, but occasionally opens during events like Heritage Open Days and for select festivals in the town.

Keep an eye out for events like Cockermouth Live: an annual celebration of live entertainment, taking place at venues across the town every summer (including Cockermouth Castle).

Food & Drink in Cockermouth

Cockermouth has a varied selection of places to eat and drink, with modern cafes and quirky tea rooms alongside cosy pubs and bistros serving up local and internationally inspired cuisine.

You’ll find some great places to eat in town – tucked down a side street or in full view in the main shopping areas – while the surrounding countryside has some wonderful inns and pubs that serve up gorgeous views along with a delicious meal.

There’s a fine selection of friendly tearooms and cafes, alongside independent bakeries and local producers. Come evening, you can enjoy the town’s range of restaurants and pubs, many offering live entertainment and welcoming dogs, too. Keep an eye out for locally brewed beers on the menu!

If you’d rather eat at home, there’s a good range of takeaways, or head to the town’s brilliant butchers, fishmonger, grocers or delis to find the perfect ingredients.

Shopping in Cockermouth

Cockermouth is known for its shopping, with a great range of shops lining its pretty Georgian streets. Many are independently owned, and all offer excellent customer service. From homewares and gifts to toys and locally made food, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

The town centre is pretty compact (no long walks required) and the bulk of the shopping is divided between three areas: tree-lined Main Street, pretty Market Place and bustling Station Street. Keep an eye out for pop-up markets, too.

It’s worth visiting Cockermouth before Christmas. The shopkeepers light their doorways with candles, the Christmas lights are magical, and there’s even late night shopping, with mulled wine to keep away the chill.

FAQs

Where is Cockermouth located?

Cockermouth is located in the north-west of Cumbria, in between the Lake District National Park and the Solway coast.

Where is there to stay in Cockermouth?

Cockermouth offers plenty of places to stay, from hotels to self catering accommodation. With its location near the Lake District and Cumbrian coast, it’s a great place to base yourself and explore the local area. In town and in the nearby countryside you’ll also find glamping on local farms, country house hotels, and a good range of inns and B&Bs.

How to get to Cockermouth?

Cockermouth is easy to reach by car along the A66 from west and east, and the A595 from Carlisle. There’s parking in Cockermouth town centre. Travelling by public transport? There are regular bus services from locations across Cumbria including Keswick, Carlisle, Penrith and Workington.

Highlights

The Lake District Wildlife Park

Go wild & experience a world of wildlife! There's over 100 species from Anaconda to Zebra. Rare and…

Wellington Farm Glamping Breaks

Based in Cockermouth, on the edge of the Lake District, Wellington Farm have Six Luxury Glamping…

Peel Wood

This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.

Sally's Cottages

Sally's Cottages is an award-winning, local, family run holiday cottage letting agency in Keswick…

Bridekirk Dovenby 10k

10km race from school around the quiet country roads in the picturesque Bridekirk and Tallentire…

The Cottage in the Wood

Our Michelin Star restaurant offers a delicious tasting menu, created by Chef Jack Bond using the…

Hundith Hill Hotel Limited

Located in the picturesque Lorton Valley, Hundith Hill offers stunning views of the Cumbrian…

Loweswater Lake

Nestled in a wooded valley in the far west of the Lake District, in the Vale of Lorton, Loweswater…

Day Admission to The Lake District Wildlife Park

A range of engaging presentations take place daily bringing you closer to many of your favourite…

Full Moon Women's Circle – Hunter's Moon

Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection,…

The Pheasant Inn - Food & Drink

Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.

Full Moon Women's Circle – Blue Moon

Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection,…

The Spa at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

Armathwaite Hall has created a timeless, yet contemporary countryside spa within a stunning rural…

Lamplugh Loop & Loweswater

The loop begins by skirting along the edge of the fells with dramatic and atmospheric views over…

The Fitz

From the moment you pull onto the sprawling driveway and capture your first glimpse of the…

Free crafts in the Visitor Centre - just drop in!

Get Crafty! Drop in and join our team in the Visitor Centre for free craft activities. A great…

Lake District Cycling Holidays - The Carter Company

Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller…

Alpaca Walking at The Lake District Wildlife Park

Get up close and personal with our Alpacas, for participants aged 16 years and over. Alpacas are…

Full Moon Women's Circle – Beaver Moon

Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection,…

Tours at The Lakes Distillery

The award-winning Lakes Distillery Company opened in December 2014 in The Lake District National…

Carriage Café at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

The romantic ambience and art-deco features of the stunning train carriages make this a truly…

Jennings Brewery

The brewery is now open again, at the foot of Cockermouth Castle, surrounded by the River Derwent…

Landscape Photography Full day workshop

Join photographer Steve Blake in our beautiful woodland environment. Full day workshops are…

Cyclewise Cockermouth

Cyclewise Cockermouth is a premier independant cycle store based in the heart of the very…

You may leave the Lake District, but once you’ve been, it’ll never leave you.

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Fused glass taster session

Address

RD Glass, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0TR

Telephone
07724746277

info@roxydennyglass.co.uk

Cockermouth

If you fancy trying your hand at making a fused glass bowl, wall hanging or freestanding curve, then don't miss the chance to come to the studio and give it a go.
Learn a new skill and have fun being creative, with the freedom to choose what you…

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Taste Cumbria Cockermouth

Address

Main Street & Market Place, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9LE

Telephone
01228 817200

paul.walker@cumberland.gov.uk

Cockermouth

It's a date fixed in every food lover's calendar – the flagship Taste Cumbria festival is back in Cockermouth on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2026.
A great range of attractions are on the menu, giving visitors the chance to eat, drink, shop…

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The Pheasant Inn - Food & Drink

Address

The Pheasant Inn, Bassenthwaite, Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9YE

Telephone
017687 76234

info@the-pheasant.co.uk

Cockermouth

Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.

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Bridekirk Dovenby 10k

Address

Bridekirk Dovenby CE Primary School, Dovenby, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0PG

Telephone
07971760496

bridekirk10k@gmail.com

Cockermouth

10km race from school around the quiet country roads in the picturesque Bridekirk and Tallentire area

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Cyclewise Cockermouth

Address

Unit 2, Fairfield Buildings, South Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RU

Telephone
01900 821998

cockermouth@cyclewise.co.uk

South Street, Cockermouth

Cyclewise Cockermouth is a premier independant cycle store based in the heart of the very picturesque town of Cockermouth. The shop was opened in 2015 to compliment our mountain biking hire centre in Whinlatter Forest.

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Cyclewise Whinlatter - Bike Hire & Guide

Address

Cyclewise Whinlatter, Whinlatter Forest, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
017687 78711

enquiries@cyclewise.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Based at the head of England's best trail centre, the Altura trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. A well stocked trail centre bike shop offering premium bike hire, fast repairs and premium road and mountain bike sales. We also offer guiding and…

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182 reviews
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Kirkstile Inn - Food & Drink

Address

Kirkstile Inn, Loweswater, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0RU

Telephone
01900 85219

info@kirkstile.com

Cockermouth

Set in Loweswater village between Loweswater lake and Crummock water. Rural setting with picturesque views.

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926 reviews
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Taste Cumbria Christmas

Address

Main Street & Market Place, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9LE

Telephone
01228 817200

paul.walker@cumberland.gov.uk

Cockermouth

Get in to the festive spirit with Taste Cumbria Christmas in Cockermouth on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December 2026.
We treat you to more than just food and drink at our Christmas event. There will be gifts and homewares, seasonal specials and all…

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Kintsugi Craft for Beginners at The Kirkgate Arts and Heritage Centre

Address

Kirkgate Arts & Heritage, The Kirkgate Centre, Kirkgate, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9PJ

Telephone
01900 829966

enquiries@thekirkgate.com

Kirkgate, Cockermouth

The perfect Mothers Day Gift!
Discover the ancient art of Kintsugi at Kirkgate in a fun and creative way and create beautiful ceramic pieces to take home!
Kintsugi celebrates the Japanese philosophy of the beauty of imperfection.
You'll learn how…

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Ritson Restaurant and Tavern at Castle Inn Hotel

Address

Castle Inn Hotel by BW Signature Collection, Keswick, Bassenthwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 4RG

Telephone
017687 76401

reception@castleinncumbria.co.uk

Keswick

Our restaurant has a warm and modern appeal, for either a romantic meal for two, or a family meal. if you are hosting a special occasion, private dining can also be arranged in one our of our function rooms. Set beneath some of England's highest…

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The Lakes Distillery

Address

The Lakes Distillery, Nr Bassenthwaite Lake, Cumbria, CA13 9SJ

Telephone
017687 88850

info@lakesdistillery.com

Nr Bassenthwaite Lake

The award-winning Lakes Distillery Company opened in December 2014 in The Lake District National Park with the vision of producing a world class single malt whisky and a global brand that is recognised and respected around the world

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Wordsworth House and Garden

Address

Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX

Telephone
01900 824805

wordsworthhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk

Cockermouth

Step back in time to the 1770s and experience William and Dorothy Wordsworth’s childhood home. Whether you meet the maid-of-all-work or a knowledgeable 21st-century guide, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome.

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Free crafts in the Visitor Centre - just drop in!

Address

Whinlatter Forest, Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
017687 78469

whinlatter@forestryengland.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Get Crafty!
Drop in and join our team in the Visitor Centre for free craft activities. A great way to finish off your day in the forest with a simple but creative memento to take away!

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Fused glass taster session

Address

RD Glass, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0TR

Telephone
07724746277

info@roxydennyglass.co.uk

Cockermouth

If you fancy trying your hand at making a fused glass bowl, wall hanging or freestanding curve, then don't miss the chance to come to the studio and give it a go.
Learn a new skill and have fun being creative, with the freedom to choose what you…

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West Lakeland Orchestra Spring Concert

Address

Christ Church, South St, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RU

Telephone
07989585355

mariekevanbussel70@gmail.com

Cockermouth

The West Lakeland Orchestra exists to bring live symphonic music to audiences in Cumbria and to enable amateur musicians to enjoy music making.

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Wild Forest Sauna

Address

Whinlatter Forest, Whinlatter Pass, Braithwaite, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
07891 291847

hello@theconsciousself.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Wild Sauna & Forest Plunge | Whinlatter Forest
Step into the wild beauty of the Lake District and experience the powerful combination of heat, cold water and nature with our Wild Sauna & Forest Plunge sessions in Whinlatter Forest.
Set high among…

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Touch-a-Truck family fun day

Address

Gote Road, (Entry vis Wakefield Road), Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0NH

Telephone
07780681066

membership@cockermouthrotaryclub.org.uk

(Entry vis Wakefield Road), Cockermouth

TOUCH A TRUCK
Cockermouth Rotary Club Family Fun Day
BIG vehicles. BIG fun

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Elva Plain Stone Circle

Address

Eva Plain, Nr Smetmurphy Common, Embleton, Cockermouth

website@cumbriatourism.org

Embleton

The 15 stones, of which the tallest is just under one metre, form an almost perfect circle some 40 metres in diameter. Only 15 stones of the original 30 remain.

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Jennings Brewery

Address

Jennings Brewery, Brewery Ln, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9NE

Telephone
01900 397444

info@jenningsbrewery.co.uk

Cockermouth

The brewery is now open again, at the foot of Cockermouth Castle, surrounded by the River Derwent and the River Cocker. This water source is integral to our brewing, as our water is drawn direct from the castle well. This pure, Lakeland water, is…

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The Bistro At The Distillery

Address

The Lakes Distillery, Nr Bassenthwaite Lake, Cumbria, CA13 9SJ

Telephone
017687 88850

bistro@lakesdistillery.com

Nr Bassenthwaite Lake

The Bistro at the Distillery aims to embrace the spirit of the Lake District, which is achieved by using regional ingredients where possible and having a key focus on freshness, flavour and simplicity.

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Cockermouth

History & Heritage

Things To Do in Cockermouth

What’s On in Cockermouth

Food & Drink in Cockermouth

Shopping in Cockermouth

FAQs

Where is Cockermouth located?

Where is there to stay in Cockermouth?

How to get to Cockermouth?

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