Don't Miss

Cockermouth Western Lakes & Coast

You are here: Home > Explore Cumbria > Cockermouth

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

Carriage Café at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

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

Bassenthwaite Lake Station

Situated on what was once the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith railway line, Bassenthwaite Lake…

Dining at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

Connoisseurs of fine cuisine will find much to appreciate at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa. Chef…

Lamplugh Loop & Loweswater

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

Wellington Farm Glamping Breaks

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

The Lakes Distillery

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

St Oswald, Dean

In spite of the eclectic origins of its many parts, St Oswald's significance lies it its…

Jennings Brewery

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

The Lake District Wildlife Park

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

Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

The privately owned, four star 17th century former stately home, has 42 individually designed…

The Pheasant Inn - Food & Drink

Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.

Southwaite Green Farm

Eco cottages, built and furnished to the highest standards, in 'one of the most beautiful places…

The Cottage in the Wood

We are a relaxed, gourmet getaway nestled in Whinlatter Forest, the only true mountain forest in…

Bassenthwaite Lake

Bassenthwaite Lake, owned by the National Park Authority, is 4 miles long and 3/4 mile wide, and…

Elva Plain Stone Circle

The 15 stones, of which the tallest is just under one metre, form an almost perfect circle some 40…

Lake District Cycling Holidays - The Carter Company

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

Tours at The Lakes Distillery

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

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…

Day Admission to The Lake District Wildlife Park

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

Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

The Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station and Carriage Cafe offers a unique…

Cyclewise Whinlatter

Based at the head of England's best trail centre, the Altura trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. A…

The Bistro At The Distillery

The Bistro at the Distillery aims to embrace the spirit of the Lake District, which is achieved by…

Sally's Cottages

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

Wine and Whisky Tasting Nights at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

Usually held on the first Thursday of the month, our wine tasting evenings are full of laughter and…

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

Accommodation
Things to Do
What's On
Food & Drink
Towns & Villages

Things to Do

What's On

Food & Drink

Things to Do

What's On

Food & Drink

Towns & Villages

Number of results: 82

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Sort By A-Z Low to High A-Z High to Low

High to Low

Tours at 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

More Details

More Details
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.

More Details

More Details
Go Ape Whinlatter

Address

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

Telephone
01603 895500

questions@goape.co.uk

Braithwaite

Welcome to England's only true mountain forest. Whinlatter boasts unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. Located in the North West of the Lake District, you'll find us in the heart of it. It plays host to two of our…

More Details

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
267 reviews
More Details
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…

More Details

More Details
Spooky crafts

Address

Wordsworth House and Garden, Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX

Telephone
01900 824805

wordsworthhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk

Cockermouth

After exploring the house and getting into the spirit of the season, get creative by making a spooky autumnal craft. Join us in the discovery room where you will find everything you need to get crafty and creative.

More Details

More Details
Peel Wood

Address

East Coniston, Coniston, Cumbria, LA21 8AQ

Telephone
015394 41456

coniston@nationaltrust.org.uk

Coniston

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

More Details

More Details
Holme Wood

Address

B5289, South of Cockermouth, Loweswater, Cumbria

website@cumbriatourism.org

Loweswater

Discover the peace and quiet of Holme Wood, a mixed woodland of alder, oak, lime, chestnut, ash and sycamore.

More Details

More Details
Cyclewise Whinlatter

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…

More Details

Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
181 reviews
More Details
Low Fold Holiday Cottages

Address

Low Fold Barn, Tallentire, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0PR

Telephone
07989256111

lowfoldholidaycottages@gmail.com

Cockermouth

We provide two boutique holiday cottages set on the edge of the national park. Both cottages appeal to the more discerning guests who enjoy a luxurious and sumptuous stay. The cottages are ideal for romantic couple’s retreats, special occasion…

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details
Cafe Ambio, Whinlatter Forest

Address

Cafe Ambio Whinlatter Forest, Whinlatter Forest, Whinlatter Pass, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW

Telephone
01768778410

whinlatter@cafeambio.co.uk

Whinlatter Pass, Keswick

"Cafe Ambio at Whinlatter Forest is set in the beautiful location of Whinlatter Forest, nestled in the treetops. We offer modern cafe food, and brilliant coffee. We use local suppliers to showcase the best food that Cumbria has to offer. Everything…

More Details

Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
32 reviews
More Details
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.

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details
St Oswald, Dean

Address

Dean, Workington, Cumbria, CA14 4TH

Workington

In spite of the eclectic origins of its many parts, St Oswald's significance lies it its alterations and accumulation of features over time including Norman font and walls, 13th century windows, 15th century chancel and furniture by Thompson (the…

More Details

More Details
Lake District Walking Holidays - The Carter Company

Address

The Carter Company, Various locations in Cumbria, CA12 4RE

Telephone
0129663167

hello@the-carter-company.com

Various locations in Cumbria

Tailor made self guided, walking, cycling and touring holidays with luxury and classic accommodation showing you the hidden gems of the area.

More Details

More Details
Hundith Hill Hotel Limited

Address

Hundith Hill Hotel, Lorton Vale, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9TH

Telephone
01900 822092

sales@hundith.com

Cockermouth

Located in the picturesque Lorton Valley, Hundith Hill offers stunning views of the Cumbrian countryside. With 25 rooms, function suites, restaurant, bar & lounge, Hundith Hill is the perfect venue for country escapes.

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details
St Michael and All Angels, Isel

Address

Isel, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9SR

Cockermouth

Isel church is a beautiful Grade I listed building, which is located in an idyllic position in a carefully tended churchyard close to the River Derwent and the grounds of Isel Hall.

More Details

More Details
'Green and Overflowing with Life': The Wordsworths and a love of gardens

Address

Wordsworth House and Garden, Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX

Telephone
01900 824805

wordsworthhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk

Cockermouth

Be inspired at our new exhibition for 2025 all about the Wordsworth love of gardening.
Inspired by Dorothy Wordsworth's quote and the love she and her brother shared for nature and gardening, this year's exhibition is a celebration of the gardens…

More Details

More Details
National Poetry Day

Address

Wordsworth House and Garden, Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX

Telephone
01900 824805

wordsworthhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk

Cockermouth

Celebrate National Poetry Day with a week of poetry inspired by gardens. Enjoy some much-loved poems around the house and our team are looking forward to sharing their favourite poems with you on Facebook.

More Details

More Details
Dark skies walk

Address

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

Telephone
07932 015383

Jo.jagoutdoors@gmail.com

Braithwaite, Keswick

The guided walk will cover 3-4 miles of trails enjoying the magic of the forest in the growing darkness using all your senses to explore the world after the sun sets. Weather permitting there will hopefully also be able to stop for some amazing…

More Details

More Details
The Pheasant Inn

Address

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

Telephone
017687 76234

info@the-pheasant.co.uk

Cockermouth

Nestled near the tranquil shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, just ten minutes from Keswick, The Pheasant, Bassenthwaite offers a heartfelt Cumbrian welcome that has stood the test of time for over two centuries.

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details
Spooky crafts

Address

Wordsworth House and Garden, Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX

Telephone
01900 824805

wordsworthhouse@nationaltrust.org.uk

Cockermouth

After exploring the house and getting into the spirit of the season, get creative by making a spooky autumnal craft. Join us in the discovery room where you will find everything you need to get crafty and creative.

More Details

More Details

Don't Miss

Winter in the Lake District, Cumbria

Subscribe to our Newsletter

My Planner

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?

Highlights

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

You may also like

Bookable Experiences

Download Guide

Gift Vouchers

Itineraries

E-newsletter Sign Up

Blog