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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 Spa at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

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

Forest Bathing & Wellbeing in Nature Walk – Winter

Reconnect. Slow down. Breathe deeply. Step away from the rush of everyday life and join us for a…

Jennings Brewery Tours

Step behind the scenes with our guided tour and uncover the heritage, stories, and secrets that…

Holme Wood

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

Dining at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

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

The Cottage in the Wood

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

Jennings Brewery

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

Bassenthwaite Lake Station

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

Castle Guards Farm Retreat

4 Luxury Glamping Retreat on The North Western edge of the Lake District - Castle Guards Farm…

Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

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

Landscape Photography Full day workshop

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

Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges

5* holiday park on the shores of Bassenthwaite.

St. Bega's Church, Bassenthwaite

The church, dedicated to the Celtic Saint Bega, is situated in a picture perfect setting in fields…

Family Friendly Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

Join photographer Steve Blake on a family friendly half day workshop. Whinlatter's beautiful…

Cyclewise Whinlatter - Bike Hire & Guide

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

Fused glass taster session

If you fancy trying your hand at making a fused glass bowl, wall hanging or freestanding curve,…

Wild Forest Sauna

Wild Sauna & Forest Plunge | Whinlatter Forest Step into the wild beauty of the Lake District and…

Beginners half day glass fusing course

If you fancy trying your hand at making a fused glass wave, wall hanging and more then don't miss…

Buses to and through Cockermouth

Buses to and through Cockermouth: 35 Workington - Cockermouth - Slatefell. 36 Workington -…

The Fitz

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

Sally's Cottages

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

The Cottage in the Wood

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

Low Fold Holiday Cottages

We provide two boutique holiday cottages set on the edge of the national park. Both cottages appeal…

Fused glass taster session

If you fancy trying your hand at making a fused glass bowl, wall hanging or freestanding curve,…

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

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Lake District Cycling 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

Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller in mind, we aim to show you the hidden gems of the Lake District and also offer the option of electric bikes.

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Martin Roscoe (Piano)

Address

United Reformed Church, 82 Main Street, COCKERMOUTH, Cumbria, CA13 9LU

Telephone
07847594814

publicity@cmussoc.org.uk

COCKERMOUTH

Martin Roscoe is a world renown pianist with 7 BBC Proms performances under his belt. His concert programme is as follows,
Sonata in E flat Hob, XVI/52 Joseph Haydn
6 Bagatelles Opus 126 Ludwig van Beethoven
Gersäng der…

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The Fitz

Address

The Fitz, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0HH

Telephone
07801068053

thefitzcockermouth@hotmail.com

Cockermouth

From the moment you pull onto the sprawling driveway and capture your first glimpse of the magnificent house and it’s sweeping gardens, to the second you retreat to the cosy BBQ house and take a dip in the luxury hot tub.

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Family Friendly Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

Address

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

Telephone
07827298695

steveblakephotography@gmail.com

Braithwaite, Keswick

Join photographer Steve Blake on a family friendly half day workshop.
Whinlatter's beautiful woodland environment is a perfect setting in which to 'dip your toe' into the world of landscape photography.
You'll explore different elements and…

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Bassenthwaite Lake Station

Address

Bassenthwaite Lake Station, Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9YL

Telephone
017687 76599

info@basslakestation.co.uk

Cockermouth

Situated on what was once the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith railway line, Bassenthwaite Lake Station offers a unique place to enjoy breakfast, brunch and lunch aboard the replica Orient Express train, right here in the Lake District.

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Full Moon Women's Circle – Hunter's Moon

Address

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

Telephone
+447810890528

jen@lakelandwellbeing.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District
The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection, release, and renewal. At our special forest site in the Lake District, we gather in circle as women to honour the peak of the Moon's cycle and reconnect…

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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…

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Tourism For All

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183 reviews
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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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Kirkstile Inn

Address

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

Telephone
01900 85219

info@kirkstile.com

Cockermouth

A 16thC inn situated at the foot of Melbreak and between Loweswater lake and Crummock Water. Roaring log fires, home-cooked meals with a local emphasis and high-quality real ales on offer.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
407 reviews
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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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Loweswater Lake

Address

-

website@cumbriatourism.org

Nestled in a wooded valley in the far west of the Lake District, in the Vale of Lorton, Loweswater is a peaceful lake that is often bypassed.

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Wine and Whisky Tasting Nights at Bassenthwaite Lake Station

Address

Bassenthwaite Lake Station, Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9YL

Telephone
017687 76599

info@basslakestation.co.uk

Cockermouth

Usually held on the first Thursday of the month, our wine tasting evenings are full of laughter and interesting topics for guests to explore. These are very popular and seats should be reserved in advance through the website.

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Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

Address

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

Telephone
0782729869

steveblakephotography@gmail.com

Braithwaite, Keswick

Join photographer Steve Blake on a half day workshop
Whinlatter's beautiful woodland environment is a perfect setting in which to 'dip your toe' into the world of landscape photography.
You'll explore different elements and techniques of landscape…

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Touch a Truck family Gala

Address

Janes Walkers, Gote Road, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0NH

Telephone
07780681066

dave@lakestay.co.uk

Cockermouth

The Rotary club's family gala returns
Sunday June 28 2026.
Big trucks and
fairground rides, face painting and much more...
.... Adults £5, children free. Entry includes free rides

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Jennings Brewery Tours

Address

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

Telephone
01900397444

info@jenningsbrewery.co.uk

Cockermouth

Step behind the scenes with our guided tour and uncover the heritage, stories, and secrets that make Jennings so special. From our proud brewing history to the character of our beers, you’ll enjoy a memorable journey through time – finishing with a…

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Wellington Farm Glamping Breaks

Address

Wellington Farm Cockermouth, Wellington Farm, Lamplugh Rd, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0QU

Telephone
07771746294

hello@wellingtonfarmglampingbreaks.com

Lamplugh Rd, Cockermouth

Based in Cockermouth, on the edge of the Lake District, Wellington Farm have Six Luxury Glamping pods all with 7ft Hydrotherapy Hot Tubs and an onsite café & Tearooms. Beautiful panoramic views of the Western Lake District fells.

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Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
135 reviews
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Full Moon Women's Circle – Blue Moon

Address

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

Telephone
+447810890528

jen@lakelandwellbeing.co.uk

Braithwaite, Keswick

Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District
The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection, release, and renewal. At our special forest site in the Lake District, we gather in circle as women to honour the peak of the Moon's cycle and reconnect…

More Details

More Details
Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

Address

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

Telephone
07827298695

steveblakephotography@gmail.com

Braithwaite, Keswick

Join photographer Steve Blake on a half day workshop
Whinlatter's beautiful woodland environment is a perfect setting in which to 'dip your toe' into the world of landscape photography.
You'll explore different elements and techniques of landscape…

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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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The Mystery of the Pirate Lagoon

Address

The Kirkgate, Kirkgate, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9JP

Telephone
01900826448

info@raggededgeproductions.co.uk

Cockermouth

The Mystery of the Pirate Lagoon
A comic radio play presented live on stage.
What is the mystery of the Pirate Lagoon?
Join the crew of The Prospero on an adventure to find out. Will we find the treasure? Can we escape from the evil Captain…

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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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