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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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
Cockermouth is located in the north-west of Cumbria, in between the Lake District National Park and the Solway coast.
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.
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.
Situated on what was once the Cockermouth, Keswick and Penrith railway line, Bassenthwaite Lake…
Based in Cockermouth, on the edge of the Lake District, Wellington Farm have Six Luxury Glamping…
A 16thC inn situated at the foot of Melbreak and between Loweswater lake and Crummock Water.…
Usually held on the first Thursday of the month, our wine tasting evenings are full of laughter and…
Based at the head of England's best trail centre, the Altura trail in Whinlatter Forest, Keswick. A…
5* holiday park on the shores of Bassenthwaite.
Our Michelin Star restaurant offers a delicious tasting menu, created by Chef Jack Bond using the…
Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller…
Step behind the scenes with our guided tour and uncover the heritage, stories, and secrets that…
From the moment you pull onto the sprawling driveway and capture your first glimpse of the…
Set in Loweswater village between Loweswater lake and Crummock water. Rural setting with…
We are a relaxed, gourmet getaway nestled in Whinlatter Forest, the only true mountain forest in…
The Bistro at the Distillery aims to embrace the spirit of the Lake District, which is achieved by…
Buses to and through Cockermouth: 35 Workington - Cockermouth - Slatefell. 36 Workington -…
The award-winning Lakes Distillery Company opened in December 2014 in The Lake District National…
Welcome to England's only true mountain forest. Whinlatter boasts unrivalled views across…
Sally's Cottages is an award-winning, local, family run holiday cottage letting agency in Keswick…
"Cafe Ambio at Whinlatter Forest is set in the beautiful location of Whinlatter Forest, nestled in…
Isel church is a beautiful Grade I listed building, which is located in an idyllic position in a…
Guests at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa can enjoy a full afternoon tea service from 12:30pm-5pm.…
This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.
The privately owned, four star 17th century former stately home, has 42 individually designed…
The brewery is now open again, at the foot of Cockermouth Castle, surrounded by the River Derwent…
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You may leave the Lake District, but once you’ve been, it’ll never leave you.

Number of results: 82
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Cockermouth
The Orient Express Afternoon Tea at Bassenthwaite Lake Station and Carriage Cafe offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a selection of delicious food in the most elegant of surroundings. A fine selection of finger sandwiches, savoury and sweet treats…
Bassenthwaite Lake, owned by the National Park Authority, is 4 miles long and 3/4 mile wide, and 70ft deep and home to the rare vendace fish species.
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.
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…
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.
Keswick
Looking for something fun-filled, action-packed and adventurous this autumn? Back for 2025, Sundown Adventures makes a return to Whinlatter Forest in the Lake District. Experience tree top thrills in a whole new light for a limited time between 17th…
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.
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
Braithwaite, Keswick
Our Michelin Star restaurant offers a delicious tasting menu, created by Chef Jack Bond using the finest ingredients from Cumbria and further afield in creative, sustainable ways.
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…
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…
Cockermouth
Set in Loweswater village between Loweswater lake and Crummock water. Rural setting with picturesque views.
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.
Keswick
Nestled near Keswick within the picturesque Lake District National Park lies Lake District Castle Inn Hotel, originally a coaching Inn dating back to 1770. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Cumbrian mountains and with views of the serene…
Bassenthwaite
Get up close and personal with our Alpacas, for participants aged 16 years and over. Alpacas are friendly and inquisitive animals and just like us they enjoy a bit of fresh air and exercise. Meet our five boys Hugo, Hector, Herbie, Dougal and…
Bassenthwaite
A range of engaging presentations take place daily bringing you closer to many of your favourite animals. Watch exhilarating Bird of Prey displays, educational Reptile talks and fun and interesting Lemur, Otter and Red Panda talks.
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…
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.
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…
Cockermouth
Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.
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