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

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…

Bird of Prey Experience at The Lake District Wildlife Park

An unique opportunity for anyone over 16 years old. After enjoying a Bird of Prey flying display…

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,…

The Pheasant Inn

Nestled near the tranquil shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, just ten minutes from Keswick, The…

Bassenthwaite Lakeside Lodges

5* holiday park on the shores of Bassenthwaite.

St Oswald, Dean

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

The Mystery of the Pirate Lagoon

The Mystery of the Pirate Lagoon A comic radio play presented live on stage. What is the mystery of…

Family Friendly Half day Landscape Photography Workshop

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

Buses to and through Cockermouth

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

Dining at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa

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

Lake District Walking Holidays - The Carter Company

Tailor made self guided, walking, cycling and touring holidays with luxury and classic…

Cyclewise Whinlatter - Bike Hire & Guide

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

Cyclewise Cockermouth

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

Lake District Cycling Holidays - The Carter Company

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

Southwaite Green Farm

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

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…

Sally's Cottages

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

Low Fold Holiday Cottages

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

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…

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,…

Jennings Beer Festival

Independently brewed beers from around Cumbria Friday 17th & Saturday 18th April 2026 ⏰ 4-10pm…

Landscape Photography Full day workshop

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

Taste Cumbria Christmas

Get in to the festive spirit with Taste Cumbria Christmas in Cockermouth on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6…

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: 97

, currently showing 41 to 60.

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

High to Low

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
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

More Details

More Details
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…

More Details

Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
183 reviews
More Details
Landscape Photography Full day workshop

Address

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

Telephone
0782729869

steveblakephotography@gmail.com

Braithwaite, Keswick

Join photographer Steve Blake in our beautiful woodland environment.

Full day workshops are designed for those looking to take their photography to the next level and learn how to get the most out of your photography equipment, be that an iPad or…

More Details

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
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…

More Details

More Details
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.

More Details

Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
407 reviews
More Details
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.

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details
Leisure at the Castle Inn Hotel

Address

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

Telephone
01768776401

events@castleinncumbria.co.uk

Keswick

Leisure at the Castle Inn offers a great range of facilities available to our Members and guests staying at the hotel, included heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Set beneath some of England's highest fells and overlooking Bassenthwaite…

More Details

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
Bassenthwaite Lake

Address

-

website@cumbriatourism.org

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.

More Details

More Details
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…

More Details

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
37 reviews
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…

More Details

More Details
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.

More Details

Tourism For All

Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
183 reviews
More Details
Full Moon Women's Circle – Beaver 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
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
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…

More Details

More Details
Lamplugh Loop & Loweswater

Address

Cumbria, CA13 0RU

Telephone
01539 822222

website@cumbriatourism.org

The loop begins by skirting along the edge of the fells with dramatic and atmospheric views over the valleys of the River Keekle and Dub Beck to distant villages and the rearing hills beyond.

More Details

More Details
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.

More Details

Tourism For All

More Details

Don't Miss

Spring

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

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Address

Telephone

Tourism For All

You may also like

Bookable Experiences

Download Guide

Gift Vouchers

Itineraries

E-newsletter Sign Up

Blog