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Lake District North West |
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COCKERMOUTH "GEM" TOWN OF CUMBRIA The ancient and historic town of Cockermouth is one of only 51 towns in Great Britain to be given this title, and is, therefore, recommended for preservation by the state as part of our national heritage. Set in attractive countryside on the fringe of the Lake District National Park glimpses of the surrounding mountains and countryside spill into view through the old winding side streets.
The rivers Cocker and Derwent run through the town making attractive places to sit and take a break. Large enough to support a number of interesting and unique little shops as well as discreet supermarkets, Cockermouth remains relatively unchanged. The cattle market and its old building still remains in the centre of town. There are numerous Pubs and Eating Places (see menu) to cater for all tastes - but you won't find a MacDonalds! Please see below for Facilities and Places of Interest. |
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Main street runs directly through the centre of the town and is a broad, attractive tree-lined street with hidden cobbled courtyards and passageways. If you take the time to explore the town you will find some hidden treasures! FACILITIES: Top of Page Cockermouth Sports Centre - swimming, climbing wall, badminton, table tennis, football etc. Information and charges available from the centre. Cockermouth Festival during July - information on events and dates available from Allerdale Borough Council Website at www.allerdale.gov.uk. Places of Interest: Top of Page
Blindcrake 'The Clints', Blindcrake. Back up
"View of the now abandoned Thackray Farmhouse seen from the top of a Limestone Pavement - area of special scientific interest. The Clints can be reached by footpath from the village of Blindcrake (1 mile from Huddlestone Cottage and The Hayloft in Redmain). 360 degree views from the top are spectacular showing the Solway Coast, Scotland. Picture shows view South towards Skiddaw and Bassenthwaite Lake.
Castlegate House Gallery Back up A listed Georgian House and garden, built in 1739 opposite Cockermouth Castle is the setting for some stunning displays of modern painting and sculpture, ceramics and glass. The walled secret garden is open during the Summer months. During the colder weather you can always sit and enjoy the exhibits, often by the warmth of an open fire. Very intimate and friendly atmosphere with exceptionally helpful and friendly staff. Admission free. Contact Tel/Fax: (01900) 822149 Email:
Website: www.castlegatehouse.co.uk Cockermouth Craft & Gift Centre Back up The largest, permanent collection of Cumbrian crafts plus some antiques and bric a brac. No admission charge.
Isel Bridge Back up
Isel Bridge over the Derwent River is a beautiful area to walk. It is within walking distance of Huddlestone Cottage and The Hayloft in Redmain.
"A lovely walk along the River Derwent, giving wonderful panoramic views of Sale Fell and the surrounding valley." (see pictures above). Jennings Brewery Back up The Famous Jennings Brewery has been part of Cockermouth for over 170 years. There's no mistaking the beer in the making!! Hop brewing can still be smelt in Cockermouth using traditional methods that were used by their founder since 1828 in Lorton village. A 1hr 30mins tour of the brewery will introduce you to the delightful and intriguing brewery expressions such as Hop Back and Mash Tun. Local ales such as the distinctively dark bitter Original Brew, or the light golden bitter of Cumberland Ale, or the warming Snecklifter can still be purchased. If you are visiting during the Christmas Period you may want to try the powerful Cocklewarmer - but you'll have to be quick it's so popular they often sell out of it! Tour Charge. Kirkgate Centre Back up A converted Victorian Primary school which is now a community arts facility. Opened in 1995 and run by volunteers it offers a wide range of activities and events including live music, drama, dance, workshops, exhibitions of art and local history, films etc. Widely advertised. Plenty of car parking. Separate charges for events. Lakeland Sheep and Wool Centre Back up What is Cumbria famous for - apart from it's lakes? Arguably it's most famous residents are its sheep! The Lakeland Sheep and Wool Centre puts on a show daily to introduce you to the delights of sheep, sheep rearing, and its industry. Very interesting. One million visitors have been along so far, and by all accounts its been given the thumbs up! The show is indoors in a big arena and you will have a face to face experience! As you might expect with sheep they can be unpredictable - but good fun! Also the CUMWEST Visitor Centre, licensed restaurant and the distinctively sheepy shop! Great fun for children and adults. Admission charge for show, which will also get you into the CUMWEST Visitor Centre free. Mineral Museum and Derwent Gallery Back up The Creighton Mineral Museum comprises a collection of Northern England Minerals and includes the late Wm Shaw's mineral collection. Also on display is miners equipment, old photographs and fluorescent minerals in an "Aladdin's Cave". Mineral mining in Lakeland and Northern England dates back to Roman Times. There is also a shop which has minerals and fossils for sale, as well as very beautiful jewellery, original paintings, photographs and craft items. Donations to West Cumberland Hospice at Home for Museum visits. Printing House Museum Back up Example of Working Museum of Printing set in a building which date back to the 16th Century. A varied and interesting range of historical presses and equipment is on display e.g. a Cogger Press dated 1820. Visitors can get 'hands on' experience and have the opportunity to produce cards or keepsakes. Good for adults and children. Admission Charge. Toy and Model Museum - **Winner of the 1995 National Heritage Shoestring Award** Back up The museum exhibits mainly British toys from c1900 to the present. There are many visitor operated displays including vintage tinplate trains, Scalextric cars, Lego models and flying helicopter! There are prams, dolls houses, and a railway in both the 'loft' and the garden. Rod Moore, who runs the museum, is a great guy and will take great pleasure in giving you a tour. He was recently awarded an MBE for his longstanding dedication to this museum. Fun for all the family. Admission charge. Wordsworth House Back up Birthplace of William and Dorothy Wordsworth. Fine example of a Georgian Town House built in 1745 for the Sheriff of Cumberland, plus restored Georgian garden which features Wordsworth's famous terraced walk. Admission charge.
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