Things to Do in Cockermouth | Cumbria

Things to Do in Cockermouth | Cumbria

Things to Do in Cockermouth: Cockermouth lies on the north-western edge of the Lake District.

This makes the town an ideal base from which to hike Bassenthwaite Lake, Lorton Vale, Crummock Water, Buttermere and then Honister Pass, which at 1,167 feet (356m) is one of the Lake District highest mountain passes.

What is There to See in Cockermouth?

The town itself stands where the River Cocker joins the River Derwent.

Historic Cockermouth is one of the 51 towns in Britain listed as "gem" towns, recommended for preservation by the state as part of the national heritage.

Walking along the attractive Main Street you come across one of the town's many fine Georgian houses.

However, one of the Georgian buildings stands out from the rest - Wordsworth House built in 1754, is the birthplace of the poet William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy.

For its size this market town is full of surprises.

Some of the many attractions include a Museum of Printing, set in buildings dating back to the 16th century, guided tours of the local Jennings brewery, which also houses the Aspects of Motoring Museum, and a Toy and Model Museum.

History of Cockermouth Cumbria

Even the Romans came to the area, building their fort at nearby Papcastle.

In the 13th century the Normans built a castle in the town, which was partly destroyed by Robert the Bruce and again in the Civil War.

It was later rebuilt as a private house and is, unfortunately, not open to the public.

Mary Queen of Scots stayed in the town after her flight from the Battle of Langside in 1568, and is reputed to have written possibly the most famous letter in British history here.