Jennings' guide to Cockermouth
The Jennings guide to Cockermouth, the Cocker, the Derwent, and the fells beyond, written by the people who live and brew here.
Jennings has been based in Cockermouth since 1874. This is our local's guide to the place we call home on the western edge of the Lake District: where to walk, where to eat and the best things to do in the Lakes.
Plan the day Walks & Routes Brewery Tours The Taproom What's On
A Georgian market town that grew between two rivers, under the shadow of a Norman castle. The kind of history and character that keeps you coming back.
England's only true mountain forest. Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play. Set within the Lake District, a World Heritage Site, Whinlatter has unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. It is also home to the longest purpose-built mountain bike trails in the Lake District.
Cockermouth Castle has stood above the brewery since the twelfth century. One of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Cumbria, its walls are visible from much of the town and its shadow falls across the brewery courtyard in the late afternoon. Castle Bitter is named for it. The Cockermouth and District Civic Trust leads pre-arranged, free guided tours of Cockermouth Castle, giving visitors a rare opportunity to explore this historic site.
Romantic poet William Wordsworth was born in Cockermouth over 250 years ago. Presented as it would have been when he lived here with his parents, siblings and the family servants, Wordsworth House and Garden is accessible by guided tour, led by friendly and knowledgeable guides. The beautiful riverside garden that gave William lifelong inspiration is packed with 18th-century varieties of vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowers, and the River Derwent runs behind William’s beloved terrace walk.
Tucked away in the heart of Cockermouth, Banks JB & Son is the kind of small, traditional hardware shop that is a pleasure to discover. Stepping inside, you’ll find a wonderful selection of household essentials, tools and useful things you never knew you needed. It’s a shop full of character, where a friendly welcome and helpful advice come as standard. There is also a small museum hidden away at the back of the shop. Whether you’re looking for a small DIY item, something for the garden or simply enjoy browsing independent shops, Banks JB & Son is well worth a visit. A lovely little gem in the local area, reminding us of the charm of shopping locally.
Just a short drive south brings you to one of the most beautiful lakes in England. Derwentwater is fed by the River Derwent catchment area in the high fells at the head of Borrowdale, and has a long historical and literary background. The lake changes with the weather, from waves splashing against Friar’s Crag in a southerly gale to the mirror calm of early morning. Hire a kayak, take the lake launch around the islands, or simply sit at the water's edge and do nothing very productively.
England's last working slate mine, about half an hour's drive from Cockermouth. A great day out that our team love. The via ferrata is terrifying in the best possible way.
A selection of the best Lake District walks across fells and beside lakes and rivers, each ending at a pub that pours the Jennings you've earned.
Places we actually go. No sponsorship, no affiliation. Just honest recommendations from the people who live and work here.
Lunch
A family run independent cafe and dining space with a menu focusing on whole and fresh food with the best locally sourced ingredients from the Lake District. Expect fresh, seasonal dishes, expertly crafted local coffee and outrageously good cheese toasties.
Art
Art gallery, bookshop, and occasionally live music space. One of those places that reminds you why small towns matter.
Deli
Deli Station is a great place to stop while exploring Cockermouth, offering the chance to enjoy some delicious, New Zealand inspired food and take a break from a busy day. Whether you’re picking up something for a picnic, treating yourself to a tasty lunch or simply browsing the deli delights, it’s a lovely addition to a visit to town. A friendly local stop for food lovers, Deli Station is well worth seeking out when you’re exploring the area.
Books
For book lovers, The New Bookshop in Cockermouth is a wonderful place to spend a little time. This lovely independent bookshop, nestled in the heart of the town, offers a wide selection of books for all ages, from fiction and local literature to children's books and thoughtful gifts. The adjoining coffee shop makes it even more inviting, with homemade cakes, fresh scones, coffee and light lunches. It’s the perfect place to browse the shelves, find your next favourite read and then settle down with a cup of tea.
Butcher
Harrisons Butchers is a wonderful example of the traditional local businesses that make Cockermouth such a special place to visit. A trip to the butcher’s is a chance to discover quality produce, enjoy friendly service and support a local independent business. Whether you’re picking up something for a special meal or looking for ingredients to enjoy during your stay, Harrisons Butchers is a lovely place to stop and experience the charm of shopping locally.
Restaurant
If you’re looking for somewhere lovely to enjoy a meal in Cockermouth, Revivo is well worth a visit. A welcoming local restaurant, it’s a great place to stop for a bite to eat while exploring the town or to enjoy a relaxed meal with family and friends. Whether you’re treating yourself to dinner or ordering a takeaway to enjoy during your stay, Revivo is a lovely addition to Cockermouth’s food scene. A great place to discover when exploring the local area. You can also order Revivo takeaway and they will deliver to the Jennings taproom. Menus available from the Jennings bar.
A range of options from hotels to cosy B&Bs, all within easy reach of the taproom.
Hotel
A Cockermouth institution. A great riverside setting with comfy rooms, The Trout has a history dating back to the 1600s with notable ex-guests including Bing Crosby. Crown St, Cockermouth.
0.3 miles from the brewery
Hotel
Built in 1847 as a family home, the Manor House Hotel is a Grade II listed building, originally named “The Grecian Villa” which many locals in the town still know it as to this day. Packed with period features, including an elegant wood-panelled spiral staircase topped off with a domed ceiling skylight.
0.3 miles from the brewery
Self-Catering
Numerous holiday cottages in Cockermouth and the surrounding villages. Boutique Retreats and Sykes Cottages both have strong local listings.
Various locations
