Live like a local with these 7 reasons to visit Cockermouth. We’re sharing some of Cockermouth’s best-kept secrets to ensure you explore the idyllic Georgian town and get the most out of your visit.
Fly Fishing on the River Derwent
One of the finest salmon and sea trout rivers in the North of England
Flowing alongside the Trout Hotel, making its lilting journey to Derwentwater is the River Derwent. It is one of the best fishing spots in the Western Lake District and offers affordable fly fishing for brown trout, wild salmon and sea trout.
Much of the fishing within the National Park is controlled by local clubs that have daily or weekly permits available. We like to keep our water and stock in good condition in the Lake District, so there are a few rules that you should bear in mind.
To assure that the best fishing spots in the Lake District remain great places to visit– we’d appreciate it if you would:
- Have a current Environment Agency rod licence – available online from the Environment Agency
- Follow Environmental Agency Byelaws including those about the use of keepnets, lead weights and barbless hooks for pike fishing
- Follow good angling practice so that the next generation can continue to enjoy fishing
- Take note of any local and/or seasonal restrictions to allow a disturbance-free period to vegetation, fish, birds and other wildlife
- Don’t use live bait – this is banned by the Environment Agency as it increases the risk of introduction of disease and pest species
Visit the Lakes Distillery
A unique collection of exceptional whisky, gin and vodka
Just a short drive from Cockermouth, you’ll find one the Lake District’s favourite attractions. The Lakes Distillery is a growing distillery, making some of England’s best whisky, gin and vodka. Like Scotch whisky brings the taste of the rugged highlands to life, the Lakes Distillery embeds the essence of the fells and lakes in all of their spirits.
They have a range of tours and tastings so you can learn all about their processes as well as sample their quality spirits. It’s perfect for a day trip and their bistro serves fine food for a spot of lunch.
For more information and to book a tour click here.
Beautiful Buttermere Views
A perfect walk for all the family
In the shadow of Great Gable and Haystacks, just below Crummock Water lies Buttermere. One of the smaller lakes in the Lake District, it’s perfect for an amble with the family. Enjoy the peaceful setting and dramatic views as you take the 4.7 mile walk around the lake.
The paths are generally well laid and easy to walk but there can be a few rough and narrow sections. Along the lakeshore, not far from Crag Wood you will find a small pedestrian tunnel that has been carved out of the rock. On a dull day, this can get a little dark so you may want to take a torch. The landscape is best seen from the lakeside, so make sure to plan your lunch to make the most of it.
For details of the walk and route description click here.
Spa delights
Take time for yourself at some of the top local spas
The Cumbrian weather can be changeable, so there’s no better way to spend a rainy afternoon than being pampered. There are some brilliant spas and beauty salons in Cockermouth, just a short walk or drive from the Trout Hotel.
Here are some of the spas and salons we suggest you try:
- Amethyst – click here for more information
- The Olive Tree (book via the Trout Hotel and receive 10% off treatments) – click here to see their website
- Pure Touch – click here to see their treatment list
Make it across to Market Place
A great selection of shops, from ceramics and art, to clothes and gift shops.
Cockermouth prides itself on being a place where independent shops can thrive. Along the high street, you’ll find local artisans, crafters and designers. Whether you’re looking for one of a kind gifts or just fancy a shopping spree, there’s something to match all tastes.
- No 15 – A ladies fashion store selling unique clothing and accessories.
- The Linden Tree – Focussing on jewellery and accessories they showcase local and national suppliers in curated collections.
- Hummingbird House – Selling gorgeous decorations and interiors, it’s a great place to find something special to spruce up your decor.
- Percy House Gallery – Situated in a magnificent building dating back to 1390, this gallery is a great place to discover local artists.
- The Lake District Beer Shop – The beer shop on the Market Place stocks an intriguing array of beers and natural wine. It’s a great place to discover new breweries.
Step back in time at some of the Lake’s historic homes and gardens.
Built by the Earl of Derby in 1666 and sold to Roger Gregg in 1688, Mirehouse is a beautiful historic house set on the shore of Bassenthwaite Lake. The house has been open to the public since 1981 and houses interesting collections of furniture, portraits and manuscripts.
Mirehouse’s natural gardens offer spectacular views of the Lake District landscape where you can enjoy the peace of the walled Bee Garden, stroll along the Poetry Walk or pause for a rest by the Lake.
With its literary connections, rare ancient wildflower meadow and fascinating heritage, Mirehouse makes for a great day out. There’s plenty to see and do including live piano music, children’s activities and the Old Sawmill Tearoom close by.
Please note: Due to current circumstances, the house is closed until the new season. However, the gardens and lakeside walk are open with tickets available from the Old Sawmill Tearoom.
Just a few steps away from the Trout Hotel is poet William Wordsworth’s childhood home. Now looked after by the National Trust, it gives visitors the chance to step back in time to the 1770s.
Staged as it would have been when Wordsworth was a small boy, you will experience everything from the food he ate, the ink and quills he used and even try your hand at a replica harpsichord. In the discovery rooms, there are exhibitions of Wordsworth’s life and impact on the Lake District and the history of the house itself.
Outside in the riverside garden, you will find the chattering of heritage chickens and 18th-century varieties of vegetables, fruit, herbs and flowers.
Please note: Wordsworth House and Garden is currently closed until Spring 2021 due to current circumstances. However, you can still discover more about William Wordsworth’s houses via this podcast series.
Family fun
There’s plenty of family fun to be had around Cockermouth, here are a few of our recommendations.
- Winlatter Forest & Go Ape – Packed with walking, cycling and running trails, Winlatter is a favourite amongst local families. A highlight for little ones is to follow the woodland trail to find the Gruffalo. However, if you’re feeling brave you can climb the high ropes of the Go Ape Treetop Challenge.
- The Lake District Wildlife Park – Just below Skiddaw, the Lake District Wildlife Park is home to over one hundred species of wild and domestic animals. Cared for in 24 acres of stunning parkland, the animals range from Red Panda to Grants Zebra and slithering snakes to majestic eagles.
- Alpacaly Ever After – Why not a walk with a difference? Alpacaly Ever After give you the chance to walk with Alpacas or trek with llamas. You can discover the fantastic scenery of the Lake District while spending time with these fascinating animals.
- Lake District Coast Aquarium – A short drive along the coast from the Trout Hotel, is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a rainy day out. The Lake District Coast Aquarium has plenty to discover including sharks, jellyfish and tropical fish.
Secure your stay at the Trout Hotel now. Check our availability and accommodation options to plan your Cockermouth visit.