Cockermouth

Located right on the border with the Lake District National Park is Cockermouth, the birthplace of well-known poet William Wordsmith. His childhood home, Wordsmith House, is open to members of the public and both the building itself and its garden have been restored to exactly how they were back in the 18th century. If real ale is more your thing then the Jennings Brewery tour provides a fascinating insight into what exactly goes into your favourite tipple as well as offering the chance to sample the end product afterwards. Stop in Cockermouth cottages and you can enjoy the liquid entertainment for as long as you like. When you’ve quenched your thirst for locally-brewed real ale, take in the many specialist shops that the market town has to offer. Every September, the bars, pubs and restaurants of Cockermouth throw open their doors to form part of Taste Cumbria, a week-long food festival to celebrate all that’s great about the cuisine on offer in the region. A novel way to see Cockermouth is to follow the Town Trail. This series of cast-iron numbered plaques from one to 19 make up a circular walking route around the town taking you from one site of interest to the next. If you fancy doing the Town Trail then pick up a leaflet from the town’s tourist information centre and explore to your heart’s content.