It is a crisp winter's day, the sky is piercingly blue and the sun is beaming down the side streets, illuminating the icy pavement. And as a result, Cockermouth is brimming with enchantment and warmth, defying the sub-zero temperatures. Of course, the Georgian market town on the edges of the lake District doesn't always look this glorious, but most of the time, it does.
Thankfully, torrential downpours leading to flash-flooding and the devastation it causes, is not common and most of the year, Cockermouth is an idyllic Cumbrian riverside town. If you're reading this in that awkward 'Twixmas' time between Christmas and New Year, hey, even if you are not, and looking for a inspiration for day trip or even an area in Cumbria to visit for a couple of days this year, then pop Cockermouth on your list and read on.
A two hour drive from Preston, Cockermouth's location is one of its main draws, and ideal as a hub for you to take an adventure in the cluster of places nearby from testing fell walks to family-favourites. Close to the coast and the towns of Maryport and Whitehaven, it is also a short distance from tourist-centric Keswick, Whinlatter Forest and Bassenthwaite Lake.