Jennings Brewery Tour

The Jennings Brewery Tour in Cockermouth (CA13 9NE, Cumbria) is a fantastic way to spend a morning or afternoon, especially now that it’s back in independent local hands. It’s located in a truly unique spot, nestled right between the medieval Cockermouth Castle and the meeting point of two rivers.

The Experience

The tour takes you on a journey through nearly 200 years of brewing history. You’ll see the antique buildings and learn how they’ve revived old family recipes that were almost lost. It’s a real “behind the scenes” look at how they use pure Lakeland water from their own well to create famous ales like Cocker Hoop and Sneck Lifter.

• The Best Part: Most visitors agree the highlight is the tasting session at the end. You usually get tokens to redeem for samples of their fresh cask ales or a bottled beer to take home.
• The Vibe: It’s light and chatty, led by knowledgeable guides who clearly love what they do. Expect a warm, community feel that makes you feel like part of the brewery’s big comeback.
• Duration: You should set aside about 90 minutes for the full tour and tasting, though many people linger much longer on the riverside terrace.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Age Requirements: This one is for the older kids and adults; you need to be 12 or older to join the tour, and anyone under 18 must be with a grown-up.
• Mobility: Just a heads-up—this is a working historic brewery with lots of steep, open staircases and several floors. It’s unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs or those who struggle with lots of climbing.
• Footwear: You must wear closed-toe shoes. High heels or flip-flops aren’t allowed for safety reasons.
• Timing: Tours usually run in the afternoons during the week and have multiple slots on Saturdays. It’s a popular spot, so pre-booking is a must to avoid disappointment.

Budgeting & Practical Tips

• Food and Drink: While the taproom is a great spot for a pint, they often have local street food vendors visiting on weekends. For those looking to save a bit, there are lovely parks nearby in Cockermouth for a picnic before or after your visit.
• Parking: There is some on-site parking, but the brewery is right in the heart of town. It’s often easier to use one of the nearby town car parks and enjoy the short, scenic walk through the historic streets.
• Family Value: If you’re local or visit the Lakes often, keep an eye out for their events like quiz nights or live music, which give the place a great community atmosphere without the cost of a full tour.

While You’re There

Don’t just visit the brewery and leave! Cockermouth is a gem of a Georgian market town. Make an effort to:

• Walk along the riverside paths where the Cocker and Derwent meet.
• Visit Wordsworth House, the birthplace of the famous poet, which is just a short stroll away.
• Browse the independent shops on Main Street—it’s full of quirky finds and local crafts.