The Castle Bar: Historic Pub and Vibrant Sports Hub in Cockermouth

4.5 (783)

Historic 16th-century pub in Cockermouth with award-winning design, local ales, sunny beer garden, and vibrant sports bar atmosphere.

The Castle Bar in Cockermouth is a beautifully restored 16th-century pub located at 14 Market Place. Renowned for its historic charm, award-winning design, and welcoming atmosphere, it serves a fine selection of local ales, wines, and spirits. The pub features a suntrap terraced beer garden and a lively sports bar with big screens for major events, making it a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

A brief summary to Castle Bar

14 Market Pl, Cockermouth, CA13 9NQ, GB
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 4 pm-10 pm
Tuesday 4 pm-10 pm
Wednesday 4 pm-10 pm
Thursday 4 pm-10 pm
Friday 4 pm-11 pm
Saturday 1 pm-11 pm
Sunday 1 pm-9 pm

Local tips

Visit the south-facing beer garden on sunny days to enjoy the best outdoor drinking spot in Cockermouth.
Check the schedule for live sports broadcasts to catch major football, rugby, or Formula One events.
Try the rotating selection of local Cumbrian ales for an authentic regional taste.
Bring your dog downstairs where they are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Arrive in the late afternoon or early evening for a lively atmosphere and friendly local crowd.

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Getting There

Bus

Regular bus services connect Cockermouth from nearby towns such as Keswick and Workington, with a typical journey time of 20-40 minutes. Buses stop within walking distance of Market Place. Tickets cost approximately £3-£6 GBP one way. Service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
Train and Taxi

The nearest train station is in Workington, about 10 km away. From there, a taxi ride to The Castle Bar takes around 15-20 minutes and costs about £15-£20 GBP. This option is convenient for travelers arriving by rail.
Car

Driving to Cockermouth is straightforward via the A66. Parking is available in public car parks near Market Place, typically costing £1-£3 GBP per hour. Expect a 10-15 minute walk from parking to the pub. Note that Market Place is pedestrian-friendly but may have limited vehicle access.
Walking

If staying in central Cockermouth, The Castle Bar is accessible on foot via cobbled streets and pedestrian zones. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your accommodation location. Terrain is mostly flat but includes some historic paving.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Trash Bins
Information Boards

Castle Bar location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about Castle Bar

A Storied Heritage in the Heart of Cockermouth

The Castle Bar occupies a magnificent 16th-century building in Cockermouth’s Market Place, one of the town’s most historic areas. Originally part of a merchant's house with foundations dating back even earlier, the building has been carefully restored to preserve its character. This Grade II-listed structure combines centuries-old architectural features with tasteful modern refurbishments, earning a prestigious CAMRA national design award in 2009. The pub’s interior retains historic charm across three floors, including a bar with multiple hand pumps serving mainly Cumbrian ales, a restaurant space, and a cozy lounge with leather sofas.

Award-Winning Atmosphere and Local Ale Excellence

The Castle Bar is celebrated for its dedication to quality and atmosphere. It has been rated 5-star by local authorities and is included in CAMRA’s annual Good Beer Guide. The pub offers a rotating selection of four changing beers, primarily from Cumbrian breweries, alongside two regular beers. The thoughtful wine and spirits list complements the beer selection, catering to diverse tastes. The welcoming environment makes it a popular meeting place for both locals and visitors seeking authentic regional drinks in a historic setting.

Sunny Courtyard Beer Garden and Family-Friendly Space

Behind the historic building lies a south-facing terraced beer garden, often described as Cockermouth’s best. This suntrap courtyard offers a relaxed outdoor space to enjoy a drink with friends or family, soaking up the sunshine until late in the day. The garden’s easy access to the bar enhances convenience. The pub is family-friendly and welcomes dogs downstairs, providing a comfortable and inclusive environment for all.

Vibrant Sports Bar with Extensive Coverage

For sports enthusiasts, The Castle Bar offers a lively atmosphere with large TV screens broadcasting major national and international events. Coverage includes football tournaments, rugby union and league, golf, boxing, tennis championships, and Formula One racing via SKY and BT Sport. This makes it the premier spot in Cockermouth and the Lake District to catch big games with fellow fans.

Community Hub and Local Favourite

More than just a pub, The Castle Bar serves as a community hub where locals and visitors mingle. Its combination of historic ambiance, award-winning design, excellent drink selection, and lively sports coverage creates a unique experience. The staff’s dedication to hospitality and quality ensures a warm welcome and memorable visit.

Practical Details and Accessibility

Located at 14 Market Place, Cockermouth, The Castle Bar operates mainly in the late afternoon and evening, with opening hours generally from 4pm to 10pm on weekdays and extended hours on weekends. The pub’s central location in Cockermouth makes it easily accessible, with nearby amenities and a vibrant town atmosphere enhancing the visit.