Sunday saw Cockermouth Castle throw open its doors for a high tea picnic as the Kirkgate Centre began celebrations for its 30th year.
Not only had the anniversary gained the approval of Lord and Lady Egremont, but His Lordship was on hand chatting to guests and enjoying the entertainment, including taking one of the tours of his own castle.
The morning rains greeted guests, but the sun was to come out as the day went on to add warmth to the splendour of the surroundings as they enjoyed live music, ad hoc performances by The Wayfarers from their upcoming production of The Tempest, and The Great Baldini and his ‘pick a card’ magical illusions.
Storyteller Jessie McMeekin, with her wonderful down-to-earth style, led groups on a tour of the castle grounds pointing out various aspects of the buildings and their history from the outside while regaling with poetry for the occasion, some chosen by Lord and Lady Egremont themselves.
While one would expect that son of Cockermouth, William Wordsworth, to have written a poem on the subject of the building that dominates the town, but it was surprising if not delightful to hear that the 20th century novelist and poet, Stevie Smith, also wrote The Castle in tribute to Cockermouth and, in the year that Jennings is to be reopened, interesting to note that her accompanying drawing features the brewery in the foreground.
Cockermouth Civic Trust members were also on hand to guide guests on a short tour of the inner bailey of the castle.
While the more recent additions to the castle and impressive, it is the history dating from Norman times that interests most.
Built in the 12th century, it reminds us that the Normans took their time in subduing the hardy Cumbrians and it is believed that much of the early stone used was from the nearby Roman Fort of Derventio at Papcastle.
The location of the early windows provides some understanding of how castle was designed and how it commanded the confluence of the rivers Derwent and Cocker, with evidence of both living and storage areas but also of a well that would ensure that water was available in times of lockdown.
While the kitchen is easy to recognise with its massive fireplaces, less obvious is what lies below – was it a kirk?
The lawns of the castle, in the afternoon sunshine, was the ideal venue to take the flavourful picnic, provided as part of the price by The High Tea Guy, and everyone agreed it was a well organised and varied exploration of the castle and its place in Cockermouth’s heritage.
The Wayfarers Theatre will be performing The Tempest at their outdoor venue on Lorton Road, Cockermouth.
Cockermouth Castle remains the private residence of Lord and Lady Egremont, but occasional guided tours are made available by Cockermouth Civic Trust – contact them for information and available dates.
As an organisation dedicated to the arts and history of Cockermouth and the surrounding areas, this was a great start to their anniversary celebrations which will continue with 30 films for 30 years for £30 (details from The Kirkgate Centre). Well done to all involved.
