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About Us

The Kirkgate Centre is an entertainment and cultural venue at the heart of the lively community of Cockermouth, Cumbria.

We celebrate our local talent and heritage, and bring top quality professional entertainment to

our town and many other communities across the area to the west of the Lake District National Park.

Whether you enjoy films on a big screen, live music, theatre, exhibitions, shows for children and families or community events, Kirkgate has something for everyone. Our quirky character makes us a special venue for weddings, parties, festivals and conferences.

Our mission:

“Creative talent is valued, developed, and supported with opportunities for all to actively engage with and enjoy the arts, our local heritage and community life”

Our values:

Commitment – Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to delivering our mission.

Inclusion – We aim to make art, heritage, and culture accessible to all our communities.

Sustainability – We aim to ensure that the organisation is secure for future generations from both financial and environmental perspective.

Nurturing – We aim to provide an environment that encourages growth, development of skills confidence and enjoyment for all.

WHAT’S ON

Music Mondays – Music Making – Flexiband

13th April 2026 5:00pm

Kirkgate Centre

Category: Join In

Music Classes @ The Kirkgate for Children and Young People Music sessions for children interested in music Children and young people are invited to join us at the Kirkgate for two musical opportunities. Music Mondays during the summer term for different age groups, and a Half-term daily Music Campfor 8-14-year-olds (25-29 May). Music Monday’s classes are suitable for young people ...

Heritage Talk: The Two Becks with Helen Johnston

13th April 2026 6:00pm (Doors open at 5:30 pm)

Kirkgate Centre

Category: Local History

“a great convenience to manufacturers of Cockermouth and neighbourhood” The two becks in Cockermouth, Bitter Beck and Tom Rudd Beck have both played important roles in the development of the town. This talk will explore the history of the becks, and some of the industry, mills and buildings along their banks. Helen Johnston is the Community Projects Officer at Kirkgate ...

Mother’s Pride (12A)

13th April 2026 8:00pm (Doors open at 7:00 pm)

Kirkgate Centre

Category: Film

A grieving family who own a failing pub have their lives changed by brewing real ale and entering the Great British Beer Awards. Starring: Mark Addy, Martin Clunes, Josie Lawrence Director: Nick Moorcroft Length: 100 minutes

Mother’s Pride (12A)

15th April 2026 2:00pm (Doors open at 1:00 pm)

Kirkgate Centre

Category: Film

A grieving family who own a failing pub have their lives changed by brewing real ale and entering the Great British Beer Awards. Starring: Mark Addy, Martin Clunes, Josie Lawrence Director: Nick Moorcroft Length: 100 minutes
Testimonials

I remember fondly our time at the Kirkgate a couple of years ago, the warm and intimate atmosphere and the friendly welcome.

Kiki Dee

 The Kirkgate is my ideal venue. Intimate and warm, staffed by passionate folks who really care about The Arts and about their local community. It has a beating heart, even more so due to the eager enthusiastic volunteers who help run it.

Snake Davis

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Cockermouth and had a great evening at the Kirkgate, the venue and staff were fantastic. We look forward to returning sometime in the future.

Kevin Morris & Dr Feelgood