Kirkgate 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 vision is to ensure that creative talent is valued, developed and supported, with opportunities for all to actively enjoy the arts, local heritage and community life as well as being thoroughly entertained!
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WHAT’S ON
The Sunday Session
13th July 2025 2:00pm (Doors open at 1:45 pm)
Kirkgate Centre
Are you a musician, looking for a place to test out your tunes? Do you sing/play and would love to meet up with other musicians to have a bit of a jam? Our open mic night has evolved! We're starting a new approach, to cater for all, with our Sunday Sessions. Come down for a listen, or bring an instrument ...
Heritage Walk: The Mills of South Cockermouth with Stan Leigh
14th July 2025 6:00pm
Kirkgate Centre
Cockermouth's development was strongly tied to our mills. There is evidence for over 40 mills in the town, stretching back to the Roman period, through the middle ages and a big increase during theindustrial revolution. Join Stan Leigh for a walk to explore some of the mills in the north of the town. This is one of two walks featuring ...
The Penguin Lessons (12A)
14th July 2025 8:00pm (Doors open at 7:00 pm)
Kirkgate Centre
The Penguin Lessons is inspired by the true story of a disillusioned Englishman who went to work in a school in Argentina in 1976. Expecting an easy ride, Tom discovers a divided nation and a class of unteachable students. However, after he rescues a penguin from an oil-slicked beach, his life is turned upside-down. Adapted from Tom Michell’s autobiographical book, ...
Wayfarers Theatre present ‘The Tempest’
15th July 2025 2:00pm (Doors open at 1:00 pm)
Kirkgate Centre
Wayfarers Theatre presents 'THE TEMPEST', a lively, fun and magical adaptation of Shakespeare's classic tale. This family-friendly theatre adventure is packed with original live music, puppets and a wonderful troupe of fourteen local performers. Known for theirwild and wonderful outdoor picnic theatre, Wayfarers are heading inside for a one-off relaxed performance at Kirkgate Arts. Leave your waterproofs, muddy boots and ...