Heritage Talk: Percy House, Market Place

11th August 2025 6:00pm

Kirkgate Centre

Percy House on Market Place in Cockermouth is thought to have been constructed in the early to mid-1500s however dendrochronology (tree-ring dating) has established that it was likely built after 1462-63. The building formed part of a complex burgage plot system. It was converted to tenanted shops early in its history and has been largely unaltered in external physical form since around 1800.

Come along to our talk to hear about the development of burgage plots in Cockermouth, the survival of a plaster coat of arms with Percy emblems in the upper room, the remnants of a wall painting on the cross-passage screen and a relatively intact timber-framed roof system including how dendrochronology was used to help date the building.

Aaron Bazler was educated as both an archaeologist and art historian. Currently a committee member of the Victorian Society, he is currently studying for a post-graduate qualification in British Building History. Percy House was investigated as part of an assignment towards this qualification.