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
‘Out of Ink’ – Original prints exhibition by Cumbria Printmakers
18th October 2025 10:00am
Kirkgate Centre
Out of Ink Original prints exhibition by Cumbria Printmakers Kirkgate Centre, Cockermouth October 17th – 19th, 10am – 4pm Preview: October 16th, 6pm – 8pm We are pleased to present an exciting exhibition showcasing examples of contemporary and traditional printmaking. Held at the Kirkgate Centre in Cockermouth, this three-day event invites visitors to view and purchase a range of original ...
The Butterfly Collector @ Bassenthwaite Parish Rooms
18th October 2025 7:00pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm)
Bassenthwaite Parish Room
Peter Macqueen performs his one-person shows directed by Grace Kirby. As well as a successful actor and writer, Peter Macqueen is a keen amateur naturalist with a particular passion for butterflies and moths. 'The Butterfly Collector' brings both these strands of his life together by exploring very personal experiences of the effects of climate change. He draws on childhood memories ...
Craig Gould & The Noble Thieves Present @ Burgh by Sands Village Hall
18th October 2025 7:30pm (Doors open at 7:00 pm)
Burgh by Sands Public Hall
Join us for The Campfire Sessions, where Craig's heartfelt performances and storytelling combine for a truly special live music show. Sharing the stories behind songs inspired by his journey to recovery, Craig creates a deeply personal and memorable connection with his audience. With sold-out shows on four national tours, appearances at The Long Road, Ynot, Camper Calling & Solfest Festivals, ...
Ryan Young
18th October 2025 8:00pm (Doors open at 7:00 pm)
Kirkgate Centre
2022 MG ALBA Musician of The Year nominee Ryan Young brings new and exciting ideas to traditional Scottish music, receiving international praise for his spell-binding interpretations on the fiddle. His debut album was recorded with four time GRAMMY winner Jesse Lewis (who has worked with the likes of Bela Fleck and Yo Yo Ma) and launched at Feakle Traditional Music ...