The Wordsworth House Cockermouth was once the home of the famous poet William Wordsworth. This grand Georgian house is where Wordsworth was born. Now looked after by the National Trust, Wordsworth’s childhood family home and gardens are a lovely place to explore.
William Wordsworth’s family home
William’s father, John Wordsworth, worked for Sir James Lowther as a Land Agent. In exchange for his services, John Wordsworth lived here rent-free. The Wordsworth children had a happy childhood in this house until their mother died in 1778 at 31 years old, leaving the family bereft, especially their father. William Wordsworth lived in the house at Cockermouth with his four siblings until his father died in 1783. After his father and mother’s tragic deaths, William moved to Rydal Mount to be cared for by his family. The National Trust also manages Rydal and is open to visitors all year round.
Wordsworth personal possessions
Wordsworth House Cockermouth takes you back to the times of William Wordsworth and lets you experience what it was like to live in a Georgian home. The house has been furnished with many items owned by the Wordsworth family, including some of his possessions. The house also contains a museum about William’s life and work and an attractive garden where children can enjoy a nature trail; who can spot the snail?! The gardens feature many different plants and flowers that Wordsworth’s sister, Dorothy, grew, including heathers, irises, roses, and wildflowers.
National Trust ticket prices
The National Trust is responsible for maintaining the house and gardens today; therefore, entry is free for members. Non-members must pay £8.50 for adults or £4.50 for children. Parking on-site costs £2 per car, which must be paid on arrival. The ticket desk is inside the main entrance gatehouse.
For more ideas on family days out in the area, go to our article Things to do in Lake District with family.
More Information:
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/lake-district/wordsworth-house-and-garden
Wordsworth House Cockermouth Opening times: Closed through Winter.
House open Sat-Wed 10 am – 4 pm
Gardens open Sat-Wed 10 am – 4.30pm
Address: Main Street, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9RX
