A historic brewery has reopened, bringing award-winning ales and new brews back to the region.
Jennings Brewery in Cockermouth, established nearly 200 years ago, has reopened, following its closure in 2022 by Carlsberg Marston’s.
The site was acquired in February by Kurt and Rebecca Canfield, who have pledged to restore the brewery’s legacy in Cumbria.
The brewery will be launching its new on-site taproom on July 4.
Chris France, managing director of Jennings Brewery, said: "Jennings has a special place in the heart of Cumbria, and bringing these beers back has been a real privilege.
"Jennings beer may have been absent for a number of years, but local support for the beer and brand hasn’t dwindled—we’ve had a very warm welcome back.
"I’m determined to repay that support, and we’re prioritising local free trade pubs for our first deliveries."
The brewery has revived customer favourites including Sneck Lifter and Cocker Hoop, alongside two new beers: Derwent Mild and Back Yam, the latter named after a Cumbrian dialect phrase meaning 'back home'.
A new on-site taproom will also be opened on July 4 and will remain open seven days a week throughout the summer.
While orders for Jennings beers are already being taken, further development of the site is planned.
Proposals include expanding the taproom, adding a distillery, creating office space and workshops for tradespeople, and potentially opening a hotel.
Mr France said: "This is a long-term development project.
"There’s so much potential in the site, and we’re working closely with the local council to build something special for the town.
"We need to both respect the heritage that makes the site what it is and find new ways of using old buildings.
"We’ll be hosting a number of events too, with live music, comedy nights, and heritage and art exhibitions already in the schedule."
Buster Grant, the newly appointed head brewer, said: "It's amazing to be part of Jennings and to be working in this historic site to bring life (and beer) back to this much-loved brewery.
"Jennings’ beers are iconic symbols of the Lakes, and I'm hugely proud to be able to add to this wonderful history and legacy.
"More importantly, I’m really looking forward to tasting the beers again and seeing the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike."
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