Jennings Brewery is more than just a place where beer is made; it represents a deep part of Cumbrian identity and heritage. For generations, its beers have been tied to local life, with many people regarding it as part of the region’s cultural fabric. The sense of pride and continuity that Jennings provides is woven into family traditions, community gatherings, and the shared history of Cockermouth and beyond. When people talk about Jennings, they often mean more than just the drink itself — they mean the story of Cumbria told through nearly two centuries of brewing.
 
That story began in 1828, when John Jennings Snr founded the brewery in the village of Lorton. As demand grew, the business moved to Cockermouth in 1874, setting up at the Castle Brewery site where it would remain for almost 150 years. Its unique character came in part from the use of pure Lake District water drawn from its own well, paired with traditional ingredients such as Maris Otter barley and classic English hops like Fuggles and Goldings. This commitment to heritage methods produced a range of much-loved beers including Cumberland Ale, Sneck Lifter, and Cocker Hoop, each one carrying the flavour of tradition and place.
 
After thriving for generations, the brewery faced difficulties in modern times and, under corporate ownership, was closed in 2022, with production moving away from Cockermouth. For locals, this felt like a painful break from their roots. But in 2025, Jennings was given a new chapter when local owners Kurt and Rebecca Canfield bought the rights to the brand, recipes, and trademarks. Brewing is now underway once again at the Cockermouth site, with beers flowing in the taproom and across Cumbrian pubs, marking not only the revival of a business but also the return of an important symbol of local pride.
 
Jennings’ journey from foundation, through closure, to renewal reflects both the resilience of Cumbrian culture and the enduring importance of keeping traditions alive.