Masons Arms, Gilcrux, Wigton, Cumbria CA7 2QX

Set in the tranquil village of Gilcrux approximately 4 miles from Cockermouth, lies an outstanding hidden gem inn - The Masons Arms. Gilcrux stands on a hillside overlooking the Ellen Valley and commands superb views across the Solway Firth to Scotland and on clear days, the Isle of Man.

Original oak beams and an open fireplace contribute to the inn's warm and welcoming traditional ambience. It' s a traditional welcome enforced by local couple Esther and Paul Bowness who took over as tenants in 2000. They have refurbished the Masons Arms to an exceptional standard and have established a fine reputation not just for their hospitality but also for the quality of their ales, excellent range of wines and great food. The Masons Arms is open every lunchtime and evening, and serves a varied range of hearty and tasty dishes expertly prepared using fresh local produce sourced from local suppliers. The menu includes an extensive choice ranging from light snacks, vegetarian dishes, and from the grill; 16-oz steaks, local Cumberland sausages, and an exotic mixed grill including wild boar, ostrich and kangaroo! For lovers of good home-made fayre, try the mouth-watering homemade pies featuring chicken, leek and stilton, steak and ale, or venison and red wine pie. For Sunday lunch and for those with a hearty appetite, try the traditional roast offered in addition to the regular evening menu.

The family-friendly inn has a recently renovated and spacious beer garden perfect for relaxing outside on warm sunny days and evenings. The Masons Arms also has a games room and has occasional live entertainment on Bank holidays, and welcomes all contenders for the pub quiz every other Monday evening.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO


Cockermouth is an ancient market town receiving its charter in 1221 and is located in the North Lakelands on the edge of the National Park where the River Cocker meets the River Derwent. The town exudes character and charm with its maze of old streets and alleyways.

Cockermouth is a renowned historical town with associations from the Romans to the birthplace of Fletcher Christian [Of the Mutiny on the Bounty fame]. Mary Queen of Scots and Robert the Bruce are also renowned to have passed through the town.

Perhaps Cockermouth's most famous son was William Wordsworth who was born here in 1770. Wordsworth House a period Georgian House belonging to the National Trust ,can be found in the tree-lined main street. The house contains various treasures belonging to the Wordworth family.

Located within Cockermouth is Jennings Brewery which dates from 1828. Here you can take a guided tour and discover the history of brewing and taste some of its finest beers.

Senhouse Roman Museum (5 Miles)*
The Senhouse Roman Museum contains sculpture and inscriptions from the Roman Fort at Maryport, ( Alauna ), which lies next to the museum.
There are a number of museums ranging from the Printing Museum, Toy and Model Museum, Percy House Gallery, art gallery at Castlegate House and Skylark Studio.
Isel Hall (3 Miles)*
The Elizabethan Range and fortified Pele Tower of Isel Hall dominates the landscape in its magical setting above River Derwent.
Mirehouse (8 Miles)*
The present house was built in 1666 by the 8th Earl of Derby for his visits to his Cumbrian estates. In 1688 he sold it to his agent Roger Gregg. This is the only time it has been sold.

There is a castle, but this in ruins and is not open to the public. The church of All Saints has a stained glass east window, which is a memorial to Wordsworth and his father's tomb can be found in the churchyard.

Clicking on the various Level Maps below will show different map views of Cockermouth and District. Maps Courtesy of Multi Map .
County Level Map
Town Level Map
Street Level Map