Castlegate House Gallery, Cockermouth

Castlegate House Gallery

This listed Georgian House is home to exhibits of contemporary paintings, sculpture, ceramics jewellery and glass. Outside the gallery is a walled sculpture garden.

The gallery specialises in 20th century and contemporary British art, with a particular focus on northern England and southern Scottish artists. In addition to the regional focus, the Gallery also showcases internationally famous names such as David Hockney, Ken Howard, Sheila Fell, Geoffrey Key, Percy Kelly, and Carel Weight.

In addition to the painting collections, there is a focus on ceramics, with examples of Winchcombe and Leech pottery, as well as regular exhibits by studio potters from around Britain.

Castlegate Gallery is a place to discover new artists rather than a place to find old favourites, but its emphasis on regional artists makes it an excellent place to explore while enjoying the historic town of Cockermouth. That history is never far away, for the gallery is located opposite the remains of Cockermouth Castle.

The House

Castlegate House was built in the middle of the 18th century. The two-storey house made in a mix of painted ashlar and stucco on the exterior, under a slate roof. The entrance is in elegant neo-classical style, with Doric pilasters flanking a six panelled door topped by a fanlight. The street facade has a pair of 12-panelled windows at ground level with three above.

The interior has beautifully decorated plasterwork ceilings and period furnishings that act as a perfect setting for the artwork on display. The house is listed Grade II* for its historic interest.