Cockermouth-based operation Jennings was shut in 2022 by then owners Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company, which outlined the reasons behind the closure was due to the brewery ‘operating below capacity for a number of years’ and saw ‘significant volume declines, the impact of which was made more significant by the pandemic’.
The closure sparked concern with the Campaign for Real Ale labelling it a “devastating blow for the area’s brewing heritage”.
The Cumbrian brewery was acquired by local business owners for an undisclosed sum in February last year.
Specialist engineering business Delkia CEO Kurt Canfield and wine and spirits firm Wine and the Wood proprietor Rebecca Canfield bought the brewery, with the aim to resume brewing.
The deal included the transfer of rights to the Jennings brand, including all trademarks, intellectual property and recipes.
At the time, Rebecca Canfield said: “As lifelong residents of west Cumbria, we have cherished Jennings Brewery and its beer for many years.
“Preserving the heritage of the brewery and the Maltings building, which are integral to our community, is of utmost importance to us.”
Wonderful history and legacy
Canfield added: “We are delighted to bring Jennings back to the local area and to have it once again run by a family-owned business.”
Last summer (July 2025) saw the operation reopen, make beer again and has resulted in the creation of 15 new jobs in the brewery and taproom.
Managing director France leads a small but passionate team in the revival project with former Society of Independent Brewers & Associates (SIBA) chairman Buster Grant has head brewer.
At the time of reopening, Grant said: “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.”
There was a new brew kit delivered and installed with aims to brew some old recipes with a modern twist alongside a new take on classics.
Surprising national response
This included the return of classic ales such as Cumberland Ale, Sneck Lifter, Cocker Hoop and Castle Bitter.
The business has reported since Jennings has returned under the new ownership, locals and visitor response has been outstanding.
It is now host to events such as weekly quizzes and acoustic music nights at the taproom.
Managing director Chris France said: “We’re delighted with the response we’ve had from across the country since we reopened in July.
“The local community is always going to love an independent 200 year old brewery reopening on their doorstep, but the national response has surprised me.
“From right across the country, pubs, wholesalers and consumers, that still have a fondness for the likes of Sneck Lifter and Cocker Hoop, have been in touch to place orders and offer messages of support.
“Given how tough an industry this is at the moment, it’s been a rare good news story and a really heart-warming thing to be part of.”
Future plans for the brewery include 10 additional new jobs, another brew kit, sponsorship of community events and schemes as well as hosting larger events on site with more beers made and more collaborations.
