Stuart Maconie and Robin Ince at Cockermouth Weekender

Write and broadcaster Stuart Maconie (pictured) is presiding over a new weekend-long event in Cockermouth, to celebrate the Cumbrian town’s food, drink and literary history. Set in Wordsworth’s birthplace, the event offers guests the chance to get involved with its rich culture, with opportunities to enjoy local produce, while exploring both the area’s famous and lesser-known joints. Maconie takes over The Trout on Saturday 9 March for food and beer talk with local experts, before heading to the Kirkgate to explore the pivotal events that have shaped the character of the town, while Sunday sees him partner up with shepherdess Alison O’Neill for a morning walk taking in the hidden gems of the area. Other highlights of the weekend include a talk by comedian and science enthusiast Robin Ince (Fri 8 Mar), a Secret Ramble (Sat 9 Mar) exposing what goes on behind the scenes of key local venues, and a traditional set by contemporary folk musician Jon Boden (Sun 10 Mar) to close the weekend. For more events and information, head to the website.

Fri 8 Mar – Sun 10 Mar, Cockermouth, Cumbria, Tel: 01900 826 448, FREE, www.golakes.co.uk/cumbriacontemporary