The Lake District is the perfect destination for a magical Christmas getaway. From festive activities and charming dining options to cosy accommodations, here’s how to make the most of your holiday season in this picturesque region.
Whether you’re planning a big family gathering or a romantic winter escape for two, the Lake District has something for everyone. Enjoy scenic walks, local Christmas markets, and the warmth of a traditional cottage.
Make your holiday season special with a trip to The Lake District.
Christmas Markets
As the festive season approaches, the Lake District sparkles with exciting events to celebrate Christmas in style. Whether you’re in the mood for festive shopping, indulging in seasonal treats, or soaking up the holiday atmosphere with family and friends, our region offers a variety of activities to make your Christmas truly special. Discover what’s happening in the run-up to the holidays with these must-visit events in the Lake District.
Ambleside Christmas Light Switch on – 16th November
Looking for a magical start to the festive season? This annual celebration, organised by local volunteers, is one of the highlights of Ambleside’s calendar and promises festive cheer for all.
Activities include community stalls, live music, a family fun zone and, of course, the main event… the light switch on. Don’t miss this festive event to mark the start of the Christmas countdown!
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Kendal Mountain Festival – 21st to 24th November
The Kendal Mountain Festival is an unmissable celebration of adventure, culture, and exploration. This four-day festival draws over 30,000 outdoor enthusiasts to the Lake District, featuring more than 200 live sessions, 180+ films, and 300+ speakers. The 2024 program is the largest yet, with multiple ticket releases throughout the year.
Beyond the festival, Kendal takes its spirit on the road with a UK Tour, bringing excitement and inspiration to audiences nationwide. Whether you attend in person or stream content through the Kendal Mountain Player, this festival offers a unique experience for anyone passionate about the outdoors. Be sure to secure your tickets early and prepare for an adventure-filled weekend in the heart of the Lake District!
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Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival – 23rd & 24th November
Mark your calendars for the Ulverston Dickensian Festival! This traditional Christmas festival, held in the charming historic town of Ulverston, offers a festive experience like no other.
The streets come alive with multiple performance stages, roving street performers, and costume parades. Enjoy hot mulled wine as you explore a town full of wonderful stalls. Performers will include brass bands, singers, magicians, fire eaters, jugglers, stilt walkers, and more, providing free entertainment for all.
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Beetham Nurseries Christmas Markets – 5th to 8th December
Get into the festive spirit at Beetham Nurseries’ Christmas Market Weekend! This event transforms Beetham Nurseries into an Alpine-inspired shopping village, featuring fifteen local businesses offering unique gifts from talented artisan producers.
This year’s event highlights include the Christmas Chalet Market, vibrant live music performances, a wide selection of Christmas trees, family fun activities, and creative festive workshops.
The event also features delicious food and drink from our Garden Café, Wood Fired Kitchen, and street food vans, ensuring a feast for the senses. Don’t miss this four-day celebration of festive fun and local delights at Beetham Nurseries!
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Taste Cumbria – 7th & 8th December
This popular event offers a delightful mix of local food, drink, and holiday cheer. Wander through producers’ stalls on Main Street for gourmet treats and unique gifts. The Market Place hot food court features seasonal specials to satisfy your cravings.
Watch cookery demonstrations, and let the kids have fun with fairground rides and engaging children’s activities. With everything free to attend, it’s a fantastic outing for the whole family. Visit Cockermouth for a festive weekend of great food, fun, and community spirit!
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Family Events for the Kids
This festive season, the Lake District offers an array of enchanting activities perfect for families. From magical train rides and whimsical grotto visits to historical Christmas experiences, there’s something to delight children of all ages. Explore these exciting events to create unforgettable holiday memories with your little ones.
Visit Santa’s Grotto at Honister – Various Dates
Embark on this magical adventure in the heart of the Lake District, your journey begins at Honister Slate Mine, where Santa’s chief Elf will guide you through hidden tunnels and magical passages to Santa’s Grotto!
The journey culminates with a special meeting with Santa Claus, where you’ll receive a gift and share your Christmas wishes. The adventure is priced at £25.00 for all ages and will be taking place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in the lead-up to Christmas!
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World of Beatrix Potter Christmas Events – Various Dates
Wreath Making – Add a handcrafted touch to your holiday decor by creating your own traditional Christmas wreath in the Winter Wonderland. 29th – 30th November.
A Christmas Carol: Experience the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s ghostly transformation on Wednesday, December 11th, at 7:30 p.m.
Father Christmas Tea Party—Meet Father Christmas in the Winter Wonderland and enjoy a festive tea on 14th and 15th December.
Santa’s Christmas Cracker—Join Father Christmas and friends for a fun, musical adventure. Enjoy festive fun and maybe even pull a cracker with Dotty the Elf! This event will take place at various times from Friday, December 20th, until Christmas Eve!
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Santa Express Train at Ravenglass – Various Dates
Experience the magic of the season aboard the Santa Express! This enchanting 40-minute journey departs from Ravenglass Station and travels to Dalegarth Station, running on weekends during the lead-up to Christmas.
On board, you’ll be greeted by our cheerful elves and enjoy a festive adventure up the valley. At Dalegarth Grotto, Santa Claus and his helpers await. Children will meet Santa, receive a special gift, and enjoy an activity pack with festive refreshments.
Adults can relax with a festive snack and drink while the train pauses at Dalegarth before returning to Ravenglass. Don’t miss this magical train ride full of holiday cheer!
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Father Christmas at Walby Farm Park – Various Dates
This magical experience, running from late November through December, is packed with festive fun. Kids can start their adventure at Passport Control, enjoy Snow Time Fun, and explore the Enchanted Forest with 3D glasses.
Activities include decorating gingerbread biscuits, making Reindeer Food, meeting real reindeer (including a baby), posting letters to Father Christmas, toasting marshmallows, and entering the Naughty and Nice machine.
The highlight is a group session with Father Christmas, where you can take photos and exchange a golden coin for a gift in the Elves’ Toyshop. Parents can join in and enjoy a mug of mulled wine, with festive food and treats available at The Cowshed Café. Visitors are advised to book in advance.
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A Georgian Christmas at Wordsworth Grasmere – 21st December
Experience a Georgian Christmas with a festive dive into the past at Dove Cottage. Discover what Christmas was like 200 years ago with hands-on crafts, including making pomanders and wreaths.
Decorate gingerbread stars using Dorothy Wordsworth’s recipe, learn about the Wordsworth family’s Christmas traditions, and dress up in Georgian costume. This family-friendly event offers a unique glimpse into historical celebrations, with one ticket covering the entire family.
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We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to the Lake District this Christmas. With an array of festive events and activities, from enchanting Christmas markets to magical family experiences, the Lake District offers a truly memorable holiday season.
To make the most of your visit, remember to book early—Christmas is a popular time, so securing your accommodation and events ahead of time is crucial. Dress warmly to stay comfortable in the chilly weather, and plan ahead by checking event schedules and booking tickets in advance for popular attractions and activities.
Whether you’re seeking large accommodations for family gatherings, dog-friendly stays, or a cosy retreat with a hot tub, Herdwick Cottages has a variety of options to suit every preference.
Enjoy your holiday and make the most of all that this picturesque region has to offer!
