Looking for unforgettable experiences in the Lake District? From world-class festivals to stunning outdoor adventures, the Lakes are set to offer something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of the top things to do and Lake District events in 2025 that you won’t want to miss!
Cartmel Races
If you’re planning a visit to the Lake District in 2025, make sure Cartmel Races is on your itinerary. With nine thrilling race days scheduled between late May and the end of August, this iconic Cumbrian event promises a great experience for all.
Key Race Dates for 2025:
- May: Saturday 24th, Monday 26th, Wednesday 28th
- June: Friday 27th, Sunday 29th
- July: Saturday 19th, Monday 21st
- August: Saturday 23rd, Monday 25th
A highlight of the season will be Friday, June 27th, when racegoers can enjoy a full day of action-packed racing, followed by an evening performance by none other than Olly Murs! With his signature charm and a lineup of greatest hits, it’s set to be a spectacular summer evening. Tickets for this special event are already on sale, so be sure to grab yours early.
For more details and tickets, visit their official website.
Keswick Mountain Festival 2025
Keswick Mountain Festival 2025Get ready for an exciting weekend at the Keswick Mountain Festival, running from 16th to 18th May 2025. This outdoor sports festival is packed with experiences, entertainment, and something for everyone to enjoy.
Enjoy sports events, inspiring talks, live music, taster sessions, guided activities, exhibitors, and delicious food and drink. Whether you’re an adventurer or simply looking for a fun weekend outdoors, the Keswick Mountain Festival is a great event to visit!
Evening buffet – Windermere Lake Cruises
Discover the magic of a summer evening on Windermere with this special Evening Buffet Cruise – one of the most popular experiences on England’s largest lake. Running throughout the summer months, the cruise combines live music, local food, and breathtaking views as you sail the full length of Windermere.
What’s Included:
Set sail on a Full Lake Cruise, a relaxing 2½-hour journey along Windermere, offering some of the best views of the lake as the sun sets over the surrounding fells.
Each week, enjoy live music from local artist Fiona of Music in the Lakes, performing a mix of pop, classic hits, and crowd favourites.
A two-course cold buffet will be served onboard, freshly prepared by Café Ambio. Vegetarian options and dietary requirements can be catered for, with tea and coffee included. A fully licensed bar will be available throughout the evening, offering draught ales, lagers, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. Wine pre-orders can also be arranged, ready and waiting at your table on arrival.
This popular evening cruise sells out quickly – early booking is recommended.
Ticket Prices:
- Adult – £48.95
- Child (5-15) – £28.95
- Family (2 adults & up to 3 children) – £139.95
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a memorable family experience, this Windermere cruise is a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the Lake District in summer.
Country Fest – South Lakes
Country Fest returns to the Westmorland County Showground for its 17th year from 31st May to 1st June!
This much-loved event offers a true taste of the countryside, welcoming over 9,000 visitors each year for a weekend packed with family fun. From spectacular kite displays and arena demonstrations to vintage cars, military vehicles, and bustling marquees, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Foodies will delight in the variety of delicious local produce on offer, while music lovers can relax and soak up the atmosphere with live performances on the bandstand. Kids will love the interactive activities, competitions, and the chance to explore the many wonders of rural life.
Come along for a weekend filled with fun and food—you won’t want to miss it!
EskFest, Eskdale Valley
EskFest is the Lake District’s number one micro-festival, offering a unique experience in the stunning Eskdale Valley – 10th to 12th July 2025.
Founded in 2015, this non-profit independent festival has grown over the years to feature top local talent and exciting new UK acts. With a blend of music, art, comedy, food, drink, and camping, EskFest packs the best elements of larger festivals into a smaller and more accessible setting.
Enjoy live performances, creative cocktails, local food, and more, all without the miles of walking and mud. Don’t miss out – tickets are available on their website.
Shed One Distillery 2025
Discover Shed One Distillery in Ulverston, where gin lovers can enjoy a range of unique experiences throughout the year.
Join a Distillery Tour & Tasting to learn how Andy and Zoe, the owners and distillers, create their award-winning gin. The tour includes a welcome tipple, a guided look at the micro-distillery, and a tasting of at least five spirits – with your favourite served as a second drink. Drivers don’t miss out, with takeaway drinks available.
For something a little different, Afternoon G&Tea combines a distillery tour with a botanical-inspired afternoon tea featuring homemade savoury bites, sweet treats, and scones – all vegetarian and gluten-free. A G&T is served on arrival, and there’s a 10% discount on bottle purchases during your visit.
Perfect for gin enthusiasts or those simply looking for a relaxing afternoon in Ulverston.
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The Bowels of Fleetwith Fell Race
This unique fell race combines mountain running with an underground adventure. Starting at Honister Slate Mine, competitors will race uphill before navigating 1km of old mine tunnels, usually off-limits to the public. The route then ascends Fleetwith Pike (648m) and Grey Knotts (697m) before a final descent back to Honister.
The race is open to ages 16 and over, with under-18s requiring an accompanying adult. Covering 6km with 1500m of ascent, it starts at 10 am, with check-in from 8:30 am.
For more information about the race, please visit the Honisters Fell Rage webpage
Photo by Tom McNally
Lakeland Motor Museum
Classic Drive and Ride-In Day
Join Lakeland Motor Museum for their Classic Drive and Ride-In Day on Saturday 3rd May and Saturday 4th October 2025 – a great day out for car lovers.
See a fantastic display of classic cars, motorbikes, and sports cars outside the museum, with no booking needed to take part. Owners can bring their own classic vehicles to show off, while visitors can enjoy the cars, grab a bite at Café Ambio, or explore the museum’s collection.
The most impressive vehicle will take home the Chairman’s Trophy – will it be your favourite? A perfect event if you’re staying in Backbarrow or Ulverston.
Lakeland Historic Car Club Monthly Meet
On the first Saturday of every month, the Lakeland Historic Car Club also meets at Lakeland Motor Museum – a friendly gathering of classic car owners and enthusiasts.
The club arrives around 10am, with plenty of time to admire the cars before they leave after lunch at Café Ambio around 12:30pm. Whether you’re a car owner, a motoring enthusiast, or just love vintage vehicles, everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy the display.
Levens Hall
Levens Hall has a fantastic lineup of events for 2025. Visit on Sunday 20th April, for the Lakeland Historic Car Club Easter Meet, or celebrate World Topiary Day on Sunday 11th May, with gardening talks, tours, and children’s art competitions.
Photo credits: Mike Dickinson
Enjoy live outdoor theatre with ‘The Most Perilous Comedie of Elizabeth I’ on Friday 27th June, and ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ on Saturday 6th September. A perfect mix of history, and entertainment! For more information about these events, please visit the Levens Hall Website, where you will also find the full list of events being held in 2025.
Celebrate 20 Years of Kendal Calling
Get ready for the ultimate festival experience as Kendal Calling returns to Lowther Deer Park from 31st July to 3rd August 2025, celebrating its 20th anniversary in style! This iconic Lake District festival promises a weekend of music and memories.
With headliners including The Prodigy, Courteeners, Fatboy Slim, and Kaiser Chiefs, alongside over 80 other acts, there’s something for everyone. From indie rock and dance anthems to comedy and art installations, Kendal Calling is a festival not to be missed.
Kendal Calling 2025 is now SOLD OUT! Still hoping to join? Check the festival’s official re-sale partner, Tixel, for the last available tickets.
Wannasee Festival Penrith
Wannasee Tribute Festival is a celebration of music, bringing you the best live tribute bands covering the biggest artists from the past 50 years to today – 21st to 24th August 2025.
With big productions, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a line-up of top-notch bands, it’s a festival you won’t want to miss. Enjoy entertainment, stalls, rides, food & drink, and non-stop classics. Check out the full lineup on their website and get ready for a weekend of live music!
Walby Farm Park
Walby Farm Park has plenty of family-friendly events lined up for 2025. Don’t miss the Easter Eggstravaganza (April 5th to 21st) for fun springtime activities or Summer Fun on the Farm (July 19th to September 2nd) with exciting summer events.
This autumn, enjoy Pumpkin Picking (October 1st to 31st) and all things spooky, and wrap up the year with Father Christmas on the Farm (November 22nd to December 24th). Perfect for a day out any time of year!
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The Westmorland County Show
The Westmorland County Show, Wednesday 10th & Thursday 11th September 2025, is held on the fringe of the Lake District, and is voted one of the UK’s favourite agricultural shows! It offers a fantastic day out with top-quality livestock, equine events, interactive displays, artisan food in the North West’s largest Food Hall, and family-friendly activities, all supporting farming and the countryside.
With hundreds of trade stands, hands-on activities, and plenty to explore, this event offers an unforgettable day out while supporting the Westmorland County Agricultural Society and its mission to sustain farming and the countryside. Plan your visit and enjoy the best of rural life!
Ambleside Christmas Lights Switch On
Join us on Saturday, 15th November for the Ambleside Community Christmas Lights event. Enjoy Father Christmas Cruises, live music, festive stalls, and a family fun zone. The main procession features Father Christmas and lantern bearers, followed by a stunning fireworks display. With mulled wine, carol singing, and a fantastic atmosphere, it’s a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
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Kendal Mountain Festival
Mark your calendars! The Kendal Mountain Festival returns from 20th to 23rd November 2025, promising another action-packed celebration of adventure, nature, and exploration.
With over 200 live sessions, 300 inspiring speakers, 190 films, and 60 activities, it’s the ultimate event for adventure-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, the lively Basecamp village will be buzzing with outdoor brands, charities, and 70+ free talks to enjoy throughout the weekend. It is a great event, which engages over 25,000 people each year!
Photo credits: Kendal Mountain Festival 2024
Alpaca and Llama Experiences
Located in the heart of the Lake District, Alpacaly Ever After rehomes alpacas and llamas from across the UK. Visitors can enjoy unique activities such as Meet & Greet sessions, guided Alpaca Walks, and Llama Treks, all set against the backdrop of stunning countryside.
These experiences offer a chance to connect with nature while learning about the animals. While there are no specific events happening, it is still a great day out for families, friends, or solo adventurers looking to explore the outdoors in a memorable way.
