Discover what's on in the Lake District and Cumbria

Events in and around the Lake District

What's on in the Lake District and Cumbria?

The Lake District and Cumbria host a diverse range of fun and exciting events throughout the year. Attending events during your holiday provides a wonderful opportunity to engage with the local culture and community. It's a chance to take part in unique experiences and create lasting memories.

Did you know that Cumbria is the UK county with the most Michelin stars? In light of this, we take great pride in celebrating our exceptional culinary offerings, from local farmer’s markets to large-scale festivals. Notably is the World Marmalade Awards, which take place at nearby Dalemain.

The Lake District is a world-renowned destination for walking and hiking and hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate the landscape and great outdoors, such as the Keswick Mountain Festival.

Don't miss out on cultural events like the Winter Droving, a magical masquerade spectacle in Ullswater and Penrith!

Please check with the event organisers before attending to ensure the event is still taking place.

Check back for the latest updates or sign up to our mailing list to have our newsletter delivered directly to your inbox.

December 1st to January 4th

Skate by the Lake

Get your skates on at the first-ever ice rink on the shores of Ullswater. With a 16ft Christmas tree, shimmering lights, and hopefully snow-capped fells, enjoy the 200-square-metre open-air ice rink overlooking the lake.

December 6th to February 23rd

Everest Revisited

2024 is the centenary of Mallory and Irvine’s disappearance near the Summit of Everest, discover lesser known stories and Everest ‘firsts’ through art, photography and film.

December 19th, 2024

Carols by Candlelight at Rose Castle

A unique Christmas Carol Concert in the Castle Chapel with performances from Wreay Church of England Primary School Melodic Minor Choir accompanied by Gill Wadeson.

December 20th & 21st, 2024

Aira Force Winter Illuminations

Twinkling lights and illuminated trees sparkle in the woodland glade at Aira Force. Decorations made by local school children adorn selected trees. This free festive event is small and beautifully formed and celebrates local community, nature and the great outdoors.

March 22nd, 2025

Daffodil Run and Walk

Established in 2016 to support the pubs and shopse in the aftermath of the 2015 Cumbria floods, 'The Daffy Run' was so popular you asked us to do it again… and again! With a full distance of 13 miles, an out and back course allows you to do as much - or as little - as you wish.

Link to Daffodil Run and Walk website

April 26th, 2025

The World's Original Marmalade Awards

The 20th Anniversary Marmalade awards celebrating all things marmalade with thousands of jars throughout the mansion, Q&As, demonstrations, tastings and much more.

Link to Dalemain Marmalade Awards website

Dalemain, Penrith, CA11 0HB

Events at Dalemain Historic Mansion

Nestled amidst beautiful gardens, Dalemain hosts a range of exciting events throughout the year. Notable is The World Marmalade Awards and Festival. Just down the road from the park, stop for coffee, enjoy lunch, a delicious afternoon tea or shop for all things marmalade!

 

Held every Tuesday in Great Dockray car park, between 9am to 4pm

Penrith Tuesday Market

Known for its distinctive red sandstone buildings, the northern Cumbrian town of Penrith offers a variety of shops and eateries, plus, the Tuesday Market where shoppers can enjoy a variety of stalls from independent traders.

 

Market Square - Thursdays 08:00 to 16:30 | Saturdays 08:00 to 16:30

Keswick Market

Located in the heart of this pretty northern Lake District town, the popular Keswick Market attracts both locals & visitors alike. There's a wide selection of award-winning food, local produce, and handcrafted gifts.

Rheged Centre, Redhills Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0DQ

Rheged

Rheged is a gallery, café, cinema, shopping venue, workplace and creative space on the edge of the Northern Lakes. Check out their website for further information and what's on guide.

Theatre by the Lake, Lakeside, Keswick CA12 5DJ

"Welcome to Theatre Made in Cumbria"

Arguably in one of the prettiest settings you'll find a theatre, the aptly named 'Theatre by the Lake' sets the scene for a host of theatre productions, films, festivals and talks. Keswick is approx. 25 minutes from Waterfoot, and the theatre itself is just a ten-minute walk from the town centre.

Many thanks to visitlakedistrict.com for the following images: 'Flora of the Fells', Penrith, Rheged, Keswick Market, aerial view of Keswick, Hallin Fell, Dalemain, and Aira Force.
Credit to Hermione McCosh for the Dalemain Marmalade photograph.

Please note that Waterfoot Park is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.

 

Looking for something else?