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.

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March 15th - November 2nd, 2025

150 Years of La'al Ratty

Celebrating 150 years of the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway with a special anniversary exhibition! Discover the fascinating history of La’al Ratty, from its origins in 1875 as a vital industrial railway to its transformation into the beloved heritage attraction it is today.

April 3rd, 2025

Understanding Ullswater Evening Talks

‘Military low-level flying in the Lakes’ with Air Commodore Nigel Wharmby RAF
These Friends of the Ullswater Way talks are free to attend but please register for a place by emailing info@ullswaterheritage.org

April 5th & 6th, 2025

Caravan Show, Food & Artisan Market

Visit Kendal Caravans for a day filled with delightful local produce and amazing caravans. Explore the range of stunning touring caravans, holiday homes and lodges and browse the local food and gift stalls.

April 5th - 21st, 2025

Easter Activities at the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway

Egg-citing Easter celebrations from 5th - 21st April.  Collect your quiz sheet from the main stations and try out the 'High Speed Easter Egg Hunt' during the train journey. Fun activities in the Museum and egg-tastic treats in the cafes.

April 12th, 2025

Damson Day

An annual celebration to herald the arrival of the damson blossom - and spring in Westmorland. Packed with local crafts, entertainment and refreshments.

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.

May 3rd - 5th, 2025

150th Anniversary Steam Gala Weekend

A once-in-a-lifetime celebration marking 150 years of the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway with a spectacular steam gala weekend! Intensive timetable, historic locomotives, and an electric atmosphere for rail enthusiasts, families, and photography lovers alike.

May 31st & June 1st, 2025

Country Fest at the Westmorland Showground

Celebrating rural life, with all the elements of the true family event giving a real taste of the countryside. Demonstrations, food, craft and shopping marquees, floral, baking and craft sections, historic vehicles and free children's activities.

Fridays from June 27th to July 25th, 2025

Summer Evening Gin Cruise

A scenic two-hour evening cruise from Pooley Bridge pier, with gin-tasting samples provided by Chestnut House and live music from Fiona Hanlon.

July 1st, 8th & 22nd and August 5th & 19th, 2025

Fish & Chip Supper Cruises from Pooley Bridge

The fish & chip evening cruise is a firm favourite, featuring musical entertainment from Pete Lashley. This is a two-hour evening cruise from Pooley Bridge pier with a fish & chip supper (veggie/gluten-free options available on booking).

July 5th, 2025

Birkett Trophy Cruise

Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club’s biggest event of the year, the Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy race. Bring a picnic, our onboard licensed bar will be open, so you can toast the celebrations in style.

July 15th & 29th, and August 12th & 26th, 2025

Fish & Chip Supper Cruises from Glenridding

The fish & chip evening cruise is a firm favourite, featuring musical entertainment from Pete Lashley. This is a two-hour evening cruise from Glenridding pier with a fish & chip supper (veggie/gluten-free options available on booking).

November 6th, 2025

Autumn Early Bird Photography Cruise

Capture the beauty of dawn through your camera lens, Cumbrian based professional photographer Charlotte Graham will be on board to share tips. This is a special, memory-making experience for photography enthusiasts and early risers.

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.

 

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