Must-Visit Christmas Markets in the Lake District 2026

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and where better to enjoy the festive season this year than at one of these Christmas markets in the Lake District?

With mulled wine, twinkly lights and countless unique and special stalls to peruse, you’re in for a treat this Christmas!

From German markets to fun fair festivities and traditional Victorian fayres, Christmas cheer will be had across the Lake District. Where will you find yours?

Continue reading to discover more about our favourite Lake District Christmas markets, and add one of these to your festive itinerary this year…

The history of Christmas Markets

Whilst Christmas markets are now hosted all over Europe and many places across the globe, this tradition originally came from the German-speaking regions of the Holy Roman Empire (now forming parts of France, Germany and Austria).

These early Christmas markets allowed citizens to stock up on goods and necessities for the winter, with the first being held in Vienna around the winter of 1296.

Over the next hundred years, these adapted and expanded to include many different traders, including toymakers, basket weavers and those selling sweets and confectionery.

These became known as “St Nicholas Markets” and even included many of the hot snacks we see served at Christmas markets today, such as roasted chestnuts and almonds.

Over time, these markets spread to the rest of German-speaking Europe, before eventually becoming a mainstay by the early 20th century.

Dickensian Christmas Festival, Ulverston

Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th November 2026

Step into the past and celebrate the festive season in true Victorian style at the Ulverston Dickensian Festival, spanning 2 days. Known as the Lake District’s “festival town,” Ulverston pulls out all the stops for this magical weekend of nostalgia, entertainment, and holiday cheer.

Ulverston’s charming cobbled streets become a bustling Victorian marketplace, complete with traditional fairground rides, street performers, and over 100 festive stalls offering artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and handcrafted goods.

Children can visit Santa’s Grotto, enjoy classic fairground rides, and take part in festive games and activities. The whole family will love the live music, street theatre, and interactive performances that bring the town to life.

One of the festival’s highlights is the Victorian costume competition. Whether you’re donning a top hat or a bonnet, you can join in the fun—costumes are available to hire locally if you want to get into character!

Don’t miss the grand parade as it winds through the town, showcasing costumed characters, performers, and community groups. As evening falls, gather for the Christmas light countdown, a magical moment that officially kicks off the festive season.

With a wide variety of stalls, you’ll find everything from mulled wine and roasted chestnuts to handmade decorations and unique gifts. It’s the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Ambleside Christmas Lights, Ambleside

Saturday 21st November 2026
All day

Get ready for a magical day in the heart of the Lake District as Ambleside lights up for Christmas on 21st November. This beloved annual event brings together locals and visitors for a full day of festive entertainment, family fun, and seasonal cheer.

Kick off the day with two special cruises on Windermere, where Father Christmas makes a grand entrance by boat—an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike!

Enjoy live performances and browse community stalls in the Market Cross shopping area. The town will be buzzing with festive spirit, music, and local charm.

Near the school, you’ll find a dedicated Family Fun Zone packed with food outlets, games, and stalls—perfect for keeping little ones entertained while you soak up the atmosphere.

At 4:30 p.m., the streets come alive with a lantern procession led by Father Christmas and local lantern bearers. It’s a heart-warming spectacle that winds through the town, bringing everyone together in celebration.

Wrap up the day with a spectacular fireworks display at Rothay Park. Don’t forget your hats and gloves—it’s sure to be a crisp evening, but the dazzling lights and joyful crowd will keep spirits high!

Throughout the day, explore festive markets offering seasonal treats, handcrafted gifts, and delicious food. It’s the perfect opportunity to start your Christmas shopping while supporting local businesses.

Hawkshead Christmas Fair, Hawkshead

Saturday 5th – Sunday 6th December 2026
10am – 4pm

The Hawkshead Christmas Fair is a traditional family event with something for everybody. Held annually, holidaymakers flock from across the UK to visit this Christmas market in the heart of the Lake District!

Christmas shopping, image credit: Paul Mitchell

Throughout the whole weekend, there’s live music and street entertainment. With over 50 stalls to choose from, you’re sure to find some gifts too!

The stalls at this Lake District Christmas market in Hawkshead include handmade crafts and local produce, fabulous food and drink, and the lantern parade on Saturday afternoon. Don’t forget to visit Santa’s Grotto too, there’s fun for all the family!

And following an afternoon of outdoor adventure and Christmas shopping, head to the 17th century pub Queens Head in Hawkshead to cosy up with an evening tipple amongst the roaring flame of the open fire.

Taste Cumbria Christmas Market, Cockermouth

Saturday 5th – Sunday 6th December 2026

Get ready to embrace the festive spirit at the Taste Cumbria Christmas Market in Cockermouth, taking place on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December 2026. This beloved Lake District event offers free entry and promises a weekend packed with seasonal cheer. In addition to its renowned food and drink producers, the market will feature a vibrant mix of gift stalls, homewares, and handcrafted goods.

Visitors can stock up on fresh local produce, sample delicious Cumbrian delicacies, or enjoy the fairground rides and live music that fill the streets with festive energy. Highlights include:

• A bustling Main Street producers’ market
• A hot food court and outdoor picnic area
• Cookery demonstrations from top chefs
• A free Santa’s Grotto (11am–3pm both days)
• Children’s activities and creative workshops
• The Cockermouth Art & Craft Fayre at the United Reform Church
• A special Brewing in Cockermouth exhibition at Kirkgate Arts

Whether you’re indulging in hand-blended toffee vodka, artisan cheeses, or seasonal jams and chutneys, this festive weekend is a perfect way to celebrate the season in one of Cumbria’s most charming towns.

Beetham Nurseries Christmas Market Weekend, nr Arnside

TBC

Last year, Beetham Nurseries invites you to experience the festive charm of its much-loved Christmas Market Weekend, running for 4 days. This family-run garden centre transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a joyful celebration for all ages.

Wander through a beautifully decorated festive village featuring 15 local artisan businesses. From handcrafted ceramics and candles to gourmet treats and unique gifts, it’s the perfect place to find something special for your loved ones.

The weekend kicks off with a performance by a local primary school choir, followed by a line up of talented bands, choirs, and singer-songwriters bringing festive cheer throughout the event.

Warm up with seasonal delights from the Garden Café, Wood Fired Kitchen, and a variety of street food vans. Whether you’re craving mulled wine, wood-fired pizza, or freshly baked cakes, there’s something to satisfy every festive craving.

Children can enjoy colouring competitions, festive games, and the ever-popular Elf Hunt—find all six mischievous elves hiding around the centre and claim a chocolate treat from the Info Desk!

Browse hundreds of freshly cut and potted Christmas trees, and take advantage of an exclusive 10% discount for Garden Club members (sign up for free at the till!). Don’t forget to explore the Christmas Shop for decorations, lights, and keepsake baubles.

Get creative in the marquee on The Terrace with Christmas wreath-making workshops, using winter foliage to craft your own luxury or contemporary wreath. Booking is now open!

Keswick Christmas Lights Switch On

Wednesday 18th Nov 2026

Experience the magic of Christmas in Keswick. Enjoy a festive evening of twinkling lights, seasonal entertainment, live music, community spirit and more as the town welcome the festive holidays.

Choose from cosy cafes and pubs, independent and high street shops and a sparkly Christmas atmosphere, its the perfect time to visit Keswick.

Coniston Christmas Events

Saturday 14th Nov 2026

Coniston is set to sparkle this festive season with two magical events that promise to delight visitors of all ages. On Saturday 14 November, the village will come alive with the Coniston Festive Fayre and Christmas Lights Switch-On, featuring local stalls, seasonal treats, and a joyful community celebration as the lights illuminate the streets.

Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or soaking up the seasonal atmosphere, Coniston is the perfect place to kick off your Christmas celebrations.

Tempted by a visit to one of these Lake District Christmas Markets this year? Browse our wonderful collection of Lake District holiday cottages and put yourself right in the heart of the festivities! 

And for more inspiration on how to spend your time during your visit, give our guide on the best walks in the Lake District a read!

Images courtesy of: Shutterstock, Michigan Municipal League – (CC BY-ND 2.0) Paul Mitchell – visitlakedistrict. Taste Cumbria – Cumberland Council

This blog has been adapted from original content written by Lakelovers