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An illuminated Christmas tree and lights at a Christmas market

‘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.

A father with his daughter sat on his shoulders at a christmas market

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

23rd – 24th November 2024

The last weekend in November sees the Dickensian Christmas Festival take place in Ulverston. Arguably one of the best Dickensian Christmas markets in the country, a visit to this Lake District Christmas festival is a must!

Festival Singers performing at the Dickensian Christmas Festival

This historic market town doesn’t hold back when it comes to entertaining. In fact, Ulverston is known locally as a ‘festival town’ owing to its bustling annual events schedule.

Take a trip back in time to a Victorian Christmas during the town’s weekend-long Dickensian Christmas Festival. This year’s festivities are packed with entertainment for both adults and children, including a Santa’s Grotto, live music, and a traditional fairground.

The period dress costume competitions are the main event, and costumes are available to hire locally to help you get into the festive spirit!

A grand parade makes its way through the town, and there are a wealth of stalls lining the cobbled streets. Pick up some gifts or keepsakes along the way before settling down to enjoy the Christmas light countdown in the early evening.


Ambleside Christmas Lights, Ambleside

16th November 2024

A schedule of festive events is set to take place in the town of Ambleside this November!

The fun begins at 11 a.m., when a morning cruise departs from Waterhead and sets sail on Lake Windermere in search of Father Christmas.

Little girl whispering in Santa's ear

Live entertainment will be provided aboard the cruise before Santa Claus arrives to meet and greet the little ones.

When he returns to Waterhead following the afternoon cruise, Santa will switch on the Christmas lights before boarding his sleigh for Ambleside.

Festive markets, stalls, and entertainment will take place throughout the day in the centre of the town, and a lantern procession will make its way through the streets at 4:30 p.m.

The fun concludes with a fireworks display at Rothay Park. Bring hats and gloves, as it’s bound to be a chilly evening in Ambleside!


Hawkshead Christmas Fair, Hawkshead

7th – 8th December 2024
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 Lake District!

a gloved hand holding a mug of mulled wine at a christmas market

There’s entertainment to suit guests of all ages, with live street music and carol singers. With over 50 stalls to choose from, you’re sure to find some gifts too!

The stalls at this Lake District Christmas market include lots of homemade crafts, local produce, food and drink, and Christmas decorations to support the wonderful festive atmosphere.

And following an afternoon of outdoor adventure, head to the Queens Head in Hawkshead to cosy up with an evening tipple amongst the roaring flame of the open fire.


Taste Cumbria Christmas Market, Cockermouth

7th – 8th December 2024

Along with its mouth-watering food and drink vendors, the Taste Cumbria Christmas Market will welcome an array of gifts, homeware and craft stalls this year.

Gingerbread Christmas Ornaments at a Christmas Market

Admission to this Lake District Christmas market is free of charge, and there will be many festive activities throughout the weekend.

Stock up on fresh, local produce, sample delectable Cumbrian delicacies or head to the fairground for a spin on the rides.

Live music and entertainment will provide an atmospheric soundtrack to the country’s favourite food festival!


Rydal Mount Christmas Fayre, Ambleside

2nd – 3rd December 2024
10am – 4pm

The Rydal Mount Christmas Fayre takes place in the former home of famed English poet William Wordsworth.

Stand with heart gingerbread sweets at Christmas Market

This Lake District Christmas market is held over two days and offers crafts, gifts, food, and drink. Festive entertainment includes live music performed by local musicians and carol singers.

This is a ticketed event, with entry on the door priced at £6 per person. We recommend purchasing advance tickets, which are available online at a discounted rate of £5.00 and include free parking.

Entry includes access to Rydal Mount’s house and five-acre gardens, both of which tell the fascinating story of the poet who once lived there.


Beetham Nurseries Christmas Market Weekend, Beetham

5th – 8th December 2024

This popular family-run garden centre is opening its doors this Winter to host its renowned weekend Christmas market! After the success of their very first Christmas market in 2022, Beetham Nurseries is back again to host two full days of festive family fun.

Access to this highly-anticpated Lake District Christmas market is free of charge and promises lots of holiday cheer throughout the weekend.

A child and woman stood next to a christmas tree in winter

The grounds of Beetham Nurseries will be decorated with a charming assortment of festive cabins. You can expect to see stalls from many much-loved local businesses, including Miles-Moore Ceramics, White Fox Distillery and Fellside Candle Co. to name a few.

Christmas flavours will fill the air, with many mouth-watering food and drink kiosks to choose from. You can even escape the chill with a festive drink or dish at the on-site cafe.

Be sure to visit Lovingly Artisan and try their freshly baked goods right straight from their state-of-the-art Bread Truck!

Live music performed by a wonderful range of local bands and choirs will form the weekend’s soundtrack, whilst festive crafting and colouring competitions are sure to keep you entertained!

If you’ve not yet decorated your home for the festive period, you can take your pick from hundreds of freshly cut and potted Christmas trees whilst visiting Beetham Nurseries. You might even find a keep-sake bauble or two amongst the holiday decoration kiosks!


Coniston Christmas Market

Sunday 24 November 2024

11am – 4pm

Taking place in the town of Coniston in the heart of the national park, the Coniston Christmas Market will take place at The Coniston Hotel, found just on the outskirts of the village and a stone’s throw away from Coniston Water.

Here, you’ll find a selection of handpicked local traders selling all kinds of festive goods and treats, selling everything from chocolate and sweets to locally-crafted gins and keepsakes.


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: Michigan Municipal League(CC BY-ND 2.0)


This blog has been adapted from original content written by Lakelovers