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If you’re visiting the Lake District and Cumbria this December, there ‘s lots for you to enjoy – the snow capped mountains providing a delightful and atmospheric backdrop to a perfect Winter wonderland.

Just because you are visiting out of peak season, don’t think there’s nothing to do other than go on wintery walks,  sample a pint of local ale in a traditional pub and curl by the fire – although, these are great too!

The Lakes is alive with great things to do – and winter is no exception.

We’ve put together just a few ideas if you’re looking for what to do on your winter retreat in the Lake District.

 

Festive Wreath Workshopwhat to in the Lake District

Head over to Brockhole in Windermere on December 1 and learn how to turn winter greenery and berries into a Christmas wreath.

Plus, kids will love the indoor and outdoor play.

brockhole.co.uk/events

 

Life of a mountain – Blencathra

If you’re not out and about on the fells, how about a watching a film showcasing one of the Lake District’s most beloved fells – Blencathra.

The film, by the award-winning outdoor filmmaker Terry Abraham, is being shown at Rhehed, Penrith, until December 31.

You’ll definitely leave wanting to explore the great outdoors of the Lake District.

https://www.rheged.com/event/life-of-a-mountain-blencathra/

 

Christmas Owls By Midnightfamiliy activities in the Lake District

You’ll have a great opportunity to see wonderful flying displays of owls in the dark at Muncaster Castle.

You’ll see these majestic birds in the illuminated gardens and with warm welcome drinks and a two-course hot supper, it promises to be a great event.

It takes place on December 3, 10 and 18. For more information and to book, see www.muncaster.co.uk

 

Forest choir at Grizedale forest

If you’re struggling to get into the Christmas spirit – this may help!

How about some wild and festive singing in the Yan and amongst the trees in Grizedale on December 4? And, not only will there be Christmas favourites, you can create your own forest-inspired festive songs.

And, if that’s not quite got you all festive, how about mince pies and mulled wine!

Booking is essential – see www.forestry.gov.uk/grizedale for more information.

 

Santa cruiseView across Windermere and onto Loughrigg from Waterhead.

What better way to see the Lake District winter wonderland scenery than on a cruise along Windermere.

And, the kids will love the Windermere Lake Cruise too as Santa and his helpers have flown in to be on board the magical 90-minute cruise.

With Christmas games and music, you’ll be guaranteed some festive cheer, as well as, amazing scenery.

For more information on the cruises, which take place on December 10, 11 and 17 , see: https://www.windermere-lakecruises.co.uk/

 

Festival of Christmas Music

Keswick is the setting for this atmospheric, candlelit Christmas celebration.

Hayden, Missa Sancti Nicolai are just some of the many performances on the bill from the choir, conducted by Ian Hare.

You will get your chance to join in with the singing too.

There’s more information on the December 13 event at www.keswickchoral.org.uk

 

Curious About Kendal

If you’re looking for an event to get you out and about, then this self-guided walk will be just the trick.

Until December 31 , the quirky walk, which has a treasure hunt theme, will see you heading around the Auld Grey Town of Kendal and finding out fascinating stories about its history.

For more information and to download guides, see www.curiousabout.co.uk/kendal

 

The Santa ExpressRavenglass and Eskdale Railway

Jump aboard the beloved train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and meet Father Christmas.

All the family will love this magical journey alongside magnificent scenery.

The Ravenglass Railway also has a Railway Museum, Cycle Trails, children’s playrooms and much more – so if you have a train-lover in your midst, this is a great day out.

For more information about the Santa Express, which runs on December 4, 11 and 22, and to book – see www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk

 

 

 

 

 

Xmas Markets

What better place to soak up the atmosphere of a Christmas maket than in traditional Lake District towns?

There are a number of markets taking place across the Lakes, where you’ll find everything from local Cumbrian goodies and fantastic seasonal gifts too.what to do in the Lake District

New for this year is the Windermere German Christmas Markets, which take place on December 10 and 11.

And, the weekend of December 3 and 4 has lots of festive fun. There’s the Hawkshead Christmas Fair and Beer Festival on Dec 3 and 4; the Traditional Keswick Christmas Fayre on December 4.

The following weekend ( December 11) sees the Masons Arms Christmas Market at Cartmell Fell, near Bowland Bridge.

 

Book your Lake District Winter Stay

Tempted to a last-minute Lake District escape? You won’t regret it – after all, how beautiful is this?

Winter in the Lake DistrictWinter stays in the Lake District

We’ve got late escapes in the most beautiful homes right across the Lake District – all of them Visit England inspected and graded.

So, take a look, pack your winter woollies and get ready to have a fantastic pre-Christmas or New Year break here https://www.lakelovers.co.uk

Wyth Burn covered in snow. A snowy scene next to the Southern shore of Thirlmere.Winter in the Lake District