The Lake District is the perfect destination for a magical Christmas getaway. From festive activities and charming dining options to cosy accommodations, here’s how to make the most of your holiday season in this picturesque region.
Whether you’re planning a big family gathering or a romantic winter escape for two, the Lake District has something for everyone. Enjoy scenic walks, local Christmas markets, and the warmth of a traditional cottage.
Make your holiday season special with a trip to The Lake District.
Christmas Markets
As the festive season approaches, the Lake District sparkles with exciting events to celebrate Christmas in style. Whether you’re in the mood for festive shopping, indulging in seasonal treats, or soaking up the holiday atmosphere with family and friends, our region offers a variety of activities to make your Christmas truly special. Discover what’s happening in the run-up to the holidays with these must-visit events in the Lake District.
Ambleside Christmas light switch-on – 15th November 2025
Ambleside’s much-loved Christmas Lights and Fireworks event is set to return on Saturday 15th November 2025, a brilliant early start to the festive season.
Expect a day of fun, with Santa Cruises on the lake, live music, stalls, and a family fun zone. The highlight is the evening lantern parade and Christmas lights switch-on, followed by a fantastic fireworks display.
Perfect for families and those who want to kick off Christmas early in the heart of the Lakes.
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Beetham Nurseries Christmas Markets – 4th to 7th December 2025
Looking for a festive day out this December? The Beetham Nurseries Christmas Market Weekend runs from 4th to 7th December 2025, with an Alpine-style shopping village, live music, wreath-making workshops, and plenty of family fun.
Enjoy delicious food from street vendors, browse locally made gifts, pick out the perfect Christmas tree, and let the kids join in festive games and an elf trail. A great seasonal event just a short drive from many of our cottages!
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Rydal Mount Christmas fair – 5th and 6th December 2025
Rydal Hall and Rydal Mount are hosting a festive two-day Christmas Fair with local crafts, live music, mulled wine, and seasonal food.
Your £5 ticket (or £6 on the day) includes free parking and entry to Wordsworth’s home and gardens. Open 10am–4pm each day – a lovely way to spend a wintry weekend in the Lakes.
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Hawkshead Christmas fair – 6th and 7th December 2025
A festive favourite in the Lakes, the Hawkshead Christmas Fair returns on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th December 2025.
While full details are still to be announced, the fair is always a great weekend packed with entertainment, live music, festive stalls, and plenty of delicious food and drink. The cobbled streets of Hawkshead come to life with seasonal cheer!
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Taste Christmas Cockermouth – 6th and 7th December 2025
Food lovers, listen up… the Taste Cumbria Christmas festival is back for 2025, bringing fantastic food, drink, and entertainment to Cockermouth.
Expect all the usual highlights: artisan food stalls, local producers, street food, live music, and family fun – with most of the events free to enjoy.
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Festivals
Kendal Mountain Festival – 20th to 23rd November 2025
The Kendal Mountain Festival returns this November with a packed four-day programme of adventure films, live talks, outdoor events, and trail runs.
With over 200 sessions, 300+ speakers, and 150+ films, it’s one of the UK’s leading festivals for outdoor lovers. Highlights include the Kendal Trail Runs, Skyline Ultra Marathon, family-friendly activities, and a Basecamp Village with free talks and brand pop-ups.
Whether you’re into hiking, running, climbing or simply love the outdoors, Kendal is the place to be this November!
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Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival – 29th and 30th November 2025
Step back in time at Ulverston’s 26th Dickensian Christmas Festival, taking place on 29th and 30th November 2025. Expect costumed parades, street performers, brass bands, mulled wine, and a fantastic atmosphere throughout the historic town.
With free entertainment, market stalls, and plenty of independent shops and cafés to explore, it’s a brilliant way to kick off the festive season in true Victorian style.
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Family Events for the Kids
This festive season, the Lake District offers an array of enchanting activities perfect for families. From magical train rides and whimsical grotto visits to historical Christmas experiences, there’s something to delight children of all ages. Explore these exciting events to create unforgettable holiday memories with your little ones.
Santa’s Secret Grotto at Honister – 15th November to 24th December 2025
Hidden deep inside a Mountain lies Santa’s Secret Grotto – a magical underground experience at Honister Slate Mine. Guided by Santa’s Chief Elf, you’ll travel up the mountain by bus, explore tunnels, discover Santa’s sleigh, and finally meet Father Christmas himself in a hidden cavern.
New for 2025 is an underground sledging finale – the perfect way to end your adventure! Expect festive treats, gifts for children, reindeer food, and a day your family won’t forget. Tickets for 2025 are on sale now – early booking is advised.
World of Beatrix Potter Christmas events 2025
This December, the World of Beatrix Potter has some lovely festive events on offer:
- Wreath Making Workshops (5th & 6th Dec) – Craft your own traditional wreath with mulled wine and mince pies included.
- Santa’s New Sleigh (20th–24th Dec) – A fun family theatre show with songs, laughs, and a gift from Santa for every child.
- The Snow Queen Puppet Show (28th–30th Dec) – A magical retelling with puppets, plus a chance to make your own.
Perfect if you’re staying nearby and looking for something festive to do!
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Santa Express Train at Ravenglass 2025
If you’re visiting the Lakes this winter with little ones, the Santa Express at Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway is a great festive day out.
Running on weekends from 22nd November, and daily from 20th to 24th December, the experience includes a steam train ride through Eskdale, storytelling with the elves, and a visit to Santa’s grotto at Dalegarth. Kids get a gift, grown-ups get a festive drink, and there’s even a magician on hand.
It’s a popular event, so early booking is a good idea!
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We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to the Lake District this Christmas. With an array of festive events and activities, from enchanting Christmas markets to magical family experiences, the Lake District offers a truly memorable holiday season.
To make the most of your visit, remember to book early—Christmas is a popular time, so securing your accommodation and events ahead of time is crucial. Dress warmly to stay comfortable in the chilly weather, and plan ahead by checking event schedules and booking tickets in advance for popular attractions and activities.
Whether you’re seeking large accommodations for family gatherings, dog-friendly stays, or a cosy retreat with a hot tub, Herdwick Cottages has a variety of options to suit every preference.
Enjoy your holiday and make the most of all that this picturesque region has to offer!
