Christmas in the Lake District

There are plenty of things to do and see in the Lake District during December and it’s not all about climbing mountains or entertaining the kids! Weekdays tend to be quiet, but there is plenty of entertainment on the weekends before Christmas.

Departing from Ravenglass Station, enjoy a magical trip on the Santa Express on weekends in December (more frequent service during school holidays). The Eskdale Valley looks lovely in the snow and you can sit back and enjoy the journey from the comfort of the carriages.

The Kendal Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair runs until Sunday 16 December at the Westmorland Shopping Center in Kendal. You can score some last-minute gifts from artisan producers selling pottery, decorative glass, woodwork, textiles, and leather goods.

Ullswater Steamers are running a spirited Christmas Cruise and Christmas Lunch in Dalemain. There has been quite a bit of snow on the Hellvellyn Ranges which will make for an incredibly scenic cruise followed by lunch at Dalemain’s great house.

In December, the last Lakeland Trail race of the season takes place – the Sticky Chocolate 10km and 5km start from Cartmel Racecourse, with Cartmell being the home of the famous sticky toffee pudding! The event rounds out the Trail season and there will be a Trails & Ales Party after the race.

In Eden Valley, a Christmas craft fare is held at Kirkby Stephen in Masonic Hall on the weekends before Christmas. For sale there will be wooden crafts, mirrors, blackboards, chocolate candies, jewelry, etc. Perfect for last minute gifts!

The English Philharmonic Ensemble performs at St Cuthbert’s Church in Carlisle during the month of December. The popular candlelight concerts are in their twelfth year and are understandably popular. Mulled wine and mince pies are offered during the interval.

Muncaster Castle is organizing tours for time travelers, allowing you to go back to Christmas 1885 and experience the magic of this beautiful old castle, lit by candlelight and elegantly decorated for Christmas. While Lord Muncaster sleeps, he peeks backstage with his butler and his maids. He warms himself with a glass of mulled wine, mince pie and log fires at his Lordship’s large dining table while he enjoys festive entertainment with the servants.

Once the children have left school, Santa’s steam train starts running at Threlkeld Quarry. It’s a wonderful drive through the quarries, but it’s very cold, so bundle up. Then everyone piles into the grotto complete with wood stove, mince pies, and mulled wine or hot chocolate. Santa will be on hand to give small gifts to children and the museum will be open for a peek.

On Boxing Day the traditional hunt no longer takes place, but the Blencathra Hunt Master still leads his hounds through the center of Keswick. They call several pubs in the city and the Queens hotel offers complimentary mulled wine. There’s a lovely atmosphere and it’s free, so why not wander around to have a look?

There are several cottages in the Lake District that would make a fantastic base for exploring these wonderful events.

Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year and it’s not just because of the mince pies, mulled wine and gifts on offer, but because of the whole atmosphere. The Lake District is a friendly place at the best of times, but during the festive season it levels up and don’t be surprised if you’re invited to someone’s house for a drink and a bit of a good mood if you’re up for it. . stay in one of the many Lake District cottages around the area… oooh and watch out for mistletoe carriers!