The Lake District is a beautiful holiday destination at any point in the year, but it really comes into its own during the winter season.
With snow-capped peaks, frosty fells, and festive towns and villages, the region is a great choice for a Christmas break.
Here, we’ve found some of the best Christmas Markets happening this year throughout the Lake District so you can while away an afternoon in the hustle and bustle of yuletide festivities.
Windermere Christmas Celebration
Taking place on Saturday 9th December and Sunday 10th December, this Christmas event is one of the largest of its kind in the Lakes and sees the winding streets of Windermere transform into a festive winter wonderland.
With a strong focus on the local community, the entertainment is provided almost exclusively by musicians from the surrounding area and local producers have been given priority in the event. You can pick up some fantastic regional produce and artisan wares in the German-inspired market, as well as spend the weekend with Father Christmas himself accompanied by two snow cannons!
For more information, head to the website.
Hawkshead Christmas Fair and Beer Festival
This popular Christmas event is returning for another year and promises a stellar weekend of fun. Taking place on Saturday 2nd December and Sunday 3rd December, it’s a great opportunity to take part in some yuletide markets.
With a lantern parade on the Saturday, a magical light display during some traditional carol singing, over 50 indoor and outdoor stalls selling crafts and foods, street entertainers, and a winter beer festival to top it all off, it’s a great weekend for all the family.
For more information, check out the website here.
Carlisle Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland
The Christmas Markets offer a great showcase of local producers selling foods, crafts, artisan wares and more, making it a great opportunity for you to pick up some Christmas gifts (or keep them all to yourself!). Running from Thursday 23rd November to Sunday 3rd December, this eleven-day extravaganza is set to be a good one.
If you miss the markets, however, never fear, as the Winter Wonderland will be running from Saturday 16th December and Thursday 21st December. This event is a great choice for those with little ones, as the star of the show will be the chance to visit Santa’s grotto and meet Santa’s little helpers.
Head over to the Carlisle City Council website for more information, including ticket details.
Taste Cumbria Christmas: Cockermouth
Taste Cumbria run foodie events throughout the year and their special Christmas market is one not to be missed, especially if you’re an avid food fan.
Taking place in Cockermouth on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th December, you’ll find culinary delights, live entertainment, a fairground, Christmas-themed arts and crafts, and a beer and fizz tent, creating a great festive street party feel.
To find out more about this foodie extravaganza, head to this page.
Christmas in Penrith runs from the 25th November right through to Christmas Eve, so you’re bound to find some festive event to attend.
With a Christmas Bazaar, a festive window dressing competition, Santa’s post boxes, Yuletide church services throughout the month, Christmas Fayres, and more, it’s a great chance to take part in some traditional Christmas activities and pick up some great gifts in the process.
Visit this page to find out more.
This delightful Christmas market event is taking place on Sunday 3rd December and promises fun for all.
With stalls throughout the town, all in aid of different charities, you can pick up some great crafts and artisan goods while enjoying some live entertainment and festive food and drink. While Victorian attire is optional, it’s definitely encouraged!
You’ll also find a beautiful nativity scene and children’s fun fair. For more information, head to this website.
This market is another must for foodies, taking place on 15th December 2017. A monthly event, the Cartmel food market will take on a festive feel for its December meeting.
You’ll be able to find some Cartmel favourites, including the renowned Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding, as well as some produce from further afield. Once you’ve had your fill of the stalls, you can then head to the resident cheesemaker, baker, and wine merchant in Unsworth’s Yard.
For more information, visit this website.
We hope this has given you some inspiration for your visit to the Lake District this Christmas. This is only a snapshot of the events happening throughout the area, so there’s something for everyone!
Visit our website for more information about staying in the Lake District.