The festive period is fast approaching and Laura Earl, Cumbrian mum-of-four and founder of The Hiking Household, shares her favourite local Christmas attractions where she hopes to take her family this winter.
Christmas is one of the most magical times of year for little ones, and for my four children it is no exception.
We really are so fortunate as there is so much to do in Cumbria at this time of the year – from Christmas pantomimes, to winter markets, and everything in between.
Some of the best Christmas family activities are also easily accessible by bus, with a £2 cap on single journeys – perfect for us parents who have more than enough to do this festive period. Why not let someone else drive for a change?
A Little Princess, Theatre by the Lake, Keswick
Until January 7
This year’s seasonal production at Theatre by the Lake is a new adaptation to the children’s classic, The Secret Garden. This uplifting story about the power of imagination and friendship is sure to be a hit for all the family.
- Bus route: X4, X5, 554, 555, 78
- Bus stop: Keswick Bus Station
The Gingerbread Man, Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal
Until December 24
This year’s Brewery Arts Christmas Show is the classic tale of The Gingerbread Man. Enjoy a wonderful family performance suitable for children for ages three and up, with live action, puppetry, music and great humour.
- Bus route: Multiple services into Kendal
- Bus stop: Kendal Bus Station
Beauty and the Beast, Rheged, near Penrith
December 28 and 29
Rheged is planning a fun packed show full of pantomime fun and comedy in between Christmas and new year. Watch Belle fall in love with the Beast in this magical, family friendly performance.
- Bus Route: X4 & X5
- Bus Stop: Rheged Discovery Centre
Jack and the Beanstalk, The Forum, Barrow
Until December 30
This Christmas, The Forum presents their very own Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime. Expect fun, laughter and a lot of mischief as you watch the hero Jack climb to new heights to save his sweetheart, Princess Jill, from Giant Blundebore’s castle in Cloudland.
- Bus Route: Multiple services into Barrow
- Bus Stop: Barrow Town Hall
Carlisle Christmas Market
Until December 17
Carlisle city centre is transformed into a festive winter wonderland this December with Carlisle Christmas Market. Featuring local and visiting traders, the market will has over 40 Alpine style chalets selling a wide range of gifts, crafts, food and drink. Here’s everything you need to know about Carlisle Christmas Market.
- Bus services: multiple services into Carlisle
- Bus stop: Carlisle Bus Station
Hurry to Bethlehem Carol Service, Carlisle Cathedral
December 17
A special selection of carols, sung by the Cathedral Consort at this relaxed and free Sunday afternoon service. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of your Christmas shopping.
- Bus services: multiple services into Carlisle
- Bus stop: Carlisle Bus Station
Family friendly walk, Allan Bank and Grasmere National Trust, Grasmere
Until December 23 – open Friday, Saturday and Sunday during December. Allan Bank is closed on Christmas Eve.
There is nothing we like more than a Christmassy walk, and Allan Bank is just the place for this. Why not take a moment this Christmas to slow down and enjoy the stunning surroundings of Allan Bank? After a festive walk around the grounds head into the beautifully decorated house, help yourself to the self-service alcohol-free punch and settle down in front of the roaring fire.
- Bus service: 555 & 599
- Bus stop: Grasmere Village
