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 – 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
17 November until 7 January
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
14 – 24 December
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 Christmas Pantomime Rheged Centre, Penrith
28 and 29 December
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
12 – 30 December
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
Father Christmas tea party, The World of Beatrix Potter, Bowness-on-Windermere
Selected dates from 2 to 10 of December
There’s a very special tea party happening in the Lakes this year, where you get to meet Father Christmas in a wonderful winter wonderland. There will be a showing of the Christmas classic The Snowman, a delicious festive afternoon tea and of course the chance to meet Father Christmas himself. Please note this event takes place in the Laundrama party venue which is just across from the attraction on Rayrigg Road.
Bus Service: 6, 599, 755
Bus Stop: St Martin’s Church, Bowness-on-Windermere
Carlisle Christmas Market, Carlisle
1 – 17 December
Carlisle city centre will be transformed into a festive winter wonderland this December with the return of the Carlisle Christmas Market. Featuring local and visiting traders, the market will have over 40 Alpine style chalets selling a wide range of gifts, crafts, food and drink.
Bus services: multiple services into Carlisle
Bus stop: Carlisle Bus Station
Taste Cumbria Christmas, Cockermouth
10 and 11 December
Get into the festive spirit and head down and enjoy the county’s favourite food festival where you will be treated to so much more than just food and drink at this Christmas event! There will be gifts and homewares, seasonal specials and incredible sweet and savoury treats. Lets not forget the live music, fairground rides and children activities. A whole family event.
Bus services: X4, X5, 600
Bus stop: Cockermouth Main Street
Hurry to Bethlehem Carol Service, Carlisle Cathedral
17 December
A special selection of carols, sung by the Cathedral Consort, at this relaxed Sunday afternoon service. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of your Christmas shopping with us. All welcome. Free entry.
Bus services: multiple services into Carlisle
Bus stop: Carlisle Bus Station
Family friendly walk, Allan Bank and Grasmere National Trust, Grasmere
1 – 23 December* (*open Friday, Saturday and Sunday during December. Please note, Allan Bank is closed on Christmas Eve, Sunday 24 December)
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
Fares are capped at £2 for a single journey. To plan your festive family outing, use the Stagecoach bus journey planner to find the best routes.
