It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but the struggle to help keep all the family entertained around the big day is real.
Thanks to Stagecoach, bus travel just got a bit more magical with their Santa buses – and you can still hop on board a bus and travel anywhere in the county for just £2 per person per journey until December 31. This means you can banish the boredom and make the most of the wintry and festive activities on offer throughout the region, while riding in style on board specially-decorated transport.
We’ve come up with our top picks for things to enjoy on the bus this holiday and, as we know it’s also one of the most expensive times of the year, we’ve included ideas that won’t break the bank.
North Cumbria
- Carlisle Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival
Bus route: Multiple services into Carlisle
Bus stops: Carlisle Bus Station / Carlisle Market Hall
Pop along and marvel at the cathedral’s first ever Christmas tree festival, which runs all month until December 31, except December 24 to 26. In total there are 30 decorated trees on display throughout the cathedral and the Undercroft. Each one has a theme and has been carefully put together by charities, schools and community groups. You can even add your own festive message on the community tree.
More info here.
- Tinsel at Theatre by the Lake, Keswick
Bus route: 78, 554, 555, X4 & X5
Bus stops: Keswick Bus Station
Children aged three and over can enjoy the magic of Tinsel, and follow the tale of a magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree. But to get to the top, he’ll have to convince a whole tree of doubting baubles, naughty elves, and a naysaying nutcracker.
More info here.
- The Lanes, Carlisle
Bus route: Multiple services into Carlisle
Bus stops: Carlisle Bus Station/Carlisle Market Hall
Pop along and meet a host of festive characters in the city shopping centre this Christmas. Various cheeky characters have been popping up throughout the month, concluding with Naughty Elf paying a visit on the final Saturday before the big day – December 21. The characters will be on hand for a meet and greet between 11am and 3pm.
More info here.
- Aira Force Winter Illuminations
Bus route: 508 (the last bus back to Penrith is at 17:07)
Bus stops: Aira Force
Wrap up, don a head torch and wear sensible footwear to enjoy the great outdoors. This free festive event is a celebration of local community, nature and the great outdoors. Twinkling lights and illuminated trees add sparkle to the woodland, where decorations made by local school children adorn selected trees.
More info here.
- Little Mermaid Panto at Rheged
Bus Service: X4 & X5
Bus Stop: Rheged Discovery Centre
Enjoy a less-traditional pantomime at Rheged, with a fabulous version of The Little Mermaid. It will include all the usual panto elements – an enchanting story, goodies to cheer, baddies to boo, songs to sing along to and plenty of opportunities for all the family to join in.
More info here.
- Lake District Wildlife Park, Bassenthwaite
Bus Service: X4
Bus Stop: Lake District Wildlife Park
Wander the two-acre park, based just outside Keswick, at your leisure and marvel at more than 100 species, from snakes to zebras. Enjoy one of the magical bird of prey flying displays, or truly experience adventure with one the park’s hands-on keeper experiences, when you can get up close and personal with meerkats, tapirs and lemurs. The park caters to curious minds of all ages with interactive talks led by passionate keepers.
More info here.
- Dobbies Garden Centre, Orton Grange
Bus Service: 300, 400, 554 & 600
Bus Stop: Orton Grange roundabout (5 minute walk from)
Enjoy a truly unforgettable Christmas experience at the popular garden centre. Take an enchanting train-themed journey through a snowy forest where you’ll meet friendly elves, spot woodland creatures, and even have a snowball fight. The highlight of the journey is a special visit with Santa Claus himself. Children can share their Christmas wishes and receive a personalised gift. Booking in advance is advised.
More info here.
- St James’ Church celebrations, Carlisle
Bus Service: 62, 69
Bus Stop: Coleville Street for Cornerstone, Norfolk Road for St James
Spread Christmas cheer by singing loud for all to hear. St James’s Church is hosting Carols at Cornerstone, on Wednesday [18 December] at 7pm. It takes place at 62-66 Denton Street, and everyone is welcome. Alternatively, celebrate the day itself by joining in a celebration in the church on Christmas Day. It starts at 10.30am, and is designed to allow those attending to come together and celebrate the birth of Christ.
More info here.
- Festive crafts at Tullie
Bus Service: Multiple services into Carlisle
Bus Stop: Carlisle Bus Station / Carlisle Market Hall
Struggling to fill the days after Christmas? Why not get hands on and head along to Tullie, on Castle Street, for one of its afternoon winter craft sessions. Running between 1pm and 4pm on January 2 to 5, crafts include New Year journals, snowflake suncatchers and pine cone snowy owls. Children go free with an adult admission. There is no need to book.
More info here.
- Children’s Carol Service at Carlisle Cathedral
Bus Service: Multiple services into Carlisle
Bus Stop: Carlisle Bus Station / Carlisle Market Hall
Join in a heartwarming Christmas Eve Children’s Carol Concert at the cathedral. Experience the magic of Christmas as young voices fill the historic space with festive cheer. From twinkling lights to beloved carols, this enchanting event promises to be a memorable experience for the whole family. It is free to attend.
More info here.
West Cumbria
- Winter Tales at Florence Arts Centre, Egremont
Bus Service: 22, 30
Bus Stop: Egremont Market Place & Red Lion Hotel
Join one of several cosy, interactive storytelling sessions on December 21, perfect for families with children aged three to eight. Snuggle up with a blanket and listen to enchanting winter tales, complete with sound effects and actions. After the story, let your little ones’ imaginations soar as they create their own winter stories with a provided storyboard. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to spend quality time together, away from screens and immersed in the magic of storytelling.
More info here.
- Tinsel at Theatre by the Lake, Keswick
Bus route: 78, 554, 555, X4 & X5
Bus stops: Keswick Bus Station
Children aged three and over can enjoy the magic of Tinsel, and follow the tale of a magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree. But to get to the top, he’ll have to convince a whole tree of doubting baubles, naughty elves, and a naysaying nutcracker.
More info here.
- Lake District Coast Aquarium, Maryport
Bus route: 30, 300
Bus stop: Curzon Street
Looking for somewhere to get in out of the cold and keep the little ones entertained? Head to the aquarium and come face-to-face with a shark and giggle at jellyfish. View the ray pool, shipwreck and deep reef, plus the latest SeaLab extension with microscope, lobster hatchery project, jellyfish breeding tanks and huge coral display that the kids can climb inside. There’s also a 14-hole crazy golf course and an adventure playground, cafe, gift and tackle shop.
More info here.
- Festive fun at Whitehaven Library
Bus route: 2, 2A, 3, 3A, 29, 29A, 30
Bus stops: Lowther Street & Strand Street
Pop along for the final festive Storytots event of 2024, taking place at 2pm at the library on Thursday, December 19. The fun-filled session will have a decidedly Christmassy feel, and is open to children under the age of five – and their parents or guardians too. Booking is not required.
More info here.
- Theatre Royal, Workington
Bus Service: Multiple services into Workington
Bus Stop: Workington Bus Station
Happy Thoughts theatre company will be putting on a performance of Merry Christmas Mary Poppins, on Friday and Saturday, December 20 and 21. Doors open at 6pm for a 6.30pm show. This year marks the first year that Mary Poppins has become public domain, and so she will be featuring in a very special festive adventure for all the family to enjoy.
More info here
- Lake District Wildlife Park, Bassenthwaite
Bus Service: X4
Bus Stop: Lake District Wildlife Park
Wrap up warm and wander the two-acre park, based just outside Keswick, at your leisure and marvel at more than 100 species, from snakes to zebras. Enjoy one of the magical bird of prey flying displays, or truly experience adventure with one of the park’s hands-on keeper experiences, when you can get up close and personal with meerkats, tapirs and lemurs. The park caters to curious minds of all ages with interactive talks led by passionate keepers.
More info here.
- Santa’s Grotto at The Beacon, Whitehaven
Bus Service: Multiple services into Whitehaven
Bus Stop: Whittington Cat (stand C)
Create unforgettable Christmas moments for your little ones at The Beacon Museum’s enchanting Santa’s Grotto. From December 17 to 22, your family can take a festive adventure filled with wonder. Enjoy warm hot chocolate, creative crafts, and a captivating Christmas trail. Finish the adventure with a magical encounter with Santa himself in his winter wonderland grotto. Each child will receive a special gift. Booking is advised.
More info here.
- Dick Whittington at the Carnegie Theatre, Workington
Bus route: Multiple services into Workington
Bus stop: Workington bus station
With boos and hisses and shouts of “He’s behind you”, the cast of Dick Whittington will be helping the family have plenty of laughs at the Carnegie Theatre from Boxing Day until December 30. WADAMS, which has a long tradition of amateur dramatics, will be entertaining crowds with their antics for the annual pantomime. Tickets cost £17 each, or £62 for a family ticket. Booking is required.
More info here
- Keswick Wonderland
Bus route: 78, 554, 555, X4 & X5
Bus stops: Keswick Bus Station
Create lasting memories in the enchanting Christmas Wonderland, open until December 23. Explore a magical winter wonderland, complete with festive lights, a captivating Christmas tree, and a charming carousel. Warm up with delicious treats and hot drinks at the Christmas market. Little ones will also have the chance to meet Santa Claus and receive a gift.
More info here.
- Santa’s Grotto, Whitehaven Civic Hall
Bus route: Multiple services into Whitehaven
Bus stops: Queen Street, Whitehaven
Enjoy a last minute visit to Santa this Christmas, and ensure he knows exactly how good you’ve been. Thanks to The Solway Hall, Santa will be in his grotto in the Civic Hall every day until midday on Christmas eve. It costs £5 per child and booking is essential. To book, or to find out opening times, call 01946 690970.
More info here.
South Cumbria
- Santa’s Christmas Cracker at The World of Beatrix Potter
Bus route: 6, 555, 599 & 755
Bus stops: St Martin’s Church / Bowness Pier
Join Father Christmas, Dotty the Elf, Dasher the Reindeer, and a lost penguin on a heartwarming adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas. The show features music, fun, and even a chance for your child to pull a Christmas cracker with Dotty! It runs from December 20 to 24, with multiple showtimes daily. After the performance, each child receives a wrapped present from Santa himself. Festive afternoon tea packages are also available.
More info here.
- Sizergh
Bus route: X6, 555 or 755
Bus stops: 20-minute walk from the Brettargh stop, ask the driver for Sizergh
Stop by Sizergh this December to truly soak up the festive magic. Running until Christmas Eve, the estate is decorated with nature-themed light and sound installations, designed by local artists and inspired by Sizergh. Inside, discover the story of the Strickland turkey and enjoy historical Christmas decorations from through the ages, before getting creative in the Great Barn with crafts for all the family.
More info here.
- Lakeland Wildlife Oasis, Milnthorpe
Bus Service: 755
Bus Stop: Lakeland Wildlife Oasis (On request)
Immerse yourself in a world of wonder at this all-weather wildlife park. With more than 100 incredible animals, there’s something for everyone. Encounter playful meerkats, admire majestic snow leopards, and learn fascinating facts about a diverse range of species. The interactive exhibits and dedicated play areas offer fun for all ages. While little ones explore, parents can relax at the Wild Cafe. It’s the perfect family day out, combining education and entertainment.
More info here.
- Grinchmas takeover at Brockhole
Bus Service: 505, 516, 555, 599
Bus Stop: Brockhole gates
Celebrate the holidays with a mischievous twist at Brockhole’s Grinchmas Takeover. This free event runs from December 14 to 22. Meet the Grinch himself for a photo op and create lasting memories. Enjoy festive cheer, seasonal treats, and unique gifts at the cafe and shop. Plus, explore the beauty of the Lake District with scenic walks near the visitor centre.
More info here.
- Allan Bank, Grasmere
Bus route: 555, 599
Bus stops: A one-mile footpath walk from the Temple Sowerby stop
Unwind and reconnect with nature at Allan Bank. Step inside a winter wonderland, as the house is adorned with festive decorations and a roaring fire. Explore the enchanting woodland walks dusted with winter frost, soaking in the picturesque scenery. Let children explore their creativity with Christmas-themed crafts. Allan Bank offers a tranquil escape for families seeking a truly memorable Christmas experience.
More info here.
- Meet Santa and his Reindeer, Ulverston
Bus route: 6/X6 to Ulverston
Bus stops: Victoria Road
He might be on the countdown to the big day, but Father Christmas and his reindeer are making a special visit to Ulverston on December 21 to meet excited children. They will be in Market Street from 11am to 3pm, where you can have your photo taken, tell him your last minute festive wishes and enjoy some Christmas merriment. While there, pick up a Reindeer trail map and collect the clues for the chance to win £200 in shopping vouchers.
More info here.
- Santa Express, The Forum, Barrow
Bus route: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & X6
Bus stops: Barrow Town Hall
The grand auditorium may be closed, but the festive spirit lives on in Barrow. This Christmas season, they’re bringing the magic with “The Santa Express,” a brand new pantomime adventure. Running until December 24, this family-friendly show follows Holly on a journey to save Santa from Jack Frost. Expect singing, dancing, laughs, and a giant dose of Christmas cheer.
More info here.
- The Man Who Wanted to be a Penguin at Brewery Arts centre, Kendal
Bus Service: Multiple services in Kendal
Bus Stop: Kendal Bus Station(The Brewery Arts is a 10 minute walk from Kendal Bus Station)
This delightful show is perfect for little ones aged three and above. Running from December 13 to 24, the energetic play follows a curious inventor on his dream journey to meet penguins in Antarctica. Expect audience participation, puppets, quirky songs, and humour for the whole family. The one-hour show features no interval.
More info here.
- Christmas Stamp Card Trail, Barrow
Bus route: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & X6
Bus stops: Barrow Town Hall
Get ready for a festive extravaganza in the town centre. On Saturday, December 21 enjoy a free Christmas Stamp Card Trail filled with fun activities. From synthetic curling and ice skating to craft workshops and toy testing, there’s something for everyone. Collect stamps at each activity and enter a prize draw for a Christmas bundle. With festive music filling the air, this is the perfect day out for families.
More info here.
- Lancaster on Ice
Bus service: Multiple services
Bus stop: 5 minute walk from Lancaster Bus Station
Grab your skates and take to the 800m real ice rink for the annual Lancaster winter celebration. Soak up the festival atmosphere with all the family, as the rink offers penguins for those who are less confident on ice skates. Make a day of it and spend time perusing the Christmas market stalls, enjoy a drink in the Giant Tipi Bar, grab a snack from the food vans, or take a different view of the city when you take a ride in the giant Ferris wheel. Lancaster on Ice runs until January 5. Booking is advised.
More info here.
