Christmas Activities in the Lake District 2025
The Lake District is the perfect holiday destination to embrace the warm-up to Christmas, offering a magical blend of natural beauty and festive charm. The majestic mountains, often dusted with snow, create a picture-perfect backdrop that enhances the holiday spirit. Friendly locals welcome visitors into traditional pubs with roaring fires, where you can relax with hearty food and a glass of mulled wine after a day of exploring. Unique Santa experiences across the region delight families, from magical grottoes to festive boat rides on the lakes. With its cosy atmosphere, stunning scenery, and genuine warmth, the Lake District truly captures the essence of a traditional Christmas getaway.
With lots of activities around the region, see our round up of some of the most popular events below.
Christmas Light Switch On In The Lake District
Experience the magic of the festive season at a Christmas light switch-on event in the Lake District, where twinkling lights transform the charming towns into winter wonderlands. Wrap up warm and wander through the crisp evening air, taking in the sparkle of the decorations and the joyful atmosphere. Enjoy a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate as you browse local stalls filled with festive treats and handmade gifts. Join in with the carol singing, filling the air with cheer and community spirit as the countdown to the big switch-on begins.
Where to meet Santa In The Lake District
Meeting Santa in the Lake District is a truly magical experience that fills children with wonder and excitement. Across the region, Father Christmas can be found in enchanting grottoes, cosy log cabins, and even aboard festive train rides, ready to greet little ones with a jolly smile and a twinkle in his eye. The anticipation builds as children wait to meet the big man himself, their faces lighting up with joy as they share their Christmas wishes. Each visit is made extra special with a thoughtful gift from Santa, creating treasured memories that families will cherish for years to come. Surrounded by the Lake District’s stunning winter scenery, it’s an unforgettable festive moment for both children and adults alike.
15 November to 23 December, Santas Secret Underground Grotto, Honister Mines
15 November to 23 December, Santas Grotto, Hayes Garden World
21 November to 24 December, Christmas on the Farm, Walby Farm Park
22 November, weekends up to Christmas, Santa Express Train at Ravenglass
Weekends in December, Christmas at Muncaster, Muncaster Castle
Weekends in December, Tinsel Trains, Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway
8 December, various dates, Breakfast or Tea with Santa, The Lakeland Wildlife Oasis
13 December, Breakfast with Santa, Windermere Marina Village, Bowness on Windermere
Christmas Markets, Fairs & Festivals In The Lake District
Christmas markets, fairs, and festivals in the Lake District bring festive magic to every corner of this beautiful region. From bustling town squares to charming village halls, visitors can wander among twinkling stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, local produce, and delicious seasonal treats. The scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air, while the sound of carol singers and brass bands adds to the joyful atmosphere. Many towns host lively Christmas fairs ranging from fairground rides, lantern parades, and visits from Santa himself. Whether you’re shopping for unique presents, sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking up the festive cheer, the Lake District’s Christmas celebrations offer a heartwarming and unforgettable experience.
14 – 16 November, Winter Craft Fair at Blackwell House
20 – 23 November, Kendal Mountain Festival
29 – 30 November, Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival
5– 7 December, Yew Tree Christmas Market, Low Newton, near Cartmel
6 – 7 December, Christmas Market, The Glebe, Bowness on Windermere
6 – 7 December, Hawkshead Christmas Fair
Pantomime & Shows In The Lake District
Christmas pantomimes in the Lake District are a highlight of the festive season, bringing laughter, magic, and plenty of “he’s behind you!” moments to audiences of all ages. Local theatres come alive with colourful costumes, catchy songs, and larger-than-life characters that capture the true spirit of Christmas. Whether it’s a classic tale like The Wizard of Oz or Pinoccio, or a uniquely local twist on a traditional story, these lively performances are packed with fun, audience participation, and a sprinkle of festive sparkle. Perfect for families and groups of friends, a pantomime in the Lake District is a joyful way to celebrate the season and share in some good old-fashioned festive cheer.
14 November to 4 January, The Wizard of Oz, Theatre by the Lake, Keswick
27 November to 6 December, Little Red Riding Hood, The Green Room Theatre, Carlisle
11 December, Santas Christmas Party, Moresby Whithaven
20 to 24 December, Santas New Sleigh, World of Beatrix Potter, Bowness on Windermere
20 to 28 December, Three Little Pigs, Brewery Arts, Kendal
28 – 29 December, Pinocchio, Rheged Discovery Centre
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