From marmalade festivals to long distance swims
We’ve spent time curating a list of local events in Cumbria, so you can strike out for Lakeland adventures, and visit exhibitions, outdoor theatres and sporting events, no matter the time of year.
Events in Cumbria
Rheged Great Print 8 Exhibition
From Friday 20 January until April
Plant-based dyes, environmentally friendly printmaking and Gunning Print Presses are just some of the new elements of Great Print 8, a free exhibition celebrating 58 printmakers from across the UK.
Theatre by the lake
All year
Musicals, comedy, beer festivals, screenings, opera and a unique setting. Theatre by the Lake has a rich line-up of events taking place this year.
Rheged: film, café, creative space, gallery
All year
Throughout the year, the Rheged centre screens unusual productions, from West End theatre live from London, to independent film. Discover latest exhibitions, art from Cumbria and much more.
‘Words on Wednesdays’
One Wednesday a month
Monthly evening events at the local bookshop in Pooley Bridge, hear from writers and poets, great and small. Who will be speaking during your stay?
Dalemain Marmalade Festival
Saturday 22 April 2023
Celebrating marmalade in all its brilliance. There will be demonstrations, talks, exhibitions and shows that will inspire, including a special visit from Paddington bear.
Keswick Mountain Festival
Friday 19 May – Sunday 21 May 2023
Run, swim, hike, cycle, dance, watch, visit. Keswick Mountain Festival is back with a full line up of events including inspiring talks, guided activities and competitive events.
Ten Thousand Daffodils
From 24 April to 24 June
Lowther Castle will be hosting “Ten Thousand Daffodils” an installation of ceramic daffodils within the gardens echoing William Wordsworth’s experience over 200 years ago.
The Great North Swim
Friday 9 – Sunday 11 June 2023
The Great North Swim at Windermere is the largest open water swimming event in the UK. As well as swimming events, there will be exhibition stands, food stalls and activities.
Kendal Calling
Thursday 27 – Sunday 30 July 2023
The Lake District festival set in the Deer park at Lowther estate. With 250 artists set across 13 stages. Headline acts last year include the Stereophonics, Supergrass and The Streets.
Lakeland Fell & Trail Run
Saturday 19 August
A scenic route across Askham Fell and the Lowther Valley, a 13 mile route with 14000ft of ascent. For registration and route details use the link below.
Lake District Summer Music Festival
Throughout July and August
See, hear and experience the finest classical music across the Lake District. Events take place in various locations. The full line-up is released in May.
Cumbria dark skies festival
November
A selection of night time events in the wilds of Cumbria, get closer to nature, appreciate the dark skies above you. The festival takes place annually in November. Full programme coming soon…
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