A curated list of local events taking place in Cumbria and the Lake District. From mountain festivals and theatre performances to marmalade competitions and outdoor swimming events...
Kendal Mountain Festival
When: Thursday 21 – Sunday 24 November 2024
From small beginnings come great things, they say. No truer words are spoken of Kendal Mountain Festival.
Founded in the early 80s by a group of like-minded friends, today it has grown into one of the world’s leading and award-winning outdoor adventure festivals.
Kendal Mountain Festival today attracts thousands of outdoor enthusiasts in addition to the gathering of media industry experts, top athletes, the elite of equipment manufacturers and brands, artists, photographers, adventurers, explorers and inspirational speakers. Together they share legendary tales of adventure, wild stories and celebrate the very best in outdoor and adventure sports culture. Visitor numbers have soared to over 13,000, rising year on year, yet the festival’s ethos and foundations remain constant – to inspire more people to explore, enjoy and represent mountains, wilderness and their cultures.
Kendal Mountain Festival sets the standard as an innovative, inclusive and creative celebration of everything outdoors.
Highlights
At the heart of Kendal’s diverse programme is the International Film Competition, affectionately known as the ‘Oscars of outdoor filmmaking’, only less ballgown and more down-filled coat and beanie. It’s not all extreme, high-octane sporting prowess, you can experience mountain culture, drama, wildlife and environmental documentaries too. There’s also a film award for those under 18 – Film Active – encouraging young people to enjoy the outdoors and share their adventures with others.
Other highlights of the four-day festival include photography and art exhibitions, workshops, active sports events and the celebrated ‘Specialist Sessions’ – interactive debates and presentations covering everything from climbing and skiing to free-flight and underground exploration.
Previously awarded ‘Tourism Event of the Year’ by Visit England, Kendal Mountain Festival should be on the to-do list of any outdoor and mountains enthusiast.
Stay nearby and visit the festival for the day with accommodation on Ullswater lake. Book online.
From the blog
Garden Days at Dalemain are monthly expert-led workshops, lectures and demonstrations set in the gardens of the historical Lake District estate close to Another Place and Ullswater.
21 - 24 November 2024
The ultimate gathering in the Lake District for everyone who loves the outdoors.