Things to do in the Lake District: December

Christmas is here and the Lake District is jam-packed with family-friendly activities to explore with little ones including Christmas Markets in the Lake District, pantomimes and much more. Plan your festive season this December, and book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Don’t forget to wrap up warm this December, as temperatures are expected to drop. Browse our full collection by clicking here, or drop in our Penrith store if you’re passing by.

Whether you’re visiting the Lake District for a quick Christmas family trip, or you’re lucky enough to be a local, here are our top recommendations this Christmas, from the Norris family to yours…

meeting santa

Santa’s Christmas Grotto

Visit Santa this year in his grotto, nestled within the Christmas room at Sands in Penrith – make your little one’s dream of meeting Santa come true!

Tickets cost £10 per child yet they will receive a gift that is of at least the same value, including a 15-minute chat with Santa per booking.

christmas markets

Christmas Markets in the Lake District

The Lake District is packed with Christmas Markets this December, so it wouldn’t be fair to only include one – depending on which area of the Lakes you’re visiting or where you live, we advise on visiting a couple from the list linked for the best experience.

Each market will offer plenty of stalls with trinkets that are perfect as Christmas gifts, delicious food and drinks and deli treats.

Don’t forget to read the history behind Christmas Markets, originally a German tradition, to fully get into the Christmas spirit.

Post a Letter to Santa

This December, remind your little ones to write their letters to Santa, so they can be posted at The Pot Place Garden Centre in Penrith.

Letters will be collected throughout several days, between 3.30 pm – 6 pm with no bookings or charge required.

santa letterbox

Other Christmas Events

From Christmas Festivals to decorated gardens, fairs and other fun festivities – the Lake District brings plenty of attractions across Carlisle, Cumbria, Keswick and Penrith.

Whether you’re after some handmade presents, tastings from local suppliers or entertainment for family and friends, the Lakes has something for everyone.

 

Christmas spirit is all around us and we can’t wait to fill our weekends and evenings with such great activities across the Lakes. Ensure that you book pantomimes ahead of time to avoid disappointment, and continue checking announcements for any updates.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, from John Norris!