Discover things to do in the Lake District. 2024 has cultural festivities, sports events, and traditional celebrations that showcase the area’s heritage and vibrant community life. This event suits every age and interest, from quaint village fairs and thrilling mountain festivals to serene lakeside music performances.
Wheelwrights offer ideally located cottages throughout the best places in the lake district, providing comfortable and convenient bases to explore and enjoy these local attractions.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the arts, challenge yourself physically, or soak in the area’s natural beauty and festivities, the Lake District attractions promise memorable adventures and experiences.
Major Events from June to December 2024
June
- Boot Beer Festival: Immerse yourself in a lively atmosphere while sampling a variety of local brews at the Boot Beer Festival. Held annually across three charming pubs in Boot, this festival is a paradise for beer lovers. Enjoy a wide range of ales and bar snacks, complemented by live music throughout the weekend. It is a perfect getaway for those looking to experience the local pub culture in a festive setting. For a comfortable stay, consider our Chapel Stile Cottages or Elterwater Cottages.
- Dates: June 6-9, 2024
- Location: Boot, Lake District
- Lakesman Half: The Lakesman Half offers a unique challenge in triathlon, focusing only on swimming and cycling, eliminating the run aspect. This event caters primarily to athletes aiming to qualify for the Great Britain Aquabike team. Participants will swim and cycle through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the UK, making it a test of endurance and a visually enchanting experience.
- Dates: June 16, 2024
- Location: Lake District
- Cumberland Show: The Cumberland Show celebrates Cumbrian life and agricultural excellence, where visitors can engage with the region’s rural traditions. The show features various activities, from falconry and Cumberland & Westmorland wrestling to equestrian events. Attendees can also explore exhibitions of local crafts and agricultural displays and indulge in regional food and drinks, making it a culturally rich experience for all ages.
- Date: June 8, 2024
- Location: Warwick on Eden
July
- Keswick Summer Festival: Dive into the lively Keswick Summer Festival, a joyous celebration of community and arts in the heart of Keswick. This festival features a diverse lineup of local music bands, talent shows from nearby schools, and delightful dog shows. It is an ideal outing for families looking to soak in local culture and entertainment. The festival’s atmosphere is further enhanced by various food stalls offering local delicacies, crafts, and interactive activities for all ages. Stay nearby in our comfortable Ambleside Cottages.
- Dates: July 5-9, Keswick
- Location: Keswick, Lake District
- Aquasphere Epic Lakes Swim Coniston: Take on a thrilling challenge at the Aquasphere Epic Lakes Swim in Coniston. This open-water swimming event caters to all skill levels, offering distances from 750m to 5000m. Participants will swim in the clear waters of Coniston Lake, surrounded by stunning mountainous landscapes, making this a physically rewarding and visually breathtaking experience. It is ideal for competitive swimmers seeking to achieve personal bests or beginners looking to start their open-water adventure.
- Dates: July 7
- Location: Coniston, Lake District
- Skelton Show: The Skelton Show is a cornerstone of Cumbria’s agricultural and social calendar, bringing together the best outdoor lake district activities. Enjoy a full day of competitive livestock shows, horse and pony classes, and craft tents featuring local artisans. Food lovers will delight in sampling regional produce, from Cumberland sausages to local ales, making it a perfect day for families and anyone interested in experiencing the region’s agricultural heritage.
- Dates: July 6, 2024
- Location: Hutton in the Forest, Penrith
- Penrith Show: The list of what’s on in the lake district keeps going with the Penrith Show. It is a traditional agricultural event showcasing the region’s best farming, crafts, and rural traditions. Attendees can expect a full slate of activities, including cattle and sheep judging, equestrian events, and a crafts exhibition. Local bands and a food court featuring dishes made from local ingredients provide a festive backdrop to a day celebrating rural life and community. For those visiting with furry friends, check out our pet-friendly holiday cottages to ensure everyone in the family enjoys the perfect stay.
- Dates: July 27, 2024
- Location: Penrith
August
- Lake District Summer Music Festival: Immerse yourself in the sublime world of classical music at the Lake District Summer Music Festival. This annual event features world-renowned musicians performing concerts in stunning locations throughout the Lake District. From intimate recitals in charming village halls to grand performances in historic houses and churches, each venue is carefully chosen to enhance the musical experience and showcase the region’s natural beauty.
- Dates: July 26 – August 4, 2024
- Location: Various Locations, Lake District
- Kendal Calling: Among the best places to visit in the lake district is Kendal Calling, one of the UK’s most beloved music festivals. Set in the picturesque Lowther Deer Park, this festival offers an eclectic mix of music, arts, and entertainment. Enjoy performances from top international and local artists, explore art installations, and participate in family-friendly activities. With various stages and a vibrant atmosphere, Kendal Calling is the perfect summer festival for music lovers of all ages.
- Dates: August 1-4, 2024
- Location: Lowther Deer Park, Lake District
September
- 13 Valleys Ultra: Test your endurance at the 13 Valleys Ultra, an epic trail running event that offers distances ranging from 21km to an ultra-challenging 180km. This event, open to walkers and runners, showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District National Park. Participants will traverse the diverse and rugged landscapes of 13 unique valleys, providing a truly immersive and physically demanding experience. Whether you opt for the shorter trails or the full ultra-marathon, this event promises an unforgettable adventure.
- Dates: September 27-29, 2024
- Location: Lake District National Park
October
- Lakeland Trails Marathon: Immerse yourself in the stunning autumnal landscapes of Helvellyn by participating in the Lakeland Trails Marathon. Whether you tackle the full marathon or opt for one of the shorter distances, this event offers a challenge and one of the most scenic things to do in the Lake District. Enjoy the crisp air and vibrant fall colours as you run well-marked trails supported by enthusiastic marshals and surrounded by fellow outdoor enthusiasts. The event includes entertainment such as live music and refreshments, making it a festive occasion for runners and supporters alike.
- Dates: October 19, 2024
- Location: Helvellyn, Lake District
November
- Kendal Mountain Festival: Join fellow outdoor enthusiasts at the Kendal Mountain Festival, a premier event celebrating all things adventurous. This festival features diverse films, talks, and outdoor activities, perfect for those passionate about nature and exploration. Attendees can enjoy screenings of the latest adventure and mountain films, engage in inspiring talks from renowned adventurers and athletes, and participate in various outdoor activities. The festival also includes a vibrant Basecamp Village with exhibitors, food stalls, and live entertainment, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
- Dates: November 14-17, 2024
- Location: Kendal, Lake District
December
- Keswick Victorian Fayre: Step back at the Keswick Victorian Fayre, a festive event transforming the town into a Victorian wonderland. This enchanting fayre features numerous stalls offering a variety of gifts, crafts, and festive treats. Visitors can enjoy Victorian-themed entertainment, including street performers, carol singers, and traditional music. The atmosphere is further enhanced by residents and stallholders dressed in period costumes, making it a magical experience for all ages.
- Dates: December 7, 2024
- Location: Keswick, Lake District
- Windermere Christmas Market: Celebrate the festive season at the Windermere Christmas Market. This charming market offers a wide range of stalls selling local crafts, delicious foods, and festive goods, perfect for finding unique Christmas gifts and seasonal treats. Visitors can enjoy the joyful atmosphere with live entertainment, holiday music, and festive decorations, making it an ideal destination to get into the holiday spirit. After a day of festive fun, retreat to one of our cosy cottages with a log burner to warm up and relax.
- Dates: December 14-15, 2024
- Location: Windermere, Lake District
Why Stay with Wheelwrights
Wheelwright’s Cottages offers the perfect base to explore what’s on in the lake district. Located near critical venues, our properties range from cosy family cottages to romantic getaways, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay. Enjoy the whole Lake District experience with Wheelwrights’ local knowledge and hospitality.
For more details on these events or to book your stay, please get in touch directly —Experience Lake District things to do with Wheelwrights, where adventure meets relaxation.
