Why Christmas is Magical in the Lake District

The Lake District is a fantastic place to visit any time of the year but it’s particularly magical over the winter months. Christmas, when there’s snow on the hills and frost on the ground is wonderful and there are plenty of activities to keep you and the family busy.

Christmas Cottages Lake District

If you’re thinking of booking a festive break this year, then here are just a few things to look out for.

Great Walks

It may be cold and icy but the views are spectacular. Whether it’s climbing up Gummer’s How above Lake Windermere or walking around Tarn Hows, the crisp fresh air and the stunning vistas are some of the best in the world. Many of our Lake District Cottages have great walks right from the front door!

Without the crowds you find during the summer months, this is the perfect place to wrap up warm and get in touch with nature.

Take the Santa Express

If you’ve got kids in tow then a trip to Ravenglass is a great day out. Simply jump on the La’al Ratty Santa Express and you can enjoy a memorable trip through snow-covered hills and quaint villages.

While on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway you’ll see plenty of elves and even Santa himself on one of their Christmas themed Tinsel Trains. Within your own private compartment, it’s perfect fun for the kids while adults can enjoy being served with a seasonal drink and slice of Christmas cake.  

Christmas Lights in the Lake District

During the festive period you’ll see the dark streets of the towns and villages lighting up to make the Lake District look magical. One of the top attractions this time of year is Ambleside. The November switch-on ceremony is usually accompanied by a lantern walk and the town itself is an amazing place to take an early evening walk.

Christmas Markets

Like most places at this time of year there are some brilliant Christmas markets with lots of little shops and bars offering local food, drink and produce. With its cobbled streets and traffic-free location, Hawkshead is one place you will need to visit when you book your stay in the Lake District. Also not to be missed is the famous Ulverston Dickensian Festival which takes place in this south Cumbrian town annually on the last weekend in November.

Christmas Shopping

If you’re searching for something different for your loved one’s gifts on Christmas Day, Coniston and the surrounding towns and villages are full of amazing independent shops and sells a whole range of presents from sumptuous hampers and spa sets to local artwork and clothing.

Lake Cruises and Pantos

There’s nothing better than going on a lake cruise across still waters with the snow-capped hills in the distance. It’s bracing and invigorating, and the views are stunning. You could top off your day out on the water with a visit to the panto at the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick.

Christmas Dinner

Christmas dinner with all the family is surely one of the highlights of a Christmas holiday in the Lake District and whether you choose to book a dinner at one of the local pubs or restaurants or cook a feast in your well-equipped holiday cottage kitchen you will have an unforgettable meal in a stunning location.