Welcome to Cumbria & the Lake District

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Lakes

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This wonderful region draws visitors back like a magnet year after year.

Great days out ...................

Cumbria & the Lake District offers an abundance of things to do with days out and top attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

Our top things to see and do in this picturesque area.

Shopping .............................. 44

Shopaholics will love this part of England for its eclectic mix of boho-chic boutiques, highstreet staples and quirky independents.

“Cat Bells overlooks Derwentwater and Keswick. The view from the top is well worth the climb” Don’t miss, P43

L Sizergh Castle. See p28 I Cat Bells. See p43

to Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored by Stagecoach

Eating out ...........................

This region is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs – so make sure you bring a healthy appetite.

Weekender ......................... 66

Only here for the weekend? Fear not! Here are some ideas for a memorable short break to this part of the world.

Culture Club ...................... 68

Culture vultures assemble! this area offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals.

After dark 80

The night-time economy in this region is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs, bars and live music venues.

Time to explore

Although Cumbria and The Lake District has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure.

A final look at this beautiful part of the country – Lake Windermere.

Visit the Lake District’s largest garden centre and be inspired

Close to the centre of Ambleside, remember to call in at Hayes Garden World, a fabulous all-weather venue in the heart of the Lakes. With ample free parking, seven day opening, a terraced cafe serving delicious locally sourced food and a selection of popular concessions, make sure we’re on your list of places to visit!

Our huge indoor shopping halls contain all manner of giftware, home decor, kitchenware, cards and books. With a great selection of footwear and the latest fashions from The Edinburgh Woollen Mill, don’t miss a chance to browse what’s on offer, at Hayes.

Our Four Seasons Terrace Café has a great reputation for serving delicious yet sensibly-priced home cooked food. Call in for breakfast, speciality coffees,tasty snacks, lunch or afternoon tea, seven days a week. A friendly welcome is guaranteed!

When it comes to Christmas time, you’ll be amazed by our World of Christmas, with inspiring displays guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit, as well as a huge selection of decorations and fresh cut British Grown Christmas trees in our plant area outside!

Family owned business with over 200 years experience

except

opening times may vary)

Download our Rewards App for exclusive offers & more! www.hayesgardenworld.co.uk

This wonderful part of the country draws visitors back like a magnet year after year

Welcome, visitor!

Whether it’s a weekend break to visit the stunning scenery, days out with the children at wonderful museums or a taste sensation at one of the region’s splendid restaurants, Cumbria and the Lake District have got it all.

There’s no denying Cumbria is one of the most picturesque counties in the country. In large, that’s thanks to the stunning Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hotspot for outdoor pursuits. The Lake District is considered the adventure capital of England, with alfresco activities to absorb visitors young and old.

Shopping in this region is a real treat, as independent boutiques and local markets fill the baskets of those looking for local produce and one-off treasures to take home.

You can get a taste for fine dining at the end of a hard day’s hiking in picturesque stone-

built villages. Visitors come here as much for its traditional pub culture as they do to sample the excellent local produce at the many Michelin-starred restaurants. Our top picks include The Samling, Cottage in the Wood and L’Enclume.

When night falls in Cumbria and the Lake District, local pubs are a dime a dozen, and there a selection of theatres and live music venues for a livelier evening.

If you’re a culture vulture, you’ve come to the right place. Famed authors, artists, poets and pioneers are honoured in this region’s museums and galleries. Meanwhile, forwardthinking festivals seal Cumbria’s status as a destination dripping in culture.

So whatever you do during your visit to one of the most beautiful regions of the UK, please enjoy – and come back soon! ■

The timeless beauty of the Lake District

It’s easy breezy

Make the most of The

Lakes

Getting around the Lake District by bus is easy; relax, take a break from driving and explore the tranquil waters and outstanding scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hop on &

Whether you’re exploring for the day, staying for the weekend or visiting the Lakes for longer, we have a range of one day, three day and weekly tickets to suit

Our tickets allow you to hop on and hop off at various stops throughout your journey, giving you the freedom to explore more! With Adult, Child, Concession and Group tickets available, there are plenty of options to ensure that you get the best value on your trip.

Our fun, open top, comfy buses can be part of your adventure. Whether you’re here for a day or staying for a longer holiday, our bus routes take in the best tourist attractions the region has to offer. You can even park & explore.

Our pocket-sized guide is your perfect holiday companion with a map of bus routes, details about our fabulous open top buses, ticket information including combined bus and boat trips, suggested outings and major bus timetables (more are available on stagecoachbus.com).

Buy bus tickets from your driver with cash or contactless or download the Stagecoach Bus App and buy before you board.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Explore by Bus & Boat

The region boasts the finest mountain views from the deck of a boat. For a perfectly relaxing journey, you can board one of the many steamers or launches on four of the area’s most outstanding Lakes.

Stagecoach has combined bus & boat tickets which are available for Coniston, Derwentwater, Ullswater and Windermere. Tickets are great value with a day’s unlimited bus travel plus a boat ride.

Get your tickets:

on the app on the bus contactless payment

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Cumbria & the Lake District offers an abundance of things to do with days out and top attractions for the whole family to enjoy

Great days out

Cumbria and the Lake District are blessed with a wealth of fantastic days out, with spellbinding scenery and heritage-rich attractions around every corner. The roots of many cultural icons can be traced to these scenic lands. Yet, Cumbria has also moved with the times. The Lake District is considered the adventure capital of England, with alfresco activities to absorb visitors young and old.

There’s no denying Cumbria is one of the most picturesque counties in the country. In large, that’s thanks to the stunning Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hotspot for many outdoor pursuits, both aquatic and land-based.

To appreciate the majesty of the Lake District, you must get out on the water

To appreciate the full majesty of the Lake District, you really need to get out on the water. Windermere Lake Cruises has set sail on England’s largest natural lake since the Victorian era. It’s a timeless pursuit and the traditional paddle steamers continue to attract over a million people each year. Steamer cruises also take place on Derwentwater and Ullswater.

The jewel in the Lake District’s cruising crown may be the Steam Yacht Gondola at Coniston Water. Take your pick between the luxurious first-class saloon or the open-air decks at the front and rear (or ‘forward’ and ‘aft’, if you’re feeling nautical) of the vessel. The trip takes you anti-clockwise around the

A lake cruise can be a delightful way to see the scenery of the Lake District

lake past such highlights as Coniston Hall and Brantwood house.

Windermere is a water sport wonderland. A number of marinas offer the opportunity to hire a boat and sail at your own pace. For the thrillseekers among you, there’s kayak tours, paddle-boarding excursions, water skiing and wild swimming. Please note the water can be bitterly cold, even in summer, so wetsuits are a must!

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you could even sign up for the Arla Great North Swim – the UK’s biggest open-water swimming event, which takes place on Windemere in June.

There’s lots in Cumbria and the Lake District for little legs to tackle. Brockhole on Windermere is the region’s main visitor centre and a superb family day out in its own right. The grand house has a kid-friendly café and glorious gardens. However, it’s the range of activities that pack a real punch. Treetop treks, mini golf, archery, go karts – be warned; you may have a hard time tearing your young ones away.

Lakeland Maze Farm Park is home to many farmyard friends (remember to pick up animal feed at reception), plus tractor rides and trampolines. Once you’ve navigated your way out of the maize maze, treat yourself with

a trip to the Chocolate Factory in Hawkshead. These hands-on workshops allow young chocaholics to make (and taste!) all sorts of chocolatey delights.

More animal magic awaits at Walby Farm Park near Carlisle, an award-winning attraction where children can groom, feed and meet the animals before letting off steam in the outdoor play areas. Creatures of a more ferocious kind can be found at South Lakes Safari Zoo and Lake District Wildlife Park. Or, step into an underwater world at Lakes Aquarium near Newby Bridge.

Nature lovers need never twiddle their thumbs in this wild part of the world. Cumbria Wildlife Trust alone manages 38 reserves across the county. Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels on your woodland walks – Aira Force is a great place to spot these elusive creatures. Even if you’re not lucky, the 70ft waterfall will make your trip more than worth it.

Between April and August, ospreys nest around the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. On the coast, South Walney Nature Reserve is home to Cumbria’s only grey seal colony and hundreds of bird species.

Both Grizedale and Whinlatter Forests offer hikes, biking trails and family-friendly activities like Segway tours and pony treks. l

Sizergh Castle, Kendal

A great day out for the family and we look forward to welcoming you. There’s more to a pencil than you think!

Did you know that on average a pencil can be sharpened 17 times, draw a line 35 miles long and can write 45,000 words?

Located in Keswick, the home of the first pencil, visitors enter this museum through a replica of the graphite mine that would have been the source of the pencil industry more than three centuries ago. A journey to discover graphite and pencil manufacture from its humble beginnings as a craft industry to modern day production.

Discover our secret WWII pencils with hidden maps; one of the largest coloured pencils in the world measuring almost 8 meters; The late Queen's Diamond Jubilee Pencil; miniature pencil sculptures; and much more! We provide children’s activities during school holiday’s as well as providing a selection of our products for you to try out in our art room. We also have a Derwent fine arts retail shop, and there's a coffee shop with free Wi-Fi.

The first pencil factory in Keswick was opened in 1832. The second and current factory was started in the 1920s and completed in 1950 (closed in 2007 when the owner’s moved production to Workington). We manufacture millions of pencils every year and have over 1000 colour options. Friendly staff are on hand to answer any questions you may have and advise you on product choices.

kes_museum@acco.com

5-STAR AWARD-WINNING FAMILY HOLIDAY PARK AT LOCH KEN, DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY, SCOTLAND

A peaceful haven in an Area of Outstanding Beauty with a wealth of wildlife. Wild duck, swans and red kite are regular inhabitants. Adjacent to the park are the RSPB bird reservation, the “Galloway Kite Trail” and the Galloway Forest Park which offers our visitors many opportunities to walk, climb, cycle and bird watch.

This beautiful holiday park occupies ten acres on the boundary of the Bryson family, six hundred acre stock farm. The fishing is excellent, many fishermen return each year to catch the famous Loch Ken pike, roach and perch.

T. 01644 470 282

E. office@lochkenholidaypark.co.uk Follow us CONTACT

Loch Ken Holiday Park | Parton | Castle Douglas | Dumfries & Galloway | Scotland | DG7 3NE

PARKWAY CINEMA

Cumbria’s Luxury Cinema

Independent and family-run offering the best in film, events and hospitality.

Comfortable recliner seats

Watch your film from the comfort of our top-of-the-range leather recliner seating at no extra cost.

parkwaycinemas.co.uk

A little extra flare

We’re proud to stock a wide range of beers, cocktails, hot, and soft drinks - all of which can be enjoyed in our foyer or in screen during a film.

Not your average snacks

As much as we love popcorn and nachos, we also offer a variety of delicious pizzas. hotdogs, chicken goujons and potato wedges too!

Dunmail Park, Maryport Road, Workington, CA14 1NQ

Indoor activities and outdoors adventures for groups, families and individuals.

Indoor activities and outdoors adventures for groups, families and individuals.

Activities include

Activities include

• Ghyll Scramble

• Ghyll Scramble

Indoor Climbing

• Field Archery

• Canoeing

• Field Archery • Canoeing

• Kayaking

Archery

• Kayaking • Rock Climbing

• Rock Climbing

• High Ropes

• High Ropes

Archery • Adventure Day • 170m Zip-line • Abseil Tower and more!

Call to check availability & to book your next big adventure

Call to check availability & to book your next big adventure

Tel: 017687 72000

Tel: 017687 72000

Goosewell Farm, Keswick CA12 4RN www.keswickclimbingwall.co.uk

Goosewell Farm, Keswick CA12 4RN www.keswickclimbingwall.co.uk

Come and visit our unique awardwinning museum, suspended over a 19th century dry dock in a channel-side location.

We are free to enter and have a free car park. Indoors there are galleries exploring the history of the people and industries of the Barrow-in-Furness area, changing exhibitions, gift shop and café.

Outside there is a sea-themed playground, picnic tables, sculpture, lifeboat and Walney Channel.

“Beautiful place and outstanding atmosphere. Came here on a bad day and it changed my mood instantly.” – Visitor

Venezuelan Destroyer Nueva Esparta in the graving dock, 1953.

In the centre of the Lake District, Honister Slate Mine makes for an action-packed day out in England’s last working slate mine. Attractions include a rickety bridge crossing and suspended clifftop camping! Daring? Sure. Unforgettable? Absolutely.

If that doesn’t get your pulse racing, why not book a Kankku 4×4 driving experience? Suitable for beginners and aficionados alike, participants take to the wheel to whip around the Lake District’s off-road terrain.

Then there’s always rock climbing, with Dow Crag, Gimmer and Esk Buttress providing plenty of challenges for the thrill seeker. Or you could really push yourself with a night of bushcraft and survival skills with an outfit such as Adventure North West or Green Man Survival.

Arrange a session with Michael Coates Clay Pigeon Shooting to try your hand at the sport that’s rapidly growing in popularity. Whether you are a complete novice or a professional, you will be given a tailored experience with Michael Coates, who offers activities in Kendal and Windermere.

After all that hard work you might be in the mood for something more sedate. Alpacaly Ever After in Keswick is just the ticket, where you can walk through idyllic country estates and even go off on treks with a furry alpaca

friend in tow.

Cumbria and the Lake District’s cultural roots extend back thousands of years. From Neolithic stone circles to museums honouring Victorian poets, the area’s rich heritage takes pride of place for all to see.

There are around 50 stone circles in Cumbria, from the diminutive to the downright imposing. With links to witchcraft, Long Meg and Her Daughters is a mustsee. Long Meg is easy enough to spot – at 12 foot she’s the tallest of the 69 stones and is decorated with mysterious symbols. Legend has it the stones can never be correctly counted – perhaps you can break the spell?

Castlerigg stone circle is awash with atmosphere, with breathtaking views across to Helvellyn and Skiddaw mountains. Visit at sunset, when the crowds are gone and the changing light lends the site a mystical quality. Close to Castlerigg but less well-known, Elva Plain stone circle is ideal for history-seekers keen to step off the beaten bath.

The famed Roman fortification of Hadrian’s Wall has long been associated with North East England. But this UNESCO World Heritage Site extends into Cumbria too. The remains are best admired from Birdoswald Roman Fort, where the longest continuous stretch of wall exists today. Look out for l

Why not whip around the Lake District off-road on a Kankku 4×4?

Explore Lake District Forests

Grizedale

In the heart of the Lake District you can find walking and cycling trails, pick a quiet spot to admire the wildlife or discover amazing sculptures in the forest.

Get back to nature in the heart of the Lake District. Explore walking and cycling trails, pick a quiet spot to admire the wildlife and discover amazing sculptures in the forest.

For more infomation visit forestryengland.uk/grizedale or call 0300 067 4495

Grizedale Forest @grizedale.forest

Grizedale Forest

Whinlatter

Prepare to be wowed by England’s only true mountain forest. Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic trails, rare

For more infomation visit forestryengland.uk/whinlatter or call 017687 78469

Visit England’s only true mountain forest. Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic trails, rare wildlife and adventure play.

Whinlatter

Whinlatter @whinlatter_forest @Grizedale_forest

Image: Steve Blake

OPEN: April – October: Every day, 11am – 5pm November – March: Friday – Sunday, 10.30am – 4pm

T. 01900 816168 E. info@senhousemuseum.co.uk

Maryport | Cumbria | CA15 6JD

Admission applies www. senhousemuseum.co.uk

up time

more Roman Empire relics at Senhouse Roman Museum in Maryport.

Carlisle Castle remains a fine example of a medieval fortress, despite enduring many sieges across its 900-year history. Walk the castle walls, visit the dungeon’s gruesome ‘licking stones’ and discover the site’s turbulent history through interactive exhibits.

Inside the castle grounds, Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life also makes for a fascinating visit. Score a historic hat-trick by teaming your trip with an excursion to Carlisle Cathedral, just around the corner.

Dating back to the Victorian era, Wray Castle is a mock-Gothic estate built on the shores of Lake Windermere. The grounds extend down to the water’s edge – perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Brougham Castle, near Penrith, enjoys a prime position on the banks of the River Eamont, while Lowther Castle is best known for its fairytale ruins and expansive gardens. Keep this one up your sleeve for a family visit –the adventure playground is out of this world.

The gardens of Dalemain Mansion are splendid in their greenery. Plus, if you’re here in May, there’s a sticky surprise in store: The World’s Original Marmalade Awards and Festival! Sizergh Castle places 1,600 acres of estate at your feet, while the woodland trails

at Mirehouse in Keswick bring you right to the edge of Bassenthwaite Lake. More woodland wonder awaits at Muncaster Castle, which bursts into a blanket of bluebells every spring.

The impressive ruins of Furness Abbey are mentioned in William Wordsworth’s poem The Prelude, as well as featuring in sketches by the artist JMW Turner. It dates all the way back to the 12th century and was once one of the most powerful Cistercian monasteries in Britain. See if you can spot one of the resident ghosts on your visit.

Wordsworth House and Garden in Cockermouth is the birthplace of one of Britain’s greatest poets, William Wordsworth. The Georgian townhouse promises an intimate peek behind the curtain into his childhood home.

If that doesn’t fill your literary boots, add on a visit to Wordsworth Grasmere, which is home to Dove Cottage, where the poet and his family lived from 1799 to 1808 and where he created some of his greatest works. It has been lovingly renovated to reflect life as Wordsworth would have lived it over 200 years ago, including wild woodland and gardens behind the home.

At the same site, a new museum tells the story of Wordsworth’s life through manuscripts, diaries and letters, as well as l

Dressing

at Wordsworth House and Garden, Cockermouth

Welcome to Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored by Stagecoach

Welcome to Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored by Stagecoach

putting on regular exhibitions. In 2023, the ‘To the Lakes’ exhibition will tell the story of early tourism to the Lake District, through the words and pictures of those who visited the area some 200 years ago.

Hill Top was the home of beloved children’s author, Beatrix Potter, and you can still tour the 17th-century farmhouse today. Such was the magical quality of her animal creations that her stories have endured across generations. This legacy shines through at The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere, where interactive exhibits bring the stories to life. It’s full steam ahead for fun on the county’s heritage railways. The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, affectionately known as La’al Ratty, provides summertime chugs along the sevenmile line from Boot to Ravenglass.

Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway runs daily steam engines to the southern tip of Lake Windermere between April and October, while England’s second-highest narrow-gauge railway, the South Tynedale Railway, departs daily from Alston.

Many major towns in Cumbria feature museums dedicated to local history, including Penrith, Kendal, Keswick, Whitehaven and Maryport. However, in between the archaeological artefacts and social heritage

rest an assortment of rather unusual museums, each with its own fascinating focus. There’s more to the humble pencil than you might imagine, and Derwent’s famous Pencil Museum in Keswick is ready to show you what you’re missing! The UK’s only museum dedicated to Laurel and Hardy is located in Ulverston, Stan Laurel’s birthplace. The Rum Story, tucked away in the cellar of a 1785 trading shop, takes you on a frank trip through Whitehaven’s role in the rum trade, from slavery to smugglers.

Petrol heads should accelerate over to Lakeland Motor Museum with its 30,000 exhibits. Or, for entertainment of a more bucolic kind, take a trip to Old Hall Farm in the village of Bouth. This historic working farm champions 19th-century techniques and has vintage tractors and shire horses working in the fields. There’s butter-making, cow-milking and, if all that leaves you feeling peckish, an ice cream parlour too.

No two days out in Cumbria and the Lake District are the same. Survey magnificent scenery among the region’s lakes and nature reserves, step back in time at ancient sites, or soak up Cumbria’s striking culture in the region’s many museums. Whether you like to live life in the fast lane or find a quiet corner to call your own, you’re spoilt for choice. ■

Hill Top House, home of The World of Beatrix Potter exhibition, Bownesson-Windermere

The Lake District Wildlife Park

Swinging Gibbons, leaping Lemurs and soaring Birds of Prey – there’s plenty of action at the Lake District Wildlife Park, just ten minutes from Keswick. Home to an exciting collection of wildlife and domestic rare breeds, you’ll spot species from across the globe including Red Pandas, Zebra, Gibbons, Wildebeest, Pythons and even a stunning Bald Eagle.

Keeper Talks throughout the day give an insight to the animal characters and what the Park does to help conserve them in the wild. Reptile talks, Lemur, Otter & Red Panda feeding plus the renowned Bird of Prey Flying displays. Buy some animal feed and have great fun hand feeding Donkeys, Alpacas, Goats, Sheep and Zebu.

There’s an adventure playground and an indoor heated play area. Refuel with home cooked food in the café or use the covered picnic area.

Try something different –magical hour long encounters let you get up close and personal and are great for photos. Take the opportunity to meet Tapirs, Lemurs and Meerkats or learn to fly a Bird of Prey. These pre-bookable experiences also include full day entry to the park. ■

The Lake District Wildlife Park

Bassenthwaite, Keswick CA12 4RD

DON’T MISS

Our top things to see and do when visiting this picturesque counties

1

Visit Aira Force waterfall

Aira Force is probably the most famous waterfall in the Lake District. The main force falls 70 feet down from below a stone footbridge, and from there you can also head to the summit of Gowbarrow fell for absolutely stunning views of Ullswater. At the top there is also a landscaped Victorian park and a welcome tea room.

2

Experience the high mountain passes

They’re a challenge, but the steep mountain roads simply have to be experienced. Kirkstone Pass is the Lake District’s highest pass open to cars. It connects Ambleside to Patterdale and is known by locals as The Struggle. Hardknott Pass heads west and is the steepest road in England, with a maximum gradient of 1 in 3.

3

Explore Lake Windermere

The majestic Lake Windermere is the biggest natural expanse of water in England, at nearly 11 miles long, up to one mile wide and up to 220 feet deep. It is surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery and should you wish you can travel the entire length with Windermere Lake Cruises from Bowness, Ambleside or Lakeside.

4

Go deep into a forest I Cumbrians are lucky to have so many fantastic forests and woodlands remaining. Here are two to explore: Grizedale, between the lakes of Coniston and Windermere, offers stunning walking and cycling trails. Whinlatter is England’s only true mountain forest, with great views, challenging trails and several adventure play areas for the kids.

5

Discover a hidden gem I Eden is a beautiful corner of Cumbria taking in the lakes and mountains around Ullswater, part of the Lake District National Park and the moorlands of the North Pennines around Alston, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. And for this reason the Eden Valley is visited time and again by those who have discovered it. The River Eden, one of the finest salmon and trout rivers in the North of England, rises in Mallerstang, and flows through the old market towns of Kirkby Stephen and Appleby.

6

Sample Cumbrian delicacies

Don’t just view the county, taste it. Cumberland Sausage is a famous national dish but local butchers all have their own versions. Grasmere Gingerbread is

a delicious cross between cake and a biscuit.

Cumberland Rum Nicky is a dessert of shortcrust pastry, dates, brown sugar and rum. Not forgetting the renowned Kendal Mint Cake, a delicious glucose-based confectionary flavoured with peppermint. And the list goes on...

7

Bag a Wainwright or two

The Wainwrights are the 214 hills and mountains described in author-climber

A.J Wainwright’s Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells. It’s a mission by some to

complete all of them; you could start with just one, perhaps the distinctive Cat Bells overlooking Keswick and Derwentwater. The view from the top is definitely worth the climb.

8

Inspire yourself

Cumbria has inspired many writers over the years, who in turn have brought visitors to the county. William Wordsworth remains England’s most famous poet. Beatrix Potter’s children’s stories are still popular today. Then there’s Ransome, Coleridge, Wainwright, Southey and don’t forget Postman Pat author John Cunliffe!

9

Eden is a beautiful corner of Cumbria taking in the lakes and mountains around Ullswater

Take on an Adventure

The Lake District is known as The Adventure Capital of the UK and there’s so much fun to be had on its mountains and waterways,

in its forests and in the air. Wild swimming, kayaking, mountain biking, paragliding, climbing, golf, running, cycling, horse riding, quad biking, zorbing, paintballing and much more.

10

Check out the Wildlife K Cumbria has the dubious honour of being the site of the last English wolf and recently, the last golden eagle. But plenty remains. Cumbria Wildlife Trust manages 44 nature reserves across the county. You could see ospreys, seals, red squirrels, otters, rare plants… you are simply surrounded by wildlife. ■

SHOPPING

Shopaholics will love Cumbria for its eclectic mix of boho-chic boutiques, high-street staples and quirky independents

If you enjoy a good old-fashioned splurge, Cumbria and the Lake District have a shedload of shopping options for you to dive into. Vibrant boutiques, mammoth shopping centres and independent makers are strewn all over the county. Whether you’re in the market for a memento, grocery essentials, or something special you can’t find anywhere else, we think you’ll find that Cumbria stocks the goods. And then some.

For an all-day shopping experience filled with retailers little and large, these shopaholic-friendly Cumbrian towns (and

Vibrant boutiques, & independent makers are all over the county

the county’s only city!) will more than fill your basket. Carlisle is the only city in Cumbria and, as you might expect, many major stores can be found among its bustling pavements.

The Lanes Shopping Centre alone offers more than 60 shops under one roof. Fashion, beauty and electronics stores abound, plus a gaggle of cafés so you don’t have to worry about lunch. Family-friendly events pop up in the centre throughout the year and it’s also home to the city’s main library.

Besides this beast of a complex, Carlisle has four major retail parks on its fringes. Swing

by for household name superstores like Argos, Matalan and B&Q. Or, for a traditional taste of the city’s retail history, seek out Carlisle’s Grade 2-listed Market Hall for plentiful food stalls and indie outlets. It’s one of the last remaining covered markets in the country and, after a rootle around the retailers, the elaborate Victorian architecture is just the icing on the cake.

North of the city, Houghton Hall Garden Centre is so much more than, well, a garden centre. Spread over three levels, it squeezes in a restaurant, gift shop, café and clothing store in addition to the gardening goods you might expect. There’s even a craft shop and miniatures museum in the basement!

Meanwhile, southwest of Carlisle, a garden centre rival exists in the form of Dobbies. Here, the surprise perks are the great food hall selling delicious snacks and play area for young visitors to stretch their legs.

When in Windermere it’s impossible to miss two key shops: Booths and Lakeland. Booths supermarket is a must for discerning grocery shoppers. Alongside the store’s upmarket groceries, there’s a pleasant café and you’ll find many pop by just for a taste of their coffee and cakes. An outstanding exception to the smaller artisan shops in Windermere is the flagship Lakeland store. Coming in at a whopping 12,000sq ft in size, it sells just about anything you could ever need for your home and garden.

Shopping streets

It can be difficult for first-time visitors to determine where the border lies between Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere. Over time the two towns have merged into one settlement, yet each retains its own main shopping streets.

Bowness-on-Windermere offers slightly more variety, with locally-born businesses scattered along the high street. The vibrant thoroughfare winds all the way to the shores of Lake Windermere, where cafés await overlooking the water.

Love the Lakes and Herdy are both top-notch gift shops, packed with locallyproduced items. Bowness-on-Windermere is also renowned for its specialist stores. Outdoor shops like Trespass, Mountain Warehouse and Stuart’s Sports are on hand to kit out even the most adventurous of visitors.

A major hub of activity in the south of Cumbria is Barrow-in-Furness. Here, you’ll find national retailers peppered along pedestrianised Dalton Road, as well as the open-air Portland Walk Shopping Centre.

Barrow Indoor Market is slap bang in

the town centre and brings together 55 independent traders under one roof. In fact, it’s one of the largest indoor markets in Cumbria and the goods on offer range from Cumbrian food specialists to local florists.

A short walk away, Hindpool Retail Park is four retail parks joined together to offer a dizzying 6,000 square feet of shops, leisure facilities and ample parking. Expect bigname brands like Next, B&M, Halfords and Currys. Alternatively, if you prefer to spend your pennies with the locals, nip to Cavendish Street and Scott Street for indie outlets and an unfailingly friendly welcome.

Penrith New Squares shopping centre includes a major supermarket and, handily for exploring the town, a multi-storey car park with free parking for up to three hours. There are a few high-street brands to browse, but it’s the selection of fashion and homeware boutiques that lends Penrith its retail identity. The Lion Gallery is great for gifts, while Hedgehog Bookshop is friendly, family-run and a fantastic place for a browse. l

L Houghton Hall Garden Centre

j Carlisle is home to a wide range of independent retailers

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Just outside of town, Rheged is a heritage centre-slash-art gallery-slash-shopping outlet with a carefully curated range of products from Cumbrian-born-and-bred suppliers. After browsing the free art exhibits or catching a film on the giant 18-metre cinema screen, pick up a treat in one of the on-site shops. Sustainable clothing, stylish ceramics and organic wines will attract the adults, while the kids have their very own toy shop to entice them inside.

The coastal town of Workington is West Cumbria’s main shopping area. Washington Square is at the epicentre and the awardwinning, pedestrian-friendly zone contains almost 60 shops across the retail spectrum. Fashion and electronics are well-represented, with a smattering of cafés for a mid-splurge snack. Dunmail Park Shopping Centre, just over a mile north of town, provides a large supermarket and multiplex cinema in addition to major stores.

Smothered in fertile farmland and beloved by creatives, Cumbria’s retail landscape really does go beyond the mainstream. Aside from the lively high streets and shopping centres, you can also have your pick of irresistible boutiques, quirky gift shops and farmers’ markets. And you can be sure that at each, local talent sits pride of place.

The Old Courthouse Gallery is one of the leading independent art galleries in the region

Purchasing a Cumbrian-made present is about more than supporting the local economy – it’s a chance to take home a souvenir that you will treasure for years to come. Independent galleries and artist’s studios provide unrivalled insight into Cumbria’s creative heartland.

The Old Courthouse Gallery in Ambleside has become one of the leading independent art galleries in the region and sells many items to tempt you, from colourful wall art to ceramic sculptures.

Fairfield Mill in Sedbergh ceased production as a woollen mill in the 1990s and has found new life as an arts and heritage centre. There’s a hugely impressive range of exhibitions and craft events to choose from, plus a shop and tea room.

Also in Sedbergh, England’s official book town, you’d be a fool to bypass Westwood l

The Old Courthouse Gallery in Ambleside

The Market Hall in Carlisle is one of the few remaining Victorian covered markets in the country. First opened to the public in 1889 the Market has a long history yet still offers an important service to shoppers in the city centre.

Located in the city's Historic Quarter, visitors are enthralled by the building’s Victorian architecture and its colourful history. They also find themselves within walking distance of Carlisle's beautiful Cathedral, its imposing Castle and the fascinating Tullie Museum.

The Market Hall is conveniently located in the pedestrianised city centre with a bus stop on its door step, a train station within walking distance and car parks nearby. Home to many of the city centre small businesses the Covered Market is a melting pot of traditional and modern retailers brimming with an eclectic mix of quality goods and services.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the Covered Market finding something of interest around every corner. In summer the Market has a light and airy feel and in winter the traditional globe lighting adds a welcoming ambience to the mall. Whatever the season this Aladdin’s cave of retail gems has a friendly atmosphere and a sense of community among the traders who offer customers a very personal service.

The Market also has several cafes and takeaway food outlets, public toilets and disability facilities. T.K. Maxx adds to this amazing retail offer giving visitors a unique and enjoyable shopping experience under one giant roof.

Visit The Market Hall and enjoy a thoroughly memorable day out. Shop, eat, relax and repeat the experience again and again.

The Market Hall • Scotch Street • Carlisle • 01228 513991

Books which stocks more than 70,000 titles, including antiquarian, collectable, secondhand and new books.

Tucked away in the tiny hamlet of Melkinthorpe is a horticultural gem: Larch Cottage Nurseries. Romanesque walls are a backdrop for beautiful plant displays, while upstairs, the Red Barn Gallery showcases work by some of the country’s most highly regarded artists and sculptors, and original gifts and homewares are available to buy in the shop.

In Kirkby Stephen, Church Gallery has three floors to explore. It’s a treasure trove of knick-knacks. Whether you’re in the market for soaps or scarves, jewellery or homeware, you’re likely to find the perfect trinket here.

Keswick’s Northern Lights Gallery represents more than 80 artists and holds monthly exhibitions in its third-floor gallery. For more independent shops, check out Packhorse Court for everything from craft beer to cheese to traditional wooden toys.

Love the Lakes is a shop crammed full of Cumbrian produce, from cakes to beauty products, and even vodka infused with Kendal mint cake!

If you’re after some jewellery for yourself or a loved one, make a beeline for Fultons in Hendersons Yard. It’s a family-run business

which has been handcrafting fine jewellery in its Keswick workshop for more than 30 years. Shop at Fultons for rings, bracelets, bangles, earrings and other treasures, or enjoy a coffee and cake at its Bench Café.

The Herdy brand (named after Cumbria’s Herdwick sheep) sells responsibly-sourced homeware and gifts. Even better, a percentage of the profits go to supporting rural farming projects. As well as Keswick, you’ll find Herdy stores in Grasmere, Kendal and Bowness-onWindermere. l

Welcome to Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored by Stagecoach

L Church Gallery, Kirkby Stephen I Cumbria Crystal Factory Shop, Ulverston

Portrait

If you like ginger you’re in safe hands at Grasmere Gingerbread

Other great destinations for indie retailers are Cockermouth, Wigton and Ulverston. The latter is home to Cumbria Crystal, the last producer of entirely hand-crafted crystal wear. Still using techniques first established in the Roman era, the craftsmanship is second to none. Even if you’re not looking to purchase an ornate glass or dish for yourself, it’s worth keeping an eye on their glass-blowing workshops. Their pre-Christmas baublemaking classes are especially popular.

Sweet treats

Award-winning food producers keep wallets and stomachs mighty satisfied in Cumbria. Grasmere holds particular appeal for foodies and is the place to get your hands on uniquely sweet ’n’ spicy wedges of Grasmere Gingerbread. The tiny specialist shop it comes from also stocks ginger tea, toffee, conserves and hand balm. Needless to say, if you like ginger you’re in safe hands! Nearby, Grasmere Chocolate Cottage sells luxury hand-made chocolates and other delectable sweet treats.

Keswick too has a well-known chocolatier, Friars, which was established in 1927 and has remained in the same family ever since. It’s retro sweet heaven over at Sweet Treats, where you’ll find more than 250 jars of colourful

Grasmere is the place to get your hands on the uniquely sweet & spicy wedges of Grasmere Gingerbread

sweets, from fizzy chews to toffees. If baked goods are more your thing, fill your bags with biscuits and cakes at Bryson’s craft bakery.

In Orton, situated midway between Kendal and Penrith, you’ll find Kennedy’s Fine Chocolates. The factory shop typically opens on weekends with over 100 chocolate varieties to tempt you.

While you’re indulging your sweet tooth, check out The Toffee Stop in Penrith, Abbott Lodge Jersey Ice Cream near Clifton and the 1657 Chocolate House in Kendal, whose luxury hot chocolates attract people from all over the world. Go on, treat yourself.

Artisan treats of a more savoury kind can be found at Unsworth Yard, where you can find fine wines, craft beer and luxury-level cheese at Cartmel Cheeses. Their premium products are often found on the menu at the Michelinstarred L’Enclume restaurant which is just l

around the corner.

But what’s a good cheese without a little relish? Hawkshead Relish Company has picked up awards left, right and centre for its hand-made pickles and preserves. Alternatively, if you like a little kick with your pickle, try Mr Vikki’s in Penrith. Their Indian fusion sauces are knock-your-socks-off outstanding.

Local produce

For maximum tastings with minimal travel, make sure to pay a visit to Cranstons Cumbrian Food Hall in Penrith. This excellent store is a one-stop-shop for Cumbrian foods of all descriptions. There’s a butchery, deli, fresh fruit stands, baked treats, the list goes on. Plus, a hot food counter so you can choose whether to scoff on the spot or take home a few treats to enjoy at your leisure. Or maybe both, after all, who’s judging?

Keswick Market has maintained a 700-year presence in the town centre so far, and shows no signs of slowing down yet. Every Thursday and Saturday, around 70 stalls spring into action along Market Square and Main Street. You won’t want to miss the dazzling display of local produce. Find fresh veggies to fill your fridge or grab a hot snack to devour there and

then. In addition to food, there are a great many craft items to browse including pottery, woollen items and paintings.

Other large weekly markets can be found in Sedbergh and Ulverston. Kendal Indoor Market, on the other hand, is open six days a week and chock-full of cheery traders peddling everything from leather goods to boiled sweets.

If you’re all about the food, follow your rumbling stomach to Cumbria and the Lake District’s farmers’ markets. There’s no finer place to sample an authentic taste of Cumbrian produce.

Some of the best farmers’ markets are in Orton, Egremont, Shap and Cockermouth. While you’re stuffing your bags full of local cheeses, chutneys and famous Herdwick lamb, chat with the makers and discover firsthand the love they put into their craft.

Retailers big and small dot the towns and villages of Cumbria and the Lake District. High street giants are there if you need them, but Cumbria’s innovative streak shines through in the region’s independent makers. From hand-painted works of art to the county’s celebrated cheeses, mighty retail parks to dinky gift shops, you’re sure to leave Cumbria with both your hearts and your suitcases equally full. ■

Keswick Market, still going strong after 700 years

The Toffee Shop

Since 1910, The Toffee Shop has been proudly producing confection renowned far and wide for its distinctive and heavenly flavour.

We use the original secret recipe and knowhow created over a hundred years ago, making and wrapping all our toffee and fudge by hand on the premises. We even use the same brass pans!

We supply luxury retailers and delicatessens across the UK, both in our signature Toffee Shop boxes and privately branded for selected high-end names. We have enjoyed various distinguished patrons, including a longstanding connection with the Royal Family.

We have great respect for our environment and don’t use palm oil in our products.

We produce virtually no food waste. Even our toffee shards go to a local distillery to make toffee vodka!

All our packaging is re-usable, recyclable or biodegradable.

We strive to do our best for everyone we work with - from our loyal, longserving employees to valued suppliers and customers. We love to support our local community, through charitable contributions, sponsorship and in the wider growth of the town.

Visit us in Penrith or shop online and discover our acclaimed fudge and toffee for yourself. ■

The Toffee Shop Limited

7 Brunswick Road, Penrith

CA11 7LU

Tel: 01768 862008

Email: sales@thetoffeeshop.co.uk Web: thetoffeeshop.co.uk

EATING OUT

Cumbria is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs –so make sure you bring a healthy appetite

Hold onto your waistbands, because great meals out are Cumbria and the Lake District’s bread and butter. Michelin-starred restaurants rub shoulders with nononsense pubs, catering for every kind of appetite.

The region’s reputation for gastronomic excellence is largely down to the quality of local produce. Local dishes include Cumberland sausage, Grasmere Gingerbread,

Herdwick lamb and sticky toffee pudding. Arrive hungry!

Sink your teeth into awardwinning eateries worth writing home about. Ranging from the casual to the upper crust, your taste buds are in for a real treat around Cumbria and the Lake District.

Hungry for a real treat?

Cumbria’s top restaurants present the perfect opportunity to wine and dine like royalty. The county is a

breeding ground for top chefs, many of whom boast Michelin-starred eateries with waiting lists as long as the multi-course tasting menus.

L’Enclume in Cartmel is run by one of the region’s most celebrated culinary masterminds, Simon Rogan. His imaginative take on British food has resulted in L’Enclume earning an impressive three Michelin stars, as well as a Michelin green star for its efforts

The Michelin-starred Samling in Ambleside has views – and dishes – to die for

towards sustainability.

There’s no set menu – it all comes down to what seasonal goodies have been foraged from country and coast that day. However, Rogan has been referred to as the Cumbrian Heston Blumenthal, which should give you an idea of the levels of creativity on display here.

Rogan’s also at the helm of Rogan & Co, a relaxed bistro right around the corner from L’Enclume (don’t worry, it still boasts a Michelin star). Also in Cartmel is The Pig & Whistle. Once owned by Rogan, the pub continues to do very well without him thanks to its tasty dishes and simple charm.

Follow your nose to other five-star feasts at Forest Side in Grasmere, and The Samling and the Old Stamp House in Ambleside. Local produce takes centre stage at each and Michelin stars and other dining awards abound.

Cumbrian ingredients

A hidden gem of a restaurant is concealed in the hills by Keswick, The Cottage in the Wood calls the spectacular Whinlatter Forest home and its sophisticated dishes are a true ode to Cumbrian ingredients.

In Windermere, Ollie Bridgewater, formerly of the Fat Duck in Bray, oversees Source restaurant at the Gilpin Hotel & Lake House. Come to be dazzled by fine dining tasting plates made with the best seasonal ingredients.

Seafood reigns supreme at Hooked, an unassuming yet dropdown-delicious eatery focused on freshly netted fish. The menu changes according to what’s been caught that day, but typical delicacies include pan-fried hake, langoustine and crab arancini.

Many of Cumbria and the Lake District’s best restaurants are pubs first and foremost. The Drunken Duck Inn grew up as a mere pub, but don’t let the cosy confines fool you. Its award-winning food, centred on British classics, are fivestar restaurant standard. Located on a rural hillside between Coniston and Hawkshead, this mighty popular spot gets booked up months

in advance, so get your reservations in as soon as possible.

Tucked high above Windermere, The Punch Bowl is a quintessential village pub in Crosthwaite. Despite its middle-of-nowhere locale, the strength of its menus attracts hungry punters from miles around.

The Hare and Hounds bursts with country character in the beautiful village of Levens. This 16th-century coaching inn welcomes dogs and muddy boots with open arms, but don’t mistake this informality for inferiority – the food is top notch.

L’Enclume in Cartmel is run by one of the region’s most celebrated culinary masterminds

The Masons Arms rests on a steep hillside with exceptional views across the Lyth Valley. Expect freshly cooked pub favourites like burgers and venison stew. If you’re popping by for a quick bite, the Cumberland sausage sandwich is a no-brainer.

From hillside to lakeside, The Pheasant Inn rests near the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. All-day dining is on offer with a friendly bistro room and more formal dining room. There’s a dedicated children’s menu and dogs are welcome too.

The Dog & Gun in Skelton may look like a simple village pub, but it surprises with unpretentious Michelin-starred cooking that uses the best produce from local suppliers. Treat yourself to dishes such as chanterelle risotto and sourdough-crusted halibut – as well as some seriously sinful desserts. l

Simon Rogan’s imaginative British food has earned L’Enclume in Cartmel three Michelin stars

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With the Lake District on the doorstep, is it any surprise that so many Cumbrian restaurants serve up local ingredients on a platter? Allium at Askham Hall builds its menu around the plentiful produce harvested from both its kitchen garden and the sprawling Lowther Estate. From wild garlic to moorland pigeon, it’s a true celebration of the seasons.

Lake Road Kitchen in Ambleside has a Scandi-style tasting menu of foraged and home-grown ingredients – many native to Northern Europe. Pick between eight or 12 courses and bring your biggest appetite!

Locally farmed goods are also at the core of Heft. Located in High Newton, chef Kevin Tickle (a Cumbrian lad himself) whips up carefully curated dishes designed to inspire. It received its first Michelin star in 2023, and is a must-visit for any real afficionado of true Cumbrian cuisine.

The people of Coniston can’t get enough of Steam, a small bistro

Lake Road Kitchen in Ambleside has a Scandi-style tasting menu of foraged and home-grown ingredients

restaurant that goes big on homegrown flavour. You’ll very likely join the ranks of its fans too, after a taste of daily-changing dishes like chicken alla Milanese and sesame tofu red Thai curry.

Nestled on the Cumbrian side of the Scottish border, the culinary delights at Pentonbridge Inn are supplied by the walled kitchen garden at Netherby Hall. It’s easy to see why it was awarded a Michelin star and three AA Rosettes as you enjoy terrific dishes lovingly prepared by head chef Chris and his talented team.

Cumbria may boast more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other English county, but posh nosh is far from all that’s on offer. Quaint tea rooms, casual cafés and vibrant newcomers make for exciting meals where glad rags are well and truly optional.

Cumbria and the Lake District are awash with charming cafés and tea rooms ideal for a quick lunch or afternoon pick-me-up. In Ulverston, Gillam’s town centre l

location is ultra-convenient. There’s a small patio garden at the back and great vegan options too.

Also in Ulverston, Fourpence Café & Shop is a great place to fill your bags as well as your boots. Many of the jams, chutneys and dressings you see on the menu are also available to purchase. Even the furniture is up for grabs! Vintage antiques adorn almost every surface and this quirkiness is a huge part of its charm.

Hidden gems

The Chalet Tearooms, just outside Keswick, is rightly popular with walkers in need of a home-made slice of cake (or two!) after a vigorous hike over Catbells.

Stumble upon a hidden gem at Woodlands Tearoom near Holmrook. It serves up a smorgasbord of tasty treats (the cream teas are a particular hit) and the gift shop next door is just as delicious. Alternatively, in Uldale, Mae’s Tea Rooms & Gallery also has arts and crafts for sale and is located in a renovated former Victorian school on the northern edge of the Lake District.

You know you’re in for a treat the moment you set eyes on Granny Dowbekin’s Tearooms in Pooley Bridge. The name alone is straight out of a nursery rhyme and it only gets better when you see the

Whisky is the poison of choice at The Lakes Distillery near Cockermouth

riverside garden and ample choice of freshly-baked scones available. You’ll want to do exactly as the name suggests at Flock-In Tearoom in Rosthwaite. Set on a working farm in the middle of nowhere, the garden affords marvellous views of Borrowdale Valley. Plus, this is the only spot where you can stock up on Linda’s famous Herdwick lamb pasties!

The Square Orange in Keswick whips up stone-baked pizzas and generous plates of tapas, alongside great beers and an even greater buzz. It’s considered one of the first venues to bring café-bar culture to the Lake District so you know you’re in safe hands.

Another must-visit in Keswick is Fellpack. The short-but-sweet menu of this restaurant flits between the classics and international cuisine. Oh, and plenty of cocktails to boot.

Ambleside has a great many cafés. There’s The Apple Pie Café with its fabulous cakes, sausage butties and locally-roasted coffees, The Rattle Ghyll’s picnic-perfect takeaway menu and the famously friendly Fresher’s Café. Their giant quiches are out-of-this-world scrumptious and baked afresh with love every day.

Panoramic views

Over in Windermere, The Crafty Baa is a higgledy-piggledy haven of comfort food and craft beer. If you’re feeling brave, wash down your bacon-infused camembert with a (small!) glass of the world’s strongest beer. It’s called Snake Venom and comes in at a staggering 67 per cent ABV.

If it’s a little too early for Snake Venom, and you’re after something a bit more laid back, make a beeline for The Lakeshore Café at Windermere Jetty Museum where you can enjoy delectable seasonal dishes with superb panoramic views across Windermere towards the Coniston fells.

Up in Longton, near Carlisle, the Hidden River Café is tucked away along a quiet stretch of the River Lyne. Dine on locally sourced Cumbrian dishes as you take in some spectacular views. You can

The Lakes Distillery, Cockermouth

even make a night of it by staying in one of their log cabins.

All manner of diets are catered for in the restaurants of Cumbria and the Lake District. However, some eateries champion veggie and vegan fare in a noteworthy way. Plant by Kat’s Kitchen in Keswick (try saying that with a mouthful of falafel!) is a 100 per cent vegan café where you can scoff sarnies, smoothies and hot snacks overlooking the River Greta. If you happen to be on the hunt for a mouth-watering vegan Sunday lunch in Cumbria, this is the place to find it.

Graze café in Bowness-onWindermere isn’t exclusively veggie but the excellent vegan and gluten-free options set many hearts a-flutter. It’s big on coffee and cakes but it’s their flavourful fusion dishes, available to eat in or takeaway, that really hit the spot.

For elevated free-from dining, try Fellinis in Ambleside. This selfcoined ‘vegeterranean’ restaurant

serves up inspired plates full of Mediterranean flavour in slinky surroundings. The menu adapts with the season but each plate is a miniature work of art and the service is just as accomplished. Vegetarian fine dining, done right.

Feeling thirsty? The Lake District’s bars put the rum in scrumptious, with creative cocktails and bar snacks to line your stomach. Carlisle leads the way when it comes to boozy innovation and has seen a growth of trendy bars in recent years. In the heart of the city, The Last Zebra’s convivial atmosphere invites you to linger a while, supping craft beers and scoffing designer burgers ’til late.

Nearby in a converted monastery, the Thin White Duke is a stylish hangout with an atmospheric cellar restaurant. Other popular additions to Carlisle’s drinking and dining scene include gastropub Bar Solo and The Old Bank, where you can indulge in fine European food alongside your cocktails and beers.

If you’re keen to meet the makers behind Cumbria’s spirits, you won’t leave disappointed. Whisky is the poison of choice at The Lakes Distillery near Cockermouth, although gin and vodka are also bottled here. A guided distillery tour takes you inside the renovated Victorian farmhouse for an up-close gander at the production process, and samples aplenty.

Beer is also a big business in Cumbria. Hawkshead Brewery uses local Lake District water to brew their batches. Swing by the excellent Beer Hall to sink a few and make sure to pair your pint with a Higginson’s pork pie – a match made in heaven.

Eat your way around the gastronomic heartland of England in Cumbria and the Lake District’s best restaurants. From tiny tea rooms to multi-course tasting menus dreamt up by top chefs, there’s a culinary blowout to suit all budgets. Your stomach is sure to thank you. ■

Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Windermere

Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored

Only here for the weekend? Fear not! Here are some ideas for a memorable short break

WEEKENDER

DAY ONE

So let’s split our 48 hours travelling around the county and begin outside the National Park. Carlisle is the capital of Cumbria, and its only city.

It is actually the largest city in the United Kingdom by area (the actual ‘city’ of London is relatively small), but Carlisle has extensive rural fringes and even has two major parks at its heart.

It’s a great shopping centre, and it’s also well worth a visit to Carlisle Castle, the cathedral and Tullie House Museum, all together in the city’s historic quarter. Travel down the M6 or main rail line to Penrith to find an attractive market town with many independent stores and impressive castle ruins.

Kendal & beyond

From here, either head into the hills to visit England’s highest market town, Alston, or continue south to Kendal, on the fringe of the National Park, just eight miles from Windermere, but with plenty to offer itself.

Again, it is a fabulous shopping centre, mixing big names with some quality independents. It offers some wonderful eating places if you can coincide your visit with meal time. An alternative first day would be to leave Carlisle and head down the coast, visiting the attractive towns of Whitehaven and Maryport and the beaches and cliffs of St Bees.

Or travel along the Morecambe Bay coastline, taking in Barrow, Ulverston and Grange-over-Sands. Or stick to the northern boundary and walk the route of Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago.

DAY TWO

Today is all about the National Park. You’re spoiled for choice if you want to witness the beauty of the mountains and lakes, and walking among them will take up all of your time. If you’re on a flying visit and want to visit the charming towns and villages, be sure to spend time at, and travel the short distances between, Ambleside, Grasmere, Bowness

From the A591 you can reach Keswick, Grasmere & Cockermouth and Windermere – the latter two have essentially joined into one settlement.

You could also travel from Bowness to Waterhead, very close to Ambleside, on a Windermere Lake Cruise. Browsing the many quaint independent stores and tearooms in each place might take some time, but if you are minded to see even more, Hawkshead and Coniston are beautiful Lakeland villages worth visiting, both with their own small shops and visitor attractions. Or head up the A591 – one of the

most scenic routes you will ever come across – to travel past Rydal Water, Grasmere and Thirlmere and reach the beautiful market town of Keswick, on the shores of Derwentwater. From here you can also reach Cockermouth, the birthplace of William Wordsworth. There are many attractions dedicated to his life and to other Cumbrian icons too, all fascinating places to visit. You can’t really do the Lake District and Cumbria justice in 48 hours though – so come for a longer stay next time! ■

Grange-over-Sands, on the Morecambe Bay coastline

Culture vultures assemble! Cumbria offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals

Culture Club

The words ‘culture’ and ‘Cumbria’ go hand-in-hand. A land of misttopped mountains and rolling fells, it’s no surprise that creative folk flock here to find inspiration. In fact, the picturesque county is rich with tributes to those who have come before. Famed authors, artists, poets and pioneers are honoured in the county’s museums and galleries. Meanwhile, forwardthinking festivals help seal Cumbria’s status as a destination dripping in culture.

Cumbria and the Lake District’s cultural legacy may run deep,

but it’s certainly not stuck in the past. Today the region brims with contemporary events, celebrating everything from live music and theatre to local heritage.

Awe-inspiring scenery is Cumbria’s calling card. The Lake District is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site which attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all around the world. How better to celebrate the great outdoors than with a festival around its mountainmirrored lakes?

The famous Keswick Mountain Festival (KMF) has been postponed

for 2023, but will return in summer 2024 with lake swims, bike rides and local crag walks as well as some of the biggest names from the adventuring world.

In May, The KMF Trail Running Weekend pitches up in and around Keswick, featuring 5km, 10km, 25km and 50km races, as well as films, speakers, live music and guided activities taking place all around the local region.

Another must for nature lovers is Kendal Mountain Festival in November. Climbing and mountaineering gets big billing

Keswick Mountain Festival, Keswick

across its four days. There are a sprinkling of runs and races, but the main focus is on kicking back with like-minded folk and exploring the wildest wonders of the world through film, literature and speaker events. And beer. Copious amounts of beer.

The largest music festival in Cumbria and the Lake District is Kendal Calling. Held every July, it has grown in size and status since its conception in 2006 and features an impressive line-up across many musical genres. Past headliners include Blondie, Dizzee Rascal, Tom Grennan, Stereophonics, Doves and Manic Street Preachers. Don’t let the name confuse you – due to its popularity, the festival’s been held at Lowther Deer Park near Penrith since 2009. Be quick if you want to secure tickets.

A festival of growing reputation is Bowness Bay Blues Weekend, which packs out several venues across Bowness-on-Windermere in April. For fans of classical music, the Lake District Summer Music

Festival in August lends a stage to chamber musicians, string quartets and jazz ensembles. A marvellous opportunity to admire emerging talent with the serene Lake District as your backdrop.

Literary festivals are a given in a county that has sparked the imaginations of famous writers like William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Alfred Wainwright and Beatrix Potter.

Borderlines Carlisle Book Festival takes place at venues across the city, while the Maryport Arts and Literature Festival sees writers, poets, photographers and artists descend on the Senhouse Roman Museum to celebrate work inspired by Cumbria and other remote and wild places. Kendal Mountain Book Festival features talks by leading authors and adventurers as part of the Kendal Mountain Festival.

Each March the annual Keswick Film Festival comes to the town, hosted mainly at the Alhambra Theatre with the occasional stint at Theatre by the Lake and Rheged.

Extensive screenings feature acclaimed films from around the world, as well as a handful of local filmmakers too.

From film to television, Another Fine Fest is held every June in Ulverston to honour the town’s comic poster child, Stan Laurel, of Laurel and Hardy fame. It brings eye-popping theatre and circus acts to the street.

On the artistic spectrum is Printfest in Ulverston, which gathers the UK’s best printmakers under one roof over the early May Bank Holiday weekend. There are talks, demonstrations and, of course, lots of opportunities to buy artwork of your own.

Whatever you do, if you’re in Cumbria in October, don’t miss the Winter Droving in Penrith. This rural gathering is best known for the torchlit procession through Penrith’s streets, led by a band and populated by masked visitors dressed up as farmers. Sound wacky? It is, wonderfully so, and earlier in the day there are street l

Dove Cottage in Grasmere, the former home of William Wordsworth, is now a National Trust property

Established in 1978, Beckstones Art Gallery has earned a reputation around the world for exhibiting the highest quality original paintings by a hand-picked selection of the finest contemporary artists, covering a wide and varied spectrum of styles and subject matter.

Idyllically situated in a small hamlet, Beckstones is located only 5 miles from Ullswater and 6 miles from J40 of the M6. We are well signposted off the A66 (Penrith to Keswick) from 3 miles west of Penrith and the M6. Follow the brown and white signs.

Peter Symonds

Rex Preston

Gerhard Nesvadba Stuart Long

Howard Shingler

Rendor Berger Antonio Garcia Soler

Andrew Talbot

Alan Thompson

Ben Waddams

Rob Ritchie

Richard Barrett

Heinz Schölnhammer

Alistair Butt

Rod Willis

Mario Sanzone

Nick Potter

Julian Mason

Trevor Lingard

Alan Thompson

David Howell

Maria Cortés

Geoff Rollinson

Tim Gustard

David Farren

Clare Haley

Rob Walker

performances, craft markets and plenty of hot food to help stave off the cold.

Cumbria and the Lake District are a culture vulture’s dream. Forget slim pickings – this region has an abundance of fascinating museums, locally-inspired art and theatre to feast on.

On the shores of Coniston Water rests Brantwood historic house. The former home of writer and radical thinker, John Ruskin, is now a museum and an absorbing time capsule into the life and ideologies of this cultural figurehead. Make sure to wander the picturesque estate. You can even take a boat out across the water!

Poet William Wordsworth (yes, he of the “golden daffodils” fame) was born in Cockermouth. Wordsworth House and Garden, operated by the National Trust, throws open its Georgian townhouse doors during the summer months so you can see the rooms in which Wordsworth was raised. Later, he made Dove Cottage in Grasmere his home.

At the reimagined Wordsworth Grasmere attraction, you can wander the rooms of his restored home, then visit the next-door museum to see an extensive collection of original letters, journals and handwritten poetry.

Close to the western edge of Lake

From Penny

Farthing bicycles to mummified cats, the exhibits at Keswick Museum are curious and captivating

Windermere, Hill Top farmhouse wasn’t just the home of children’s author, Beatrix Potter. No, it was also the home of her beloved creations: Peter Rabbit and friends. She faithfully recreated the property in her illustrations, so you may recognise scenes from the tales as you walk around each room.

Meanwhile, The World of Beatrix Potter visitor centre in Bowness-onWindermere contains interactive 3D exhibits that bring her stories to life – kids love it. The Beatrix Potter Gallery in Hawkshead displays original book illustrations for you to admire up close.

Also in Windermere, you shouldn’t miss the award-winning Windermere Jetty Museum (run by Lakeland Arts), which is dedicated to the boats, people and the rich history of Windermere.

Lakeland Arts

Also run by Lakeland Arts, Blackwell is a Grade 1-listed building in Bowness-onWindermere and is one of UK’s finest examples of Arts & Crafts architecture. It offers a perfectly preserved snapshot of early 20thcentury living.

Keswick Museum and Art Gallery is an award-winning attraction which delves deep into local history. From penny farthing bicycles to a mummified cat, the Victorian-style exhibits are curious and captivating in equal measure.

Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal has a 450-capacity music venue, a 200-seat theatre, three cinemas, two visual art galleries and a drama studio. Safe to say, if you want to sample the Lake District’s artistic influence, this is the place to do it! A range of annual festivals span everything from Japanese film to outdoor adventure, which are all worth checking out.

Heaton Cooper Studio in Grasmere primarily exhibits the landscapes of Alfred Heaton Cooper and his son, William Heaton Cooper. Their exquisite watercolours pay homage to the county’s terrain and influenced the way the Lake District has been viewed over the years. l

There’s fun for all the family at Keswick Museum

Explore these uniquely beautiful arts and heritage venues in the heart of the Lake District.

Be inspired by the lake

Discover fascinating stories of the people and boats connected to Windermere in the Lake District. Cruise on the water and see heritage boat conservation in action. Enjoy panoramic views from the lakeshore café.

Windermere LA23 1BN 01539 637940

The Arts & Crafts house

An outstanding example of a MH Baillie Scott designed home. This Grade 1-listed historic house is a rare architectural gem. A cosy team room and gift shop complete the experience.

Bowness-on-Windermere LA23 3JT 01539 637940

Experience world-class art

The art gallery is in a Grade 1-listed Georgian building in Kendal. From historic to contemporary art, over 50% of the collection is focused on landscape and includes works by JMW Turner, John Ruskin, Lucian Freud, Bridget Riley, Barbara Hepworth, David Hockney, Paula Rego.

Kendal LA9 5AL 01539 637940

When is an Art Gallery not just an Art Gallery? When it’s Thornthwaite Galleries and Tea Rooms Ltd!

If you haven’t visited in the last two or three years you are in for a pleasant surprise. Situated on the edge of Whinlatter Forest, a perfect stop off for walkers, cyclists and drivers through the Northern Lake District.

Dog friendly. Disabled access. Vegetarian Tea Room. Home Baking. Outside seating.

Open Weds to Sat 10am to 5pm. Sunday 11am to 4pm. Tea Room closes 30 mins before Gallery.

T. 017687 78248 • E. info@thornthwaitegalleries.co.uk

Thornthwaite • Keswick • Cumbria • CA12 5SA

Temptation awaits in the gallery shop which sells beautiful prints and art supplies. However, it’s the café that requires real willpower. Home-made cakes with fantastic views – how could you resist?

The Old Courthouse Gallery in Ambleside devotes all its three floors to contemporary arts and crafts. The variety on offer is impressive: glasswork, furniture, jewellery, sculpture, ceramics and many other mediums besides. Throughout, local Lakeland talent takes centre stage.

Theatres & more

Over in Carlisle, Tullie House Museum & Art Gallery is the city’s cultural epicentre with a stellar collection of Pre-Raphaelite art and oodles of Roman artefacts.

The county’s largest arts venue is The Sands Centre in Carlisle, which hosts many internationally acclaimed shows in its 1,500-capacity arena. Pay a visit for big names and endless entertainment. The city also stages amateur plays at the characterful The Green Room Club. The intimate playhouse is run entirely by volunteers and is all the richer for it.

After exploring the historic houses of south Cumbria, keep the good times flowing at The Forum in Barrow-in-Furness. A multipurpose events venue, you’ll find

Theatre by the Lake wears the crown for most picturesque playhouse

musical concerts, comedy acts, theatrical productions and the occasional celebrity appearance within its walls.

Other mainstream venues around Cumbria and the Lake District are Carnegie Theatre in Workington, Kirkgate Arts in Cockermouth and Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven. The latter is especially romantic with its rosered theatre that’s straight out of a storybook.

If you’re keen to catch a show but can’t quite bear to leave the countryside behind, enjoy the best of both worlds at Theatre by the Lake in Keswick. Mere metres from Derwentwater, it certainly wears the crown for ‘most picturesque playhouse’. The productions are top notch too.

Don’t let the name of the Old Laundry Theatre in Bowness-onWindermere fool you. This superb ‘in-the-round’ theatre has nothing to do with stinky socks. Instead, the vibrant programme will leave you feeling fresher than a daisy.

Cultural attractions

Upfront Arts Venue near Penrith is one of Cumbria’s more unusual cultural attractions. As well as a gallery, gift shop and vegetarian café to boot, it’s home to a 140seat playhouse that’s one of only four remaining puppet theatres in England, complete with puppeteer bridges and musical scores. As you might imagine, the shows are mostly aimed at kids but you’ll just as likely find delighted adults clapping along as you are a crowd of entranced youngsters.

If you’re in Cumbria in the summer, why not make the most of the weather and catch an outdoor production? Venues such as Muncaster Castle, Brantwood and Holker Hall stage plays and events for all ages out in the open air.

No doubt about it, Cumbria and the Lake District serve up culture on a platter. Whether you’re hot on local history, a bonafide literaturelover or simply wish to sample some of the epic festivals that rock up in this region, your next culture fix is never far away. ■

Theatre by the Lake in Keswick stages a variety of productions in beautiful surroundings

Larch Cottage Nurseries

Nestled in the heart of the Eden Valley, in the quaint village of Melkinthorpe, a horticultural paradise awaits, ready to enchant and inspire.

Larch Cottage Nurseries is a haven for plant enthusiasts and a tranquil retreat for all. You’ll be immersed in the charm of romantic Italian architecture as you wander along winding paths, among rustic stone walls and archways adorned with carefully selected statues, urns, and garden ornaments.

In 1985, Larch Cottage Nurseries took root as a means for owner, Peter Stott, to supply plants for his expanding landscape enterprise. The gardens echo his love for art and architecture, cultivated with care and passion. In the span of 40 years, Peter and his wife Jo have transformed the nursery into the plant sanctuary it is today. With over 15,000 plant varieties, Larch Cottage offers a comprehensive selection to cultivate a thriving and vibrant garden.

We take pride in cultivating and propagating many of the plants available for sale right here at our nursery. Our dedicated team of field and gardening staff, working tirelessly across all seasons, are instrumental in maintaining the nursery’s pristine appearance and ensuring it remains abundantly stocked with healthy, beautiful plants.

From September to June, our mail order service operates across the UK, delivering plants, statues, and furniture promptly and in excellent condition.

On Wednesday and Sunday afternoons, 1pm-4pm, from May to September, you’re invited to explore our private gardens, with entry fees going to charity. Stroll amongst abundant plant beds, trees, and shrubs, leading to the serene lake and chapel at the nursery’s edge.

The onsite restaurant, La Casa Verde, offers fresh and flavourful Italian cuisine, showcasing seasonal produce sourced directly from our very own kitchen garden. Enjoy your meals out on the terrace, surrounded by cascades of wisteria, with views of the gardens below and the Pennines beyond.

The Red Barn gallery and shop, showcases an exquisite array of artworks and jewellery crafted by artists hailing from across the UK and Europe. With its inviting ambiance, brimming with remarkable creations, Red Barn is an ideal destination for discovering one-of-akind, unconventional, and inspiring gifts.

Larch Cottage is an everevolving destination, with frequent additions enriching the nursery experience, ensuring each visit offers something fresh and exciting. ■

Larch Cottage Nurseries

Melkinthorpe, Penrith, Cumbria, CA10 2DR

Email: plants@larchcottage.co.uk

Telephone: 01931 712 404

Web: larchcottage.co.uk

The night-time economy in Cumbria is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs, bars and live music venues

After dark

Cumbria and the Lake District may be famed for their tranquillity, but it’s not just the glorious scenery that’ll get your pulse racing. Nightlife comes in many forms across the county. There are quaint village pubs, pioneering local theatres and, in the city of Carlisle, top-notch nightlife that’ll keep you entertained ’til dawn.

Oh, and if you get the chance to check out the region’s music acts, please do – there’s an abundance of talent here. Your day needn’t end when the sun goes down. Head to Cumbria’s top towns and get your

fill of live music and theatrical delights alike.

Carlisle, the only city in the county, is your go-to for good times. The Sands Centre is the big boy of the bunch, a giant event venue with a stellar roster of stand-up acts, international orchestras and musical tributes. It attracts over 750,000 culture-hungry visitors a year. If you visit towards the end of the year, don’t miss the traditional Christmas panto!

During the summer, Carlisle’s Racecourse turns into an outdoor music venue, setting the stage for

big-name acts from around the world. Past performers here have included Will Young and Paloma Faith to name but two.

A more intimate show can be enjoyed in Carlisle’s smaller arts venues. The Brickyard is a cracking music venue housed in a 100-yearold church hall. Go for great vibes and decent beer. More historyinfused high jinks await at the Old Fire Station, which is known for its diverse programme of music, comedy and theatre.

Bop along to local bands (and the occasional touring act) for just

The Old Fire Station in Carlisle is known for its diverse programme of music, comedy and theatre

a few quid at The Source Collective. On English Street, Open Mind is a bar first and foremost. However, its open-mic nights are an excellent opportunity to sink a couple of cocktails to an acoustic backdrop.

Carlisle Green Room Club is a volunteer-run playhouse with real soul. Started by a group of friends in 1952, today the 142-seat space hosts up to seven plays a year. No pretension – just pure enthusiasm and pizzazz. A crowd-pleasing programme of music, theatre and children’s events can be found at The Forum, Barrow-in-Furness’ premier nightlife venue.

A mere 20 minutes up the Furness Peninsula is the rural town of Ulverston and The Coro, a community venue that transforms into a showstopper at night. Sit beneath the 20th-century proscenium arch and feast your eyes on ballet, opera, comedy and live music. Remember to wave hello to the Laurel and Hardy statue on your way out!

Creativity and bucketloads of

Nightlife comes in many forms here. Carlisle is the only city in the county, and is your go-to for good times

beer combine at Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal. Inside this cultural hub are two cinemas, art galleries and performance spaces. Music and film lead the line-up, but in all honesty there’s tonnes to look forward to. ‘The Brewery’ has been the life and soul of Kendal for over 40 years and shows no signs of slowing down. And it serves pizza. Win-win!

Brewery Arts Centre also hosts a handful of festivals each year. If you can only fit one in your diary, make it Kendal Mountain Festival. This four-day event is an all-out celebration of the great outdoors and pulls in adventure-loving punters from miles around. After days spent exploring the globe through films and talks, stick around for late-night parties with great company.

The buzzy market town of Cockermouth, located on the north-western edge of Lake District National Park, has everything you need for a top night out. As well as restaurants and bars galore l

Sink a few cocktails to an acoustic backdrop at Open Mind on English Street in Carlisle

(this is the home of Jennings Brewery, after all), there’s also the excellent Kirkgate Arts and Heritage. As the town’s main afterhours venue, it’s a melting pot of live music and theatrical events. A true community enterprise.

It’s not just the rich industrial heritage that puts Workington on the map. No, this west Cumbrian town also boasts a belting music scene thanks to Carnegie Theatre & Arts Centre, which stages everything from sing-along musicals to rock ’n’ roll tributes. The stunning 306-seat Edwardian theatre is the setting for the main acts, but don’t neglect little Carnegie Bar which often moonlights as a live music venue in the evening.

Top ales, foot-stomping tunes and the latest silver-screen releases – there are plenty of opportunities to let your hair down in Cumbria and the Lake District.

Entertainment isn’t restricted to the big stage in Cumbria. Many pubs in the region become music venues after dark. Your starters for ten are The Piel Castle in Ulverston, The Meeting Place in Barrowin-Furness, The Lily and the Ambleside Tap Yard in Ambleside and the excellently-named Crafty Baa in Windermere and Keswick. All are great places to sample locally brewed bevvies and set your toes a-tapping to live bands.

Carnegie Theatre & Arts Centre, which stages everything from sing-along musicals to rock

The Druids Arms is one of the oldest Pubs in Penrith and wellknown for its gigs – rock nights in particular. And if you arrive between sets, don’t worry, there’s a jukebox with your name on it! The Warehouse, meanwhile, features five bars and, if the music leaves you feeling inspired, karaoke pods too. Just outside Penrith in the village of Greystoke, The Boot & Shoe hosts lively music nights, with folk, rock and jazz bands a speciality.

On a weekend, The Hope and Anchor in Ulverston springs to life with musical performances. When the weather’s on your side, it’s home to one of the best beer gardens in the area too.

For many visitors to the Lake District, a rip-roaring night out is more about supping regional ales in front of the fire than tearing up the dancefloor. Luckily, this region is blessed with olde-worlde drinking dens. The 400-year-old Black Bull Inn in Coniston is a great place to start, with its own microbrewery producing 1,600 gallons a week.

Set at the top of Eskdale Valley the historic Woolpack Inn is a great place to soak up some friendly vibes and hearty food before (or after) heading out along the steep Hardknott Pass.

Wasdale Head Inn sits in the shadow of Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain. It’s the ultimate pitstop after a long day’s hike. Surrounded by nothing but rolling Lakeland views, it’s understandably popular with outdoor enthusiasts and serves hearty food to match. Plus, it’s right around the corner from St Olaf’s – the smallest parish church in England.

Another contender for ‘best pub with a view’ is The Mortal Man in Windermere. Grab a bench in the beer garden or settle into the Garden Room to admire panoramic vistas along the Troutbeck Valley. More stonking views can be found at The Masons Arms near Newby Bridge. This is real middleof-nowhere territory, so you’re likely to share the spectacular Lyth Valley setting with local punters.

Finally, for a special-occasion pub, the Drunken Duck Inn hits

The Piel Castle, Ulverston

the nail on the head. Perched in the hills between Ambleside and Hawkshead, this is one of the bestknown pubs in the Lake District. The cosy oak-beamed bar belies a surprisingly contemporary menu filled with imaginative takes on pub classics. Go hungry!

If you’re on the lookout for a good old knees-up, Carlisle is the city you seek. Botchergate, a main thoroughfare stumbling distance from Carlisle railway station, has the highest density of pubs and bars.

A right turn out of the station leads you to The Griffin Pub (great for live sports) and Bar Solo – a cracking little venue with views of the station’s Grade 2-listed architecture. Further along the street, you have your pick of cocktail bars, chain pubs and a few latenight takeaways. Don’t knock ‘em, they may look rather tempting by the end of the evening!

Lonsdale Street, the Historic Quarter and Devonshire Street also throw up a few boozy gems. The

latter in particular has earned a reputation for trendier bars. Enjoy a pleasant evening sampling creative cocktails and hip decor in The Thin White Duke, Yellowjacket and Felson’s, where you can play a game of pool or shuffleboard as you sip on your colourful, creative drinks.

For a slightly more sedentary night out, Cumbria and the Lake District’s cinemas leave film fans spoilt for choice. There are Vue cinemas in Carlisle and Barrow-inFurness, plus an epic 3D screen at Rheged near Penrith.

In Penrith proper is the dinky Lonsdale Alhambra cinema, where two screens attract new releases and live screenings. It’s a similar set-up at Keswick’s Alhambra Cinema, an Edwardian picture house for oldschool movie-going at its finest.

A relatively recent addition to Workington is The Ritz Cinema, a family-run theatre with three screens. There is also the Parkway Cinema located in Workington’s Dunmail Park Shopping Centre.

Royalty Cinema in Bowness-onWindermere also has three screens, but the real draw is its Art Deco interior and working Wurlitzer organ. If you’re lucky, they’ll play it during the interval.

Alternately, snap up screenings for a fiver at Whitehaven’s Gaiety Cinema or make the most of the ice cream interval at Roxy Cinema in Ulverston.

Perhaps the Lake District’s most memorable cinema is Zeffirellis in Ambleside. Part-independent cinema, part-pizzeria, part-jazz bar, this unique joint is chock-full of character. Fridays and Saturdays feature live music too, so your evening out doesn’t have to end when the credits roll.

Make sure you save a little energy after roaming the spectacular fells, fields and market towns of Cumbria and the Lake District. From thriving local theatres to pubs nestled in picture-perfect surrounds, you’re guaranteed a night out to remember. ■

The Ambleside Tap Yard is a good place to eat and catch some live music

Although Cumbria has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure

Time to explore

As Cumbria sits on the EnglandScotland border, the county is a gateway to both countries, depending which direction you are travelling from. We know you’ll want to spend as much time as possible in the Lake District and Cumbria, but it’s also a great place to stay to explore the wider region.

Carlisle, in the north, is only an hour and a half’s drive to either of Scotland’s main cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The M74 will carry you to Glasgow, while you may want to take an even more scenic route to Edinburgh. The A7 links both cities and is rolling countryside. Or exit the M74 early and take the A702 through Biggar and Dolphinton.

Both cities are fabulous for shopping and nightlife. Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city; the stunning Edinburgh, with its charming Old Town separated from the New Town by parkland, is the nation’s capital.

Scotland has a less-heralded but stunningly beautiful corner, and that is Dumfries and Galloway. It is a hidden gem, with glorious beaches, character-rich fishing ports and thick forests, and it is easily accessible from Cumbria. Just exit the motorway north of Carlisle at Gretna, have a look around the wedding rooms of Gretna Green and then keep heading west.

You can also reach the heart of Scotland via a speedy train journey up the West Coast Main Line. The same stretch of track journeys south to Penrith and Oxenholme, before moving into Lancashire. The city of Lancaster is compact yet vibrant, and also gives access to Morecambe and the port at Heysham.

Next stop, Preston, is a market town from where you can reach the tourist traps of Blackpool, Lytham St Annes and Southport.

Edinburgh is only an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Carlisle

Being England’s second largest county, and being situated at the most narrow stretch of the country, Cumbria and the Lake District feels a close affinity with the east coast as well – even the news area covered by the ‘local’ TV stations stretches from coast to coast. There’s also the fact that Cumbria has Hadrian’s Wall, and it travels 73 miles to the east coast. And the North East’s universities are popular with Cumbrian students.

It never feels like a chore to drive the hour and a quarter to the city of Newcastle from Carlisle. Or even to get the train; it’s a beautiful route. Newcastle is an excellent shopping centre, and a major venue for the huge touring stars from the worlds of music, comedy and theatre.

The A66 is another major road linking west with east, journeying from Penrith to reach, via other main roads, the historic, architectural significant towns of Barnard Castle and Durham.

Barrow links by train with Manchester Airport, which makes you realise that the major cities of Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds are easily accessible from Cumbria.

The nearest international airports are Blackpool, Manchester and Liverpool John Lennon from the south, and Newcastle, Prestwick and Glasgow International from the north. Carlisle Lake District Airport operates flights to London Southend, Belfast and Dublin. ■

The stunning battlements of Edinburgh Castle

to Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored by Stagecoach

PHOTO-FINISH

to Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored by Stagecoach

The beautiful Lake Windermere, greatest of England’s lakes

to Cumbria & the Lake District. Sponsored