It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas is upon us, and if you’re ready to get into the festive spirit, we have picked out some Christmas markets and festive activities for everyone to enjoy around The Lake District.
We can’t think of a better way to get into the Christmas spirit than by visiting the Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Fair! Taking place from the 6th - 8th December, the fair has a jam-packed schedule full of festive delights.
At the outdoor Christmas market, you’ll find festive stalls with plenty of bespoke Christmas gift options. You could also walk down the main high street, which is home to amazing independent boutique shops.
You’ll also find loads of tasty food and drink options. We’d recommend grabbing a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie to enjoy while perusing the Christmas stalls.
Once you’re done with your festive shopping, why not take a festive historical tour of the beautiful town of Kirkby Lonsdale? You can learn about the town’s rich history and, and you get your own lantern to light your way along the walk.
Kirkby Lonsdale Market has plenty of fun activities for the little ones. There’s a Christmas parade, Christmas carols, and families can come along to hear the Nativity Story, told through balloons!
That’s not all for the kids, Santa is also going to be at the fair all weekend. So, if they want to pay him a visit, you can take them to Santa’s grotto in St Mary’s Churchyard.
Fancy a festive meal out to get you in the party mood? If so, a trip to Number Nine restaurant in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale should be at the top of your list. At this little gem, nestled between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, you can enjoy dishes that celebrate local produce, as well as hand-crafted cocktails and specially selected wines.
On the menu, expect to find dishes such as beetroot cured salmon, whipped goat’s cheese with honey, and Gressingham duck breast with parsnip and pickled cherries.
Number Nine also has a festive dining option for those that are ready to begin their Christmas feasting. There’s an array of delicious Christmas dishes including our favourite, honey mustard glazed pigs in blankets.
Nothing beats a crisp winter walk during the build up to Christmas. So, why not make your festive walk one to remember, with a stroll through Ruskins View? This beautiful riveride walking spot is known as "one of the loveliest" parts of the English countryside and boasts panoramic views of Lune Valley and Underley Hall.
It’s a great walk for families as from Ruskins View, you can amble down the Radical Steps and follow the River Lune to Devil’s Bridge. Here you can pause for a moment, enjoy a flask of tea and take in the sights of the wintery woodlands.
If you’re looking for somewhere eat, drink and be merry this Christmas, The Royal Hotel should be at the top of your list. The elegantly decorated interiors and the surrounding views of Lune Valley create a perfect setting for a festive meal with family and friends.
Diners will be treated to local signature dishes and popular British bistro classics like beer-battered haddock, venison loin with blackberry jus, and wild mushroom linguine. The Royal Hotel will also have festive menus, including a luxurious festive afternoon tea from early December.
If you’re near Beetham between the 5th - 8th December, you should drop by Beetham Nurseries Christmas Market. There’s plenty of Christmas fun to be had with friends and family at this market.
Here, you’ll find festive chalets housing local businesses and crafts where you can shop for the perfect present. There will also be plenty of live musical acts including a local primary school choir to bring that extra festive cheer.
For those looking for a quick bite to eat, there’s the Garden Café, Wood Fired Kitchen, and street food vans offering warming drinks, hot chocolates, festive bakes and tasty Christmas treats.
Beetham Nurseries Christmas Market is a place for all the family. The little ones can take part in the colouring competition as well as other games. Watch out for the naughty elves causing mischief and if you find all six you get a free chocolate!
Add that extra touch of magic to this Christmas with a trip to the Fairy Walk. Starting from Beetham Village, take the path that leads to the ‘Fairy Steps’. It’s rumoured that if you climb the steps without touching the limestone sides, the fairies will grant your wish, and if you're lucky you might even spot a fairy or two!
It’s not just the potential fairy sighting that you can admire here. On this walk, you can take in the stunning views of Lakeland Fells and the surrounding woodlands. All you need to make this walk even more Christmassy is a touch of snow.
It’s never too early to start your Christmas celebrations. If you’re looking for somewhere stay after enjoying some festive fun with family and friends, you can book a stay at one of our luxury holiday cottages in the Lake District and beyond.
At Mill House Cottages, we have a variety of stunning 5* properties around the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, including Drakes Barn, the Old School Hall and Lakeside, which are perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Check our availability and start planning your Christmas getaway today.
