Lake District and Cumbria Events May, June & July 2017

Image of Holker Hall

26th February 2017

Here’s the 2nd part of our guide to this year’s festivals, country shows, and events taking place around the Lake District and Cumbria.

The variety of events is hugely varied and there’s something going on every week. and I’ve picked out a selection of our favourite events for May, June & July:-

Saturday 6th May

Keswick to Barrow Walk

Where: Starting near Keswick

Where: Starting near KeswickA 43 mile charity walk where teams can get sponsored and challenge themselves.

A 43-mile charity walk where teams can get sponsored and challenge themselves.

For further information please visit here https://keswick2barrow.co.uk/


Sunday 7th May

Fred Whitton Challenge

Where: Starts in Grasmere

A well-established cycling challenge in honour of the late Fred Whitton who was keen on cycling sports.

For further information please visit here http://www.fredwhittonchallenge.co.uk/


Thursday 11th – Sunday 14th May

Keswick Jazz & Blues Festival

Where: Keswick

This event is celebrating music from the days when jazz music started; both abroad and in the UK. The festival is held at various venues in Keswick. There will be plenty to enjoy and various ticket options available.

For further information please visit here http://keswickjazzandbluesfestival.co.uk/


Friday 12th – Saturday 13th May

Walking With The wounded, Cumbria Challenge

Where: Grasmere Sports Ground

Walking With The Wounded mission statement is to support all veterans with injuries (physical or mental) to gain qualifications to help develop new careers. A popular fund-raiser in the Lake District for this organisation. They offer a route for all abilities, and the entry fee includes various benefits. There is also a discount available for military teams.

For further information please visit here http://walkingwiththewounded.org.uk/support-the-walk/wwtw-events/cumbrian-challenge/


Friday 12th – Saturday 13th May

Moonfest

Where: Kendal Rugby Club

Moonfest is an event that supports local charities. Offering live music, food, children’s entertainment and a refreshment bar they charge a small admission fee.

For further information please visit here http://www.moonfestkendal.co.uk/


Saturday 13th – Sunday 14th May

Cumbria Photography Show

Where: Rheged

A weekend to celebrate all that is photography! If you are keen to learn more about your equipment or get some new ideas, this is the place to visit. There are trade stalls, demos and an exhibition.

For further information please visit here https://www.rheged.com/event/the-cumbria-photography-show-2017/


Sunday 14th May

Cumbria International Motor Show

Where: County Showground, near Kendal

One of the North West’s leading motor shows now in its 6th year. If you are a car enthusiast, this is the place to join like-minded people and enjoy all things automotive in the beautiful Lake District.

For further information please visit here http://www.espcarclub.co.uk/


Monday 15th – Sunday 21st May

Freerange Comedy Festival

Where: Brewery Arts Centre

A round-up of comedy events not forgetting the brilliant Comedy Club 4 Kids so no one is left out.

For further information please visit here https://www.breweryarts.co.uk/events-and-festivals/freerange-comedy-festival-2017/


Friday 19th May

Masquerade Ball

Where: Low Wood Bay Hotel, Windermere

To raise much-needed funds for the Lake District Calvert Trust who offer challenging adventure holidays for people with disabilities, this is one of their popular fund-raising events.

For further information please visit here http://www.calvert-trust.org.uk/help-us/fundraising-events


Friday 19th May

Grand Victorian Circular Tour

Where: Steam Yacht Gondola, Coniston

A rare opportunity to experience a Victorian lifestyle on Lake Coniston which is undoubtedly one of England’s most beautiful Lakes.

For further information please visit here https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/steam-yacht-gondola


Sunday 21st May

Windermere Marathon

Where: Starting at Brathay hall, Ambleside

An opportunity to run a marathon around England’s largest lake while enjoying the carnival atmosphere. This marathon has been voted ‘most scenic’ by readers of Running World.

For further information please visit here https://www.brathaychallenges.com/


Monday 22nd – Wednesday 31st May

Wigton Spring Fling

Where: Wigton

This is an open arts event.


Friday 26th – Saturday 27th May

Ireby Festival

Where: Ireby

This small music festival is now in its 15th year. The main stage holds just 650 people as well as offering more intimate venues where the focus is on love for music and one another. The range of music suits most and their website states that “this festival is among the best for those with a real love of music’.

For further information please visit here http://irebyfestival.co.uk/


Saturday 27th – Monday 29th May

Cartmel Races

Where: Cartmel Racecourse

Well-established as one of the UK’s most beautiful National Hunt racecourses with a unique vibe this is one of the courses most popular weekends. Offering camping, a BBQ area and a fairground for children this magical course offers something for everyone!

For further information please visit here http://cartmel-racecourse.co.uk/


Saturday 27th – Sunday 28th May

Taste Cumbria

Where: Ulverston

Food heaven is nicely linking into the Spring Bank Holiday weekend for the fourth time. There will be almost 60 businesses sharing their wares and offering samples. There are live demonstrations and plenty of fun activities for children.

For further information please visit here http://www.tastecumbria.com/


Sunday 28th May

Classic Cars In The Park

Where: Hutton-In-The-Forest, near Penrith

A historic house , gardens and tea room offering the opportunity to look at classic cars, bikes and light commercial vehicles.

For further information please visit here http://www.markwoodwardclassicevents.com/classic-cars-park


Sunday 28th – Tuesday 30th May

Muncaster Festival

Where: Muncaster Castle, near Ravenglass

Enjoy a carnival festival on the front lawn of the beautiful Muncaster Castle over a few days. On the final day, the festival culminates with a Jester’s tournament! Visit their website to appreciate all that this family-friendly event is offering.

For further information please visit here http://www.muncaster.co.uk/muncaster-festival/


Friday 2nd – Saturday 3rd June

Bassenthwaite Festival

Where: Keswick

This music festival has been running for ten years and has expanded from a single concert to three performances over two days.

For further information please visit here http://www.bassfest.org.uk/


Friday 2nd – Saturday 3rd June

Keswick Beer Festival

Where: Keswick

Now in its 21st year this year’s Festival promises all that it is famous for. Excellent bands, brilliant atmosphere, warm and friendly welcome and of course great beers and ciders.

For further information please visit here http://keswickbeerfestival.co.uk/


Saturday 3rd June

Grasmere Gallop

Where: Grasmere

Fast gaining a reputation as one of the friendliest trail races in the Lakes amidst the gorgeous surroundings of Grasmere and Rydal Water. Entrants can choose between 5.7k, 10k, 17k run or join the 10k Nordic Walk.

For further information please visit here http://www.grasmeregallop.co.uk/


Saturday 3rd – Sunday 4th June

Country Fest

Where: County Showground, near Kendal

To help celebrate the start of summer this annual event promises a fantastic family weekend of delicious food, drink with plenty of activities for children and live music and demonstrations.

For further information please visit here http://www.westmorlandshow.co.uk/page/country_fest.html


Wednesday 7th – Saturday 17th June

Ulverston International Music Festival

Where: Ulverston

This festival launched in 2004 and audiences have seen performances by top stars and ensembles. This is their main event and offers the chance to experience the very best of classical music.

For further information please visit here http://www.ulverstonmusicfestival.co.uk/


Thursday 8th – Sunday 11th June

Keswick Mountain Festival

Where: Keswick

Headliners this year include KT Tunstall and Cast but obviously this isn’t all this Festival is about. There are world class sporting events, outdoor activities, camping and speakers.

For further information please visit here http://www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk/


Friday 9th – Sunday 11th June

Great North Swim and Swimrun

Where: Windermere

This is the UKs biggest weekend of open water swimming which is open for new and experienced swimmers alike. This year they are launching their SwimRun challenge.

For further information please visit here http://www.greatrun.org/great-swim/great-north-swim


Friday 16th – Sunday 18th June

Staveley Carnival

Where: Staveley

This is the final year of Staveley Carnival Arts Project so they are hoping to make it their best yet! Organised by local residents who are passionate about using arts to inspire people.

For further information please visit here http://www.staveleycarnival.com/


Saturday 17th June

Cumberland Show

Where: East Park, near Carlisle

The Cumberland Agricultural Society actively promote rural life and this is their main annual event.

For further information please visit here http://www.cumberlandshow.co.uk/


Saturday 17th June

Another Fine Fest

Where: Ulverston

A street festival that incorporates comedy, street theatre and music.

For further information please visit here http://www.anotherfinefest.co.uk/


Sunday 18th June

Askham Hall Summer Fete

Where: Askham Hall, near Penrith

A summer fete, with stalls selling an array of local produce, crafts and seasonal gifts. Plants for sale, garden tours and workshops, as well as flower-arranging demonstrations, a treasure hunt around the animal trails and garden games. Wood- fired pizzas using fresh ingredients straight from the gardens and farm. All stall-holder fees and garden entry will go to the National Gardens Scheme for charity.

For further information please visit here http://www.askhamhall.co.uk


Sunday 18th June

Lakesman Triathlon

Where: Keswick

This triathlon is designed to appeal to both experienced and novice endurance athletes.

For further information please visit here http://www.thelakesman.com/


Sunday 18th June

The Monk’s Life

Where: Furness Abbey, Barrow

An event with living history group Iron Shepherds.

For further information please visit here http://www.furnessabbeyfellowship.org/


Friday 23rd – Saturday 24th June

Woolfest

Where: Cockermouth

The original British Wool Festival established in 2005 returns for another weekend of creativity and design with beautiful quality and amazing colours.

For further information please visit here http://www.woolfest.co.uk/


Saturday 24th June

Sizergh Summer Fete

Where: Sizergh Castle, near Kendal

A traditional summer fete.

For further information please visit here https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sizergh


Friday 30th June & Sunday 2nd July

Cartmel Races and Tom Jones Concert

Where: Cartmel Racecourse

Well-established as one of the UK’s most beautiful National Hunt racecourses with a unique vibe this is one of the courses most popular weekends. Offering camping, a BBQ area and a fairground for children this magical course offers something for everyone!

Sir Tom Jones will be performing live at Cartmel Races on Friday 30th June, in the evening following racing in the afternoon.

For further information please visit here http://cartmel-racecourse.co.uk/


Sunday 2nd July

Langdale Gala

Where: Walthwaite Meadow, Chapel Stile

A traditional Cumbria Gala which runs on the first Sunday of July which prides itself on bringing together the small communities of the South Lakes.

For further information please visit http://langdale-gala.co.uk/


Friday 7th – Sunday 9th July

Furness Tradition Festival

Where: Ulverston

A festival aiming to promote folk-arts within the community. The main venue is Coronation Hall Ulverston with other town centre venues hosting some other events.

For further information please visit https://furnesstradition.org.uk/


Saturday 8th – Sunday 9th July

King Pocky’s Derwent Water Regatta

Where: Derwent Water

A water sports event for beginners which is all about having a go and just having fun!

For further information please visit here https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/borrowdale-and-derwent-water/features/king-pockys-derwent-water-regatta


Sunday 9th July

Derwent Epic Lakes Swim

Where: Derwent Water

Epic Events aim to offer events that offer a friendly atmosphere and personal approach. Get in touch to find out more.

For further information please visit here http://www.epicevents.co.uk/


Saturday 15th – Sunday 16th July

Retro Rendezvous

Where: Ulverston

A weekend full of fabulous retro fun with lots of activities and an old school cycling event.

For further information please visit here https://retrorendezvous.co.uk/


Saturday 15th July – Friday 4th August

Keswick Convention Annual Christian Convention

Where: Keswick

This year this convention is celebrating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. Three weeks with the theme of captivation and hearing God’s word.

For further information please visit here https://keswickministries.org/


Saturday 15th – Saturday 22nd July

Penrith on a Plate

Where: Eden

Eden is one of England’s prime agricultural heartlands. This festival celebrates all the fabulous food and beverages that are produced in the beautiful Eden Valley.

For further information please visit here http://www.edenfoodfestival.org/


Thursday 20th – Sunday 23rd July

Music on the Marr

Where: Castle Carrock

Advertised as Cumbria’s most friendly musical event; this festival is held in a friendly Cumbrian village at the foot of the Pennaine Chaine.

For further information please visit here http://www.musiconthemarr.com/2017/02/13/music-on-the-marr-festival/


Saturday 22nd July

Penrith Show

Where: Brougham Hall Farm, near Penrith

This show has been run by the Penrith Agricultural Society since 1834 and is held annually. It offers a wide range of competition classes for livestock as well as trade stands, a food hall and a crafts marquee.

For further information please visit here http://www.penrithshow.co.uk/


Sunday 23rd July

Coniston County Fair

Where: Coniston Hall, Coniston

Set on the shores of the beautiful Coniston Water this Fair is a traditional Lakeland Show and offers plenty of activities as well including, crafts marquee, Terrier Racing, falconry display, children’s pet show and a fell race.

For further information please visit here http://conistoncountryfair.co.uk/


Sunday 23rd July

Victorian Fun and Games

Where: Furness Abbey, Barrow

An event with living history group Iron Shepherds.

For further information please visit here http://www.furnessabbeyfellowship.org/


Wednesday 26th July

Ulverston and North Lonsdale Show

Where: Longrigg Farm, Urswick near Ulverston

Lots of traditional agricultural events as well a food hall

For further information please visit here http://www.ulverstonandnorthlonsdaleshow.com/


Thursday 27th July

Ambleside Sports

Where: Rydal Park, Ambleside

Five hours of sports, trade stands, bar, food court and children’s games.

For further information please visit here http://amblesidesports.co.uk/


Thursday 27th – Sunday 30th July

Kendal Calling

Where: Lowther Deer Park, Near Penrith

Now fully sold out this Festival has gained a real following and a great reputation offering camping, activities and brilliant music.

For further information please visit here http://www.kendalcalling.co.uk/


Friday 28th – Sunday 30th July

Maryport Blues Festival

Where: Maryport

The premier UK Blues Festival offering the opportunity to enjoy blues music, workshops and a wonderful Cumbria seaside welcome.

For further information please visit here http://www.maryportblues.co.uk/


Friday 28th – Sunday 30th July

Potfest In The Park

Where: Hutton-In-The-Forest, near Penrith

A ceramic show with over 100 exhibitors from all over Europe.

For further information please visit here http://www.potfest.co.uk/in-the-park/


Saturday 29th – Sunday 30th July

Cumbria Steam Gathering

Where: Cark Airfield, Near Grange-Over-Sands

A very popular local event showcasing a variety of engines and vehicles with the special attraction of Broke FMX extreme Moto Cross display and Mr Alexanders Travelling Show ensure there is plenty of entertainment for the whole family. If you prefer to relax you can sit in the grandstand and watch the preserved vehicles parade. A food hall and various catering outlets are available on site.

For further information please visit here http://www.steamgathering.org.uk/


Saturday 29th July – Wednesday 6th September

Lake Artists Society Summer Exhibition

Where: New Hall, Grasmere

Run by The Lake Artists Society who are fine artist based in the Lake District.

For further information please visit here http://www.lakeartists.org.uk/exhib.shtml


Saturday 29th July – Friday 11th August

Lake District Summer Music Festival

Where: Various venues

Delightful music in stunning locations.

For further information please visit here http://www.ldsm.org.uk/


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