What’s On 2012
Here is a selection of some of the main events taking place in Cumbria in 2012, which are worth making a trip to see. The list is not exhaustive and there are many, many more events taking place but, are to numerous to mention.
We hope you will find this list of use and help you to see what events are on during your stay and where:
Cockermouth
Willow Workshops by Phil Bradley (Deanscales)
List of Events are shown on the Cumbrian Getaways web-site.
Georgian Fair – May 5th
The Georgian Fair brings our historic past back to life across Cockermouth, with period Craft and Farmers Markets.
There is also, Maypole and traditional dancing with music, street theatre and much more...
Festivities start on the evenings of the 3rd & 4th May, with the main event being on the fifth. An experience not to be missed; great fun for all the family. A park and ride service will be in operation. www.cockermouth.org.uk
Cockermouth Midsummer Festival June - 15thth to 23rd
This is a town-wide event with many attractions for visitors of all ages. There are live performances from well known names, a street carnival, family fun day, and much more. www.cockermouthfestival.org
Woolfest - June 22-23rd
There is something for everyone at Woolfest including rare breeds, art and crafts, clothing, accessories and many unique hand-made goods. Many of the stallholders are happy to chat to you about their animals or crafts. You will also find live demonstrations throughout.
Mitchell's Lakeland Livestock Centre, Cockermouth CA13 0QQ. www.woolfest.co.uk
Cock Rock -July 20th 22nd
This is an annual three day festival. The festival will be in its 8th year. It is in a wonderful setting with panoramic views of the Cumbrian Fells. It is attended by many locals and visitors alike. It appeals to all ages and is 3 days packed full of music, workshops, dancing and much more.
The festival is non-profit to help funding for 2 great local causes the Great North Ambulance and Cockermouth Mountain Rescue and to promote and encourage local bands and musicians.
Wellington Farm, Cockermouth. www.cockermouthrockfestival.com
Cockermouth Agricultural Show -July 28th
Complete family entertainment. Judging of animals and BSJ show jumping begins at 9.30am. Cattle, sheep, goats, horses, poultry and ostriches on show.
Great for a family day out. www.cockermouthshow.co.uk
136th Loweswater Show - September 2nd
A traditional Agricultural Show. With live animal stock and many other attractions. There are Fell Races for all ages, Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling, Local Craft Fair, variety of Trade Stands, a Vintage section, and children’s games. Weather etc permitting, there should also be Sheep Dog Trials and Hound Trails. There is an Industrial Section which a good number of competitors who are always keen to show off their skills. www.loweswatershow.co.uk
Taste Cumbria - September 24th and 25th
Is in its third year and is two day celebration of food for the whole family. It was named the best in the Country by The Guardian in 2011
The festival is a traditional farmers’ market, with demonstrations from celebrity chefs, the area’s best culinary talent, master classes, workshops, live music and street entertainment.
Taste Cumbria is a weekend event and the programme of activities, exhibitors and chefs are different on each day. There are many other events that take place around the town. www.tastecumbria.com
Cockermouth Farmers Market
Is located in the Market Place and is organized by Made in Cumbria.
The market takes place once a month between 9.30 am and 2.00 p.m. on the following dates:
Feb 4th, Mar 3rd , Apr 7th, May 5th, June 2nd , July 7th , Aug 4th , Sept 1st , Oct 6th , Nov 3rd , Dec 1st . www.madeincumbria.co.uk
Keswick
The Twelfth Keswick Film Festival – 23rd-26th February
At the 13th annual Film Festival there will be about thirty films to choose from, guest directors, script-writers and the opening party for pass holders. Tell your friends, get your pass and keep an eye on the website www.keswickfilmfestival.org
Words by the Water - 2nd - 11th March 2012
A Cumbrian Literature Festival, Theatre by the Lake in Keswick, Cumbria is the centre for this exciting literature festival organised by Ways With Words. For 10 days writers and readers get together to share the pleasure of books, words and ideas. www.wayswithwords.co.uk
Keswick Jazz Festival - May 3-6th
There will be more than 100 performances by different acts in this extremely popular 4 day event. For a list of performers, venues, festival parking permits and car park information, the Jazzbus, ticket information and ticket office opening hours go to www.keswickjazzfestival.co.uk
Keswick Half Marathon - May 6th
The route is a circuit of Derwentwater, with a loop into the Newlands valley. It is a beautiful scenic route. www.keswickhalfmarathon.co.uk
The Keswick Mountain Festival - 16th-20th May 2012
The Festival with Dare 2b is an action packed, five day festival celebrating the best the great outdoors has to offer in the heart of the Lake District. Full of activities including sporting competitions, adventure challenges, your favourite outdoor brands and great inspirational speakers including Monty Halls, Helen Skelton, Sir Chris Bonington, Cameron McNeish and Mick Fowler.
There will be many activities including running, swimming, fell racing, cycling. There will also be plenty of things going on in the evening including exhibitions and live music. www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk
Keswick Beer Festival - June 1st -2nd
This will be Keswick’s 16th Beer Festival. This is a two day event which has grown into a large attraction bringing in almost 6000 Beer enthusiasts. www.keswickbeerfestival.co.uk
Scafell Pike Five Peaks Mountain Challenge 2012 - Marie Curie Cancer Care - June 23rd Registration: £10 per person
Location: Seathwaite, Borrowdale, Lake District
See the Lake District from its highest peaks
Scale five of the Lake District's highest mountains and raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care to help us continue caring for terminally ill patients.
Challenge yourself as you hike 11.5 miles and ascend 1450m; be rewarded with the area's stunning scenery.
Lakes Comedy Festival - July 1st-16th
The Lake District’s original comedy festival is coming back to Keswick and the North Lakes 1st-16th July. Some of the UK’s top stand-ups will be appearing at venues from Whitehaven to Cockermouth to Keswick. www.lakescomedyfestival.co.uk
Keswick Convention - July 14th - August 3rd
Keswick Ministries organise the annual convention which has been taking place since 1875. It offers something for everyone - life-changing Bible teaching, worship and fellowship, with separate Kids and Youth programmes (ages 3-18), all combined with the chance to relax and enjoy the wonder of the Lake District. www.keswickministries.org
Bassenthwaite Regatta - August 4th-12th
Bassenthwaite's annual regatta week, offering wonderful sailing in a great family environment and in a setting of unrivalled natural beauty. Bass Week is a family regatta that ranks amongst the most popular open events in the North of England. www.bassenthwaite-sc.org.uk
Keswick Agricultural Show - August 27th
Founded in 1860 the Show attracts large numbers of competitors, exhibitors and spectators and is a great day out for all the family.
There is a wide range of animal exhibits for judging, including classes for Herdwick and Swaledale sheep, Cattle, Pony and Horse showing and Show Jumping. There is a large Industrial marquee exhibiting produce, home baking, flowers, honey also including a strong children's section of three different age groups.
As well as Trade stands there is a well supported Art & Craft marquee where there are 28 stalls including leather craft, paintings, photography, jewellery, Horn craft etc.
Derwent Trail – September 1st
Now in its 7th year, the 15km Derwentwater Trail (Race and Challenge) follow well marked and marshalled courses through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Lake District.
The route takes in panoramic views of Derwentwater, the surrounding peaks of the Skiddaw and Blencathra range, and the northern lakeland fells.
New for 2012! A shorter distanced 10km Derwentwater Trail Run for those new to off road running. www.lakelandtrails.org
Theatre by the Lake
Theatre by the Lake is beautifully located, in a very scenic setting. They regularly put on shows, including drama, opera, comedy, music and ballet, together with a number of festivals.
There are two bars. One is open during the day serving hot food and afternoon tea.
The main part of the building is normally open to the public daily from 9.30am until after the evening performance. On non-performance days the Box Office remains open until 8.00pm, but other public areas of the building are usually closed at 5.00pm.
Theatre by the Lake, Lakeside, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5DJ
Box Office: 017687 74411
www.theatrebythelake.co.uk
Penrith
The Lowther Estate Events:
Kendal Calling - 29 - 31 July 2011
Kendal Calling is an award winning musical event. It features pioneering contemporary music and art, alongside traditional rural entertainment. www.kendalcalling.co.uk
Lowther Game and Country Fair - August 11th - 12th
The Lowther Game and Country Fair, holds the prestigious field sports competitions. The Lowther Game and Country Fair will bring together world-class sporting championships, top-class demonstrations and hundreds upon hundreds of top-line, quality driven exhibition stands for visitors to truly indulge in and experience. www.countrymanfairs.co.uk
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| Hutton-in-the-Forest | | Walled Garden
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Hutton-in-the-Forest Main Events:
Hutton in the Forest – April 1st
Historic house and gardens open
Plant and Food Fair - May 20th
The Plant and Food Fair is held in the grounds of the spectacular Hutton-in-the-Forest.
You will find specialist nurseries and Cumbrian food producers in the beautiful gardens and grounds,
Open from 10am to 4pm.
www.madeincumbria.co.uk
Wigton Dog Agility Show – June 1st -3rd
On Showfield 9am to 5pm
Horse Trials – June 23 & 24
Hutton will run BE80 up to Novice classes on the show field. Unfortunately, this year there will be no Intermediate or CIC.
Whilst regrettable, Hutton will continue to provide a fantastic event. www.huttonhorsetrials.co.uk
Open Air Shakespeare - June 26th
Shakespeare's Henry V by Illyria - Open air performance 7.30pm.
www.hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk
Skelton Show - July 7th
On Showfield
Potfest in the Park – Jul 27th -29th
The ceramics festival takes place in and around marquees in front of the castle, with the potters’ competition pieces on the lawn. The potfest is open from 10.00am - 5pm. www.potfest.co.uk
Historic Vehicle Show – August 26th
In the Park 10am - 4pm
www.hutton-in-the-forest.co.uk
Horse Trials – Sept 8th -9th
Hutton will run BE80 up to Novice classes on the show field. Unfortunately, this year there will be no Intermediate or CIC.
Whilst regrettable, Hutton will continue to provide a fantastic event. www.huttonhorsetrials.co.uk
Dalemain Estate Main Events
Marmalade Awards and Festival – Feb 25th & 26th
The Festival will include workshops from famous foodies Ivan Day and Dan Lepard. There will also be a Marmalade Concert, a Marmalade Church Service and an array of activities with a citrus twist. Past Artisan winner Perthshire Preserves said they ‘would suggest Dalemain Mansion 2012 is a fun day out for all Marmalade lovers including Paddington!’ www.marmaladeawards.com
Eden Valley Vintage Tractor Club Show - TBC
www.dalemain.com
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Vintage Vehicle | | Dalemain House
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Stallion and Colt Show - May 12th
www.fellponysociety
www.cumbriabridlewayssociety.org
Packs and Tracks – May TBC
North-West Carriage Driving- May TBC
www.northwest.f9.co.uk
Cumbria Life & Dalemain Garden Festival – June TBC
Food & Craft Fair – July TBC
Cumbria Classic Car Show – August TBC
Your chance to see cars, bikes and military transport from years gone by.
Open 11.00 -16.00
Whitehaven
The Diamond Jubilee Whitehaven Festival - June 1st – 3rd
The festival officially opens at 10am Friday 17th June on Whitehaven Harbourside.
The festival promises a packed three days of entertainment. On the Sugar tongue, you will find celebrity chefs, stalls and street theatre and probably one or two surprises. There will also be ships, jet skis, air shows, military displays and so much more. This really is one of the best events in the UK.
The Festival arena will be back; last year it played host to some of the biggest names in the business. This year’s Festival Arena is going to be even better! www.thewhitehavenfestival.co.uk
Carlisle
Easter Egg Hunt - April 8th
From 3pm to 6pm beginning at Gosling Sike Farm, Houghton, near Carlisle. There is also a range of family activities and guided walks to learn more about organic farming. Cream Teas for sale. Entry is free. Please take appropriate outdoor clothing and strong boots. Meet at the Reserves Office. More details from Gosling Sike farm 01228-829570.
Men's Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge - May 5-7th
In aid of Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland
The Cumberland Show – June 9th
The Cumberland Show takes Cumbria's best family day out to the Carlisle Racecourse. Tradition and agriculture are combined with a fresh, modern focus to create a real celebration of farming food and countryside
The top quality animals on show offer the best exhibiting experience in the region. The facilities available create a day of quality and value for all involved. www.cumberlandshow.co.uk
Stobart Summer Festival - July 7th
The Stobart Summer Family Festival - featuring great racing plus a live concert from Madness.
Carlisle Farmers Market
Held in the centre of Carlisle’s pedestrianised shopping area. The Farmers market combines local produce with modern facilities and is organized by Made in Cumbria.
The market takes place once a month between 9.30 am and 3.30 p.m. on the following dates:
Feb 3rd , Mar 2nd , Apr 6th , May 4th , Jun 1st , Jul 6th , Aug 3rd , Sep 7th ,Oct 5th, Nov 2nd, Dec 7th www.madeincumbria.co.uk
Carlisle Christmas Fair – Dec 7th to 10th
Held in the centre of Carlisle’s pedestrianised shopping area. Shoppers will be able to sample culinary delights and a large range of hand crafted goods. Open 10.00 til 17.00 hrs. www.madeincumbria.co.uk
Other Western Lakes Events:
Muncaster Castle (Ravenglass)
As one of the Lake Districts’ premier family attractions, for great fun days out, Muncaster Castle has a full calendar of special events and festivals. Whether for the Bank Holiday, Easter Break, Summer Holiday, Halloween or Christmas, there’s so much to see and do, for kids of all ages!
Parts of the Castle will be closed for maintenance but, will be fully re-opened by the end of March
Halloween
This is a must if you have children..........There are many fun activities including magic shows, face painting, crafts, games, and talks on Halloween traditions.
You can also experience the Darkest Muncaster illuminations, a mile long route through the beautifully lit trees and shrubs that tower either side of the main drive, together with spooky light and sound effects. If you are really brave, dare to enter the Scary Maze!
The grounds are usually open until 9pm.
www.muncaster.co.uk
The Darkest Muncaster Christmas Illuminations usually run after dusk with themed light and sound effects, plus much more.
www.muncaster.co.uk
Gosforth Show – August 18th
Gosforth is a small but lovely village close to the Wasdale and Eskdale Valley, in the heart of the Western Lakes The show is a traditional agricultural show and includes cattle, sheep, horses, ponies, working hunters, sidesaddle, show jumping, poultry, vintage machinery, rural crafts, dogs, terrier racing, horticulture, handicrafts and produce, and trade stands. There will also be children’s sports and Cumberland & Westmorland wrestling.
Gosforth Showground between 09:30 - 16:30
www.gosforthweb.co.uk
Grasmere Sports – August 26th
The 2012 annual Grasmere Lakeland Sports is celebrating 160 years of existence, features wrestling, guide races, dog shows, local producers and is a wonderful day out for the lover of Lake District country pursuits.
Grasmere Sports Field 10:00 - 17:00
www.grasmeresportsandshow.co.uk
Westmorland County Show – September 13th
One of Britain’s oldest and Cumbria’s biggest livestock shows. The Westmorland County Show has one of the area’s largest local products food hall and there will be special demonstrations by celebrity chefs. There will be many special features including over 350 trade stalls.
Crooklands, Nr Kendal, LA7 7NH Opens 8.30 -17.00
www.westmorelandshow.co.uk
Model Railway exhibition (Workington) – November 19th & 20th
This is Cumbria’s largest model railway exhibition with, full trade support, societies and demonstrations. There is a Thomas layout for the children to operate.
Workington Transport Heritage Trust, Moorclose Sports Centre, Moorclose Road, Workington, Cumbria CA14 3SA
Open Saturday- 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm
www.wtht.co.uk
NB: Please note that this information was gathered from various sources and can therefore not be guaranteed to be accurate and may also be subject to change. So please make sure that you check the web-sites for the latest information.
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