Your Ultimate Guide to the Cumbria Christmas Markets 2024
Get ready to dive into the magic of Christmas with this guide to Cumbria Christmas Markets 2024! Twinkling lights with the Cumbrian mountains as a stunning background – is there anything better? Christmas is the most magical time of year, and Cumbria is filled with many different Christmas and food markets throughout the county.
Where to find the Cumbria Christmas Markets
Whether you’re looking for handmade gifts, delicious festive treats, or the joy of twinkling lights and carols, Cumbria has a Christmas market for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the season’s best, each one perfect for creating a truly magical Christmas in the heart of the Lake District.
Christmas Markets on the Lake at Ullswater
In December, luxury hotel Another Place is turning the shores of Ullswater into a winter wonderland! Enjoy ice skating throughout the month, and don’t miss the festive Cumbria Christmas Market on the weekends of 6-8, 13-15, and 20-22 December. From local produce to handcrafted decorations, this market is brimming with seasonal charm and the perfect spot to stock up on stocking fillers and unique gifts.
Book your ice skating tickets here
Ulverston’s Dickensian Christmas Festival
On 23-24 November, the historic town of Ulverston is transformed into a scene from a Dickens novel for this famed Cumbria Christmas Market. Roam the cobbled streets with mulled wine in hand, enjoy brass bands, street performers, and parades, and marvel at stilt walkers, fire eaters, and jugglers. Dressing up in period costume is encouraged for a truly immersive Christmas experience!
Beetham Nurseries Christmas Market Weekend
From 5-8 December, Beetham Nurseries transforms into a truly festive haven with its own Cumbria Christmas Market. Explore charming chalets filled with unique gifts, savour festive flavours in the café, and enjoy live holiday music and family-friendly activities. With Christmas tree sales and holiday workshops, it’s a one-stop festive experience.
Taste Cumbria Christmas Markets at Cockermouth
Experience the Taste Cumbria Christmas Market in Cockermouth on 7-8 December. With local producers’ stalls, live music, a hot food court, picnic area, cookery demonstrations, and children’s activities, this market is a highlight of Cumbria Christmas Markets and a must-visit for the whole family.
Rydal Christmas Fair
Head to the Rydal Christmas Fair on 7-8 December, hosted by Rydal Mount and Rydal Hall. This charming Cumbria Christmas Market offers local arts and crafts, seasonal food, live music, and entry to the Wordsworth family home. Your £4 ticket includes parking, making this a wonderful outing in the beautiful Lake District.
Christmas Markets at The Swan
Kick off the festive season at The Swan in Newby Bridge on 16-17 November from 11 am to 5 pm. This cosy Cumbria Christmas Market is set up with crafts, bakes, live music, Santa’s grotto, mulled wine, and delicious hot food stalls. With a magical grotto-like setting, it’s the perfect start to a Cumbrian Christmas.
Another Local Christmas Market at Barrow-in-Furness
Returning to Hawcoat Park on 8 December, Another Local Christmas Market brings together local crafts, festive foods, and dazzling decorations. With the perfect mix of Christmas cheer, you’ll find gifts galore and a wonderful community atmosphere that captures the heart of Cumbria Christmas Markets.
Cumbria Christmas Market at Bowness Bay Brewing
Join the first Christmas Market at Bowness Bay Brewing on 16-17 November for an early taste of Christmas. With stalls offering handmade jewellery, delicious baked goods, and unique crafts, this Cumbria Christmas Market is an ideal place to find those one-of-a-kind gifts.
Christmas Festival Market at Yew Tree Barn
From 6-8 December, the Christmas Festival Market at Yew Tree Barn returns with artisan stalls, live music, and food from Harry’s Cafe and local favourites. This Cumbria Christmas Market is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm and includes a £4 entry fee supporting local charities. A free shuttle bus runs throughout each day, making it easy to soak up all the festive magic.
Hawkshead Christmas Markets
Hawkshead transforms into a Christmas wonderland on 7-8 December. From artisanal gifts to food tents, this Cumbria Christmas Market captures the essence of holiday cheer. On Saturday, there’s a lantern parade and carols at 4 pm – the perfect finish to a magical day.
Keswick Victorian Fayre
Don’t miss the Keswick Victorian Fayre on 1 December, a beloved Cumbria Christmas Market that combines charity stalls, live entertainment, and a visit from Santa. With its Victorian charm, it’s a heartwarming way to enjoy the Christmas season in Keswick.
Ready to get into the Christmas Spirit? I’d love to hear which Christmas markets you’re heading to. And if you’re planning a trip to The Lake District, make sure to check out our Lake District articles to plan your perfect trip here!
