Christmas in The Lakes

Now the nights are drawing in and the leaves are falling fast, our plans for Christmas at Whitbarrow are in full swing. And there’s a few things we’re looking forward to almost as much as Santa’s visit itself…

Our celebrations will begin on 23rd December with a festive check-in complete with mulled wine and mince pies. We can’t wait to welcome local acoustic singer Lee Schofield, on Christmas Eve when he performs in the Eden Bar and Restaurant (we’re also expecting Santa to bring gifts for the children in the early evening). Christmas Day at Whitbarrow is always special and our chef will be serving up a delicious traditional Christmas lunch. So Mums and Dads can relax and enjoy the day almost as much as the children! Just make sure you leave room for our famous ‘Pie and Mash’ day on Boxing Day though… Then on 28^th December we’ll be holding a Christmas Quiz in the bar and there’ll be more live music, this time from Liam Blake, with his unique blend of folk and pop.

Of course, if you join us in the run up to Christmas there’s plenty of other festive events to enjoy locally. Here’s our top 5 Christmas events in the Lake District.

1. Christmas Tea Parties at The World of Beatrix Potter: 16^th – 23^rd December 

Come and enjoy a very special Father Christmas Tea Party  in the amazing winter wonderland at the World of Beatrix Potter. There’s fun for all the family including a chance to see the Christmassy classic animation ‘The Tailor of Gloucester’ and lunch with crackers for everyone. There’ll be presents for the children and chance to meet Father Christmas on his sleigh.  Tickets also include entrance into the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction itself.

2. Askham Hall Christmas Market: 4^th December 

A festive market in a beautiful setting. With stalls selling crafts, local produce and seasonal gifts, all located in the amazing barn, medieval hall and grounds. There’s a fabulous café and a very busy Santa will be on hand in his grotto for any last-minute requests.

3. ‘Night at the Castle’: 9^th and 16^th December 

Celebrate the festive season with a night of exclusive entertainment ‘Under the Stars’ at Lowther Castle. Open for two nights across two weekends, we’re promised “A night like no other with beautiful illuminations, upbeat live music, DJs, great food and a range of beautiful art installations to explore across the Castle grounds.”

4. Santa Expressway at Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway 

Santa returns to the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway on a 14 mile steam train ride through this spectacular valley. Look out for Santa as he visits every carriage on the way up or on your return ride. He and his Happy Elf are only too pleased to welcome you into their winter grotto at Dalegarth Hollow. See website for dates.

5. Traditional Keswick Christmas Fair: 3^rd December

There’s always a tremendous festive atmosphere with around 30 decorated charity stalls, live music and superb stage and street entertainment. Don’t miss Santa arriving with six Cairngorm reindeer around 12 noon and remaining in his grotto in the market square until 3pm. Wearing Victorian costume is optional but encouraged! Find out more .

 We hope to see you for Christmas at Whitbarrow. Who knows, there may even be a dusting of snow on the mountains!