There are hundreds of events in the Lake District which tend to fall into one of the following categories:

 - Activities, Crafts & Workshops - Arts, Culture & Exhibitions - Fairs, Festivals & Markets - Food & Drink Events - Music & Dance - Outdoor & Challenge Events - Plays, Films & Shows - Walking Events

There is no doubting that the Lake District has taken off as a destination to come and enjoy events and festivals. Our traditional events are thriving, but there's also a whole new calendar of festivals, events and gatherings around the region, with the Lake District providing such a beautiful backdrop!

There is a huge list of events which are held each year in the Lakes. Some of the highlights include the following:

 - Keswick Film Festival (usually March)

 - Dalemain Marmalade Festival (usually May)

 - Keswick Mountain Festival (usually May)

 - Cartmel Races (usually May, June, July & August)

 - Ulverston International Music Festival (usually June)

 - Appleby Horse Fair (usually June)

 - Great North Swim (Windermere, usually June)

 - The Cumberland Show (Nr Carlisle, Usually June)

 - Ambleside Sports (usually July)

 - Kendal Calling (usually July)

 - Cartmel Show (usually August)

 - Lakeland Country Fair (usually August)

 - Gramere Sports (usually August)

 - Lowick Show (usually September)

 - Holker Fest (usually September)

 - Westmorland County Show (M6 Junction 35, usually September)

 - Egremont Crab Fair & Gurning Championships (usually September)

 - Kendal Torchlight Carnival (usually September)

 - Lakes International Comic Art Festival (usually September)

 - Kendal Mountain Festival (usually November)

The Kendal Walking Festival happens annually in May, so keep an eye out at: https://www.kendalwalkingfestival.co.uk/

In terms of long distance paths in Cumbria, we have two National Trails (Hadrian's Wall path and Pennine Way). We also have the Coast to Coast path (St Bees to Robin's Hood Bay) and the Cumbria Coastal Route (about 200 miles).

The Lake District National Park Authority run a series of guided walks through to October. They have a range of easy to medium level walks in groups of up to 20 people, all led by wonderfully cheery and knowledgable volunteers ... and in 2022, they are free!