The Best Christmas Markets in the Lake District

Looking for the best Christmas markets in the Lake District? Discover a range of wonderful Christmas attractions, markets, and festivals where you can find unique, hand-crafted gifts from talented local artists and designers.<\/p>

Black Horses at Cartmel

The Christmas festivities begin in Cartmel on Friday, November 26, with stalls and music transforming the village centre. Enjoy performances by the Bay Community Singers and the Flookburgh Band, and don’t miss the arrival of Father Christmas at dusk with the famous Black Horses—a tradition inspired by European celebrations before the feast of St Nicholas.<\/p>

Dickensian Christmas in Ulverston

On November 27 and 28, the Ulverston Dickensian Christmas Festival brings the spirit of a traditional market town to life. Enjoy free entertainment, horse-drawn carriages, music, dancing, a traditional fairground, and a bustling Christmas market. Visitors are encouraged to dress in period costume and join the grand parade and competitions.<\/p>

Village Fair in Hawkshead

Hawkshead transforms into a festive village fair on December 4 and 5, with market stalls, street food, entertainment, and craft stalls inside the village hall. Buy your Christmas tree and enjoy the lantern parade on Saturday at 4pm.<\/p>

Victorian Keswick

On Sunday, December 5, Keswick hosts its annual Victorian Fayre. Traders in period costume fill the market place, with live entertainment, charity stalls, festive food and drink, games, raffles, and a children’s funfair. It’s a great opportunity to support local charities and enjoy the festive atmosphere.<\/p>

Crafts at Rydal Mount

New this year, Rydal Mount hosts a Christmas crafts and gifts fair on December 11 and 12. Explore stalls from top local designers and artists inside the historic home of William Wordsworth. Enjoy music, mulled wine, and mince pies as you shop for unique gifts.<\/p>

Lanterns at Levens

From December 16-20, Levens Hall and Gardens opens its doors for a magical candlelit Christmas event. Tour the decorated house and illuminated topiary gardens, enjoy festive food and drinks, and soak up the warm atmosphere with music and a roaring log fire.<\/p>