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5 Christmas Activities to do in the Lake District This Winter

Updated: Nov 12

blencathra covered in a blanket of snow

The Lake District is magical at any time of year, but there’s something extra special about visiting during the festive season. Between frosty fells, sparkling lakes, and twinkling village lights, the region becomes a winter wonderland filled with Christmas markets, outdoor adventures, and cosy getaways.


Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, romantic experiences, or a relaxing winter break, here are five Christmas activities to do in the Lake District this 2025 winter.


1. Ice Skating, Spa, & Winter Dining at Another Place, The Lake (Ullswater)


If you’re after a festive experience with a touch of luxury, Another Place, The Lake on the shores of Ullswater is the perfect pick. For a second year in a row, the hotel transforms its gardens into a sparkling outdoor rink overlooking the lake and surrounding hills — complete with a towering Christmas tree and twinkling lights.


After gliding across the ice, warm up with “Skate & Pizza” sessions featuring wood-fired pizzas, mulled wine, or hot chocolate in their Glasshouse restaurant. This is the perfect Christmas Activity for families.


For something fancier, book a “Stay & Skate” package — combining ice skating, a three-course meal, and access to the hotel’s Swim Club spa, sauna, and outdoor hot tub.


We did the Skate & Spa package, which combined ice skating, a three-course meal, and access to the Hotel's Spa. I also tried the Hot Chocolate, which was genuinely the best Hot Chocolate I've ever consumed.


Top tip: Sessions fill up quickly, so book your slot early. Bring gloves and layers — it’s chilly by the lake!




  1. Visit Santa’s Secret Underground Grotto at Honister Slate Mine


If you’re looking for a Christmas experience with a twist, head deep beneath Fleetwith Pike to Honister Slate Mine for Santa’s Secret Underground Grotto. This is the Lake District’s most adventurous Santa visit — families venture through illuminated mine tunnels, following the elves’ clues to find Father Christmas waiting in his magical subterranean grotto.


The mine is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, festive music and seasonal surprises hidden in the caverns. It’s an unforgettable setting — part history, part adventure, and all Christmas magic.


Why it’s special:

  • Unique setting — meet Santa underground in a working slate mine!

  • Combines festive fun with a taste of Lake District heritage.

  • Perfect for families and kids who like something a little different.


Top tips:

  • Dress warmly — the mine stays cool even in winter.

  • Booking is essential; tickets sell out every year.

  • Check the website for event dates (usually late November through Christmas Eve).




  1. Muncaster Castle hosts a Winter Wonderland weekend with Santa’s Grotto, festive gardens, craft fair, and live music.


looking for the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit? Muncaster Castle has it all...


  1. Christmas Festival Tickets Include:

    • Entry to the Gardens, Castle State Rooms and The Hawk & Owl Centre

    • 1:30pm World of Owls flying display

    • Have-a-go sessions in The Weapons Hall (axe throwing/archery)

    • Craft Fair Stalls

    • Enchanted Trail & Play Areas

    • Entry to The Stables Café & Gift Shop

    • Live Music (selected dates)



  1. Children's Tickets also include:

    • Santa's Grotto

    • Gift from Father Christmas

    • Letters to Santa Activity


There's 15% off all ticket prices until the 16/11/2025 - so book fast! Prices currently range from £12-17.


4. Visit a Christmas Market or Lights Festival

The Lake District’s towns and villages come alive with Christmas markets and lights switch-ons through November and December.


  • Hawkshead Christmas Fair features a lantern parade, live music, and local artisan stalls on Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th December 10am - 4pm

  • Ambleside’s Christmas Lights Festival kicks off the season with fireworks, festive food, and family entertainment on the 15th of November.

  • Keswick hosts a charming Victorian Christmas market on Sunday the 7th December.

hiker (myself) knee deep in snow traversing the Lake District mountains in winter

5. Ride the Santa Express

Make Christmas extra magical with a themed journey through the Lakes.


  • The Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway’s “Santa Express” takes families on a festive 40 minute steam train adventure — complete with gifts from Santa himself. These run on weekends from the 22nd of November from to the 24th of December. Prices range from £20-£40 depending on age.


Top tip: These rides sell out fast, so book well in advance.



So grab your scarf, fill up on mince pies, and get ready to experience the most wonderful time of the year — Lake District style.


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