Christmas Breaks in the Lake District 2022

The possibilities for exploration in the Lake District are endless – be it in the spring, summer, autumn or winter.

However, the lead-up to Christmas is always one of the most magical times of the year, and Christmas in the Lake District is no exception.

So, if you are looking to spend a winter break, a festive weekend, or even your Christmas celebrations in the Lake District, here is our guide to help you plan the perfect festive trip to the lakes!

Lake Windermere in the winter

Lake Windermere is truly a sight to behold at any and every time of year. During winter, the lake seems almost ethereal, with scattered frosts and a refreshing mist.
These views can be appreciated from all around the lake – and on the lake itself when the weather permits cruises to launch – but especially from hotspots like Waterhead Bay and Bowness-On-Windermere.

Though the weather can be pretty cold, we think this adds to the festive feel, making Windermere the perfect winter wonderland!

If you’re joining us in the winter, be sure to pack your woolly jumpers and walking boots – you’ll need them if you’re heading off for a walk along one of the area’s popular trails.

Market towns with magical Christmas charm

If there is one thing that the Lake District boasts in abundance, it is charming towns, quaint villages and superb scenery. When the cold weather sets in, so does a layer of ice and frost – even snow if we are lucky – adding a sprinkle of magic to the views.

During the lead-up to Christmas in the Lake District, many of these market towns host festive events that attract both locals and tourists alike. Here are some of our top picks this year – though, don’t forget to keep an eye out for date announcements and ticket releases closer to the time.

Ulverston

In late November, Ulverston Town Centre is transformed into a Victorian-style Christmas Market, otherwise known as the Dickensian Festival. Evoking all the nostalgia of A Christmas Carol, but without any of the misery, this market goes all out.

With everything from costumes, horse-drawn carriages, and even a helter-skelter, there’s something for everyone.

Bonus – If you enjoy this old-school theme, Keswick also hosts a Victorian Christmas Fayre over the festive period.

Ambleside

No Christmas is complete without a Christmas tree covered in festive lighting!

The market town of Ambleside’s Christmas Light Switch On is an event not to be missed; it is truly a special time for all ages.

You will be treated to special offers at the local shops, a lantern parade, a whistle-stop visit from Santa on his sleigh – and, of course, the light switch on itself, followed by the beautiful scenery of a fireworks display against the backdrop of the hills.

Rydal

This is one for the literary fanatics out there…

Rydal Mount, once the house of William Wordsworth, held a Christmas Market for the first time last year – and is highly anticipated to reprise the market again in 2022.

Now, this fair might not be free to enter like the others, but you certainly get your money’s worth, as the tickets also grant you access to the museum and its exhibits too.

Comforting inns with a festive feel

Here at The Inn Collection group, we believe that after the difficult and often isolating few years that we have all had, we certainly all deserve the perfect Christmas this year.

For a magical time this Christmas season, why not consider stepping into Christmas with The Inn Collection Group and spend Christmas in the Lake District?

We have a plethora of comforting inns to choose from, in various locations throughout the Lake District National Park, with design features, festive food specials and activities and events aplenty that will have you dreaming of a white Christmas in the Lake District in no time.

The Coniston Inn, Coniston

The Coniston Inn is comforting and cosy, perfect both for a festive break or for warming your extremities after exploring the nearby Coniston Lake or hiking up Old Man Coniston.

The Pheasant Inn, Bassenthwaite 

A newly renovated 17th-century coaching inn in Bassenthwaite, Cockermouth, The Pheasant Inn boasts classic-yet-quirky decor and is close to Bassenthwaite Lake.

If you’re looking for cosy comfort this winter, be sure to check out this fantastic inn’s homely armchairs and roaring log fires.

The Regent Hotel, Ambleside

The Regent Hotel is one of our favourite lakeside hotels. Located in Waterhead Bay, you benefit from being a stone’s throw away both from one of the Lake District’s major towns, Ambleside, and the shores of Lake Windermere.