Great ideas for things to do in the run-up to Christmas

October 18, 2019 - February 1, 2020

This exhibition at Kendal’s Abbot Hall Art Gallery features masterpieces from the renowned Fleming collection of Scottish art. The Scottish Colourists were a group of four painters whose post-Impressionist work had far-reaching influence on contemporary British art and culture. This is believed to be the first ever exhibition showing the Colourists alongside those artists influenced by them in a display of 47 works. Admission charge. www.abbothall.org.uk

Traces - Quilt art at Farfield Mill

October 30, 2019 - January 1, 2020

This colourful exhibition is inspired by the life and textile art of Mary Fogg, a founder member of the Quilt Art group and influential quilt artist, who died in 2016 at the age of 95.

Quilt Art was founded in Britain in 1985 to develop the quilt as an artistic medium and promote its recognition as an art form. Its 19 members are all leading practitioners who exhibit nationally and internationally. They come from Britain, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, Hungary, Denmark and the United States. The exhibition at Farfield Mill in Sedbergh, which also has galleries selling a whole range of art and craft by many local makers - for unusual and unique Christmas present ideas - is open daily 10.30am - 4.00pm. www.farfieldmill.org

Above and below

November 14, 2019 – January 12, 2020

Brantwood, the home of the great nineteenth-century thinker and social reformer John Ruskin, welcomes back the contemporary landscape painter Phil Entwistle to the Severn Studio for the third time. Above and Below features Phil's dramatic oil paintings of the slate quarries that Coniston is famed for, alongside an intriguing series of topographical drawings. Inspired by Ruskin's belief that art should help us to see more clearly, the exhibition questions our perceptions of the landscape, and reflects on our relationship with it. With displays of paintings, drawings and 3-D models, this exhibition will appeal to walkers, climbers, and anyone who enjoys the Lake District.

The exhibition is open every day Wednesday - Sunday in the Severn Studio at Brantwood, 10.30am - 4.00pm. Admission is included in the house or garden ticket. www.brantwood.org.uk

Kaleidoscope

November 5, 2019 - January 12, 2020

This new exhibition by members of the Green Door artist’s group takes place at Upfront Gallery and Coffee Shop. The title ‘Kaleidoscope’ offers artists the freedom to approach their subjects using a wide variety of media and styles. It is intended as an invitation to find inspiration by exploring new ways of thinking.

Cumbria Ceramics will share the same exhibition time, and will bring an extra three dimensional element to the UpFront experience. The spacious gallery offers an opportunity to display larger pieces and more significant work in this well-lit and sympathetic space, always sensitively presented and curated by the owner, John Parkinson. Free entry. Open 10.00 am – 4.30 pm, Tuesday – Sunday. Please check www.up-front.com for Christmas opening hours.

A Christmas Carol

November 22, 2019 - January 11, 2020

It’s Christmas Eve. Cold-hearted businessman Ebenezer Scrooge grows grumpier and meaner than ever as Christmas Day approaches. When a ghostly apparition appears at his bedside, he’s whisked away on a startling journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas.

Book tickets from Keswick’s Theatre by the Lake for one of the best-loved stories ever written in Charles Dickens’ tale of redemption and compassion. This high-spirited and joyful adaptation from the writer of The 39 Steps, is a colourful production featuring puppetry, fabulous music and plenty of laughs. www.theatrebythelake.com/

The Actual Factual Santa Trail at The Beacon Museum Saturday, November 30 - Monday, December 23

Before you get to see Santa in his grotto young visitors must first conquer the Actual Factual Christmas Trail. Collect 10 correct answers to the questions to be allowed access to Santa and the Elves workshop and enjoy a Christmas-themed craft activity. Finally, visit Santa for a chat, and he will check the Elves report and see if you've been naughty or nice! Christmas Event prices: £5-£8.25 thebeacon-whitehaven.co.uk

Santa’s boat-building workshop

Saturday, November 30 - Tuesday December 24

Three times a day, starting at 11am, young recruits are needed to help build and decorate toy boats in the old Windermere Fire Station, which will turn into a festive production line. Children will see traditional boat making skills in action before making mini versions themselves.

Under the watchful eye of the green team, children will be given full guidance with their boat creations.

The elves are asking budding boat builders who take part to wrap up warm – as some activities will take place outside. Price per child: £4.50. per child. Each will take away their boat! The Lakeshore cafe offers daily festive feasts and bookable Christmas lunches and dinners. windermerejetty.org

Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Fair Weekend

Friday, December 6 - Sunday, December 8

The Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Fair is now a well-established festive fixture not to be missed. The three day event once again features outdoor and indoor markets, as well as festive entertainment the whole weekend. The outdoor Chalet Village market is open each day, Friday: 4pm – 8pm, Saturday: 10am – 7pm and Sunday: 10am – 5pm. The indoor market is held in Lunesdale Hall on Saturday and Sunday between 10am and 5pm. Festive entertainment and Christmas cheer will be provided throughout the weekend all over town as local retailers and hostelries all get in the spirit of the season. www.kirkbylonsdale.co.uk

Yew Tree Barn Christmas Market

Friday, December 6 - Sunday, December 8

This popular annual event attracts lovers of art, craft and fine gifts from across the county. The huge barn is transformed and a heated marquee added to accommodate more than 40 stall holders selling everything from jewellery to locally produced beers and spirits. Each of the makers are selected for the quality of their crafts with many working in the Lakes and Dales. Yew Tree Barn at Low Newton also offers two floors of antiques, architectural salvage and collectibles. The resident blacksmith, John Law, creates decorative pieces for the home, such as horse shoe hearts. With roast chestnuts, mulled drinks and food, there’s plenty to get visitors in the festive mood. yewtreebarn.co.uk

Hawkshead Christmas Fair

Saturday, December 7 - Sunday, December 8

With more than 80 craft and gift stalls and lots of delicious food and drink stalls to sample the delights, the village will be bustling all weekend long with festive music and vibrant street entertainers. The village is decorated with Christmas lights and a fabulous Christmas tree adding to the festive atmosphere. Children will delight in meeting Father Christmas or enjoy the fair ground rides. https://www.facebook.com/hawksheadchristmasfair

Taste Cumbria: Cockermouth Christmas Market

Saturday, December 7 - Sunday, December 8, 10am-4pm

This festive Taste Cumbria extravaganza in Cockermouth is the perfect place to shop, eat, drink and be merry. There’s a bumper producers’ market on Main Street, with dozens of traders selling the very best local fare. Enjoy everything from meat and cheese, to beer and spirits, as well as gifts and pretty things for the Christmas table. Warm up with a mug of mulled wine or freshly-brewed coffee, tuck in to some tasty hot snacks and meals from the hot food court, or head to one of Cockermouth’s many cafes, pubs and restaurants for some sustenance. This town is the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping too, with its huge variety of independent businesses. www.tastecumbria.com

Askham Hall Christmas Market

Sunday, December 8, 11am-5pm

Offering more than 40 hand-picked stalls selling seasonal gifts and decorations and food and drink gifts, this popular market is held against the backdrop of stunning Askham Hall near Penrith. Live festive music will be provided by Pentith Town Band and there will be a competition to find the best children’s Christmas jumper. Father Christmas will be welcoming young visitors in his magical Christmas grotto. Admission: £4 (includes free strip of raffle tickets)., under 16s free. www.askhamhall.co.uk

The Legend of the Jazz Penguin

Tuesday, December 10 – Sunday, December 29

Theatre by the Lake in Keswick welcomes Goblin Theatre’s production set in the North Pole Jazz Lounge, a magical place with a very special guest. Discover how the Penguin found the Jazz on an adventure around the world meeting a variety of different musical animals, from dancing eggs to a drumming Octopus. Expect tooting, trumpeting and bopping in this hilarious and Christmassy celebration of music. The Legend of the Jazz Penguin features original music, brilliant puppetry and lots of fun interaction that will have children jumping for joy. Suitable for ages 2+. Adult: £8, Family ticket: £28. www.theatrebythelake.com

Yuletide Traditions at Dove Cottage

Wednesday, December 11, 6.30pm

Explore the Yuletide traditions and rituals connected to the abundance of seasonal plants that can be found in Dove Cottage garden and the surrounding woodland, and create aromatic and decorative items to take home with you! You will also receive a booklet of instructions, templates and herbal traditions that you can try for yourself at home. This workshop is led by local herbalist Lesley Hoyle, owner of Windermere-based business Sophiology, and includes a vegetarian buffet supper. Price: £30 per person. wordsworth.org.uk/events/yuletide-traditions/

The Wizard of Oz

Thursday, December 12, 7pm

Join Ballet Theatre UK and follow the yellow brick road to discover all the wonders of Oz in this unique ballet at Carnegie Theatre in Workington. This production is family friendly and is the perfect way to introduce children to the classical ballet. Enjoy Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tinman, and Lion, (and yes Toto too) as they seek the Wonderful Wizard to find that there's no place like home. The Wizard of Oz is a two act, full-length, ballet adaptation of the iconic tale by L. Frank Baum, told through the magic of classical dance.

The production is presented with beautiful backdrops, stunning theatrical sets and costumes evoking the iconic sketches by W.W. Denslow, from the original publication. Tickets: £11 - £19. Visit: carnegietheatre.co.uk/

Carlisle Cathedral Christmas Concert

Friday, December 13, 7.30pm

The annual Christmas Concert is a highlight of the cathedral's calendar and this year is no exception as combined Cathedral Choirs sing favourite carols and songs for the festive season. Tickets: £10 from www.carlislecathedral.org.uk

Carols at the Coro

Saturday, December 14, 2pm

Join Ulverston Town Council and other guests to enjoy a matinee performance of Carols at the Coro. Performing this year are UVHS Big Band, Ulverston Town Band and more performances still to be announced. The retiring collection will go to the Ulverston Mayor’s Charities which included many great charities and community groups in the town. Free Event but still ticketed – please collect your Free ticket from the Coronation Hall Box Office in Ulverston. corohall.co.uk

Owls by moonlight

Saturday, December 14, Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22, 6pm

Imagine the spooky atmosphere of Muncaster Castle at night time. This is a fantastic opportunity to visit this haunted pile in the evenings in the run up to Christmas to enjoy a simple hot supper plus two breathtaking owl flying displays after dark. The evening begins at 6pm with supper and a talk from one of Muncaster’s expert bird staff before the first display in the Old Rose Garden. Then take an atmospheric walk through the illuminated gardens past the Castle to the Meadow for the second display. Tickets: £15.50 - £29.90 can be purchased online: www.muncaster.co.uk/owls-moonlight/

Keswick’s Own Christmas Proms

Sunday, December 15

Regular supporters of the Christmas concert at Keswick’s Theatre by the Lake will be eagerly looking forward to this festive treat of music and carols, with a sprinkling of humour added. The popular professional singers Graeme Danby and Valerie Reid top the bill, alongside the highly talented and award winning NASUWT Riverside Band. The brilliant and entertaining St Herbert’s Primary School Choir complete the line-up. With a rousing Last Night of the Proms finale, there’s nothing better to set you off in true Christmas spirit. Ticket prices vary. www.theatrebythelake.com

Windermere Christmas Celebration

Saturday, December 14, 10am to 6pm and Sunday, December 15, 10am to 4pm

Windermere Christmas Celebration (formerly known as Windermere Christmas Market) is an exciting family friendly event on the streets of Windermere each Winter. Put together by Windermere Information Centre, Councillor Ben Berry and Mountain Goat this fun filled event includes an ice rink which will be open for skaters of all levels to enjoy on the opening night, Friday, December 13, as well as being open all day on both Saturday and Sunday. It is the first time an ice rink will be at the event which is held in early December, it will take centre stage among rows of holiday-themed stands, selling locally made craft goods, food and even mulled wine. To book a slot on the ice rink head to the Windermere Christmas Celebration website. Prices start from £8.50 for a child and are £12.95 for an adult, there is also an added option to include a Santa’s Grotto ticket for a child at a discounted price of £4.00 when purchasing an ice rink ticket. windermerechristmas.co.uk

Becki Fishwick at Baha

Saturday, December 14, 9.30pm

This popular bar at Bowness continues to wow its audiences in the Lounge Bar with intimate musical events. Becki Fishwick’s unique voice is influenced by 1940s jazz, 1950s rock n roll and 1960s soul, a perfect mixture of a wonderful era. She has had some exciting experiences in her career so far which include being asked to perform for Mary Portas, Apple, the imperial war museum and most recently at the BBC for a new TV show.

Becki also runs her own Popstar boot camps teaching local children singing, and raising money for local charities and is quite the role model in her local town of Barrow. Free entry. www.facebook.com/events/395080501414358/

ShooShooBaby’s Christmas Cabaret

Sunday, December 15, 8pm

The Brewery Arts Centre brings a riot of colour to Kendal with flamboyant costumes and water-tight vocal harmonising from the “effortlessly funny” musical trio, ShooShooBaby. A wonderful array of Christmas songs from the 1920’s – 2019, are performed on an eye-watering number of instruments including the piano, the zither, the musical saw and the kazoo. ShooShooBaby have been appreciated by audiences all over the world (fans include Stephen Fry and Sir Ian McKellen) and have earned themselves a reputation for the quality of their singing and musicianship. Tickets: £15.50 from: https://www.breweryarts.co.uk/event/shoo-shoo-babys-christmas-cabaret/

New Sporting sale at Tennants Auctioneers

January 11, 2020

Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn is launching a new Sporting Art Sale, with this inaugural auction. Over recent years this traditional genre has gone from strength to strength, and this sale will bring together some the best works of sporting art from the 17th century to the present day. The sale will include traditional equestrian, hunting and shooting scenes alongside wildlife and ornithological subjects and dogs in art. Tennants has a long-standing reputation for handling significant works of sporting art by the likes of Heywood Hardy, J. F. Herring Senior and Junior, Archibald Thorburn, John Emms and William Woodhouse. The Sporting Art Sale at Tennants will take place three times a year, in January, April and September, and they will coincide with the auctioneers’ popular Country House Sales. www.tennants.co.uk